Educator Certification Courses
There are a total of seven course areas required for educator certification (Presbyterian Polity and Presbyterian Program and Mission are typically taught together as one course). Although taught by a variety of instructors and in different settings, there is standard content for each.
Educator Certification Readiness Summary
In order to successfully complete the requirements for educator certification in the PC(USA), educators should be prepared to meet these expectations prior to beginning the educator certification exam.
Human Growth and Faith Development (online)
May 26 - June 23, 2026
Union Presbyterian Seminary Leadership Institute
Instructor: Rebecca Davis
Biblical Interpretation (online)
August 1 - September 5, 2026
Union Presbyterian Seminary Leadership Institute
Instructor: Christian Sanchez
While the course designs and instructors have not yet been approved by the Educator Certification Committee, the following information is the anticipated course schedule listed for your planning purposes. Please keep in mind that the courses listed below are not official until the Educator Certification Committee has approved the course design.
2026 Projected Courses:
- Religious Education Theory & Practice
Union Presbyterian Seminary - online (fall)
2027 Projected Courses:
- Presbyterian Polity, Program, and Mission
Union Presbyterian Seminary - online (spring) - Reformed Theology
Union Presbyterian Seminary - online (summer) - Religious Education Theory & Practice
Union Presbyterian Seminary - online (fall)
In addition to the approved courses, please be aware that the corresponding required courses in degree programs from PC(USA)-related seminaries will be accepted as meeting educational requirements for certification at CCE level. Electives will be considered on a course by course basis. For PC(USA) Ministers of Word and Sacrament, passing an ordination exam will meet its respective knowledge and skill area requirement in certification.