Nazarene Non-Credit Course of Study

Program Features

• Format: 21 online, asynchronous courses
• Facilitators: Nazarene Elders across Canada
• Schedule: 8 weeks per course, flexible pacing
• Language: English Proficiency Required 
• Credit: Non-Credit (cannot be applied to a degree) 
• Advanced Standing: Available for NCOS graduates pursuing a Masters Degree Program at Ambrose Seminary  

The Nazarene Course of Study is a great fit for those called to minister in the Church of the Nazarene who want a flexible, affordable, and accessible non-degree learning experience. The NCOS will launch in January 2026. 

Schedules & Deadlines 

2026 Spring: 

Upcoming Courses 

(Course release timelines are subject to change)

Spring 2026 

• Biblical Literature and Scriptural Interpretation
• The Church in Worship
• Christian Discipleship in a Postmodern Age

Summer 2026 

• The Vital Church in Context
• Transformational Leadership
• Introduction to Church history 

Fall 2026 

• God's Holy Call on Women and Men to Ministry
• Theology of Christian Holiness
• Old Testament Scriptures and Theology 
• Christian Ministry in Intercultural Contexts 

Launch Date TBD

• New Testament Scriptures and Theology 
• Celebration of Women in Ministry 
• Christian Theology 1 
• The Proclamation of the Living Word
• Pastoral Care and Counselling 
• Church Leadership and Administration
• The Moral Shape of Christian Ministry
• Ordination Capstone 

Course Descriptions                                                                                                                                                                                           

Have questions about the NCOS? Check out these FAQ’s or reach out to the NCOS Coordinator for more information.

How do I apply and register?  

Registration is processed through the Office of the Registrar. Applications are currently open and can be completed through the Open Studies Application found here.

What is the cost? 

Each course is $300 CAD, with a one-time registration fee of $75. 

Are textbooks required?  

Yes. Please refer to course syllabi for required reading.  

How do I complete my course?  

All NCOS courses are delivered online through a platform called Moodle. You will need a personal device with reliable internet connection. Courses can be completed asynchronously at the student’s pace. It is recommended to complete each module within the 8-week schedule.   

How much time should I expect to commit to completing the NCOS?  

Each course is scheduled for an 8-week period with up to 20 hours of work per week. These modules are intended to be accessible and effective preparation for ordination and vocational ministry in the Church of the Nazarene. Each course will require a weekly schedule of assignments and discussions. All work must be submitted in order to complete the course. Course material can be accessed 24/7 while the course is open. Students are encouraged to pace themselves accordingly.   

Can I drop/withdraw from a course?  

Yes, courses within the Nazarene Non-Credit Course of Study can be dropped for a full refund within the first two weeks. After this point, courses may be withdrawn without academic penalty (but no refund) up until the final two weeks of the course. The NCOS operates in accordance with the Seminary Academic Calendar, for more details on add/drop and other policies please refer to the Academic Calendar. 

Will I graduate? 

Students who complete all 21 modules will receive a Certificate of Completion marking their fulfillment of the Course of Study requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene. NCOS students will not graduate and will not receive a degree. Students interested in further studies for credit should apply to the MDiv program. Transfer credit from the NCOS to a Masters Degree Program at Ambrose Seminary is available.  

Contact & Support

Program Enquiries -  Mo Hickman | maureen.hickman@ambrose.edu | 403-407-9431
Registrar's Office - registrar@ambrose.edu