Partnering with Gateway Seminary's ADVANCE Program to provide accessible, high-quality ministry training.
Gateway Seminary’s ADVANCE centers provide accessible ministry training at a post-high school level. Since 1980, dozens of ADVANCE centers have offered affordable, quality education to ministry leaders across the United States and around the globe.
How Our Courses Work
- Format: 45-hour courses (15-week semesters of 3 hours of in-class instruction)
- Pacing: Earn 6 hours of instruction each year (spanning the Fall and Spring semesters)
Choose Your Path
Whether you are looking for foundational knowledge or advanced leadership training, we offer three distinct tracks through the ADVANCE program:
| Program Track | Credit Hours | Course Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate | 12-hour Certificate | 4 courses |
| Diploma | 24-hour diploma | 8 courses |
| Leadership Diploma | 48-hour diploma | 16 courses (4 certificates) |
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Upcoming Curriculum
Fall 2026 - Class Begins September 3rd
Christian Theology I (CLL1211) - 3 Hours
Synopsis:
An introduction to Christian Theology focusing on its nature, task, method, and application. It then surveys the doctrines of Revelation, the Triune God, Creation, Humanity, and Sin.
Spring 2027
History of the Bible (CLL2132) - 3 Hours
Synopsis: A study of the English Bible from its beginning to modern English translations. Emphasis will be placed on the history, development, characteristics, and contributions of various English translations.
Admission Requirements
To join the Compass School of Ministry, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Profession of Christian Faith
- Over 18 years of age
- Active service in a local church
- Completed admission application
Ready to Apply?
Begin your journey with the Compass School of Ministry today. Follow these simple steps to register:
- Visit Gateway Seminary Registration and click "Create account".
- Once your account is created, click "Find my center".
- Locate our center (Compass Church) and click to apply as a student.
The Compass School of Ministry aims to train students in Scripture, mobilize leaders for ministry, and be empowered by the Spirit.
Three Programs Offered:
- Year 1: Certificate in Lay Ministry
- Year 2: Certificate in Theology & Ministry
- Auditing Program
* For tuition costs, please contact us
Three Programs Offered:
- Year 1: Certificate in Lay Ministry
- Year 2: Certificate in Theology & Ministry
- Auditing Program
* For tuition costs, please contact us
Create Your Account & Apply Today
Fall 2026 Scholarship Opportunity Available!
This scholarship is intended for students who plan to enroll in Fall 2026 or are currently enrolled. The deadline to apply for the Fall 2026 Scholarship is
August 1, 2026.
Year ONE
Certificate in Lay Ministry
Fall Courses – Year 1
- BIBL 101 – Old Testament Survey
- THEO 101 – Systematic Theology I
- PRAC 101 – Foundations for Ministry I
- PRAC 103 – Ministry Coaching I
Spring Courses Year 1
- BIBL 102 – New Testament Survey
- THEO 102 – Systematic Theology II
- PRAC 102 – Living Missionally: The Church’s Participation in God’s Mission
- PRAC 104 – Ministry Coaching II
June Term (Year 1 Only)
- LDRS 101 – Servant Leadership
Year TWO
Certificate in Theology and Ministry
Fall Courses Year 2
- BIBL 201 – Hermeneutics I
- THEO 201 – Church History I Apostolic to Reformation
- PRAC 201 – Foundations for Ministry II
- PRAC 203 – Ministry Coaching III
Spring Courses Year 2
- BIBL 202 – Hermeneutics II
- THEO 202 – Church History II Reformation to Today
- PRAC 202 – Homiletics
- PRAC 204 – Ministry Coaching IV
- BIBL 202 – Hermeneutics II
- THEO 202 – Church History II
- Reformation to Today
- PRAC 202 – Homiletics
- PRAC 204 – Ministry Coaching IV
SCHEDULE: FALL 2025
FALL 2025
CLASSES BEGIN
SEPTEMBER 11 - DECEMBER 21
SCHEDULE: SPRING 2026
SPRING 2026
CLASSES BEGIN
JANUARY 15 - APRIL 23
