Diploma in Theological Essentials (Dp.T.E.)

Not every ministry leader needs a long degree program, but every ministry leader needs a solid biblical and theological foundation. The Diploma in Theological Essentials provides that foundation in a focused, 36-hour program.

Gateway’s diploma programs give people who lack an undergraduate degree access to ministry preparation without admission to a master’s program. The Dp.T.E. is intended primarily for two groups:

• lay ministry leaders
• ministry leaders receiving vocational training in a church or another academic setting

The program was created in response to requests from churches and students for a shorter program. It is similar in size to traditional diplomas and master’s degrees in other fields. It focuses on the core biblical and theological training typically found in a Master of Divinity, training that church-based ministry programs often can’t provide.

Coursework centers on Gateway’s established theological core:

• Old and New Testament introduction
• biblical hermeneutics
• church history
• Baptist heritage and practice
• Christian theology
• Christian ethics

The program also includes Introduction to Ministry Formation, a two-term Leadership in Ministry Practicum with a peer reflection group, and Reflection on Ministry Formation. Together, these courses help you set healthy life and ministry priorities and boundaries. They also help you recognize how God has shaped your calling, gifts, strengths, growth areas, and personality.

By graduation, you’ll have an introductory graduate-level grasp of Scripture’s content, contexts, structure, and message. You’ll be able to research Scripture well and apply it to modern life. You’ll also understand the historical, theological, and ethical frameworks of the believers’ church tradition well enough to sustain faithful ministry leadership.

The Dp.T.E. provides the biblical and theological grounding every ministry needs, whether you teach a Bible study, lead a ministry team, or serve on a church staff. Finishing on schedule may require some remote or online coursework.