Is anyone eligible to enroll in SEM?
Yes! All adults are welcome to apply. Since SEM is a 3-year certification program, it is assumed that applicants will commit to the full three years when they apply. Applicants do not need to be Woodland Hills members or attenders.
What kind of people sign up?
People may be interested in going through SEM for many different reasons:
- to increase their biblical and theological understanding
- to deepen their faith and connection to Jesus
- to seek deeper healing for past wounds
- to become better equipped to serve in church-based or missional ministry
- to cultivate a more Jesus-like character
- to have a more vibrant, stable faith
Is this school accredited?
No, the SEM school is not accredited. Students who complete the three years will receive a certificate in Missional Theology, and may be eligible for further ministry equipping and ministry leadership roles at WH, Sojourners or SOMA as discerned by leadership.
Who will the teachers be?
The SEM curriculum consists of live and video-based lectures and teachings, as well as facilitated activities, discussions and experiential exercises. The main live and video-based teachings will be by Greg Boyd, Kevin Callaghan, Paul Eddy. Teachings by other guest speakers will also be included.
Are there scholarships available to help with costs?
SEM cannot guarantee any scholarship assistance for school costs. Potential students who are in financial need may inquire about possible partial or full scholarship assistance, and will need to submit an application form to be reviewed by the scholarship committee. Scholarships are granted based on demonstration of need and availability of funds.
What if I cannot complete the full three-year program?
Students will benefit spiritually from any time they spend in the SEM program, but our hope is that students will aim for completion of the full three years. If for some reason a student needs to take time off before completing the full curriculum, they can rejoin the program at the start of the next fall session and continue on.
What if I need to miss some classes?
Students may need to miss some of the class sessions for a number of reasons (illness, family crisis, business responsibilities, etc.). In these situations the class sessions will be recorded and made available for students to view in order to catch up on missed material. In order to successfully complete SEM, however, students will need to maintain a high level of regular attendance.
