FAQ

Is everyone accepted into the program?

The classes are open primarily to Northside folks who can make the commitment of time to the class and studies. The practicum segment of the program, however, needs approval from the minister/director of the ministry. 

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Will this program qualify me for a ministry job?

We're confident that these courses, combined with the hands-on ministry experience through a practicum, will prepare you for some kind of ministry job or internship. Most of the Northside ministers have many years of experience prior to coming to Northside. Expect that your first minstry job or internship will likely be in a smaller congregation than Northside. And we can help you make those connections, whether it be in a church or a non-profit ministry.

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Can I audit the classes?

That's not a good option. If you're looking to save money, this program does that already compared to the cost of a traditional college program, which could cost $10-$20k. $1k is a steal!

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Can I take the classes without doing the practicums?

The practicum represents 100 total hours of ministry service, whether at Northside or another Christian ministry/mission. Those who do not complete the practicum do not qualify to receive a mission trip voucher. There's no tuition discount for not doing the practicum.

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Can I just take the Practical Ministry and Leadership classes?

We thought about it and decided that it's not a good idea. You'll need to take the Bible class, too--and it's worth it!

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What if I miss a few classes?

You're not just trying to get by, are you? If you have to miss a class now and then, you'll need to make sure that you keep up with your reading and workbook. Completion of all assignments is necessary for the completion of the program.

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Will I receive a grade in the classes?

We're going to check to see if you're doing your homework and participating in the assignments. We're not going to be testing in such a way as to give traditional letter grades.

Is there anything that tuition doesn't cover?

We've covered it pretty well. Everything for your class studies, books, and class activities are covered.

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What if I need to drop out?

After the initial $100 application fee, $400 (fall) or $500 (spring) is due before the beginning of each semester. If you drop out before classes start, we'll refund what you've paid. If you drop out after classes begin, we will not be able to refund your tuition (since books, etc, will have been purchased).

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Are there any scholarships available?

We've kept tuition so low by subsidizing the actual cost with other funds, that we won't be able to provide additional scholarships.

What areas of ministry participate in the practicum program?

You can serve your 100 hours in Outreach/Missions, Student Ministries, Children's Ministries, Worship, Creative Arts/Production, and Adult Ministries.

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Do I have to be approved for the practicum program?

Yes. Some ministries have limited space for SOM students. In addition, your time availability, attitude, and aptitude will need to match what's needed for a particular ministry area. Prior to the practicum, you will interview with potential supervising ministers/directors to be approved and develop a schedule for service.

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What if I'm not approved for a practicum?

For various reasons, unfortunately, it is possible to not be approved. Consider this like a job or internship opportunity--it's not guaranteed. If you're not approved, you may continue to take the classes, and hopefully another opportunity comes available in the future. You'll need to complete the practicum with 100 hours of service to qualify for the Certificate of Completion of the program.

What conference(s) will I attend?

Students can attend the International Conference on Missions (ICOM) in November, although it's not required. Additionally, if you are serving in a practicum with a ministry whose staff is attending a conference, you may be able attend with them.

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Do I need to pay extra for the conferences?

For the ICOM (Int'l Conference on Missions), all but meals are covered. We try to keep the cost low, and usually find a conference within driving distance to save on transportation. Typically, the conference credit will cover registration, housing, and transportation. There may be a few meals that you'll need to pay for.

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What Outreach/Mission Trip can I attend?

If you are enrolled in the full program (classes + practicum) part of your tuition helps provide a credit of up to $450 towards a mission trip. You can participate in any Northside trip taking place after graduation.