Bachelor of Arts in Christian Education Leadership with DCE Certification
Develop as a faith leader with a degree and Director of Christian Education certification.
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Lead and Serve Through Christ-Centered Learning
Enhance your leadership skills with the B.A. in Christian Education Leadership (CEL) and Director of Christian Education (DCE) Certification. This combined program draws upon a rich theological tradition to explore the interface between leadership, culture, and theology.
This online program is for students are actively involved in ministry (paid or unpaid) at an LCMS congregation. The program can help nurture your personal, spiritual, and professional growth.
After completing your degree and internship requirements, you’ll be eligible to receive a call to serve an LCMS church as a DCE.
Career Relevant
Gain real-world skills for a life of service and leadership.
Collaborative Learning
Take classes online and attend one required in-person summer intensive.
Opportunity Awaits
Receive theological training in your current context to prepare for DCE ministry.
“The Director of Christian Education program not only allows for an individual to be called in The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, but also allows for an individual to obtain a deeper and greater knowledge of God’s Word for the benefit of that individual’s faith and current or future ministry.”
Joshua M. Schmitt ’17
Getting Started
Concordia’s program offers courses in three areas: Theological Foundations, Educational Ministry and Church Administration, and Professional Preparation.
Because it’s offered online, this program permits you to study from wherever you live. Regularly scheduled classes keep you connected to professors and fellow students. Concordia also provides a larger network to connect with your peers.
Next Start
January 11, 2027
Curriculum
Complete ALL of the following Courses:
- ATHL201 – History and Literature of the Old Testament
OR THL201 – History and Literature of the Old Testament - ATHL202 – History and Literature of the New Testament
OR THL202 – History and Literature of the New Testament - ATHL404 – Survey of Historical Theology
OR THL304 – History of the Christian Church - ATHL473 – Systematic Doctrinal Theology
- ATHL382 – Corporate Worship
- ATHL429 – Biblical Theology and Exegesis
OR THL429 – Biblical Theology and Exegesis - ATHL410 – Lutheran Confessions
- THL401 – Introduction to Theological Research
View the Concordia University Irvine Online Catalog for a full list of courses.
Upon completion of your bachelor’s and Director of Christian Education certificate, you’ll be able to:
- Express an understanding of the language, contents, history, culture, and themes of the Bible.
- Integrate and articulate biblical doctrine in systematic constructs.
- Accurately describe prominent religions, denominations, and philosophies of the past and present.
- Articulate a personal faith in Christ that is well informed from a biblical perspective.
- Demonstrate the theological aptitude to support the church in the Great Commission and lives of service.
Tuition and Fees
At Concordia, we understand that investing in your education is a significant decision. That’s why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make your academic journey more affordable. In fact, 100% of our students receive some form of financial assistance! View tuition costs and fees for undergraduate programs.
Admission Requirements
View the Concordia University Irvine Online Catalog for full details on application and admission requirements.
Residency
Students are required to complete one summer residency on campus in order to complete CED 450: Counseling in Ministry. This is the perfect opportunity to experience Orange County, network with like-minded students, and meet your professors.
Career Outcomes
Positions for directors of religious activities and education are projected to see growth between 2023-33 — possibly up to 3,500 new roles.1 A bachelor’s degree is typically required for these roles.1
Explore Financial Aid
Reduce your tuition costs with financial aid — with help from a team that wants to make your time at Concordia as affordable as possible.
Meet Our Faculty
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Cari Chittick
Director of Lutheran Teaching Programs and LCMS Placement, Professor of…
FAQs
What does a Director of Christian Education do?
Within the LCMS, Directors of Christian Education serve parishioners across the lifespan. As a DCE, you’ll work closely with your church’s pastor.
Some of your responsibilities may include:
- Budget management
- Church promotion
- Develop curriculum
- Education initiatives
- Engagement
- Event planning and management
- Outreach
- Staff professional development
How do I become a DCE?
To become a DCE, you should be a member of an LCMS congregation, complete an appropriate degree, such as this online bachelor’s degree in Christian Education Leadership, at an LCMS university, and complete a one-year internship in a congregation.
Can I really become a Director of Christian Education through an online program?
Yes, the majority of the classes in this program will be completed online, with the exception of the residency. If you already have a bachelor’s degree, you can also consider becoming a DCE through our M.A. in Theology program. Concordia makes it possible for you to get certified for DCE ministry wherever you live, whether that’s in California or beyond.
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Sources
1U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/about/data-for-occupations-not-covered-in-detail.htm#212099 (viewed Oct. 29, 2024).
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.