Director of Christian Education (DCE) Certificate Program

Receive a Certificate in Christian Education Leadership

Concordia University Texas (CTX), in partnership with Concordia Theological Seminary Hong Kong, offers a unique, non-degree learning opportunity rooted in the Director of Christian Education (DCE) tradition of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). Designed for individuals who wish to grow as spiritually mature leaders and support educational ministry within their congregational communities, this program equips participants with practical knowledge and leadership skills for ministry. While participants will receive a certificate of completion from CTX, the program does not confer academic credit, lead to a degree, or result in certification or endorsement by the LCMS.

What is a Director of Christian Education?

A Director of Christian Education is a professional leader in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) tradition who serves in educational ministry. While this program does not grant synodical certification, it equips individuals with tools and knowledge for ministry leadership in local congregations or schools.

Luther statue

A DCE is:

A called minister of the Gospel
A professionally trained parish education specialist
A team minister who collaborates with pastors, staff, and lay leaders
An administrator and resource person for parish education and youth
A teacher of the faith
A trainer of the laity for service inside and outside the parish

Apply Now to Begin Your Christian Education Leadership Journey!

Gain the knowledge and skills to lead, teach, and guide others in their spiritual journeys. Begin your path toward earning the DCE Certificate with Concordia University Texas and make a lasting difference in your community and beyond!

Start your Application

Program Details

The DCE Certificate Program is a hybrid learning experience, combining synchronous and asynchronous courses over the course of two years. Students will work alongside peers from both Hong Kong and the United States.

CTSHK Campus

Practicum Courses

In partnership with Concordia Theological Seminary in Hong Kong, the final two semesters of the program will focus on field-based practicum courses, providing hands-on experience in your local LCHKS ministerial context, whether in congregations, schools, or social services, depending on your workplace.

Coursework (22 Tuition Credits)
- MIN 3350: Curriculum & Methods in Religious Education
- MIN 3315: Adolescent Discipleship and Catechesis
- MIN 3317: Children’s Ministry
- MIN 3310: Youth Ministry
- MIN 3320: Administration in Ministry
- MIN 3330: Family and Adult Discipleship
- MIN 4210: Ministry Practicum I
- MIN 4211: Ministry Practicum II
- Practicum Courses: The final two semesters of the program will focus on field-based practicum courses, where you will gain hands-on experience within your local ministry context.
- Final Interview: Upon completion of coursework, you will undergo a final interview with Concordia University Texas School of Ministry Faculty to discuss your understanding and readiness for the DCE role.
Program Requirements
To be eligible for the DCE Certification, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Academic Requirements: A Bachelor's degree (certificate and transcript required).
2. Institutional Requirements: Employment in any LCHKS congregation or affiliated institution, such as an aided or international school operated by the LCHKS, or the HKLSS.
3. Spiritual Requirements: Be a mature, baptized Christian (baptism certificate required).
4. Application Process: All candidates will be screened by Concordia Theological Seminary Hong Kong before transferring their application to CTX.
This is a non-credit, non-degree program that does not result in LCMS synodical certification.
Tuition and Payment

Tuition: $200 per credit unit, totaling $4400 USD for the full program.

Payment Options: Tuition is payable directly to Concordia University Texas via online payment systems such as credit cards or PayPal.
Additional Opportunities

Scholarships: Children and families of Concordia Theological Seminary Hong Kong students, faculty, and staff, as well as members of the LCHKS, may be eligible for scholarships to pursue undergraduate work at Concordia University Texas.

Graduation Ceremonies: A formal certificate recognition ceremony will be held in Hong Kong, and certificate recipients will also be invited to participate in CTX’s formal graduation ceremonies.
How to Apply
1. Review the program details and requirements.
2. Complete the application process with Concordia Theological Seminary Hong Kong.
3. Enroll and begin coursework, alongside students from both Hong Kong and the United States.

Apply Today and Learn to Lead through the DCE Tradition in Educational Ministry.

Take the first step toward completing your Director of Christian Education Certificate—a program designed to strengthen your ministry leadership skills and serve your community in meaningful ways.

Begin your Application