Continuing Education
The Continuing Education Grant (For D.Min. candidates) will be phased out. The program will no longer be open to new applicants in 2011. Students currently served by the program will be offered opportunities to apply for renewal in 2011-12 and 2012-13 with the goal of phasing out the program by the end of the 2012 fiscal year.
This decision is prompted by a decrease in funding that will escalate to 40 percent of the current budget by 2013 before leveling off. The only way to fund the Continuing Education program at 2011 levels was to take funding from programs serving M.Div. students. The General Assembly Mission Council affirmed the conclusion that the greater priority for funding that is restricted for theological education, preparation for ministry and education of ministers is the first professional degree.
The Continuing Education program serves approximately 20 students per year. Eligible applicants are PC(USA) pastors of small churches (150 members or less) who are pursuing a D.Min. at an ATS-accredited institution in the United States. With an average cost of attendance of $5,500, the $1,500 award provided to students in this program achieved a high award to cost ratio. In the last decade the Continuing Education program has provided assistance to hundreds of Presbyterian pastors seeking advanced degrees and engaged in dissertation projects using the parish in the practical application of theory. Please be assured that this investment continues to serve and benefit the church today.
Donors interested in sustaining programs for the education of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s ministers and church educators should contact Laura Bryan, Associate for Financial Aid for Studies at (800) 728-7228 x5735 or by email.
Criteria
- PC(USA) church professionals serving PC(USA) congregations with 150 members or fewer.
- Students pursuing D.Min. must be enrolled at an ATS accredited institution in the United States.
Range of award
Continuing Education Grant — D.Min. $1,000-$1,500
Deadline
November 15 (or until the Continuing Education budget is spent)
