PTH

Subject

PTH

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Most preaching courses work from text and theology to the sermon. This course operates in exactly the opposite way. We will take sermons that have actually been preached and work backward to the various component parts that make them up. Homiletics, as a sub-discipline of Practical Theology, is disciplined theological reflection on the proclamation of the gospel with a view to the next instance of preaching being more meaningfully informed by disciplined reflection. In this course we will examine diverse array of sermons and, in seminar style, develop and apply criteria by which to evaluate them theologically, biblically, aesthetically and rhetorically.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

UMC Required Course (3 hrs.) 18 hours d Year

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

hrs.

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course provides students with research skills to enhance their classroom experience and to assist them in their roles as students and professionals. Among topics covered are authority of scholarship, research strategies for print and electronic resources, proper construction of citations, basic writing strategies and strategies to improve reading comprehension. This course is graded S/U. A student may choose to receive a letter grade by submitting a written request to the Registrar prior to the end of the drop/add period. The request must be made on or before the second day of classes during intensive terms. No changes will be made after this date.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Credit unit

Hour

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course prepares students for the various styles of writing encountered by graduate students in seminary courses. It orients students to the fundamentals of expository and argumentative writing so as to facilitate the production of clear and coherent essays. Students will analyze the organizational patterns of various kinds of seminary writing and the nature and function of paragraphs in the context of the essay. In addition, the course will present students with problem-solving strategies and critical- thinking tools for writing. Depending on the needs of the students enrolled, review of English grammar may be incorporated into this course. Note: This course may be repeated, but can only be taken once for credit. The course counts as a general elective in the MTS Program. This course is graded S/U. A student may choose to receive a letter grade by submitting a written request to the Registrar prior to the end of the drop/add period. The request must be made on or before the second day of classes during intensive terms. No changes will be made after this date.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Repeatable

may be repeated, but can only be taken once for credit.

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Since graduate-level education requires a larger time commitment and higher level of engagement than undergraduate studies, this course is designed to help bridge the gap. Students will learn techniques for managing their time, organizing their work, reading for understanding, working with computers, following a writing process, and studying effectively. Emphasis on these skills will be determined by the needs of the students in the class. This course is graded S/U. A student may choose to receive a letter grade by submitting a written request to the Registrar prior to the end of the drop/add period during the fall and spring semesters. The request must be made on or before the second day of classes during intensive terms. No changes will be made after this date. 110

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This required course orients beginning students to both seminary life and graduate theological education. Topics to be explored include the nature and practice of Christian ministry, the relationship between graduate theological education and the practice of Christian ministry, the purposes of seminary, how to read theological texts, effective writing techniques and strategies, wellness, and vocational discernment. Graded S/U. 111

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

A study of the theology and significance of the sacraments of baptism and Holy Communion as well as such ordinances as weddings, funerals, dedications and blessings in the life of the Christian community, and an orientation to the proper administration of them.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Students who sing in the Seminary choir and regularly attend rehearsals and performances may register for one credit per semester for up to three credits in the MDiv Program.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Credit unit

Hour

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Education (3 hrs.) Elective (3 hrs.) (12 hrs.)

Subject

PTH

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Educational Ministry (3 hrs.) Education Christian Education Elective Elective (3 hrs.) (3 hrs.) Elective (3 hrs.) (12 hrs.) (3 hrs.) 24 earned hours 27 earned hours

Subject

PTH

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course will explore and focus on Jesus and his teaching methodologies as an approach to educational ministry. Jesus’ teaching approaches are transformative and emancipatory, providing guidelines for the 21st-century faith community. Educational methods of practice will include connecting Jesus’ models to Negro Spirituals and storytelling and multi-cultural teaching and learning styles. The goal is to strengthen the teaching ministry so that participants will be empowered and challenged to apply Jesus’ teaching methodologies to contexts of social and technological change.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course examines the involvement of and contributions made by women to sacred music in the Judeo-Christian tradition from the Song of Miriam in the Hebrew Bible until the present day. It includes such topics as: the portrayal of women in worship music vs. their actual participation; female hymn writers and composers in various historical periods; the reasons behind the deliberate elevation of women’s status in church music since the mid-nineteenth century; close examination of hymn texts by female writers; and listening to or performing various examples of music by the women being studied.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

credit hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course will assist students as leaders of worship in the digital age. Since the advent of COVID- 19, worship styles and definitions of what it means to worship have shifted. To better equip our students for this new worship environment, this course will explore practical theology worship models on digital platforms, explore various means of worship, and address how to move congregations into virtual spaces in meaningful and responsible ways.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course will assist students in moving from using digital tools for worship and information sharing to creating a full-fledged virtual ministry in this digital age. This course is designed to provide hands-on materials and exposure to experts in this burgeoning field of ministry and to assist students in exploring the “digital” world as one’s parish. 98

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

A survey of the denominational polity and governance of particular communions within the Christian Church. This course is designed to meet denominational requirements for ordination.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

A study in the evolution and structure of the polity, the nature of ministry, and the denominational organization of the United Methodist Church. The aim is to enable the student to understand the nature and authority of power relevant to the United Methodist structure; to function collegially and meaningfully within the denomination’s connectional structure; and to utilize that structure as a means for effective growth and outreach of the local congregation. For United Methodist students, this course meets the requirement of the Discipline for a course on United Methodist Polity. 101

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

A study in the evolution and structure of the polity, the nature of ministry, and the denominational organization of the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Zion Church. The aim is to enable the student to understand the nature and authority of governance relevant to the A.M.E. Zion denomination; to function collegially and meaningfully within the denomination’s connectional structure; and to utilize that structure as a means for effective growth and outreach of the local congregation.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is designed to look at theories in human development and personality relevant to the minister as pastoral care provider. The course will consider issues in diagnosis and assessment in clinical pastoral care management within the context of the parish. Case studies will be utilized to support the student’s learning in this area.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

9 hours 18 hours 21 hours Fall J-Term Spring Summer BST 112: New Testament I (3 hrs.) BST 113: New Testament II (3 hrs.) PTH 130: Church Administration, Elective TSE 110: Systematic Theology I Elective Course Organization, and Finance (3 hrs.) Course (3 hrs.) (3 hrs.) Elective Course (3 hrs.) (3 hrs.) PTH 260: Christian Leadership and Conflict Resolution (3 hrs.) 30 hours 33 42 hours 45 hours hours Fall Spring PTH 380: Worship and Preaching II (3 hrs.) CHT 200: History of Religion in the United States (3 hrs.) Elective Course (3 hrs.) Elective Course (3 hrs.) Elective Course (3 hrs.) 54 hours 60 hours 69

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

hrs.

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

The study of the development of religious consciousness in persons, the various expressions of that development, the effect of religion on personality, and the implication of these for ministry. The writings of Fowler, Koelburg, Erikson, Jung, Progoff, and James are considered.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is designed to examine different fields of chaplaincy such as college chaplaincy, hospital chaplaincy, hospice chaplaincy, military chaplaincy, police chaplaincy, retirement community chaplaincy, etc. This course will consider various issues that are specific in the particular fields of chaplaincy context(s). This course will also explore best practices for different fields of chaplaincy.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course focuses on the Biblical and theological motivations for Christian evangelistic efforts, and offers insight into the effective evangelistic communication of the gospel. It surveys and critiques various types and strategies of evangelism. It is designed to motivate students in evangelistic efforts, and to provide them with useful knowledge for effective approaches. For United Methodist students, this course meets the requirement of the Discipline for a course on Evangelism. Offered every Fall Semester.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

The course offers insight into the nature of the rural area as the locus for evangelistic efforts. Students are required to prepare a plan or strategy as a model for evangelism in this setting.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

The course offers insight into the nature of the urban area as the locus for evangelistic efforts. Students are required to prepare a plan or strategy as a model for evangelism in this setting.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

How does one effectively evangelize using online platforms? This course will assist students in developing digital platforms as evangelistic tools and explore the meaning of evangelism in the digital context. Churches have experienced a need to redevelop and adapt their evangelism modalities and practices to evangelize in their communities and online more effectively.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is a practicum in which students receiving supervision and guidance in a ministry setting are provided with opportunities to reflect theologically on their experiences in ministry. Students discuss their experiences in and aspects of that ministry and have their performances evaluated by their supervisors and by the instructor. In the semester prior to taking this course, students arrange for their own field placements in consultation with and subject to the approval of the Director of Supervised Ministry. Students with fewer than 24 credit hours must consult with their academic advisors and obtain the permission of the Director of Supervised Ministry before enrolling in this course.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is a continuation of PTH 162. All students are strongly encouraged to complete one semester placement in a parish setting and the other in a non-parish setting. But the field placement for PTH 163 may be the same as for PTH 162, if that is considered necessary by the Director of Supervised Ministry in consultation with the student. Students arrange for their field placements in consultation with and subject to the approval of the Director of Supervised Ministry. Pre-requisite: PTH 162.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is designed to increase communication skills through learning what helps and hinders interpersonal understanding in member visitation, church meetings, and congregational conflict. The course is designed to support the student in becoming more comfortable and less defensive when dealing with strong negative feelings.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Mission in the GMC (3 hrs.) Biblical Exegesis Seminar (3 hrs.) Approve Elective (3 hrs.) 45 hours nded Sequence (2 Years)

Subject

PTH

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course requires students to do research or directed study in the art, techniques, theological content, and contribution of the sermons of outstanding African American preachers, noting especially those of the AME Zion communion. The requirements of the course include a bibliography of no fewer than 20 primary sources and a 2,000-word essay on preaching in the life of the African American Church. Pre-requisite PTH 103. 97

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course will help students to grow as preachers by considering how the Spirit speaks to the Church through voices that have been marginalized. Attention is given to how the Spirit moves in preaching within communities that have been overlooked and the power structures that impact said communities. By considering the sermons and writings of those who have been historically ignored, we will encounter fresh messages of Gospel hope and empowerment for us today.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Preaching is an art form of public speaking. It requires pronunciation, enunciation, gestures, voice projection, and verbal imagery. Reading is another skill that few persons have honed as laity. Leading worship is closely related to one’s ability to read the scriptures, litanies, and liturgies, and to word public prayers. This course is a practicum in which the video camera will be used extensively in developing oral communication skills.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is taught seminar style around the unique issues and challenges of serving rural congregations. It guides students in creating lasting and successful ministries within the rural church. Issues of leadership, administration, worship and preaching, missional outreach, conflict, and community awareness, among others, will be addressed from the rural perspective.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course explores how faith is formed using theories of faith development. It seeks to enable students to identify practices that enhance faith formation and ways for incorporation of the practices in their pastoral and teaching ministries to foster the development of mature faith. In addition to exploring faith development, several sessions on basics in Christian Education will be included with attention given to the role of effective Christian Education in faith formation. This course meets the Christian Education requirement in the Master of Divinity Program.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course involves an analysis of the unique needs of Christian Education in predominant African American congregations. Special attention is given to understanding the cultural and ethnic currents in the African American community, and to discovering and introducing Africentric resources. This course meets the Christian Education requirement in the Master of Divinity Program.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is an intensive survey of the interpretation of the Christian gospel through the media of drama, art, and dance. In consultation with the instructor, students are permitted to choose an area of focus, and to pursue research or directed study in relationship of the selected art form and Christian education.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course studies Christian symbols as silent communicators of the gospel with the potential of nurturing faith when the code language is revealed. This course meets the Christian Education requirement in the Master of Divinity Program.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

hrs.

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course examines the nature of conflict at various levels (intra-psychic, interpersonal, group, and organizational) and explores the factors that relate to its creative or destructive outcomes. It draws upon the behavioral sciences and theological disciplines for insight.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This is a sociological and doctrinal analysis of the Church Growth Movement. The course examines the challenges of reshaping religion in the twenty-first century and ways of re-visioning and transforming a local church from a maintenance mentality into a missional mode.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Offered in conjunction with The Candler School of Theology at Emory University

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2023-2024

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Offered in conjunction with The Candler School of Theology at Emory University These courses are not approved for Directed Study. 56

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2023-2024

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is an exploration of the distinctive paradigm of visionary pastoral ministry. The course identifies the impediments of maintenance-mode ministry to visionary ministry and provides strategies for moving the church into missional ministry. Students will develop both vision and tools for ministries that are responsive to the needs of the 21st century.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

the Ministry of the Approve Elective (3 hrs.) Holy Spirit (3 hrs.) 18 hours 30 hours 36 hours

Subject

PTH

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

An examination of the psychological aspects involved in the treatment of addicted people and the victims of their behavior. Emphasis is given to the psychological and theological understanding of human behavior, and to the rationale for intervention. Pre-requisite: PTH 141.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course explores theories and practices in multi-cultural care and ministry in the local church. 103

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Prerequisite

PTH 141.

This course is designed for students to increase their understanding and knowledge of the minister’s role and function in crisis counseling. The course will explore the range of theories and strategies for responding to typical parish crisis situations. These typical pastoral care situations would include familial violence, marital discord, suicide, pathological grief, psychological dysfunction, and physical abuse. Students would also be encouraged to reflect on the theological implications in pastoral crisis intervention and the broader ramifications for pastoral ministry. The format for the course is didactic and experiential. Case write-ups and role-playing will be primary vehicles for learning. The goal of the course is to increase students’ understanding and ability to respond appropriately to the crises that occur in congregational life. Pre-requisite: PTH 141.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

An introduction to the principles of systems theory as an alternative to the prevailing individualism in psychology and theology. The systems qualities of marriage, family, and church receive particular attention as relationship contexts of special importance psychologically and theologically. Pre-

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Prerequisite

PTH 141.

This course focuses on current patterns and modes of sexual conduct, and on their implications for Christian ethics and spiritual life. Pre-requisite: PTH 141.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Given the shifting contexts of pastoral care ministry, ethics (both personal and professional standards), and society, this course is intended to assist and facilitate students as they refine their ethics of pastoral and spiritual care in themselves as persons, as professional spiritual caregivers, and as advocates in the community (to include: healthcare, institutions, and social services).

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is designed for students to increase their understanding and knowledge of the theoretical basis and pastoral care practices in the context of COVID-19, and beyond. We will be using Case Study methodology based upon each student's ministerial context and the materials presented in class. This form of teaching pastoral and practical theology is designed to assist students in theological reflection and analyze their work, ministry formation, and praxis of practical theology. Case Study is a systematic way of helping students identify the interpersonal dynamics, pastoral interactions/interventions, and addressing both the espoused theology and “lived-theology.”

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

An in-depth analysis of what is meant by the term, "salvation." Attention is given to the different biblical usages of the term, and its various meaning in the church today. The idea of salvation is also considered in relation to matters that are personal, domestic, and international. The course addresses concerns about race and gender relations, population increase, creation and pollution, hunger, economic and political justice, social change, and personal redemption.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is designed for students to increase their understanding and knowledge of the theoretical basis and practices of practical and pastoral theology in the context of rising racial tensions, and calls for justice. Students will use Case Study methodology based upon each student's ministerial context and the materials presented in class. This form of teaching pastoral and practical theology is designed to assist students in theological reflection and analyze their work, ministry formation, and praxis of practical theology. Case Study is a systematic way of helping students identify the interpersonal dynamics, pastoral interactions/interventions, and addressing both the espoused theology and “lived-theology.” 104

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course will focus on the content of Practical Theologies and the pastoral practices that emerge from their methods, aims, sources, and critiques, with additional emphasis on how the church's practical theology is formed around issues of social justice and advocacy. Students will be challenged to understand what this contextually based theology means for pastoral leadership. This course will also highlight African American experience, social justice issues, a critique of Black preaching and ecclesiological discourse, religion, spirituality, and modes of care in both the public sphere and personal spirituality. The course will include the experiences and voices of those outside the historically black church congregation.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is taught in a seminar style in which students present pastoral care situations and pastoral incidents. This course helps students learn how to write up and analyze cases that reflect real experience, using psychological and theological theories. It also encourages a dialogue about potentially sensitive issues in local congregations and communities. Limited to 12 students. Pre-

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Prerequisite

PTH 141.

and Conflict Resolution (3 hrs.) 48 hours 60 hours 71

Subject

PTH

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course explores the practical elements of a spiritual life necessary for a vital and maturing Christian faith as well as the dynamics involved in leading a congregation in the Wesleyan way of “making disciples”. The course will address John Wesley’s use of societies, classes, and bands in historical Methodism as well as the potential for their contemporary use in proper spiritual formation. Emphasis will be given to the methods for and challenges involved with incorporating these discipleship practices into the life of the local church. 102

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course examines the meaning, definition, dynamics, and roles of forgiving and reconciling in pastoral care and counseling. Psychological, sociological, and theological dimensions of forgiveness and reconciliation are explored in relation to the process of healing. Domestic violence, child abuse survivors, and racial and political issues are included for exploration. Pre-requisite: PTH 141.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course focuses on developing a Womanist/Feminist approach to the concerns women present for pastoral care. Pastoral response to women requires an integrated approach that brings scholarly discourse into dialectic engagement with personal experience. This dialectic is cultivated through study of Womanist and Feminist pastoral theologians and practitioners who identify and deconstruct the cultural assumptions and practices that impact women’s lives. The intended outcome is to develop a pastoral theological method for care that is ultimately liberating and empowering for women who seek the support of female and male pastoral professionals.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course focuses on defining intimate and family violence, examining its theological concerns and developing relevant pastoral care responses that address the use and abuse of power. Texts for the course will center around the use and abuse of power in intimate and family contexts, while also connecting these notions to violent social and cultural practices. The intended outcome is to provide students with a working definition of power and violence, and to equip them with practical skills for ethical response. 105

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

The course is an analysis of the needs of children in the educational process. Focus is also on the relationship between adult workers and children in the spiritual growth process and on curriculum resources for children.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

The course is an analysis of the needs of youth in the educational process. Focus is also on the role of the teacher/facilitator in the spiritual growth process and on youth-specific curriculum resources. 100

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

An in-depth analysis of the educational needs of adults at various stages in the life span, focusing on nurturing faith formation, spiritual growth and on adult-specific curriculum resources.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course examines the graying of congregations as well as the changes necessary to engage and provide meaningful educational ministries for seniors (over 65 years of age). It will focus on the special needs of seniors and the role of the church in addressing those needs.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

A course designed for advanced study within the discipline of Christian Education with a focus on a specific area that is selected by the professor.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

A course offered to provide opportunity for research and exploration of a specific dimension within educational ministry. Arrangements for a directed study are made on an individual basis taking into consideration the interests of the student and must be approved by the Academic Dean.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

(3 hrs.)

Subject

PTH

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Prerequisite

PTH 141.

Directed study in elective courses in the area may be arranged with the faculty of the area with the approval of the Academic Dean. Pre-requisite: PTH 141.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This seminar is designed to allow advanced students to focus on some specific current pastoral care issue(s) for the local church. For example, students might explore changing understandings of gender roles, the impact of technological advances in medicine, differences in pastoral care for women and men, AIDS ministry, pastoral care to marginalized communities, and/or other contemporary concerns. The student’s identified interests will guide the content of the seminar. Pre-requisite: PTH 141.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course will intensively examine eleven theories of counseling, along with contemporary and integrative therapies. In the application of theory, students will be challenged to develop a deeper understanding of the counseling process and the complex dynamics (personal and professional) involved in the counseling relationship. Students will bring together various approaches to develop their own therapeutic style, as well as integrate a pastoral counseling-oriented strategy into mainstream approaches to professional counseling and psychotherapy. Prerequisite: PTH 141.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

6

Credits (max)

6

Credit unit

Credit Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

6

Credits (max)

6

Credit unit

Credit Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

6

Credits (max)

6

Credit unit

Credit Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is designed for students who wish to complete a fourth unit of CPE geared toward achieving Level II competencies and outcomes. Students must consult with the Director for the Center for Chaplaincy about their choice of a CPE site. Credit will only be granted for programs certified by the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE). Students must satisfactorily complete the second unit of CPE (6 credit hours) and provide copies of their Certificate of Completion and final evaluation to the Registrar and Interim Director of the Center for Chaplaincy for these hours to count toward their degree program’s requirements. Depending upon the site, students may register for CPE for 3 credit hours over two semesters or they may register for 6 credit hours for one semester. Prerequisite PTH 352 and permission of the Director for the Center of Chaplaincy or CPE Faculty Liaison Students must be pursuing a MAC Degree to register for this course.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

6

Credits (max)

6

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course engages theological reflection by attending to the ways in which pastoral ministry “talks back” to theology and helps us rethink our faith by posing questions of human existence related to such issues as the nature and meaning of life and death, illness, grief, love, community, reconciliation, healing, social justice, gender and cultural difference. The course employs various theological approaches, such as a Barthian “theology of the Word,” a liberal “process” theology and a politically oriented theology of “liberation.” The course explores the implications of each type of theology for pastoral care and relates each to case material. 107

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Directed study allows a student to do advanced research in a particular field. Directed study should be arranged with the faculty specialist in the field of interest and approved by the Academic Dean.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This seminar is intended for students to engage in advanced and detailed study of some focused topic in practical ministry. The content of this seminar is guided by the research interests of the students and the faculty specialist in whatever topic is desired. (Note: Students who are interested in the sub-discipline of Pastoral Care and Counseling should register instead for PTH 343.)

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This is an opportunity for seminarians to have direct exposure to effective ministries of justice, mercy and compassion. Students are invited to explore cutting edge ministries that creatively respond to the needs of socially marginalized persons, ministries in differing cultural contexts, and/or ministries that are effectively addressing social injustices. These ministries may be domestic or international, immersing the student in a ministry that involves a different cultural perspective than that of the student. These ministries may be parish and/or community ministries that allow the student to push and integrate the insights gathered from their academic work; and, open the student to a broadened understanding of ministry and therefore an expanded framework from which to develop their ministry. It is expected to involve the student for at least a weekend period when done locally or continentally and at least a week when done abroad (not including travel time). Students will be expected to create a daily journal and a reflection paper on their experience in conjunction with their advisor or the Director of Supervised Ministry. 109

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hour

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

The tutorial is designed to assist students in writing their theses. It focuses on identifying an appropriate topic, and gathering and evaluating pertinent data. A student who is considering the tutorial should discuss it with his/her academic advisor, who will help identify the faculty member who, by academic training and experience, is best suited to serve as the thesis director. The student should register for Thesis Tutorial three semesters prior to her/his expected graduation, normally in the Spring Semester. Guidelines for the thesis tutorial and the thesis are available on myHood, from the student's advisor and in the Office of the Academic Dean.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is a continuation of PTH 364 and focuses on the completion of the thesis. The thesis must be completed in accordance with the guidelines. Pre-requisite: PTH 364. Research and Writing Skills

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This seminar is intended to address a particular topic of interest in the area of Ministerial Studies. It offers an opportunity for advanced and detailed study of a specialized subject as chosen by the instructor.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This seminar is intended to address a particular topic of interest in the area of Homiletics. It offers an opportunity for advanced and detailed study of a specialized subject as chosen by the instructor. Pre-requisite: PTH 103.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This seminar is intended for students to engage in advanced and detailed study of some focused topic in evangelism. The content of this seminar is guided by the research interests of the students and the faculty specialist in whatever topic is desired. 108

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This seminar is intended to address a particular topic of interest in the area of Worship and Hymnology. It offers an opportunity for advanced and detailed study of a specialized subject as chosen by the instructor. Pre-requisites: PTH 103.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course builds upon PTH 103 and leads students to an advanced study of Christian liturgy and preaching preparation and performance. New and emergent worship practices will be examined and students will deepen their hermeneutical understanding of the gospel and its relationship to the Bible in oral interpretation and preaching preparation and delivery. Students will be encouraged to be creative and innovative in their worship leadership and preaching preparation and practice with a view to fresh experiences of the gospel. Required. Prerequisites: PTH 103 and 55 earned credit hours.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

A course offered to provide opportunity for research and exploration of a specific dimension within Homiletics, Worship and Hymnology. Arrangements for a directed study are made on an individual basis taking into consideration the interests of the student and must be approved by the Academic Dean.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course provides an introduction to academic and writing for Doctor of Ministry students. It emphasizes the use of Turabian style, doctoral-level theological reflection, and scholarly writing practices.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course explores factors involved in how a leader formulates a vision, empowers others, motivates ownership, and maintains the vision. Students will also explore various leadership styles, their vulnerabilities and strengths, and the influences of personality on the development of one’s leadership style. This course will help leaders develop a connection between biblical injunctions and the way the church structures and lives out its mission through its ministries.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course focuses on cultivating wholeness within groups and communities that are struggling with spiritual and emotional brokenness. Ministry in such a context involves the pastor as both participant and facilitator in creating a space of safety for healing. Creating this space requires patience, self-awareness, and intentionality. Students will explore some faith communities that have been effective in promoting healing and will consider how they might adapt those models for their own ministries.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

One significant challenge for a pastor is moving from a small parish to a multi-staff church or to a staff-structured ministry other than a local church. The transition calls for skills in which clergy have not commonly been trained. The course will offer practical insights for learning to work with existing staff and developing creative working relationships between old and new staff. PTH 404 from Tradition to Mission—Leadership and Longer Pastorates 2 Hours A pastor who remains with the same congregation for a long ministry (ten, twenty or more years) develops a different kind of relationship with the members from one who stays only two or three years. New opportunities emerge along with new pitfalls. The course will be led by a pastor who has served successfully for twenty years or more with one congregation, moving them effectively from factionalism to cohesiveness and from entrenched methods to visionary mission.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Nothing has pre-empted the church’s agenda in recent decades more than the Church Growth movement. Many have perceived growth as getting more people. But understanding the movement’s history, concepts, theology, and styles will enable students to embrace new realities rather than simply reject stereotypes. This course will explore how Church Growth insights can be applied to any social context.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

The goal of this course is to identify the essential characteristics of effective, growing churches and determine how these characteristics can be developed in any church, large or small.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course will identify the crucial elements of effective leadership in the church: Vision, Team, Culture, and Integrity. Special attention will be given to the traits of leaders: how leaders inspire a following; engage others in serving the Master Leader; understand and evaluate their own gifts and motivations; develop their own style of leadership; manage their personal vulnerabilities; sustain their spirit through difficult times; and effect change without tearing a church apart.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is designed to facilitate a deeper awareness of one’s spiritual life. Building on the self- assessment inventory of spirituality used in DMN 402, the course aims to develop disciplines that will help ministers to nourish themselves spiritually. Students will explore practices from various faith traditions to discern ways of enhancing their own spiritual practice. Each student will be expected to be involved in daily meditation and reflection as well as some spiritual retreat experience.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

professional project. All such petitions must be received by the Director of the DMin program on or before April 1 of the student’s sixth year in the program.

Subject

PTH

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is a program of supervised, theological and professional education for ministry in a clinical setting such as a hospital. Students registering for this course must have completed 2 units of CPE and must provide copies of their Certificates of Completion for those units. Students must consult with the Director of the DMN program to determine both their readiness for additional CPE training and the appropriateness of their preferred training site and program, which must be certified by the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE) or The College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy, Inc. (CPSP). In order for these hours to count toward the degree requirements students must satisfactorily complete a unit beyond unit 2 of CPE and provide copies of their Certificate of Completion and final evaluation to the Registrar and the Director of the DMN program. Students may register for this class one time to earn 2 elective credits or two times to earn 4 elective credits. Pre-requisites: Permission of the DMN Director and/or Academic Dean prior to enrollment of the CPE program and Certificate of Completions for Units 1 and 2. 125

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course reexamines the task of preaching, the content and form of preaching, and the movement in preaching to ask, “How can preaching be refreshed and refreshing?” The course will examine the theological and exegetical foundations of preaching, types of sermons, intentionality, experiential context, and celebrative design in order to revitalize the preaching experience.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

The prophet Ezekiel says, “I sat where the people sat.” That is the essence of pastoral ministry. This course will affirm the pastoral relationship while pushing the envelope on social justice dimensions of the Gospel, offering practical insights on speaking, acting, and developing an effective ministry with a distinctly prophetic accent.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Grief is a universal experience, which impacts individuals, families, institutions, and societies. This course will explore and analyze the phenomenon and the process of grief and loss from the perspective of the social sciences and theology, with particular attention to the arts of pastoral care, recovery, and spirituality.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course can be used as an elective in the Leadership Ministry Specialization or as an elective in the Pastoral Theology and Care Specialization. See course description under the heading “Leadership

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Systems theory recognizes that a complete unit is made up of interconnected and interdependent parts operating in a stable way over time. Theology seeks to forge authentic meaning from human and spiritual experiences. The course intends to explore a variety of family systems theories and their rich applications, which illuminate the human experience as a spiritual journey with multidimensional aspects.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

for Community Advocacy 2 Hours This course aims to examine the role of congregants and local churches as centers of community advocacy. The course will explore how to apply integrative themes using social justice lenses across a range of settings where community advocates and social justice activists engage in effective change. Successful strategies to address issues of injustice across systems and levels by communities of faith will be examined. Group projects will be utilized to explore current challenges and advocacy needs through case applications.

Subject

PTH

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course will 1) explore the relationship between pastoral care and justice in the broader community and 2) examine ethical and pastoral care perspectives that have emerged during the 21 st century. Students will visit various sites and contexts that demonstrate models or forms of structural, i.e. economic, healthcare, social advocacy, and integrative ministry. This course satisfies a concentration elective in the Pastoral Theology and Care Specialization or the Community Advocacy and Social Justice Ministry Specialization.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course can be used as an elective in the Leadership Ministry Specialization or as an elective in the Social Justice and Community Advocacy Specialization. See course description under the heading “Community Advocacy and Social Justice Ministry Specialization”. 123

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course aims to provide students an opportunity to gain fluency in a series of counseling theories of personality/character, development, relationships, motivation, health, and pathology, as a context in which to practice care interpretations of religious matters.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course will focus attention on the content of African American Pastoral and Practical Theologies as well as the pastoral practices that emerge from their methods, aims, sources, and critiques, with additional emphasis upon how the practical theology of the church is formed around issues of social justice and advocacy. Students will be challenged to understand what this contextually based theology means for pastoral leadership in African American contexts. This course will highlight African American experience, issues of social justice, a critique of Black preaching and ecclesiological discourse, religion, spirituality, and modes of care in both the public sphere and personal spirituality. The course will include the experiences and voices of those outside the historical black church congregation. This course satisfies a concentration elective in the Pastoral Theology and Care Specialization or the Community Advocacy and Social Justice Ministry Specialization.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course can be used as an elective in the Leadership Ministry Specialization or as an elective in the Homiletics/Preaching Specialization. See course description under the heading “Homiletics/Preaching Specialization”.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course will provide a comprehensive overview of the field of family systems and family therapy. It will serve as an introduction to the theory and techniques of couples and family therapy. Through class assignments, activities, and personal and professional self-reflection, the course will integrate theory and practice. The students will have opportunity to reflect upon how they might use course content pastorally and professionally in their respective ministry contexts.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course will begin by examining the kind of dynamics that are part of group life, and the meaning of these dynamics for participation in, working with, and serving in pastoral/religious leadership roles with groups in diverse settings. Students will examine the conscious and unconscious dynamics in group life. The course will explore the relationship of race/ethnicity, culture, gender, class, and sexuality as embedded in integral facets of the psychodynamics that shape group processes.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Throughout history, the Bible has played a central role in preaching. This course will examine many of the ways the Bible has been used in Christian preaching, beginning in the early church and up to today. Special attention will be given to the ecclesial contexts of the students in the seminar and the predominant ways that the Bible has been, and is, used in preaching. Students will examine their own preaching and the uses of the Bible in which they engage. In a summative paper for the course, each participant will construct an approach to the Bible for use in preaching, including a critical examination of the theological and hermeneutical commitments that each has with regard to the nature and function of the Bible in preaching. Assessment criteria will be formed in order to assess one's use of the Bible with a view to respecting the integrity of the Bible, preaching, and all participants in the preaching enterprise. This course can also be used to meet the Biblical Studies/Theology and Social Ethics elective requirement. Leadership Ministry Specialization

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course provides an opportunity for the student to participate in an experientially based professional training process. The clinical training experience must be conducted under the supervision of a certified health care, mental health care, chaplaincy, pastoral counseling, family counseling, or integrative medical professional. In essence, the student collaborates with the professional to formulate a learning covenant that identifies specific skills and competencies that will be targeted during a specified number of weeks and hours with an identified start and end date. The clinical supervisor for this course (field experience) is expected to submit a mid-point evaluation of the student’s progress and a final evaluation, along with a final grade. Based on the normal hours that are required to complete a clinical internship or a specialized training experience, a student may request to substitute the clinical internship for two Pastoral Theology and Care electives.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course studies psychological and theological ways to understand some of the dysfunctional personality structures encountered in the context of the church and community of our current society. The course will cover nine different personality styles and disorders and will include reading, lectures, case studies, and class presentations as a means of understanding some of the more difficult people found in our church and community. Additionally, we will explore some appropriate relational styles and pastoral interventions with each personality structure. This course is designed to increase understanding, and thereby enhance the minister’s skill to be more empathic and therapeutic in relating with some of the more troubled individuals in our church and community.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Such studies are arranged in consultation with the Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program and with the approval of the Academic Dean. Homiletics/Preaching Specialization

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course satisfies a concentration elective in the Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization or the Pastoral Theology and Care Specialization. See course description under the heading “Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization”.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

The legacy of liberation through transformational leadership has been key to the progression of the Black Church in various sociological conditions. This course will explore up close the leadership legacy replete within the Black Church traditions by studying noteworthy personalities and their leadership strategies. Students will be given tools and processes that will enable them to embody and embrace the spirit of leadership in the various contexts they are called to serve.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course satisfies a concentration elective in the Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization or the Pastoral Theology and Care Specialization. See course description under the heading “Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization”. 127

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course satisfies a concentration elective in the Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization or the Pastoral Theology and Care Specialization. See course description under the heading “Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization”.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course is designed to provide the tools necessary to develop church leaders’ organizational leadership skills. Specifically, it will assist each candidate in evaluating their current ministry context in order to determine what is or is not working. Then it will offer strategies, systems and structures that will enable the candidates to lead its staff, volunteers and body of believers to become relevant and resilient in carrying out the Great Commission in the 21st Century.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course satisfies a concentration elective in the Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization or the Pastoral Theology and Care Specialization. See course description under the heading “Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization”.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Christian Leaders and Applied Ethics is a course designed to enhance the skills, knowledge and developmental processes of students as leaders in local churches and denominational settings. It introduces successful and inspirational models of leadership found in historical and contemporary Christianity. The course will further provide a pathway for the student’s continued development as a leader in his/her ministry context. The course highlights selected principles of biblical leadership as observed in the lives of biblical characters, while enabling students to identify ethical values and principles that are foundational for the practical ways they engage in ministry. Finally, it will allow students to develop their own written theology of leadership as they identify personal examples from their own ministry contexts where these leadership principles will be applied.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course satisfies a concentration elective in the Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization or the Pastoral Theology and Care Specialization. See course description under the heading “Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization”.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This intensive leadership course is designed to assist the student in being aware of the variety of biblical styles of leadership that were most effective in addressing the situations “of their time.” It will attempt to focus each student on the biblical, theological, and practical aspects of “management versus leadership” and how to effectively apply the appropriate approach while critically evaluating what is best suited for the present and future needs of the Church. 124

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course satisfies a concentration elective in the Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization or the Pastoral Theology and Care Specialization. See course description under the heading “Clinical Pastoral Education Supervision Specialization”. 128

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

Some view leadership as related to personal characteristics or developed skills. From a systems perspective, the ability to influence an organization in the right direction is linked to self-management and not the management of others. Thus, the leader’s journey begins with self-differentiation and the development of a psychologically and spiritually disciplined life. The course will explore systems leadership (Friedman and Herrington, et. al.) as the overarching perspective of Leadership Ministry. Then it will look at particular aspects of leadership as they relate to the church and church related organizations, including: what is the difference between technical and adaptive change, and why does that matter (Heifetz et. al.)? Why is it necessary to change the culture for change to be long lasting (Lewis et. al.)? And how does one provide leadership when you are not “the” pastor (Bonem and Patterson)? The goal for the course is both an increased awareness of how we function in ministry as leaders as well as how the organization/system can be influenced toward change.

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu

This course provides an opportunity for the student to participate in an experientially based professional training process. The pastoral leadership training experience must be conducted under the supervision of an experienced senior pastor, seasoned missionary, bishop or qualified denominational leader. In essence, the student collaborates with the professional to formulate a learning covenant that identifies specific leadership skills and competencies that will be targeted during a specified number of weeks and hours with an identified start and end date. The leader or supervisor for this course (field experience) is expected to submit a mid-point evaluation of the student’s progress and a final evaluation, along with a final grade. Pastoral Theology and Care Specialization

Subject

PTH

Credits (min)

2

Credits (max)

2

Credit unit

Hours

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

www.hoodseminary.edu