Our Mandate [back to top]
A vast majority of urban clergy and their ministerial staff have not been afforded the opportunity of a formal theological education. SUM has developed a one year curriculum to help meet this need.
Class Design [back to top]
Classes have been designed with the busy schedules of the 21st century minister in mind. Therefore, our pledge is that your time in class will be some of the best and most beneficial hours of study that you spend each week. Every class is designed to advance the minister’s theological knowledge and to provide him with a reserve of material that can be immediately utilized in his/her ministry. The enrollment of each class consists primarily of clergy and ministerial staff which allows everyone the opportunity to interact with, and glean from, the experience of others. All classes may be audited or taken for credit towards an Associate of Arts degree in Biblical Studies with an emphasis in urban ministry.
Class Schedule and Substitutions [back to top]
Classes will be offered on Tuesday and Thursday nights at the SUM campus. Upon approval from the Academic Dean’s office, you may substitute other classes offered at SUM.
Transferability [back to top]
All classes taken can be applied to your Associate of Arts degree at SUM. SUM credits are transferable to other Bible colleges across the nation.
Certificate Awarded [back to top]
A one year ministerial certificate will be awarded to students who successfully complete the program of 24 class credits.
Cost [back to top]
Application Fee (one time expense): $20.00
Registration Fee per trimester: $35.00
Tuition per credit hour: $200.00
Tuition cost is $200 per credit hour. Students who apply for Pell grants and scholarships typically reduce their tuition out of pocket expense to $200 to $300 per trimester.
Books must be paid for separately and vary in cost depending upon the subject. Books are not refundable.
Courses Offered [back to top]
Fall Trimester
New Testament Survey
Presents the content of each book of the New Testament and introduces historical, geographical, and cultural backgrounds. Careful attention is given to the teachings of Jesus and the purpose for His death, burial, resurrection, and immanent return. (3 Credits)
Basic Evangelism
Teaches and explores the biblical basis for evangelism. Provides opportunities for a student to develop a life-style and skill in evangelism which are consistent with the biblical mandate of being a witness for Jesus Christ. Opportunities and settings for sharing are addressed. (3 Credits)
Winter Trimester [back to top]
Homiletics
An analysis of the process of sermon preparation with emphasis upon developing a theme from Scripture. Principles of organization, communication, illustration, and public speaking are included. The course includes in-class preaching experience with peer and professor evaluation. The class uses oral and written response, videotapes, and audio tapes. (3 Credits)
Theology of Prayer
An introduction course designed to study the theological foundation for prayer and spiritual formation. Examines and defines the basic aspects of prayer and spiritual formation. Examines and defines the basic aspects of prayer with specific emphasis on the prayer of faith, the Holy Spirit and prayer, the prayers of the Bible as well as the corporate and private nature of prayer. This course will help to give practical truths on how to pray effectively. (3 Credits)
Spring Trimester [back to top]
Church Administrative Leadership
An example of the theory and practice of administration leadership in the local church (i.e., the pastor, his staff, and other administrative positions). Instruction is given in administrative principles, leadership styles, church organization, church government (both local and denominational), church law, parliamentary procedure, principles of management and leadership, the recruitment and training of personnel for church programs and time management. (3 Credits)
Systematic Theology I
Outlines the reasons for believing in the inspiration of the Scriptures. Gives the student a basic understanding of God: His existence, nature, and attributes. Examines the fall of man and its consequences. (3 Credits)
Summer Session [back to top]
Systematic Theology II
Covers Christology (the doctrine of Christ) and soteriology (the doctrine of salvation). Correlates the nature, person, work, and mission of Christ with the fallen condition of mankind and God’s intervention through grace and salvation. (3 Credits)
Hermeneutics
Is the art and science of interpretation. This study familiarizes the student with gramatico-historical principles, methods, rules and skills of interpretation. This course will help students understand the intended meaning of the biblical text for its original audience and its modern application. (3 Credits)