Frequently Asked Questions

Application process

Where do I apply?

The application form is found on our website at the top left. Look for “Apply Now” in English on thirdmillseminary.org and “Solicitud” in Spanish on es.thirdmillseminary.org.

 

How do I pay my $10 application fee?
An invoice will be sent to you by email to pay by debit or credit card.

​

How do I pay my assessment fees?

Each course is 8 weeks long. Your fee is based on the number of credit hours in the course(s) you are enrolled. You will be expected to pay 100% of your fee before the first day of class. We offer the option of two payments 50% each without interest. An invoice will be sent to you by email to pay electronically. Additional fee and policy information is found here.

​

How do I get an official transcript to you?

Contact the registrar’s office where you received your undergraduate degree(s) to request a copy of your transcripts be sent by email to admissions@thirdmillseminary.org.

​

Coursework

Can the program be started in any term, or is there one particular time to begin? 

You can start during any term (there are 5 terms each year). The Academic Calendar is available online here.

 

Can I study at my own pace or is there a time limit to complete each individual course? 

There is a specific 8-week timeframe to complete all work. Each course requires a dedication of at least 15-20 hours of study per week to accomplish graduate level reading and assignments. The session dates are listed in the Academic Calendar available here.

 

Can I take more than one course at a time?

Yes. Because most students are already in full-time ministry, one course a term (2 or 3 credits) will allow you to complete the master’s degree in approximately 4 years. If your schedule allows two courses (up to 6 credits) per term – completing the degree will take 2 years.

 

What is the difference between the Graduate Certificate and the Master’s degree?

The Certificate Program is 18 hours while the Master's Degree is 52 credit hours. The application process for the Certificate Program is the same as the Master’s. The certificate is not required to enter the Master’s program. All courses in the Certificate count toward the Master's program. You can review the difference in the two programs here: https://www.thirdmillseminary.org/programs. 

 

Collaboration

Within the courses, are live Q&A sessions offered?       

Faculty tutorials are live events offered for each course. There are 3-4 tutorials per term: the first half is Q&A to cover course material and the second half is to help set you up for successful completion of the assignments.  The meetings are recorded if you cannot attend at the time offered.

 

Are there group projects so I can collaborate with peers? 

Yes, depending on the professor and course assignments. Discussion forums provide opportunities for you to interact with other students and the professor about course materials.

 

Is there an opportunity to work with a mentor one-on-one?

Mentorship is a required part of your seminary program. There are guided readings for your meetings with the mentor.  You can work with different mentors during the program.

 

Is there an opportunity to work with a pastor from my own church? 

Yes, you select your own mentor. This person can be your pastor or colleague in ministry. They will review expectations about meeting (in-person or virtual) and provide reports verifying the meeting. 

 

Program

Is the Capstone considered a thesis? 

Capstone is a celebration of learning. Your project and portfolio develops out of key themes from our curriculum and three practicums: Worship, Nurture and Outreach. With the guidance of your mentor, It is designed to be a practical application of the ministry of your local church. You would apply key themes to develop a philosophy of ministry to your particular calling (church elder, a pastor, etc).

 

I took courses at myThirdmill.org – can they transfer to Thirdmill Seminary?

Yes, if you are registered with valid quiz scores recorded on the free site, you do not need to repeat the course. Upon acceptance to the Master's program, you then apply to “upgrade” the course. Once a student is enrolled, he/she will participate in all activities except for the objective quizzes and tests. Up to 20 credit hours can be transferred from myThirdmill.org and other approved partner institutions. More information here.

​

Will my credits be accepted by other educational institutions?
We will be happy to provide coursework objectives and transcripts, however we cannot guarantee transfer of credit hours. Ultimately the acceptance of any degree or transfer credit is up to the receiving institution.

 

Will my degree certify me to work / fulfill requirements to serve as a pastor?
Thirdmill Seminary does not ordain students in ministry. We provide a carefully designed structure that enables you to study and develop ministry skills where you serve. We advise you to check with your association, government agency, employer or institution to determine the acceptability of the program. We will provide recommendations for those who are on a path to ordination.