The Graduate Certificate allows the pursuit of graduate theological study without commitment to a full degree program. Each certificate requires satisfactory completion of four courses (12-16 quarter credits) as outlined for that particular program. Since the certificate is not a degree, the credits may be applied to one of Iliff’s degree programs, if the student is accepted into the degree program. Graduate Certificates also provide degree students an opportunity to study in areas outside of their concentration or to demonstrate advanced competency. Students may also complete a Graduate Certificate through our online learning program. View the Graduate Certificates brochure.

Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements

Applicants must have a baccalaureate degree from a fully accredited college with a minimum of a 2.75 grade point average. Applicants submit a completed application form, personal statement, and transcripts from all undergraduate or graduate institutions previously attended. Additionally, some certificates require an interview with pertinent faculty members.

Graduate Certificates are available in the six areas noted below beginning in the academic year 2009-10. Check out the Graduate Certificate-Eligible Courses (PDF) offered for 2009-2010.

  • Anglican Studies – Students take courses from within the Anglican Studies curriculum or related courses from across the curriculum as approved by the Director of Anglican Studies.
  • Biblical Studies – Students choose from the core Bible sequence and/or elective courses in the Bible. They must take at least two courses focused on Biblical text and may also include two courses in other fields related to the study of the Bible such as:  Biblical Ethics, Teaching the Bible, and Praying with Scripture.
  • General Theological Studies – Students take four courses selected from across the curriculum. Courses are identified on the basis of subject matter or thematic connections identified by the certificate student and approved by the dean. The General Theological Studies certificate is not available within a degree program.
  • Pastoral and Spiritual Care – Students interested in offering spiritual care of persons facing difficult circumstances take four courses in the area of spiritual and pastoral care. Applicants for this certificate must also complete an interview with faculty before acceptance to this certificate option. See complete details on this certificate.
  • Religion and Social Change – Students choose from courses across the curriculum related to understanding religion in its social context.  Examples include: Race, Gender, Class, Ethical Perspectives on Justice and Peace, Struggles courses, Social Construction and Selfhood, Impact of War on the Pastoral Care of Families, and other social change electives.  Usually two praxis seminars may be counted as the equivalent of one course.
  • United Methodist Studies – Students take four courses: United Methodist History and Doctrine, United Methodist Doctrine, United Methodist Discipline and Polity, and Mission and Evangelism in Contemporary Contexts.  When offered they might add or substitute the General Conference seminar or other relevant courses as approved by the academic dean.
  • Women and Religion – Students are introduced to the critical impact that religion and gender play in shaping roles, traditions, and cultural contexts, both locally and internationally. This program will address such issues in a wide variety of class offerings, including Feminist Theology, Women in American Religious History, Feminist Interpretation of the Bible, Women in Early Christianity, Women in Medieval Europe, and History & Practice of Preaching from the Woman’s Perspective.

The specific certificates available and details of requirements are subject to change. More detailed information about Graduate Certificates is available from the admissions office at 303-765-3117, or admissions@iliff.edu