WATERLOO LUTHERAN SEMINARYPrincipal, Dean and Registrar: R. Crossman
Supervisor of Contextual Education: A. WeigelMission Statement
Waterloo Lutheran Seminary provides for the scholarly study of the Christian faith and ministry in an interdenominational setting, especially in its Lutheran expression and within the Canadian context. Such education includes dialogue between theology and ministry and other academic and professional disciplines, and seeks to help students develop an integrated theology that activates a meaningful engagement with the world.
Waterloo Lutheran Seminary is an institution of the Eastern Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada. The primary task of the Seminary is to serve as a resource for the Eastern Synod, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada and the church at large. In pursuit of this task, the Seminary educates men and women in and for ordained and lay Christian ministry, and helps them effectively exercise their ministry in the church and the world. Programs include basic and advanced theological study, interdisciplinary studies, supervised contextual experiences and continuing education opportunities for both academic and non-academic credit. To carry out these objectives and as appropriate, the faculty and staff of Waterloo Lutheran Seminary teach and support students, conduct research, engage in ministerial activity and attend to administrative duties.Relation with the University
As a federated college of Wilfrid Laurier University and a member of the University Graduate Faculty Council, the Seminary maintains close ties, especially with the Department of Religion and Culture and the Faculty of Social Work. These ties are maintained through co-operation between the Seminary and Religion and Culture faculty members, and through the sharing of a common pool of graduate courses with the Department of Religion and Culture. This means that Seminarians and University graduate students take courses with faculty based in both the Seminary and the Department of Religion and Culture. The ties with the Faculty of Social Work are maintained through the offering of a joint MDiv/MTS-MSW degree program.
The close relationship between the Seminary and the University also offers other advantages. All the facilities and academic, social, athletic and cultural programs of the University are available to Seminary students. Moreover, Seminary students may take additional courses in the University to make up possible deficiencies in pre-theological training or to enrich their program of theological studies.
The Seminary is a fully accredited member of the Association of Theological Schools.Faculty
Seminary Faculty
Cole-Arnal, Oscar L., AB (Thiel College), BD (Luth. Theo. Sem., Philadelphia), ThM (Pitts. Theo. Sem.), MA, PhD (Pittsburgh). Historical Theology.
Crossman, Richard C., AB (Wittenberg), BD (Hamma School of Theology), MA, PhD (Chicago). Systematic Theology and Ethics.
Gillham, Virginia, BA, MLS. Librarian and Archivist.
Hegedus, Timothy M.J., BA (Victoria), MDiv (LTS Saskatoon), MA (WLU), PhD (Toronto). New Testament theology.
Jacobsen, David J. S., BA (Concordia, Moorhead), MDiv., MA, PhD (Vanderbilt). Homiletics.
Kelly, Robert A., BA (Pepperdine), MDiv (Concordia Theo. Sem.), PhD (Fuller Theo. Sem.). Systematic Theology.
O'Connor, Thomas, BA (Toronto), BTh (St. Paul), MTh (WLU), ThD (University of St. Michael's College). Practical Theology.
VanKatwyk, Peter L., BA (Calvin), BD, ThM (Calvin Theo. Sem.), PhD (Claremont). Practical Theology.
Weigel, Arnold D., BA, MDiv, MA (WLU), DMin (Toronto). Practical Theology.Professors Emeritus
Glebe, Delton J., BA, BD (Western), MA (Boston), ThD (Toronto), DD (WLU). Practical Theology.
Riegert, Eduard A., BA (Saskatchewan), BD (LTS Saskatoon), STM (LTS Philadelphia), PhD (Princeton Theo. Sem.). Homiletics.Affiliated Faculty - Religion and Culture
Desjardins, Michel, BA (Alberta), MA (British Columbia), PhD (Toronto). New Testament.
Duncan, Carol, BA (Toronto), MA, PhD (York). Cultural Studies.
Erb, Peter C., BA (WLU), MSL, PhD (Toronto). Historical Theology.
Grimes, Ronald L., BA (Kentucky Wesleyan), MDiv (Emory), PhD (Columbia and UTS), DHL (Kentucky Wesleyan). Worship and Theology.
Ross, Christopher F. J., BA (Durham), MSc (Edinburgh), PhD (Calgary). Psychology of Religion.
Shapiro, Faydra, BA, MA (Carleton), PhD (McMaster). Jewish studies.Part-time Faculty
Balmer, Brice, BA (Bluffton Coll.), MDiv (Meth. Theo. School, Ohio), MA (Waterloo), DMin (St. Michael's). Practical theology.
Marcon, Evelyn M., BA (Laurentian), MA (Creighton), MTh (WLU). Practical Theology.
Martin, J. Laurence, BTh (Toronto Bible College), BA (WLU), MDiv (Goshen), MEd (Pittsburgh), DMin (Pittsburgh Theo. Sem.). Practical Theology.
Reimer, A. James, BCE (Can. Mennonite Bible College), BA (Manitoba), MA (Toronto), PhD (St. Michael's). Historical Theology.
Schneider, John D., BS (Kearney State College), MA, PhD (British Columbia). Marriage and family therapy.
Taylor, Gloria, BA (WLU), MA (Azusa Pacific). Marriage and family therapy.Admission Requirements
The requirements for admission include a Bachelor's degree from a recognized accredited university or university college. Endorsement by their Church is required of students preparing for the ordained ministry.
Students applying to the MDiv or MTS programs, who lack no more than two courses towards the Bachelor's degree, may be admitted by special action of the faculty if their past performance allows the conclusion that they will be able to complete the Bachelor's requirements by the end of the first year in Seminary.
Older persons, normally over 30 years of age, who wish to prepare for the parish ministry, and who have been recommended by their Church, may be admitted without a completed pre-Seminary education by special action of the faculty. However, without a Bachelor's degree they can only qualify for the diploma. The total number of such students admitted without a Bachelor's degree normally may not exceed 10 percent of the student body. Persons who possess a Bachelor's degree from an approved and accredited university or university college may not enrol in the Diploma program.
With reference to pre-Seminary education, the student should have acquired experience in the problems, methods and techniques of the various disciplines such as science, the humanities and religion. The student should gain some competence in each of these fields, but may want to major in an area of special interest.
If a student's pre-Seminary training has not sufficiently covered areas which are relevant to the student's chosen field of major concentration, the faculty may require the student to take certain undergraduate arts courses concurrently with the program in theology. If these courses are taken at Wilfrid Laurier University, with approval of the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, no additional fees will be charged.
Waterloo Lutheran Seminary adheres to principles enshrined in the Ontario Human Rights Code as that Code may be amended from time to time.
Application forms are available from the Seminary. An application fee of $25 must accompany all applications. Refer to the Seminary Office for details. Supporting documentation required for each area of studies is specified on the application form. Upon receipt of these documents the applicant will be informed by the Seminary concerning admissibility.
Applicants whose language of instruction for an undergraduate degree was other than English must furnish evidence of proficiency in English usage prior to admission. A minimum score of 550 is required in the paper-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL); a minimum score of 213 is required in the computer-based TOEFL.General Graduate Students
General graduate students are students possessing an Honours Bachelor's degree or equivalent who are taking one or more graduate courses for credit but are not proceeding to a degree at WLS. Such students are admitted at the discretion of the Principal-Dean in consultation with the Seminary faculty. However, in special circumstances, the Seminary faculty may approve such courses for degree credit. Students who obtain credits in this category and subsequently decide to apply to a degree program must meet both the admission requirements and pay fees according to their category at that time.Registration Requirements
Full-time Waterloo Lutheran Seminary Diploma and Master's students must maintain continuous yearly registration of at least two terms each year to the end of the term in which all degree requirements are completed. All Doctor of Ministry students must register for three terms each year commencing September 1, January 1 and May 1 to the end of the term in which all degree requirements are completed. Such registration procedure is pursued through the Seminary Office.Course Availability
The Seminary is committed to providing a full range of required and elective courses for its programs. However, not all courses will be available in every session.Advanced Standing and Credit Transfer
Permission to receive advanced credit toward a Diploma, Master's or Doctoral degree in the Seminary, for courses taken previously at another institution on the same academic level as corresponding Seminary courses, will be granted at the discretion of the Seminary Academic Administrative Committee in consultation with the Seminary faculty. However, students wishing to graduate from Waterloo Lutheran Seminary must register as full-time students for at least one academic year or the equivalent thereof. Courses that have been credited toward a degree at WLU or any other institution cannot be counted again toward a diploma or degree in Waterloo Lutheran Seminary. Courses taken as "audit" will not be considered for advanced standing or transfer credit.
Students who are already enrolled in a Seminary program may take courses at another institution for credit towards their degree or diploma providing that permission is obtained from the Seminary and the host institution prior to course registration. In such cases the appropriate forms are available from the Seminary Office. Courses taken by Seminary students in another institution or program are the financial responsibility of the student.Audit Policy
Persons who wish to continue their education, but do not care to earn academic credit, may be eligible to audit courses. Courses taken as an audit will not count towards a degree. Audit students are not eligible to enrol in Doctoral-level courses.
Graduates of Waterloo Lutheran Seminary may apply for admission as an Audit student by filling out the Application for Admission to Audit Studies at Waterloo Lutheran Seminary. Persons not previously admitted to Waterloo Lutheran Seminary may apply for admission by filling out the General Application for Admission to Waterloo Lutheran Seminary, which includes providing Undergraduate Transcripts and references. In all cases, an application fee of $25 will apply, except for students registered in a graduate program at Wilfrid Laurier University. Admission normally is limited to those persons with evidence of undergraduate courses completed to the equivalent of one year's work. Exceptions may be presented to the Academic Administrative Committee for consideration.
Students must have the permission of the Instructor, and registration will normally be limited to 25 percent of the total enrolment for each particular course. Attendance and participation in class is expected.
Audit courses will be included in the course weight limits for degree program students.Leave of Absence
Students may petition for a one-time Leave of Absence (to a maximum of three consecutive terms) at a time when circumstances prevent them from working on either their course work or their thesis. Students receiving a Leave of Absence must re-register for the term immediately following the end of their Leave of Absence. Failure to re-register for that term will be considered an act of withdrawal from the Seminary.
Terms spent on Leave of Absence are not included in the calculation of the time to completion.
Doctor of Ministry students will be required to pay a fee per term in order to reserve their place in the DMin program. However, they will not be given access to Seminary/University facilities or faculty during this period.Termination of Registration
A student whose work or attendance is considered to be unsatisfactory as determined by the Seminary faculty may be required by the Principal-Dean of the Seminary to withdraw at any time from particular courses, from particular programs, or from the Seminary.
Failure by a full-time Diploma or Master's Seminary student to maintain continuous yearly registration of at least two terms each calendar year, or for any Doctor of Ministry student to maintain continuous yearly registration of three terms each year, will be considered an act of withdrawal from the Seminary.Withdrawal from the Seminary
For a variety of reasons, such as personal, financial, academic or vocational, a student may choose to withdraw from studies at the Seminary. The student is requested to contact the Principal-Dean of the Seminary to discuss formal withdrawal. The failure of a student to remain registered as a full-time, part-time, leave of absence or research fee student will be considered an act of withdrawal. Should students desire later to resume studies after having withdrawn, they must reapply for admission to the Seminary.
Students who withdraw from the Seminary at any time retain the final grades in courses completed prior to the date of their withdrawal.
Students who withdraw after the final date for withdrawing without failure will have the courses in their program recorded as a failure.
Students holding scholarships, loans or other indebtedness related to their tenure as Seminary students, must bear responsibility for meeting obligations in returning or repaying funds.Program Requirements-General
The Seminary programs are not limited to those who wish to prepare for full-time service in the Lutheran church. The programs of study are sufficiently broad to be of interest and value for students from many denominations, whether or not they plan to enter full-time service in the church.
A seminary student is a person who has been admitted by the Seminary to one of the following: Master of Divinity; Master of Theological Studies; Master of Theology in Pastoral Counselling; Master of Theology in Christian Ethics; Master of Theology in Homiletics; Master of Divinity/Master of Theological Studies-Master of Social Work; Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Counselling and Marriage and Family Studies; Graduate Diploma in Theology; General Graduate Student in Theology.
Graduation from the Seminary does not automatically imply ordination.Academic Standards
The academic year is divided into two terms totalling approximately 29 weeks. The average workload for students is 15 hours per week of class work. Any two-hour course in the Seminary may be taken as a three-hour course with permission of the course Instructor and the Seminary Principal-Dean. In such cases, additional work will be required to reflect the additional credit hour given.All courses are subject to marks within the following grade and point range as specified in each program.
Letter Grades |
Grade Points |
Letter Grades |
Grade Points |
A+ |
12 |
C+ |
6 |
A |
11 |
C |
5 |
A- |
10 |
C- |
4 |
B+ |
9 |
D+ |
3 |
B |
8 |
D |
2 |
B- |
7 |
D- |
1 |
|
|
F (Failure) |
0 |
Seminary students may take no more than two terms of directed study without Seminary faculty permission in any of the major areas of the Seminary curriculum, namely, Biblical Theology, Systematic Theology, Historical Theology and Functional Theology.
In those instances where a student is proposing to enrol in courses which are not offered by the Seminary, the Principal-Dean of the Seminary and the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies may investigate the student's total workload to determine whether or not it is excessive.
Seminary students in a Seminary Master's program must receive at least a C+ grade in each course of their program and must complete successfully their program as outlined in this Calendar to receive their degree. Courses taken in the Faculty of Social Work must be passed with at least a grade of B-.
Seminary students in the Graduate Diploma in Theology program must maintain at least a C+ average in their course of studies and must complete successfully their program as outlined in this Calendar to receive their Diploma.
Seminary students in the Doctor of Ministry program must receive at least a B- grade in each course of their program, must complete all course and clinical work with a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average of B+, and complete successfully their program as outlined in this Calendar to receive their degree.Course Completion and Extension
Course requirements must be completed and submitted as scheduled by the course instructor and definitely no later than one week after the last week of course lectures in which the course is given. If warranted by an emergency of significant magnitude, a student may apply in writing to the Principal-Dean of the Seminary for an extension not to exceed the succeeding (one) term. Such applications for extension must be received no later than one week after the last week of course lectures in which the course was given. Permission for a course extension requires the approval of the Seminary faculty. Incomplete courses (without extension approval) automatically receive the grade of F.
Grades submitted for work done in courses completed under an extension will be lowered two grade points by the Seminary Registrar: e.g., B+ becomes B-.
An MTS student can be enrolled in the Comprehensive Seminar, an MDiv or Diploma student can be enrolled in the Theological Reflection II course, and an MTh student can be enrolled in the Research Project/Thesis for up to but no longer than three calendar years during which time they need not apply for a course extension. After three calendar years, no course extension is available and a student's registration in these courses will be terminated and a grade of F will automatically be assigned. It is necessary to maintain continuous registration unless a Leave of Absence has been granted per Seminary policy.
Following admission to candidacy, DMin students have a maximum of six terms (two calendar years) for the completion of the DMin Thesis during which time they need not apply for a course extension. After two calendar years, a student's registration in the DMin Thesis will be terminated and a grade of F will automatically be assigned. It is necessary to maintain continuous registration unless a Leave of Absence has been granted per Seminary policy.Repeating a Course
Seminary students in a Seminary Master's program who obtain a grade lower than C+ in a course, Seminary students in a Seminary Doctoral program who obtain a grade lower than B- in a course, and Seminary students in the Seminary Diploma program who obtain an F grade in a course, will be required to withdraw from their program unless they receive permission from the Seminary faculty to repeat the course in question or its equivalent. Where such permission is granted, the student will be on probationary status until a satisfactory course credit is obtained. Students will not be allowed to repeat any course more than once or repeat more than three courses during their program of studies.Petitions
The Petitions Committee of the Seminary faculty functions as the first level of appeal for students enrolled in Seminary programs. The second level of appeal is the Petitions Committee of the Graduate Faculty Council, whose decision concerning students of the Seminary will be subject to the approval of the Seminary Senate. The highest level of appeal is the Seminary Board of Governors.
Seminary students may petition for exceptions from academic policies and/or decisions by submitting a written request to the appropriate Petitions Committee through the Principal-Dean of the Seminary.Program Requirements-The Master of Divinity (MDiv)
Ordinarily a student will be able to complete the academic requirements for this program in six terms (three academic years). The requirements for graduation include the satisfactory completion of courses totalling 100 hours of credit. Students desiring to take two biblical languages in their MDiv program may defer one of their First-year courses to the second year. Students who complete a major portion of their MDiv program through part-time studies, prior to becoming full-time students, may find that scheduling conflicts can develop which would lengthen their total program by a term or two.
The requirements for admission include a Bachelor's degree (normally with a minimum Grade Point Average of C+) from a recognized accredited university or university college.
Because the aim of the MDiv program is preparation for the professional ministry, students in this program must have obtained, by the end of their first term, endorsement as acceptable ministry candidates by the church of which they are a member. Continuance in the MDiv program after the first term is contingent upon the maintenance of such an endorsement. Students not pursuing the professional ministry normally are enrolled in the MTS program.Graduation Requirements Beyond Six Terms of Academic Study
Model Program of StudiesSupervised Pastoral Education: Every student must successfully complete 12 weeks of Supervised (clinical) Pastoral Education. This course is normally taken during the summer after the first or second academic year. Students who can demonstrate an equivalency of this requirement may apply to the Seminary faculty for the waiver of the SPE requisite. Internship: Students preparing for the professional ministry must meet the internship and/or field education requirements of the church of which they are a member. Students preparing for the ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada must successfully complete one year of internship in a parish or in an institutional ministry. This is normally taken after the second year. Contextual Education: Students preparing for the ordained ministry are required, as a part of their courses in Contextual Ministry, to be involved satisfactorily in the life of a congregation. Placements are arranged through the Supervisor of Contextual Education. Theological Reflection I and II: The graduation requirements for the MDiv degree include the successful completion of Theological Reflection I and II. These courses will include the development and completion of a major research paper. This process is first pursued in a seminar setting and then concluded under the supervision of an appointed faculty advisor. The successful completion of the research paper will include an oral examination on the research completed. In addition to successfully completing the academic courses, students must be judged by the Seminary faculty to be capable of assuming the professional responsibilities of the ordained ministry. Any student not meeting these requirements may be required by the Principal-Dean of the Seminary to withdraw from the program.
Term One |
Term Two |
TH500A O.T. Intro I |
TH500B O.T. Intro II |
TH500C N.T. Intro I |
TH500D N.T. Intro II |
TH520A Hist. Intro. I |
TH520B Hist. Intro II |
TH540A Syst. Intro I. |
TH540B Syst. Intro. II |
TH560A Cont. Mint. I |
TH560B Const. Min. II |
Supervised Pastoral Education (12 weeks)1 |
|
Term Three |
Term Four |
TH501A or TH501B Bibl. Language |
TH501A or TH501B Bibl. Language |
3 hr. Systematics elective-systematic |
3 hr. Systematics elective-constructive |
TH560C Cont. Min. III |
3 hr. Biblical elective |
TH621E Luth. Confessions |
TH560D Cont. Min. IV |
TH661A Sermon Methodology |
TH665C Church and Society |
Internship (9 to 12 months) |
|
Term Five |
Term Six |
3 hr. Biblical elective-exegetical |
TH663A Grief Crises |
TH661B Liturgical Preaching |
TH680D Theo. Reflection II |
2 hr. Funct. Elective |
3 hr. Church Hist. Elective |
TH680C Theo. Reflection I |
3 hr. Funct. Elective |
4 hr. Electives |
3 hr. Electives |
1Supervised Pastoral Education may be taken following either Year 1 or Year 2 of the program; it is normally taken after Year 2.Program Requirements-The Master of Theological Studies (MTS)
This program of theological studies is offered by the Seminary for students not preparing for the ordained ministry. As such, it is designed to help persons engage more fully in lay ministry leadership and lay participation in Christian ministry in the church and the world.
Students will be admitted to this program only with the permission of the Principal-Dean of the Seminary. The requirements for admission include a Bachelor's degree (normally with a minimum Grade Point Average of C+) from a recognized accredited university or university college.Program of Studies
The MTS degree program normally involves two years of full-time studies or its equivalent in part-time studies. Each student is required to complete satisfactorily the following 16 half-credit courses or their equivalent.There are two streams of study, one with a comprehensive paper (comprehensive paper stream) and one without a comprehensive paper (coursework only stream). All students admitted to the MTS program are admitted to the coursework only stream. Students who wish to pursue the comprehensive paper stream must consult with the director of the program and prepare a written comprehensive paper proposal to be submitted to the Academic Administrative Committee and will be admitted to the comprehensive paper stream upon acceptance of the proposal.
Non-Comprehensive Paper Stream
Required:
TH500A and TH500B
TH500C and TH500D
TH520A and TH520B
TH540A and TH540B
Elective:
Eight half-credit course electivesComprehensive Paper Stream
Required:
TH500A and TH500B
TH500C and TH500D
TH520A and TH520B
TH540A and TH540B
Elective:
Six half-credit course electives
TH680A and TH680B
Note: Students with a concentration in Pastoral Counselling must take TH664I in place of TH680A.Students in the program will select one of the following areas of concentration. They must successfully complete at least 6 of the 16 half-credit courses, including the Comprehensive Seminars (680A and B) (if selected for the Comprehensive Paper Stream), in their chosen area of concentration.
Students with a concentration in Pastoral Counselling may pursue counselling accreditation with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Such persons would select specified MTS courses developed in co-operation with the Interfaith Pastoral Counselling Centre, Kitchener. Final acceptability of any course work towards the AAMFT membership requirements rests solely with the AAMFT Membership Committee.Historical Theology New Testament Studies Old Testament Studies Systematic Theology Functional Theology Pastoral Counselling
All tuition and fees for the MTS program are set by, paid to, and administered by Waterloo Lutheran Seminary. Clinical and other fees charged directly to the student by Interfaith Pastoral Counselling Centre are in addition to academic program/course tuition owed to the Seminary. The student is responsible directly to Interfaith for prompt payment of all Interfaith fees owing.
In order to graduate, students with a concentration in Pastoral Counselling must successfully complete six half-credit courses in pastoral counselling. Students in the Pastoral Counselling concentration are further required to select their courses in consultation with the Director of the Seminary's Pastoral Counselling programs. This program provides academic preparation but not professional certification.Program Requirements-The Master of Theology (MTh) in Pastoral Counselling
Purpose
The purpose of the MTh in Pastoral Counselling is to provide a context for persons who have achieved MDiv-level competence in Practical Theology and related disciplines to undertake advanced study in pastoral counselling. The MTh program provides academic preparation but not professional certification. Such studies may constitute an end in themselves or may lead to Doctoral studies in pastoral counselling and/or clinical training leading to professional certification through the Canadian Association for Pastoral Practice and Education (CAPPE) and/or the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) or to specialized ministry in institutional settings and the church.Admission Requirements
Applicants for admission must hold the MDiv degree or its equivalent with at least an average of B and a minimum of two courses or their equivalent in the area of pastoral care and counselling.
Prior to undertaking course work the applicant should have successfully completed a practicum in Supervised Pastoral Education, normally consisting of one unit or at least 400 hours in a training centre accredited by the Canadian Association for Pastoral Practice and Education.
Entrance deficiencies must be made up prior to completion of course work.Areas of Concentration
Students in the program may select courses which focus on either Marriage and Family Studies or Aging and Family Studies.
Students focusing on Marriage and Family Studies who take the Field Study Option will be required to take one extended unit of Pastoral Counselling Education (PCE) in a CAPPE-accredited Training Centre with AAMFT approved supervision in consultation with the Director of the program.
Students focusing on Aging and Family Studies who take the Field Study Option will be required to take one extended unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) in a geriatric setting through a CAPPE-accredited Training Centre in consultation with the Director of the program.Areas of Study
Courses will be offered in the following five areas:A Field Study in the student's area of concentration is optional by substituting one extended unit of Supervised Pastoral Education (SPE) for one of the related elective courses.Foundation Literature of the Discipline: Each student will be required to take two half-credit courses to gain an introduction to the basic literature and current status of the discipline. Theory and Method: Each student will be required to take a half-credit course in the theoretical and practical implications of the various models of pastoral care and counselling. Research Methodology: Each student will be required to take a half-credit course in research design in Pastoral Counselling. Family of Origin Studies: Each student will be required to take a half-credit course which will prepare the student for an in-depth study project of his/her own family of origin relational dynamics. Interdisciplinary Perspectives: Each student will be required to take two half-credit elective courses in related theological disciplines. A variety of courses will be offered in which the students may explore the interrelatedness of Pastoral Counselling and complementary disciplines of Systematic Theology, Bible, Historical Theology, Ethics, Homiletics, Liturgics and Pastoral Care. Course Requirements
Seven half-credit courses, including:Note: At least three of the above courses will not include Diploma/MDiv students.One half-credit course in Family of Origin Studies; Two half-credit courses in Foundation Literature; One half-credit course in Theory and Method; One half-credit course in Research Methodology; Two half-credit courses in related theological disciplines with the option of one of these courses being substituted by one SPE unit. A thesis, including an oral examination which will focus on the thesis but which may include materials in the student's entire program.
Model Program of Studies
Full-time-One Year
Term One |
Term Two |
Term Three |
Foundation Literature |
Foundation Literature |
Theory and Method |
Family or Origin |
Related Elective |
|
Research Design |
Thesis |
|
Related Elective or Field Study |
|
|
Program Requirements-The Master of Theology (MTh) in Christian EthicsPurpose
The purpose of the MTh in Christian Ethics is to provide a context for persons who have achieved MDiv-level competence in Christian Ethics and related disciplines to undertake advanced study in ethics. Through this degree program, the Seminary intends to participate in the development of pastors with advanced knowledge of and practical experience in addressing ethical issues, and scholars who address the discipline of Christian Ethics from a Lutheran perspective in a Canadian context. Such studies may be an end in themselves or may lead to Doctoral studies in Christian Ethics.Areas of Study
In order to accomplish the purpose of the program, courses will be offered in five areas:Admission RequirementsThe Methods and Resources of the Discipline: Each student will be required to take a half-credit course in the methods and bibliography of Christian Ethics. The Historical Development of the Discipline: Each student will be required to take a half-credit course which examines how the discipline of Christian Ethics has developed over time. The emphasis in this area is on the development of ethical thinking and models, not on specific issues. Specific Ethical Issues: A variety of courses will be offered from time to time which address one ethical issue or a complex of a small number of closely related issues (e.g., Bioethics, War and Peace, Church and Labour, etc.). The courses will examine the selected issue from both historical and contemporary perspectives. Such courses may be team taught by regular and/or adjunct faculty. The Relationship of Christian Ethics to Other Theological Disciplines: A variety of courses will be offered in which the student may explore practical or theoretical integration. These courses may be part of the regular Seminary curriculum and may be team taught by regular and/or adjunct faculty. Field Study: Each student will be required to complete experiences which involve the student in ethical praxis and/or experiential learning in specific ethical issues and/or in contexts where ethical issues are important. This will normally include a component related to the student's thesis interest. Each field study will include both theoretical and experiential components. Field Study will be co-ordinated by the Waterloo Lutheran Seminary Institute for Christian Ethics.
Applicants for admission must hold the MDiv or its equivalent with an average grade of B and a minimum of one course in the field of Christian Ethics.
Prior to undertaking course work, the applicant should have competence in one biblical language and demonstrated competence in a research language (which may be a computer language or statistics) as appropriate to the thesis interest.
Entrance deficiencies must be made up prior to completion of course work.Course Requirements
Six half-credit courses, including:Note: At least three of the above courses must be courses for MTh students only.One half-credit course in methods and bibliography; One half-credit course in the history of Christian Ethics; Two half-credit issues courses in Christian Ethics; Two half-credit courses in related disciplines. Christian Ethics Field Study (equivalent of a half-credit course).
A thesis, including an oral examination which will focus on the thesis but which may include material in the student's entire program.Model Program of Studies
Full-time-One Year
Term One |
Term Two |
Term Three |
Methods and Bibliography |
History of Christian Ethics |
Thesis |
Ethical Issues Elective |
Ethical Issues Elective |
1/3 Field Study |
Related Elective |
Related Elective |
|
1/3 Field Study |
1/3 Field Study |
|
Field Study
The Field Study provides a broad-based experiential learning opportunity that will:The Field Study will begin a new cycle each term. Students will be able to negotiate the focus and issue area of the Field Study so they can relate the experience to the area of specialty for their thesis and course of study. The Field Study will involve:provide exposure to the practical work of various groups, church and social agencies; identify key places and elements for social change and decision making; and provide experiences to enable an understanding of the Canadian and global context. The Field Study may be completed in one, two or three terms, depending on how much time is devoted to the Study.some pre-work preparation for the experience; placement in an actual setting; and preparation of an integrated report on the experience to be shared with Field Study participants. Program Requirements-The Master of Theology (MTh) in Homiletics
Purpose
The purpose of the MTh in Homiletics is for persons who have achieved MDiv-level competence in preaching and related disciplines to undertake advanced study in Homiletics. Through this program the Seminary intends to participate in the development of pastors, Lutheran and non-Lutheran, by providing advanced knowledge in and practice of preaching, in an ecumenical and Canadian context. Such studies may be an end in themselves or may lead to Doctoral studies in Homiletics or in a related discipline such as Communications, Religion and Literature, and Liturgics.Areas of Study
Courses will be offered in four areas:Practicum: Each student will be required to complete a practicum which involves the student in experiential learning and critique. The practicum will normally include a component related to the student's thesis interest. Each practicum will include both theoretical and experiential components.Foundation Literature of the Discipline: Each student will be required to take a half-credit course in the bibliography of Homiletics to gain an acquaintance with the scope of and major developments in the discipline. Theory and Method: Each student will be required to take a half-credit course in the major theoretical and methodological options available to the preacher. Specific Areas in Homiletics: A variety of courses will be offered from time to time which address such areas as History of Preaching, Types of Sermons, Occasional Sermons and Notable Preachers. The Relationship of Homiletics to Other Theological Disciplines: A variety of courses will be offered in which the student may explore the interrelatedness of Homiletics and complementary disciplines of Systematic Theology, Bible, Ethics, Pastoral Care, Liturgics and Christian Education. These courses may be part of the regular Seminary curriculum, and may be team taught by regular and/or adjunct faculty. Admission Requirements
Applicants for admission must hold the MDiv degree or its equivalent with an average of B and a minimum of two courses or their equivalent in Homiletics.
Prior to undertaking course work, the applicant should have competence in one biblical language.
Entrance deficiencies must be made up by the end of the first term of enrolment.Course Requirements
Six half-credit courses, including:Note: At least three of the above courses must be courses for MTh students only. Up to two courses may be taken in another accredited theological seminary.One half-credit course in bibliography; One half-credit course in theory and methods; Two half-credit courses in specific areas of Homiletics; Two half-credit courses in related disciplines. Homiletics Practicum (equivalent of a half-credit course)
A thesis, including an oral examination which will focus on the thesis but which may include material in the student's entire program.Model Program of Studies
Full-time-One Year
Term 1 |
Term 2 |
Term 3 |
1/3 Homiletical Literature |
1/3 Homiletical Literature |
1/3 Homiletical Literature |
Theory and Methods |
Specific Area Elective |
Thesis |
Related Elective |
Related Elective |
|
Specific Area Elective |
Practicum |
|
The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) in Pastoral Counselling and Marriage and Family StudiesPurpose
The graduate program leading to the DMin degree is designed for persons with the competence in pastoral care and counselling and related disciplines to undertake advanced studies in the theological foundations of pastoral care and counselling in conjunction with post-practicum clinical education in the practice of individual, marriage and family therapy. It is aimed at equipping pastoral counsellors to function at the certified professional level with the Canadian Association for Pastoral Practice and Education (CAPPE) and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) to teach and direct field study programs and research in the Practical Theology department of a theological seminary, and to provide leadership in ecclesiastical and institutional settings in specialized ministries.Admission Requirements
Applicants for admission must hold the MDiv degree or the equivalent of such a degree, acceptable as a qualifying graduate degree for a post-degree program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy of the AAMFT, with at least an average of B+.
Further admission requirements include adequate ministry experience (normally three years), completion of basic training in Pastoral Counselling Education (PCE) or equivalent level of clinical training, and a research course in marriage and family therapy and pastoral counselling. In addition, because the clinical portion of the program is co-ordinated with Interfaith Pastoral Counselling Centre, Kitchener, Ontario, applicants must also meet Interfaith's personal and clinical admission requirements.Advanced Standing in the DMin Program
Students who have successfully completed TH663D, TH663G, TH663I, TH663K as part of their MTh in Pastoral Counselling degree may receive advanced standing in the DMin program for these courses, subject to the relinquishing of their MTh degree before receiving the DMin degree.Program Requirements
Course Work
Students will be required to take 11 courses in the following areas of study:Students must receive at least a B- grade in each course of their program, must complete all course and clinical work with a cumulative Grade Point Average of B+, and must complete successfully their program as outlined in this Calendar to receive their degree.Theoretical Foundations in the Discipline: two half-credit courses; Marital and Family Therapy: two half-credit courses; Human Development and Family Studies: two half-credit courses; Ethics and Professional Studies: two half-credit courses; Related Theological Disciplines: three half-credit electives.
In addition to completing the academic courses successfully, students must be judged to be capable of assuming the professional responsibilities of pastoral counselling. Any student not meeting these requirements may be required by the Principal-Dean of the Seminary to withdraw from the program.Clinical Work
The clinical requirements of the program are fulfilled through a two-year internship of CAPPE- and AAMFT-accredited training at the Kitchener Interfaith Pastoral Counselling Centre. Each student will be required to complete a minimum of 500 hours of pastoral counselling under supervision (68 individual and 160 group supervision hours), normally over two years and no more than three years, amounting to four Pastoral Counselling Education unit courses. Practicum equivalency for up to two of these Pastoral Education (250 hours of supervised pastoral education) unit courses may be granted if the student qualifies.Admission to Candidacy
When all course and clinical work is completed with a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average of B+, and the DMin Research Project/Thesis proposal has been approved, and if applicable, acceptance of the research proposal by the Ethics Committee, the student is granted candidacy.DMin Research Project/Thesis
Students are encouraged to give thought to the choice of a Research Project/Thesis topic from the very beginning of the program. This Research Project/Thesis will address an aspect of pastoral ministry based on research related to the student's clinical program or ministry specialty, utilizing theological insight and a relational/systemic orientation as integrating perspectives. The Research Project/Thesis has three parts: (1) the research project; (2) a written thesis based on the project; and (3) an oral examination. The Research Project/Thesis shall reflect the student's ability to think critically and focus clearly on an area of pastoral concern, and utilize research methodology and pastoral resources in such a way that the study constitutes a contribution to the practice of pastoral counselling from a social system's perspective.Model Program of Studies
Fall |
Winter |
Spring |
Term 1 |
Term 2 |
Term 3 |
Developmental Course |
Ethics Course |
TH664H or TH663L |
TH761A or TH761D |
TH761C or TH761B |
|
Theology Elective |
Theology Elective |
|
TH760A (clinical) |
TH760B (clinical) |
|
Term 4 |
Term 5 |
Term 6 |
TH761A or TH761D |
TH761C or TH761B |
TH664H or TH663L |
Theology Elective |
TH760D (clinical) |
|
TH760C (clinical) |
|
|
Developmental Courses: (two required)
TH663A Grief Crises and Pastoral Care
TH664E The Quest for Identity in Psychosocial Perspective
TH644F Life Cycle Theory and the Development of Values and Faith
TH663L Gender Development and Marriage and Family TherapyRequired Ethics and Professional Studies Courses
TH664H Professional Studies in Marriage and Family Therapy
TH664J Contextual Issues in Marriage and Family TherapyRequired Marriage and Family Theory and Therapy Courses
TH761A Family Systems and Pastoral Care II
TH761B Marital Therapy and Pastoral Counselling
TH761C Schools of Family Therapy and Pastoral Counselling
TH761D Foundations of Marital Therapy and Pastoral CounsellingClinical Courses
TH760A-SPE III
TH760B-SPE IV
TH760C-SPE V
TH760D-SPE VIStudents working on the DMin Research project will register for TH780A DMin Research Project, which will include attending a seminar with directed readings in research methods in family therapy. Following admission to candidacy the student will register for TH780B DMin Thesis.
Time Period
The program requires two years, to a maximum of three years, of courses and clinical training, with normally another year for completion of the Doctoral thesis. Following admission to candidacy, students have a maximum of six terms for completion of the thesis while maintaining continuous registration as per Seminary policy.Examination Requirements
During the last year of course and clinical work, normally in the second year, the student forms the DMin Research Project/Thesis Committee, consisting of an advisor, who will be a full-time faculty member, and two additional members connected with the student's work, subject to the approval of the Principal-Dean. At least one of these two shall be a certified clinical supervisor in pastoral counselling. The Research Project/Thesis Committee will provide critical reflection and evaluation of the DMin Research Project research and the preparation of the thesis.
When the thesis has been completed and the candidate's Research Project/Thesis Committee recommends it for submission, an Evaluation Committee is formed by the Principal-Dean, consisting of the Principal-Dean of the Seminary, the Director of the Pastoral Counselling Program, the Advisor and another member of the Research Project/Thesis Committee. In addition, the Principal-Dean appoints an External Examiner who agrees to read the thesis, to submit a written evaluation at least 10 working days prior to the proposed examination date, and to attend the oral examination. The Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, or designate, will be a member of the Evaluation Committee.
If the Evaluation Committee recommends proceeding, the examination will take place on the proposed date. The oral examination must result in one of four decisions:Thesis Style, Procedures for Submitting the Thesis and Copy RequirementsAccepted -The candidate passes with no conditions, except for typographical and/or minor editorial changes. Accepted with conditions -The candidate passes with minor revisions required. Decision deferred -The decision of acceptance is deferred due to the need for major revisions, which requires the same Committee (insofar as possible) to reconvene at a later time to examine the revised thesis. Rejected -The thesis is rejected and the candidate will be required to withdraw from the DMin program.
For style requirements the student should consult the thesis guidelines established by Wilfrid Laurier University and Waterloo Lutheran Seminary. The thesis should follow the standards set out in the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, Fourth Edition (Washington: American Psychological Association, 1994).
Students should consult the Seminary's "Guidelines for DMin Research Project/Thesis" for specific details concerning procedures and requirements.Program Requirements-The MDiv/MTS-MSW Program
This program is offered jointly by Waterloo Lutheran Seminary and the Faculty of Social Work. It integrates the curricula of both programs in such a way that a student can fulfil the requirements in four years (excluding, in the case of MDiv-MSW students, any time required by a student's church for internship) and graduate with two degrees. This program is particularly valuable for those who are interested in positions of leadership in the social agencies of the church and the community at large. Such positions would include special ministries in a hospital, prison, leisure or counselling centre setting, placements in social work agencies which work closely with the church, and occupations in groups which are involved in broad-based programs of leadership development and community renewal. Because the completion of the joint program results in the receipt of both the MDiv or MTS and the MSW degrees, persons graduating from the joint program are also qualified to apply for other positions within the fields of social work and church ministry.
There are a limited number of positions in the joint MDiv/MTS-MSW program. Normally no more than six students are admitted to the program in any particular year. Therefore, it is desirable to apply for admission to this joint program at the earliest possible date (see below for dates).Admission Requirements
Fees, Scholarships, Bursaries and AwardsA Bachelor's degree from an accredited Canadian university, or the equivalent. A record of scholarship, documented by transcripts, which indicates a minimum average of B in the final year of the Bachelor degree program, or an average of B in the final year of full-time academic work beyond the Bachelor's degree. A social science background which includes four credits in social science, a half-credit course in research methodology in either psychology or sociology, and a half-credit course in statistics (or one full credit which is equivalent to both of these half-credit courses). An applicant who has the necessary B standing and is thereby academically eligible, but does not have the necessary prerequisite courses, must complete all the prerequisites prior to beginning the program. Additional courses required for admission to the MSW program that are completed after the requirements for the Bachelor's degree have been met will be calculated into the final year GPA. To be considered for admission, the recalculated GPA must be at least a B average. Evidence of personal suitability. The assessment is made by the University and the Seminary, based on the applicant's autobiographical statement, personal references, and pre-admission interview with selected representatives of the Co-ordinating Committee of the MDiv/MTS-MSW program. A non-refundable application fee must accompany the application to both Waterloo Lutheran Seminary and the Faculty of Social Work. Refer to WLS and FSW for specific amounts. Applications for the advanced-standing joint program must be submitted to each faculty by December 1. Applications for the joint program must be submitted to each faculty by February 1.
The combined MDiv/MTS-MSW program normally involves two years of registration in the Seminary and two years of registration in the Faculty of Social Work. Students pay fees and are only eligible for scholarships, bursaries and awards applicable to the program in which they are registered.Model Program of Studies
Students in the joint program simultaneously take courses in the Seminary and the Faculty of Social Work. The program normally follows the pattern of study listed below. Each student is required to complete satisfactorily the courses listed below (or their equivalent) for their selected degree stream in the Seminary (MTS or MDiv) and their selected area of concentration in the Faculty of Social Work (Individuals, Families and Groups [IFG] or Community Development and Social Planning [CDSP]). Students in the MDiv degree stream will also be required to fulfil their church's internship requirements. Continuance of students in the MDiv degree stream after the first term is contingent upon their obtaining and maintaining endorsement as acceptable ministry candidates by the church of which they are a member. Descriptions for the courses listed below can be found in the general course listings for the Seminary and the Faculty of Social Work.Note: Non-thesis students are required to take two MSW electives in addition to the courses listed below. These courses are normally offered in the winter terms.
The following is a model only. Students should consult with their program advisor in order to work out their individual program scheduling.
|
Seminary |
Social Work MSW |
||
|
MTS |
MDiv |
IFG Concentration |
CD/SP Concentration |
Term One (Fall) |
TH540A |
TH540A |
SK500 |
SK500 |
Term Two (Winter) |
TH540B |
TH540B |
SK504 |
SK504 |
Term Three (Spring) |
|
SPE (Joint Setting where possible) |
SK541 |
SK541 |
Term Four (Fall) |
TH500A |
TH500A |
SK501 |
SK522 |
Term Five (Winter) |
TH500B |
TH500B |
SK653 |
SK639 |
Term Six (Spring) |
|
|
SK505 |
SK505 |
Term Seven (Fall) |
Elect. |
TH501A or TH501B |
SK651 |
One of: |
Term Eight (Winter) |
Elect. |
TH501A or TH501B |
SK653 |
SK640 |
Term Nine (Fall) |
Elect. |
TH680C |
SK621 |
SK643 |
Term Ten (Winter) |
Elect. |
3 hr. Exeg. Elect. |
|
One of: |
Students in the MTS degree stream will be required to select one of the following areas as their major. They must successfully complete at least 6 of the 16 half-credit courses in their chosen area of concentration.Program Requirements -The Diploma in TheologyHistorical Theology New Testament Studies Old Testament Studies Systematic Theology Functional Theology
This program is designed only for students who for reason of age and by special faculty action are exempted from some of the entrance and other requirements of the Seminary. Candidates for the Diploma are not required to possess a Bachelor's degree, nor to write a major research paper or comprehensive examination. They are required to complete, successfully, at least the equivalent of the first year of an undergraduate program at an accredited university or university college (normally with a minimum GPA of C+) before being admitted to the Diploma program. They may, however, receive the MDiv degree later if they qualify in due course. The Diploma must be relinquished before the MDiv degree will be conferred. Persons who possess a Bachelor's degree from an approved and accredited university or university college may not enrol in the Diploma program.
Ordinarily a student will be able to complete the academic requirements for this program in six terms (three academic years). The requirements for graduation include the satisfactory completion of courses totalling 95 hours of credit. Students desiring to take two biblical languages in their Diploma program may defer one of their first-year courses to the second year. Students who complete a major portion of their Diploma program through part-time studies, prior to becoming full-time students, may find that scheduling conflicts can develop which would lengthen their total program by a term or two.
Because the aim of the Diploma program is preparation for the professional ministry, students in this program must have obtained by the end of their first term, endorsement as acceptable ministry candidates by the church of which they are a member. Continuance in the Diploma program after the first term is contingent upon the maintenance of such an endorsement.Requirements for Graduation in Addition to the Six Terms of Academic Study
Model Program of StudiesSupervised Pastoral Education: Every student must successfully complete 12 weeks of Supervised (clinical) Pastoral Education. This course is normally taken during the summer after the first or second academic year. Students who can demonstrate an equivalency of this requirement may apply to the Seminary faculty for the waiver of the SPE requisite. Internship: Students preparing for the professional ministry must meet the internship and/or field education requirements of the church of which they are a member. Students preparing for the ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada must successfully complete one year of internship in a parish or in an institutional ministry. This is normally taken after the second year. Contextual Education: Students preparing for the ordained ministry are required, as part of their Contextual Ministry courses, to be involved satisfactorily in the life of a congregation. Placements are arranged through the Supervisor of Contextual Education. In addition to completing successfully the academic courses, students must be judged by the Seminary faculty to be capable of assuming the professional responsibilities of the ordained ministry. Any student not meeting these requirements may be required by the Principal-Dean of the Seminary to withdraw from the program.
Term One |
Term Two |
TH500A O.T. Intro I |
TH500B O.T. Intro II |
Term Three |
Term Four |
TH501A or TH501B Bibl. Language |
TH501A or TH501B Bibl. Language |
Term Five |
Term Six |
3 hr. Biblical elective |
3 hr. Biblical electives exegetical |
1Supervised Pastoral Education may be taken following either Year 1 or Year 2 of the program; normally it is taken after Year 2.Deaconess Training
Waterloo Lutheran Seminary seeks to assist the church in the preparation of persons as "lay professionals" and to support individuals who wish to pursue this vocation. To this end, the Seminary co-operates fully with the Deaconess Community of the Lutheran church in providing the cluster of courses which will meet the Community's required program of theological studies. For further information write to the Principal-Dean of the Seminary.Supervised Pastoral Education
Seminary students enrolled in the MDiv or Diploma program are required to complete, successfully, a minimum of 12 weeks of Supervised (clinical) Pastoral Education at an agency or institution approved by CAPPE or ACPE, under a supervising chaplain holding the status of supervisor or acting supervisor within CAPPE or ACPE. The Seminary faculty reserves the right to approve a student's placement. The majority of Seminary students complete this requirement in "clinical centres" in southwestern Ontario. However, other centres in Canada and the United States may be selected if approved by the Seminary faculty. SPE should be taken by students normally after the completion of their first or second year at the Seminary.
The responsibility of financing this course rests with each student and usually involves a tuition fee of approximately $600-$800. Additional costs include lodging, travel and meals.Internship
By action of the Evangelical Lutheran Church In Canada, the successful completion of a 12-month Internship (or its equivalent) is required of all ELCIC candidates studying for the ministry. This 12-month period may include the basic quarter of SPE required by Waterloo Lutheran Seminary.
Normally, Internship is in a parish setting, although, subject to Seminary faculty approval, specialized internships in non-parish settings may be permitted. In such instances, a parish component is a normal feature. Usually, Internship follows the second year of seminary courses.
The Seminary is responsible for the placement and supervision of all interns through the Supervisor of Contextual Education. The Seminary, however, recognizes and respects the authority of the pastor supervisor in the congregation.
Placements of interns are made by the Seminary after consultation with the students, pastor supervisors and synodical officials. Student placement takes into consideration the student's abilities, need for experience, needs of the congregation and the particular skills and personality of the Pastor Supervisor.
Supervision of interns by the Pastor Supervisor includes establishing with the student a learning contract and setting aside regular weekly conferences for reflection-interaction. Emphasis in these sessions should focus upon ministry, relationships and evaluation of performance objectives. An Internship Committee, comprised of representative lay people from the congregation, is highly encouraged.
In the process of intern placements, the Supervisor of Contextual Education will have received from each potential intern a written application by January 15 and from each potential congregation a written application by January 31. (These application forms are available from the Supervisor. The submission of a written application guarantees neither a placement nor obtaining an intern.) The finalization of internships is usually accomplished towards the latter part of April.
In the placement of interns, Waterloo Lutheran Seminary co-operates actively with the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Saskatoon and with Lutheran seminaries in the USA.
The internship support package includes a basic stipend, housing, travel and other incidentals.
Each internship site is visited at least once in every three years; these field visits may take place on a more frequent basis at the discretion of the Supervisor of Contextual Education.
As part of the intern experience, each student intern and pastor supervisor is expected to participate in a local/regional intern cluster.Contextual Education
Contextual Education is an integral component of the Seminary's programs which prepares students for the ordained ministry. The objective of Contextual Education is to provide both the context and the process wherein personal and professional growth in ministry is fostered through the student's active involvement in a local parish setting, or, as is sometimes possible and desirable, in a social service. This involvement is drawn into the classroom dimension of the Seminary's programs through the four courses in Contextual Ministry. Each of these courses focuses on a different aspect of student involvement and growth in the ministry setting to which they are assigned by the Supervisor of Contextual Education. Such assignments are made in consultation with students and their pastor supervisor.
To facilitate the student's growth in Contextual Education, it is expected that a learning contract will be formulated at the commencement of the school year and in conjunction with courses in Contextual Ministry. This learning contract explicitly delineates expectations, paths towards expectation fulfilment and means for evaluation.
To provide a maximum of experience, no student will be placed in the same setting for a second year, except where such placement may be deemed absolutely essential to the growth and development of the student.
The Supervisor of Contextual Education supervises the processes of Contextual Education in accord with the Seminary faculty's educational policies and in co-operation with churches and agencies in the field.
It is believed that Contextual Education will not only help the student to grow, but will also offer opportunity for the parish and/or the social agency to grow as well.
Contextual Education does not involve financial remuneration. It is, however, possible for a congregation and/or agency to offer a student an honorarium; when such is the case, the honorarium is not to exceed $300 for the school year.Notes:
Biblical TheologyNot all courses are offered every year. Students should consult the Seminary's official listing of course offerings to determine which courses will be offered in a given year, and to obtain a full description of each course. Courses taken by Waterloo Lutheran Seminary students in another institution or program are the financial responsibility of the student. Contact the Seminary Office for regulations concerning course completions. All courses are three hours credit for one term unless noted otherwise.
TH500
Introduction to Biblical Studies
A study of the context, literature and history of the early Israelites and the early Christian movement. (Three hours)A. Literature and History of the Old Testament-Foundations
B. Literature and History of the Old Testament-Development
Prerequisite: TH500A
C. Literature and History of the New Testament -Foundations
D. Literature and History of the New Testament-Development
Prerequisite: TH500C
TH501
Introduction to Biblical Languages
A study of the grammar, vocabulary and forms of the biblical languages followed by the reading of selected texts. (Two-term course)A. Elementary Biblical Hebrew
B. Elementary Biblical Greek
C. Intermediate Biblical Hebrew
Prerequisite: Elementary Biblical Hebrew or the equivalent.
D. Intermediate Biblical Greek
Prerequisite: Elementary Biblical Greek or the equivalent.
TH600
Old Testament Exegetical Studies
An examination of selected passages, motifs, themes or books of the Old Testament in both English and Hebrew.A. Exegetical Studies in Old Testament Prophecy
B. Exegetical Studies in Old Testament Apocalyptic Literature
C. Exegesis and Exposition in the Psalms
D. Exegesis and Exposition in Wisdom Literature
TH601
New Testament Exegetical Studies
An examination of selected passages, motifs, themes or books of the New Testament in both English and Greek.
A. Exegesis of the Greek New Testament
Prerequisite: First-year Greek and the permission of the Instructor.
B. Exegesis of the Greek New Testament II
Prerequisite: TH601A or permission of the Instructor.
D. Major Biblical Motifs-Creation
E. Major Biblical Motifs-Salvation
F. The Theology and Style of the Gospels
TH602
Old Testament Theological Studies
An examination of selected issues related to the development and interpretation of Old Testament biblical literature.C. Old Testament Theology
TH603
New Testament Theological Studies
An examination of selected issues related to the development and interpretation of New Testament biblical literature.A. Advanced Hermeneutics
Prerequisite: Introduction to the New Testament and Introduction to the Old Testament.
B. The Theology of Paul
Prerequisite: TH500C/D or equivalent.
C. The Book of Revelation
D. Women and Feminine Images in the Gospels
Prerequisite: An introductory course to the New Testament or permission of the Instructor.
E. Jesus of Nazareth
Prerequisite: An introductory course to the New Testament or permission of the Instructor.
F. Early Christianity after the New Testament
Prerequisite: TH500C/D or equivalent.
TH608
Special Topics in Biblical Theology
TH609
Research in Biblical Studies
Directed studies in selected areas of concern.
Prerequisite: Permission of the Instructor. (May be offered over one or two terms.)
Historical TheologyTH520
Introduction to Church HistoryAn historical examination of the context and development of the church from the 16th century to the present.
A. Church History-Early and Medieval Christianity
B. Church History-Reformation to the Present
TH620
Studies in Historical Periods of the Church
An historical examination of selected periods within the life of the church.
B. History of the Medieval Church
C. A History of Canadian Lutheranism
D. Women in Christian History
E. History of the Reformation of Churches
TH621
Issues in Church History
The historical examination of various issues within the life of the church.
A. The History of Modern Catholic Thought
B. Religious Issues in Canadian History
E. Study of the Lutheran Confessions
TH622
Movements in Church History
The historical examination of various movements within the life of the church.A. Roots of Liberation Theology
B. Studies in Church-State Relations
C. Canadian Liberation Theology
TH628
Special Topics in Historical Theology
TH629
Research in Historical Theology
Directed studies in selected areas of concern.
Prerequisite: Permission of the Instructor. (May be given over one or two terms.)
Systematic TheologyTH540
Introduction to Systematic Theology
An examination of the nature, purpose, method of formulation, and meaning of basic doctrines in Christian theology.A. Introduction to Christian Doctrine I
B. Introduction to Christian Doctrine II
Prerequisite: TH540A
TH640
Interdisciplinary Studies in Systematic Theology
An examination of the interface between religion and various social scientific disciplines in terms of selected general topics.B. Christian Ethics
D. The Role of Religion in Contemporary Society
E. Christian Identity in Modern Society
F. The Protestant Work Ethic
TH641
Movements and Figures in Systematic Theology
An examination of movements and figures which have played a significant role in shaping the discipline of systematic theology.A. Current Trends in Liberation Theology
B. Lutheran Theology
D. Martin Luther
E. Paul Tillich
F. Dietrich Bonhoeffer
G. Jurgen Moltmann
TH642
Issues in Systematic TheologyAn examination of selected concerns in the discipline of systematic theology.
A. Trinity and Creation
B. Christology
C. Justification and Sanctification
D. Spirit and Sacrament
TH643
Advanced Studies in Christian Ethics
An examination of the nature, implications, and context of selected general topics in the area of Christian Ethics. (For MTh students only.)A. Method and Literature in Ethics
B. The Historical Development of Christian Ethics
C. Biomedical Ethics
D. The Church and Labour
E. Field Study (Half-credit course given over one, two or three terms.)
F. The Ethics of Stanley Hauerwas
TH648
Special Topics in Systematic Theology
TH649
Research in Systematic TheologyDirected studies in selected areas of concern.
Prerequisite: Permission of the Instructor. (May be given over one or two terms.)
Functional TheologyTH560
Introduction to Ministerial Practice
An examination of selected areas of ministerial practice which is pursued in such a manner as to integrate the classroom and field work required in the course. Field work placements for the course will be made by the Supervisor of Contextual Education. (Six hours)A. Contextual Ministry I
B. Contextual Ministry II
C. Contextual Ministry III
D. Contextual Ministry IV
TH561
Studies in Ministerial Practice
An examination of the nature, implications and context of selected areas of concern in ministerial practice. Cannot be taken by students holding credit for parallel TH560 course. Refer to Seminary Office for details. (Two hours)A. Meaning of Interpersonal Relations
B. Parish Administration
C. Introduction to Homiletics
D. Introduction to Worship (Liturgics)
E. Catechetics
F. Introduction to Christian Education
G. Introduction to Spiritual Formation
TH562
Supervised Pastoral Education
An examination and development of the interpersonal skills required for basic levels of individual, marriage and family, and group counselling. (Four hours)A. SPE (I) (May be given over one or two terms.)
B. SPE (II)
Prerequisite: SPE (I) or its equivalent.
TH661
Intermediate Homiletical Studies
An examination of the nature, implications and context of selected general concerns in the area of homiletics, including the development of appropriate skills. (Two hours)A. Sermon Methodology (Three hours)
Prerequisite: Contextual Ministry I (Homiletics) or its equivalent.
B. Congregational Preaching
Prerequisite: Sermon Methodology or its equivalent.
C. Narrative Sermons
D. Biblical Preaching
TH662
Advanced Homiletical Studies
An examination of the nature, implications, and context of selected special concerns in the area of homiletics, including the development of appropriate skills. (For MTh students only.)A. Homiletical Literature (Half-credit course given over three terms.)
C. Homiletical Options
D. Practicum
E. Preaching on Ethical Issues
TH663
Intermediate Pastoral Counselling Studies
An examination of the nature, implications and context of selected general concerns in the area of pastoral counselling, including the development of appropriate skills.
A. Grief Crises and Pastoral Care
B. Spirituality in a Health Care Setting
C. Family Process in the Parish and Pastoral Care and Counselling (Two hours)
D. The Aging Process and Pastoral Care
E. Family Systems and Pastoral Care I
F. Marital Dynamics and Pastoral Care
G. Foundations of Systemic Psychotherapy and Pastoral Counselling
I. Family of Origin Seminar
J. Supervised Experience in Ministry-Pastoral Counselling
Prerequisite: TH665B SEM Pastoral Ministry. Field placement will be arranged by the course instructor.
K. Group Process and Leadership
L. Gender Development in Marriage and Family Therapy and Pastoral Care
TH664
Advanced Pastoral Counselling Studies
An examination of the nature, implications and context of selected special concerns in the area of pastoral counselling, including the development of appropriate skills. (For MTh students only.)D. Post-Modern Family Therapy: Theory and Pastoral Implications
E. The Quest for Identity in Psychosocial Perspectives
F. Life Cycle Theory and the Development of Values and Faith
H. Professional Studies and Ethics
I. Research Design in Marriage and Family Therapy and Pastoral Counselling
Prerequisite: Four half-credit (one-term) courses in Pastoral Counselling or equivalent.
J. Contextual Issues in Marriage and Family Therapy
K. Clinical and Pastoral Supervision
TH665
Intermediate Studies in Parish Practice
An examination of the nature, implications and context of selected general concerns in the area of parish practice, including the development of appropriate skills.A. Church and Ministry (Half-credit course taught over two terms.)
B. Supervised Experience in Ministry-Pastoral Ministry
Prerequisite: TH665A Church and Ministry. Field placement will be arranged by the course instructor.
C. Introduction to Church and Society
D. Integration Seminar
E. Theological Reflection-Pastoral Practice
Prerequisite: TH680C Theological Reflection I-Seminar or permission of the Instructor.
TH666
Advanced Studies in Parish Practice
An examination of the nature, implications and context of selected special concerns in the area of parish practice, including the development of appropriate skills. (Two hours)B. Leadership and Conflict Management (Three hours)
C. Adult Education-Nature, Principles, Methods
D. Leadership: Small Congregations in a Rural Context
TH667
Intermediate Studies in Worship and Spirituality
An examination of the nature, implications and context of selected general topics in the areas of worship and spirituality.
A. Spirituality for Ministry
B. Pastoral Liturgy
C. Sacred Time
D. Church Music
H. Spirituality and Leadership-Images and Practices
TH668
Special Topics in Functional Theology
TH669
Research in Functional Theology
Directed studies in selected areas of concern.
Prerequisite: Permission of the Instructor. (May be given over one or two terms.)
TH680
Senior Research Project
A course of research and study which produces a major research paper that is defended orally before the faculty.A. Comprehensive Seminar I
For persons in the MTS program. (Normally a two-hour credit.)
B. Comprehensive Seminar II
For persons in the MTS program. (Normally a three-hour credit.)
Prerequisite: TH680A or its equivalent.
C. Theological Reflection I-Seminar
Though designed for MDiv and Diploma students, this course may be taken by MTS students. (Normally a three-hour credit.)
D. Theological Reflection II-Comprehensive Paper
For persons in the MDiv and Diploma programs. (Normally a two-hour credit.)
Prerequisite: TH680C Theological Reflection I-Seminar.
E. MTh Research Project/Thesis. (Normally a three-hour credit).
TH681
Internship
The work of the course will cover a full-time involvement in a 9- to 12-month internship, meeting the requirements of internship as delineated elsewhere in the Seminary portion of this Calendar.
TH760
Advanced Clinical Studies
An examination and development of the interpersonal skills required for advanced levels of individual, marriage and family, and group counselling. (Four hours)A. SPE (III)
Prerequisite: SPE (II) or its equivalent.
B. SPE (IV)
Prerequisite: SPE (III) or its equivalent.
C. SPE (V)
Prerequisite: SPE (IV) or its equivalent.
D. SPE (VI)
Prerequisite: SPE (V) or its equivalent.
TH761
Doctoral Pastoral Counselling Studies
An examination of the nature, implications, and context of selected special concerns in the area of pastoral counselling as it relates to the Doctoral program. (For DMin students or with permission of the instructor only.)A. Family Systems and Pastoral Care II
B. Marital Therapy and Pastoral Counselling
C. Schools of Family Therapy and Pastoral Counselling
D. Foundations of Marital Dynamics and Pastoral Counselling
TH780A
DMin Research Project
This course will focus on the research and writing of the Doctor of Ministry Research Project proposal.
TH780B
DMin Thesis
This course will focus on the research and writing of the Doctor of Ministry Thesis.
Seminary Fees
The Board of Governors of Waterloo Lutheran Seminary reviews the Seminary's income and expenses annually and sets charges for fees accordingly. The fees are published by the Seminary as soon as available following the Board's decision at its spring meeting. Contact the Seminary Office for further information.Payment of Seminary Fees
All fees are due and payable upon invoice from Waterloo Lutheran Seminary. Students who are unable to pay all fees at the beginning of the respective term of studies must make arrangements with the Seminary Office for an alternate payment schedule. Students (with the permission of the Seminary) may carry no more than one term's outstanding tuition. Students who have not arranged a payment schedule with the Seminary will not be accepted for their courses and will be required to withdraw from attending classes. Students with delinquent accounts will not receive any academic information, nor will any academic information be released on their behalf in any manner. All fees and charges (whether owing to the Seminary or Wilfrid Laurier University) must be paid in order to qualify for graduation.
Any student with a poor payment record may be required to pay with a certified cheque, money order or cash prior to course registration.
The Seminary reserves the right to deny registration to any student if suitable payment for all outstanding accounts has not been made.
Doctor of Ministry students are advised that program fees are assessed on a term basis and are not dependent on course registration. Failure to pay all fees owing by the appropriate time will result in the candidate being dropped from the program.
Audit courses are to be charged at $150. Senior rate of 50 percent tuition will not apply in the case of audit courses. There will be no refunds processed for audit courses.
Note: Students are cautioned that the fees and regulations governing registration and other costs of all graduate students are subject to change without notice.Withdrawal and Refund of Seminary Fees
Students withdrawing from a program at Waterloo Lutheran Seminary are required to contact the Principal-Dean of the Seminary to discuss formal withdrawal. The Seminary assumes the obligation of student instruction on a term basis; therefore, refunds will be made entirely at the discretion of the Seminary.Seminary Endowments and AwardsRefunds will be granted on a pro-rata basis as follows: a) Cash refunds will be granted in cases where students are compelled to withdraw due to serious personal illness. b) Cash refunds may also be granted in cases where the student is compelled to withdraw for other personal reasons, provided that these reasons are acceptable to the Principal-Dean of the Seminary. Incidentals and miscellaneous fees are refundable only on a term basis with no refunds for terms commenced. Where a "General Tuition Bursary" has been granted by the Seminary to a full-time student, it is understood that this grant is made on the condition that the student remains registered full-time for the entire term. Should a student receiving such a bursary withdraw from Seminary studies during a term or move to part-time studies during the term, the "General Tuition Bursary" will be cancelled in its entirety. The portion of fees that may be refunded, if any, is determined by the effective date of withdrawal from the Seminary or from any particular course. Refunds will be determined as follows: a) The administration charge will be $25. b) Return of fees, if any, will be assessed on a pro rata basis according to the date of withdrawal after deducting the $25 administration charge. Students who have successfully petitioned the Seminary faculty for permission to withdraw from courses after the final deadline for course withdrawal will be assessed a $50 administration charge. Pro-rata of tuition and assessment of incidental or miscellaneous fees will be at the discretion of the Seminary.
Concern and financial support for qualified students wishing to enter theological studies and preparation for the ordained ministry come from bursaries and loans made available by the Seminary, the church and the government. Contact the Seminary for details.