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Preparing Called Leaders for Effective Ministry

The Non-Credit Course of Study (NCOS) is a ministry preparation pathway of the Church of the Nazarene, delivered through district Schools of Ministry in partnership with Mount Vernon Nazarene University.

Pathway That Fits Your Calling

The Non-Degree Course of Study (NCOS) is a structured pathway for ministry preparation in the Church of the Nazarene. Through partnerships with district Schools of Ministry, students deepen their understanding of Scripture, grow in theological knowledge, and develop practical skills for ministry in the local church and community.

Whether you are pursuing ordination or seeking to serve more effectively in your church, NCOS provides a flexible and accessible path for ministry development.

Courses are typically offered in 8-week formats and meet once per week, either virtually or in person, depending on the district. Students should expect regular engagement through class participation, reading, assignments, and practical ministry application.

Affordable and Flexible

  • Tuition: $175 per course
  • Scholarships: Most districts offer per-class scholarships for students serving in their local churches. Check with your district team.

School of Ministry

To get started, select your School of Ministry below:

East Central School of Ministry

A collaborative School of Ministry serving the following districts — Northwestern Ohio, South Central Ohio, North Central Ohio, East Ohio, and Eastern Kentucky.

Southwest Ohio District

West Virginia South District

2026 Course Schedule

Spring 2026
Session A — Jan. 19 - March 14
Session B — March 16 - May 16
Summer 2026
June 1 - July 25

Fall 2026
Session A — Aug. 10 - Oct 3
Session B — Oct. 12 - Dec. 12

Why Choose NCOS?

NCOS MVNU Bachelor's Degree MVNU Master's Degree
Timeline ~3 Years 3-4 Years 18 Months
Ordination Yes Yes No*
Format Hybrid On-Campus; Online Online

*While MVNU’s Master of Ministry does not itself fulfill ordination requirements, up to 27 credit hours may be transferred into Nazarene Theological Seminary’s 76-credit-hour MDiv, leaving only 49 credit hours to be completed at NTS toward an ordination-qualifying degree.

Earn Academic Credit Toward an MVNU Degree

Students who complete NCOS coursework may apply credits toward MVNU degree programs:
  • Toward the CAPS BA in Integrated Studies (up to 40 credits):
    • 18 credits upper-division coursework in a Christian Ministry primary content area
    • 6 credits General Education (Bible/Religion/Philosophy)
    • 16 elective credits
  • Toward the CAPS BA in Christian Ministry (up to 40 credits):
    • 27 credits from specified coursework (including Gen Ed requirements)
    • 13 elective credits
      • Eligible courses may include:
        • BIBL-1003 Old Testament History & Literature
        • BIBL-1013 New Testament History & Literature
        • BIBL-2013 Biblical Interpretation
        • BIBL-2033 Theology and Language of the Bible
        • CHHT-3013 Christian Heritage I
        • MINS-2013 Spiritual Formation and Discipleship
        • MINS-2022 History and Polity of the Church of the Nazarene
        • MINS-3012 Ministry in Diverse Contexts
        • MINS-3023 Educational and Family Ministries
        • THEO-3022 Doctrine of Christian Holiness
  • Toward the CAPS Master of Ministry:
    • 3 graduate credits (MINS-6013 Church Growth)

21 Courses. One Journey of Formation.

Students may take courses in any order. However, courses are listed in the suggested order of completion.

Policies

Tuition & Payment

Payment must be completed at registration.
Course access begins after registration closes.

Registration Limits

Students may register for 1 course per session.

NCOS FAQs

Become a Facilitator

Called to Mentor Others?

Facilitators are ordained elders who guide emerging ministers through the NCOS journey.

Qualifications:

  • Ordained elder in the Church of the Nazarene
  • Typically 5+ years of ministry experience
  • Master's degree in ministry-related field preferred

Contact Us

Our team is here to support you through your NCOS journey.

David Baker
740-397-9000 ext. 3490
ncos@mvnu.edu

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