The Diploma Program in Christian Ministry is directed specifically to persons in ministry, ordained or lay, who have not obtained a college education, persons who intend to be engaged in ministry and desire preparation for that engagement, and lay persons with or without a college education, who desire growth in their understanding of the Christian faith. Its aim is to provide the students with a viable theological education for the enhancement of their effectiveness in ministry; to offer a substantive orientation to and preparation for ministry to persons who intend to be so engaged but do not have the basic qualifications for admission to a Master's program; and to give interested lay persons an opportunity to grow in their understanding of the Christian faith and in their appreciation of the nature and scope of the Christian ministry.

The Diploma Program is designed to be completed in two years. Nevertheless, students have a maximum of four years in which to complete its requirements. The diploma will be awarded during the annual commencement. Ordinarily, a minimum grade point average of C+ is required for graduation. Since the Diploma is not a degree, candidates will not wear academic hoods at the commencement but a stole, symbolic of their servant role in ministry.

A credit-hour flat rate of tuition is charged in this program, with the possibility of one-third down-payment at the beginning of the semester and two-thirds on a monthly basis, with a surcharge.

The details of this program are summarized below and are also set forth in the Student Handbook for this program.