Formal vs. Informal Study

Our graduate study policies apply to formal study. Formal study is defined as any kind of graduate coursework undertaken by a staff member using hours that would normally be spent in ministry.  These policies do not apply to informal study.  Informal study is defined as any coursework undertaken by a staff member on his or her own time.  Examples of informal study might involve taking a night class at a nearby school on your own time, taking an independent study course from one of our seminary partners, etc.  What distinguishes formal study from informal study is the context in which coursework is undertaken: formal study involves the use of ministry hours for coursework while informal study is carried out completely on a staff member’s own time.  Any type of formal graduate study requires organizational approval.  Qualifications to apply for graduate study status are outlined in the Graduate Study Policy document, which can be downloaded below.

Three Types of Formal Graduate Study

Three kinds of formal study exist within our Graduate Studies Program: (1) part-time study, (2) summer study and (3) full-time study.  Each of these modes of graduate study requires formal organizational approval by HRL.  (Note: Meeting the qualifications for graduate study does not mean you will automatically be given permission to pursue graduate study.  It simply means you are qualified to apply.  Specific polices related to each of these can be found in the graduate studies policy document.)

• Part-Time Grad Study
• Summer Study
• Full-Time Grad Study

Download Graduate Studies Policy

Campus Ministry Graduate Studies Policy document.

Steps to Apply for Graduate Study Status

1. Download and carefully read the Graduate Studies Policy document.
2. Discuss your interest in graduate study with the Director of Theological Development in your region (or other member of HRL team designated by your HRL Regional Director).
3. Download and submit application materials. (Do not submit any application materials without first talking with the Director of Theological Development for your region).
4. The Director of Theological Development will notify you of his/her decision.