The Children's Ministries Institute® (CMI®) offers several different diploma and certificate programs. Each has a distinct emphasis and time commitment. Read through the descriptions below to find the one best suited to your needs.
Programs of Study
Children's Ministries Institute Diploma** (12 Week Program) This comprehensive program consists of eight courses including training in direct ministry to children, teacher training and leading a children's ministry.
The entire diploma program is offered on campus. Certain modules will be available online at a future date. Information regarding cost
**Child Evangelism Fellowship® (CEF®)staff members are required to take the CMI 12 week diploma program. Staff members may choose to take part of that 12 week training online, but certain courses must be taken on campus.
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The Children’s Ministry Leadership Specialization Certificate (6 Course Online Specialization) This specialization program consists of six courses related to direct ministry to children and the development of leadership skills.
Teaching Children Effectively Level 1 and Understanding Today's Child are available now. Additional courses will be added until the entire specialization is available online. Several courses are also available on campus and can be applied toward this certificate. Information regarding cost
The Master Teacher Certificate (5 Week Program) The program is designed for students who desire to concentrate on training for direct ministries to children. The Master Teacher certificate will be awarded to the student upon the successful completion of four courses in children's ministry.
This entire certificate program is offered on campus and will also be available online at a later date. On campus and online courses can be combined to meet the requirements of this program. Information regarding cost
The Ministry Leadership Certificate (5 Week Program) This challenging ministry leadership program is designed to equip men and women with the basic leadership principles and skills required to organize and lead a children's ministry in CEF, the local church or in other parachurch organizations.
This certificate program is offered on campus and a portion of it will also be available online at a later date. On campus and online courses can be combined to meet the requirements of this program.Information regarding cost
Instructor of Teachers Credentials Child Evangelism Fellowship desires to train committed Christians who are capable of training other adults through the Teaching Children Effectively program. Attendance to the Instructor of Teachers courses is by invitation only by a Child Evangelism Fellowship worker. Those who satisfactorily complete the two week intensive Instructor of Teachers courses and required post course practicums under supervision receive a credential from the Department of Education authorizing them as instructors of teachers. Information regarding cost
Teaching to Transform Seminar Series The Teaching to Transform Seminar Series consists of nine individual seminars that cover various topics related to direct ministry to children. Biblical principles and practical ideas are clearly communicated in each 20-30 minute seminar. They can be taken at a self study pace. No credit can be earned towards another program of study.
Students are able to combine both on campus and online courses to complete their degree program.
Please note that Child Evangelism Fellowship® (CEF®)staff members are required to complete the Children's Ministries Institute diploma program. Staff members may choose to take part of that 12 week training online, but certain courses must be taken on campus.
Courses that may be taken online OR on campus
Teaching Children Effectively™ Level 1
Understanding Today’s Child
Progressive Methods of Child Evangelism
Teaching Children Effectively Level 2
Leadership Essentials (Previously Dynamics of Christian Leadership)
Courses that must be taken on campus (for CEF staff members)
Dynamics of Teacher Training
Instructor of Teachers Level 1 (also available at designated locations around the country)
Instructor of Teachers Level 2 (also available at designated locations around the country)
Distinctives of Child Evangelism Fellowship
Ministry Strategy and Development (A similar module is available online, but CEF staff must take the on campus course as it is focused more specifically on CEF ministries.)
