Nazarene Course of Study
Preparing Ministry leaders for the Church of the Nazarene in Canada
Overview
Ambrose University is excited to launch the Nazarene Course of Study (NCOS) — a new non-credit curriculum designed to meet the educational requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene.
This flexible and accessible program includes 21 online, asynchronous modules that ministry candidates can complete from anywhere in Canada. Courses are facilitated by experienced Nazarene elders who provide mentorship, contextualisation, and practical feedback.
The NCOS officially launches in January 2026.
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 an MDiv 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 Winter:
| Registration Deadline | December 1, 2025 |
| Payment Due | December 15, 2025 |
| Course Dates | January 12, 2026- March 6, 2026 |
| Last day to withdraw (full refund) | January 25, 2026 |
Upcoming Courses
(Course release timelines are subject to change)
Winter 2026
- The Missional Church
- The Mission, Ministry, and Identity of the Church of the Nazarene
- Christian Theology 2
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
|
The Mission, Ministry, and Identity of the Church of the Nazarene |
|
Exhibit a working knowledge in conversation with parishioners and ministry peers (Nazarene and other Christian traditions) of the history of the Church of the Nazarene, our roots, the formative events and persons, etc. of our Wesleyan heritage and denomination (with global awareness) along with a capacity to relay past history to the possibilities of the present. |
| *Launching Winter 2026 |
| The Missional Church |
|
In this course, students will develop a holistic theological vision of compassionate ministry and evangelism that is biblically sound and culturally sensitive. Students will learn to make use of models of community exegesis for the sake of hospitable engagement. |
| *Launching Winter 2026 |
| Christian Theology 2 |
|
Exploration of Doctrine of Creation, theological anthropology, hamartiology, soteriology, eschatology, and the Nazarene Articles of Faith around those doctrines. |
| *Launching Winter 2026 |
FAQ
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. Students should enroll through the “Open Studies” form and designate their interest in an NCOS module. Refer to course catalog for current and upcoming availability.
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 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. Please see our Add/Drop/Withdrawal Policy for details.
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 MDiv at Ambrose Seminary is available.
Contact & Support
Program Enquiries - Mo Hickman | maureen.hickman@ambrose.edu | 403-407-9431
Registrar's Office - registrar@ambrose.edu