Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone can take classes with Mission Training Center!
Contact MTC with any questions you have.
MTC courses run for four (4) or eight (8) weeks. Each course meets for two hours per session each week.
MTC courses which are delivered online are regularly scheduled by MTC. The intent is that each course will be offered at least once per calendar year and with no more than 18 months between iterations. Click here to view the current Online Course Schedule. One-on-One, Self-Directed Study, and Field MTC courses are scheduled by local instructors in collaboration with the MTC Director. See the FAQ on this page regarding modes of delivery for more information on these options.
Online courses meet via a video-conferencing platform. The instructor and students log in the same day of the week for either 4 or 8 weeks.
Weekday classes may meet on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays, typically at 6:00-8:00 PM Pacific time.
Saturday classes meet 8:00-10:00 AM Pacific time.
Anyone may join an MTC course! While the classes are primarily designed for lay leaders seeking eventual licensure in their LCMS district, the content is applicable for all Christians looking to dive deeper into their faith and learn practical ways to put that faith into action as they partner in God’s mission.
Students who take courses through MTC are expected to complete assignments, readings, projects, attend, and actively join the conversation in the learning sessions. Class assignments are graded on a pass/fail criteria. Though courses are not intended to be as rigorous as undergraduate courses taken in a university, they do expect a level of rigor which surpasses high school learning and study.
MTC courses prepare individuals for missional ministry in congregations, in faith communities, and in their local communities. MTC certificates showing satisfactory completion might be used to indicate competencies acquired for various ministry and leadership opportunities. Students take MTC courses:
Payments can be made via check or online with a credit or debit card. Courses are expected to be paid in full before the first class session but we understand that life happens and will work with you to help in whatever ways we are able. Please contact MTC to create a personalized payment method and/or schedule.
MTC is a training organization and does not determine how many or what particular courses are necessary for entering other training institutions or for receiving licensing, certifications, endorsements, etc., from any church body or organization. Organizations determine which courses are required for any institutional matriculation or future ministry or service in the organization.
Visit Tracks & Resources to see the specific courses required by our partnering entities. However, students should check with the organization through which they are working to determine specific requirements.
Students interested in their own professional and/or ministry growth may select any courses which they believe will be beneficial for their own ministries.