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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why a Cohort Model? Research in adult learning demonstrates that adults grow best when learning is relational, relevant, and connected to lived experience. The cohort model reflects this reality by recognizing that ministry development is not merely an individual journey or the transfer of information from teacher to student. We believe ministry leaders grow best when they are surrounded by trusted peers who provide encouragement, accountability, wisdom, and support along the way. Through engaging biblical study, meaningful discussion, and practical application in their own local settings, participants are strengthened not only in their understanding of ministry but also in their confidence to serve faithfully in the places God has called them.

2. How Much Time will be Involved in this Cohort? We recognize the full demands of your ministry, work, and family life. Rather than a rigid hourly count—as reading and reflection speeds vary for everyone—the cohort is structured around a predictable weekly rhythm: Reading: 50 to 100 pages of life-giving material per week. Live Connection: A 1.5 to 2-hour weekly meeting, alternating between our large-group Zoom sessions and your smaller Ministry Triad. Application: A weekly discussion post and assignment contextually related to your current ministry setting. We would anticipate this to be approximately 5-8 hours per week for the above structure.

3. Can I get a Refund if I Begin the Cohort and Cannot Finish? A student may be eligible for a refund only if the student has spoken with the cohort directors and formally withdraws on or before the listed withdrawal dates. A student is formally withdrawn only after submitting a completed withdrawal form to the registrar. Before the cohort begins: 100% of tuition paid will be refunded. During an 8-week course: Refunds for the current course will be based on the date of withdrawal: Week 1 (Days 1-7): 80% refund Week 2 (Days 8-14): 50% refund Week 3+ (Day 15 onward): 0% refund Future courses: Any tuition already paid for courses that have not yet begun will be refunded in full, and any remaining scheduled payments for those courses will be canceled.

4. How Does this Cohort Navigate Differing Views on Women’s Roles in Ministry? We recognize that faithful Christians hold differing convictions about the specific roles women may serve within the Church. Rather than focusing on these theological distinctions, this cohort seeks to focus on the equipping and formation of all ministry leaders who desire to serve Christ and His Church faithfully. Scripture teaches that the Holy Spirit gives gifts to all members of the Body of Christ for the strengthening of His Church (Romans 12; 1 Peter 4). These gifts are to be stewarded with wisdom, humility, and faithfulness, and each believer is called to intentionally develop and use what God has entrusted to them. This cohort is designed to help ministry leaders grow in that stewardship. With this in mind, the Ministry Essentials Cohort is intentionally focused on strengthening biblical and theological foundations, spiritual formation, and practical ministry skills for current and emerging ministry leaders.

5. What Materials will we be Studying? Course 1 materials will be listed soon...

6. How Many will be Accepted into this Cohort? Because we believe that true equipping happens in community, we intentionally limit this cohort to 12. This ensures a smaller group to build deep trust, engage in real conversations, and receive consistent mentorship from your Cohort Directors.

7. What is the Application Process? Applications are prayerfully reviewed as they are received. Applicants who move forward in the admissions process will be invited to participate in a Zoom conversation with one of our Cohort Directors. This conversation is an opportunity for us to get to know you, learn more about your ministry context, answer any questions you may have, and help you gain a clearer understanding of the certificate and the cohort experience.

8. How will I Know if I've Been Accepted into the Program? Following your conversation with a Cohort Director, you can expect to receive your admissions decision by email within approximately one week.

9. Can I Join the Cohort for Only 1 of the 2 Years? No. Ministry Essentials is designed as a two-year journey through eight carefully curated courses, each building on the others to develop well-rounded, healthy, and effective ministry leaders. Moving through the courses together gives participants the time to grow in biblical understanding, practical ministry skills, and personal formation, while building trust, shared wisdom, and a Christ-centered approach to ministry.

10. Do You Offer Scholarships? We do not offer scholarships at this time, but we are committed to expanding access to our training. To help lower financial barriers right now, we have discounted our standard $600 course fee down to $475 per course. The program cost is $1,900 per year. Additionally, we can provide an information packet to share with your church leadership so they can prayerfully consider financially supporting this investment in your ministry training and development.

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New England Bible College
& Seminary

207-945-1665

info@nebc.edu

7 E. Crescent St.

Augusta, ME 04330

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