Diploma of Pastoral Studies
An Introduction to the Basic Essentials of Pastoral Preparation
Program Overview
The MAPS and DPS programs are designed to give students the essentials for planting and pastoring churches.
Credit Hours
Per Credit Hour
Est. Years to Complete
or Online
Formats
Exegetical Theology
13
Hours
Historical Theology
3
Hours
Systematic Theology
6
Hours
Practical Theology
13
Hours
Electives
2
Hours
Academic Prep
1
Hour
Available In Two Tracks -
Research Option | Reformed Baptist Studies (Thesis Option)
Program Details
The MAPS and DPS programs are designed to give students the essentials for planting and pastoring churches. While more training is normally preferable, it is not always suitable to each man’s gifts, calling, and circumstances. Additionally, pastors may desire to assess and mentor men aspiring to the ministry without committing them to a fuller degree program.
Individuals who are in the process of having their ministry calling assessed or would like to prepare for pastoral ministry by being introduced to the basic essentials of pastoral preparation are welcome to enroll in CBTS and take courses for credit as Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies or Diploma of Pastoral Studies students.
Admission as a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies or Diploma of Pastoral Studies student to CBTS requires first that the pastor or elders of the prospective student’s church recommend him as one being assessed for pastoral ministry or as a legitimate aspirant to the vocational ministry. They may do so through a written letter detailing their assessment of his aspirations. A member of the Admissions Team must then approve the prospective student by means of an interview examining his fitness for enrollment at CBTS. For practical purposes this interview may be conducted over the phone.
All of these students must also complete an application form and be accepted by the administration of CBTS. Upon acceptance and receipt of the registration fee, information for distance learners (text books, access code for streaming or downloading lectures, etc.) will be sent to the applicant. Continuation as a student is subject to the discretion of the faculty and administration of CBTS.
Similar to the Master of Divinity program, usually only individuals who are at least 21 years of age, hold a Bachelor’s Degree and are members in good standing of an evangelical church shall be eligible for acceptance to the Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies program. Those meeting these qualifications without a Bachelor’s Degree shall be eligible for acceptance to the Diploma of Pastoral Studies program. The administration of CBTS reserves the right to waive any or all of these entrance requirements or to decline the application of any man to CBTS at its own discretion.
A total of 35 credit hours is necessary to complete this curriculum, which students are expected to complete within 4 years.
BDiv to MDiv Opportunity
A limited number of qualified BDiv students are provided the opportunity to enter the MDiv program without completing a bachelor degree.
Students who meet the following criteria may apply to enter the MDiv program:
1. Student must be at least 30 years old.
2. Student must have completed at least 50% of the BDiv program.
3. Student must have a minimum GPA of 3.3.
4. Student must agree to complete at least 12 credit-hours/year in the MDiv program.
Please note that the above-listed criteria are minimum requirements for application to the program. As this program is space limited, the possibility exists that students who meet the criteria above may still be unsuccessful in their application to the BDiv to MDiv opportunity.
FAQs
Absolutely. CBTS is built for distance learners:
• Live‑streamed semester courses for real‑time interaction.
• Self‑paced online courses.
• Modular classes – In-person courses where lectures are delivered over a few days during holiday weekends.
Yes. You may study either full-time or part-time. CBTS operates in view with the needs of students who work full-time and have families. Evening live streams and self‑paced courses accommodate bi-vocational schedules.
You can progress at a pace that fits your schedule and responsibilities. Some full-time students complete around 24–25 credits per year, while some students take a part-time approach of about 12–13 credits per year.
In general, students requirements include being a professing Christian walking in repentance and faith and an active member in good standing of a local church. Additional requirements may apply depending on the program—for example, pastoral programs require a pastoral recommendation letter and are limited to men. Please view the entire list of qualifications at cbtseminary.org/apply.
Yes. Graduate credits (C or higher) that match CBTS program requirements may be transferred up to two‑thirds of your degree, subject to approval by the academic committee. At least one‑third must be completed at CBTS.
Yes. Since 2019, CBTS has been an accredited member of the Association of Reformed Theological Seminaries (ARTS), recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). ARTS accreditation assures that CBTS meets rigorous academic and theological standards. Credits are usually transferable among accredited evangelical institutions.
Tuition: $100 per credit hour. ThM: $200/hour. PhD: See program page.
Semester Enrollment Fee: $450 each January & August
Application Fee: $100 (one‑time)
Graduation Fee: $250
Auditing: Free onsite evening classes; $20 per online course
Yes, scholarships & financial assistance are available to qualifying students. Also, our Church Partnership Program allows students of partnering churches to study tuition-free. Church-partner students must still pay semester fees.
Yes. In our payment portal, you can choose to pay for your classes and/or semester fee in 5 installments.
Online application → official transcript → pastoral recommendation (if required) → online interview → admission decision.
Our rolling enrollment system means you can apply and start learning at any time. Aim to submit your application, transcripts, and interview materials at least a month before you wish to start.
Still have questions?
Let us know how we can help.
Biblical Counseling Certification
Students have the opportunity to complete the IRBC biblical counseling certification in conjunction with their degree program.
Biblical Counseling Certification
Students have the opportunity to complete the IRBC biblical counseling certification in conjunction with their degree program.
Cost Calculator
Fees are structured with the express purpose of encouraging students to maintain diligence and consistency in their studies. The faster a student completes his course of studies, the lower his overall cost will be. Textbooks fees not included in calculation.
Mentoring Program
Students in this program will have the benefits of a seasoned minister of the gospel investing personally in his life and ministry.
In accordance with 2 Timothy 2:2, we are convinced that it is the duty of pastors to train men for the gospel ministry.
CBTS does not replace the pastor/mentor but seeks to come alongside him to help prepare men who love our Lord to become faithful shepherds of His sheep.
Learn from Trusted Faculty
CBTS is keenly aware of the crucial need to be pastorally concerned and to mentor men throughout their educational experience. All of our professors are either pastors or former pastors.
Flexible Learning Options
CBTS combines the best of the in-person classroom experience with the flexibility of taking courses online. You can enroll in courses at any time, from anywhere, and take as many courses as you like, allowing you to prepare for ministry while remaining in your own local church.
Apply to CBTS
If you are interested in studying at CBTS, the first step is to fill out the application form. Questions? We'd be happy to help.