The Church of the Nazarene is committed to preparing its ministers for a lifetime of effective service. In addition to experience gained through serving in the local church and other settings, there are educational requirements that must also be met.
The goal is for every Nazarene minister to develop certain abilities and capacities by completing an array of studies and practicums called the Course of Study (COS). Those seeking ordination in the Church of the Nazarene must complete a Course of Study program that has been approved (validated) by the General Board and Board of General Superintendents. Both degree and non-degree validated COS programs are available.
Ordination
Guide to Ministerial Preparation and Ordination (Español or Français)
Course of Study Programs
Degree Programs
A list of Course of Study validated undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Non-Degree Programs
A list of Course of Study validated non-degree programs.
• Modular Course of Study Program (MCOS)
Instructors and continuing students may use this link to access course materials and resources for this program in English, Spanish, French, Korean, and Portuguese. There is limited availability of these materials in some languages other than English. For additional MCOS Spanish options, visit USA/Canada Region Multicultural Ministry Educational Partnerships.
UPDATE (April 2025)
The New Non-Degree Course of Study and Discontinuation of the MCOS
Given the recent approval of the English version of the new Non-Degree Course of
Study (NCOS) program by the General Board, its anticipated release date is early 2026.
A detailed plan for discontinuation of the MCOS and for transitioning MCOS students to the NCOS program is being developed and will be announced sufficiently in advance for students and their supporting districts to plan accordingly. The plan will outline how coursework already completed by MCOS students will translate into the new nondegree program, with priority given to awarding MCOS students the full value of all the work they have completed. MCOS students interested in transitioning to a validated Course of Study degree program are encouraged to explore whether Prior Learning Credits may be available for coursework completed in the MCOS non-degree program.
Development of the NCOS in other Languages
Substantial progress has also been made in development of the Spanish version of the NCOS. While the non-English and English versions of the NCOS have in common the same program structure and syllabi, the Spanish has been written by and especially for those whose heart language is Spanish. These are contextualized, enriched interpretations of the English version (the same approach will be used with other languages). A plan for transitioning these students from the MCOS to the new program will be developed along lines similar to the transition plan developed for English-speaking MCOS students.
QUESTIONS?
Contact your pastor or district superintendent.
You may also contact Global Clergy Development at pastor@nazarene.org or toll-free at 800-306-7651.