Northwind Theological Seminary
Specialized Ministry
In the Modern Era, church leadership was provided by full-time professional clergy who performed ministry to and for their congregations.
In the Postmodern Era, there is a mix of full & part-time professional clergy, commissioned lay ministers, and para-church organizations working together to share ministry in their communities.
This dramatic ministry shift requires a 'new thing' to do ministry in 'new ways' ... Specialized Ministry.
At Northwind Seminary, we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive education in ministry and faith, tailored to the needs of our students.
We specialize in both traditional and specialized ministry, such as community ministry and missions. Our diverse faculty bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, and are committed to providing our students with the best educational experience possible.
We are also devoted to fostering an environment of connection and community. We strive to create an atmosphere of acceptance and mutual understanding, while also pushing our students to reach their highest potential. Through our commitment to faith and helping others, we are proud to be making a difference in the world.
Rev. Robert J. Duncan, Jr. D.Min
Center Director
President, Northwind Institute|Seminary
Professor of Leadership & Specialized Ministry
Master in
Specialized Ministry
30 Credits
Course of Study
Intro to Grad Studies
Ministry Seminar
Research Methods
Research Course
Capstone Paper
Ministry|PATH
Transfer Ministry
Experience & Training
for Advanced Standing
Degree Awarded by
Northwind Seminary
Doctor in
Specialized Ministry
36 Credits
Course of Study
Biblical Foundations
Theological Foundations
Doctoral Research Methods
Research I
Research II
Doctoral Paper
Ministry|PATH
Transfer Ministry
Experience & Training
for Advanced Standing
Degree Awarded by
Northwind Seminary
Master of Arts
42 Credits
Course of Study
Starting Well
Readings in OT
Readings in NT
neXt church
Christian Tradition
Capstone Research
Capstone Project
Capstone Paper
Continuing Well
Degree Awarded by
Kairos University
Doctor of Ministry
36 Credits
Course of Study
Starting Well
Readings in OT & NT
Doctoral Research Methods
Research I
Research II
Doctoral Project & Paper
Continuing Well
Degree Awarded by
Kairos University
Program Outcomes
These degrees focus on formation, biblical study, vocational discernment, theological reflection, and integrated practice. , the Doctor of Ministry helps you connect your journey of discipleship with what God is doing in the world. Through the degree programs, students develop and demonstrate competency in their area of specialized ministry.
Customized Learning Experiences
Learning experiences have been built around an invitation for students to explore some aspect of their vocation, Christian thought and practice, or the human experience. Students progress through these learning experiences in the way that is most helpful to them in their context and vocation. They work with faculty members to create customized learning experiences that help them develop vocational excellence and expertise.
Final Project
The Kairos Degrees includes a final project integrating the student's learning, theology, and practice. The project is intended to provide vocational context by planning, conducting, and reflecting on a project completed in the student's ministry context. Students work with a mentor team to customize or concentrate on any area of interest. Students can focus on anything from missional theology, systems design, thinking, pastoral care, or chaplaincy to biblical languages, spiritual formation and direction, finances, strategic leadership, and much more.
Contextual Learning
Throughout the program, students work with a mentor team to design learning experiences entirely shaped by what they are doing (or will do) in their current or desired ministry or vocational context. Are you planting a church? Building a youth ministry program? Developing curriculum? Then use that in your program! Are you managing finances? Writing code? Building homes? Developing software? Leading teams? Then use that in your program! If an experience or project is connected to what it means to flourish in your ministry or vocation, use it to progress in your program!