Church Work Programs
Commit to a life devoted to God within the church.
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How is God Calling You to Serve?
Church work is what keeps a church moving forward. Church work can include many roles and callings, such as teaching God’s Word, leading worship, and pastoring a congregation, as well as many other forms of servant leadership. If your calling draws you into this vocation, a church work program can help you get there.
Church Work programs at Concordia University Irvine prepare you for roles within The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). These positions in the church may include pastors, teachers, deaconesses, directors of parish music and Christian education, and general staff members.
Explore Our Programs
Find the Church Work program that’s right for you and your vocational and career goals. Use our helpful program finder to search by keyword, degree level, and class format.
About Church Work Programs
Christ College at Concordia University Irvine guides students interested in receiving training in ministry and, in some cases, certification for ministerial vocations in The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS).
LCMS students pursuing such certification must apply for admission into a Christ College program and complete the academic preparation in their program. Students must maintain a 2.5 cumulative grade point average (GPA) in all coursework and a 2.8 cumulative GPA in required Christ College courses. Students must receive at least a C- in courses required for LCMS certification, including professional program and/or major.
Students completing all requirements will receive a certificate and a commemorative medallion from Christ College. They’ll be considered for recommendation by the faculty for certification by the LCMS or for admission into an LCMS seminary.
Available Programs
Director of Christian Education (DCE)
A Director of Christian Education is an educational leader who is prepared for team ministry in a congregation serving children, youth, adults, and families.
Director of Parish Music (DPM)
Directors of Parish Music enhance the worship services and musical life of their congregations. They may be involved in worship planning and leadership, accompanying music, directing choirs, coordinating or leading ensembles, developing new music ministries, or a variety of other tasks.
Lutheran Teaching
Lutheran teachers receive high-quality training and preparation for a California state credential, along with skills for teaching the faith and serving students in one of the world’s largest faith-based educational systems.
Pre-Deaconess Studies
Deaconesses reach out to individuals in spiritual and physical need through acts of service and ministry. They may serve in a variety of settings from parishes to social service agencies, to the mission field. The Pre-Deaconess Studies program prepares women for continuing study at a seminary.
Pre-Seminary Studies
Pastors shepherd God’s people through the ministry of Word and Sacrament. From local congregations to global missions, pastors make and nurture disciples. The Pre-Seminary Studies program equips men with the tools needed for seminary study after graduation, including the original biblical languages.
Information Sessions
Attend an Information Session online to learn more about our program, the application process, financial aid, payment plans, and more.
Meet Our Faculty
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Cari Chittick
Director of Lutheran Teaching Programs and LCMS Placement, Professor of…
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