19 credit hour certificates will provide options for shorter training than the 33-credit-hour Diploma of Theological Studies, yet using the same curriculum.

Each certificate requires a 1-credit-hour Ministry Practicum to provide hands-on practical ministry training experience.

Required Courses

Christian Faith and Ministry (3 credits)

Ministry & Leader-ship Development (3 credits)

Ministry Practicum (1 credit)

Recommended Elective Courses

Biblical Interpretation

Evangelism

Life of Christ

Sermon Preparation

Prayer

Introduction to Christian Caregiving

Teaching the Bible

Principles of Biblical Counseling

(additional electives could be offered as well)

"Joining the ORU Online Bible Institute was a decision directed by the Holy Spirit. Although I had been involved in evangelism and ministry before attending the school, the knowledge and the hands-on skills gained from the well experienced and knowledgeable instructors provided additional fire for the mission field. Now I am using some of the principles I have learned from the program in my ministry and also working on how to pursue further studies at the ORU."

- Olu Adekile

In 2014, I enrolled in the ORU Online Bible Institute. I started with the Certificate program and then decided to continue on with a Diploma in Theological Studies.

The courses are straightforward but they are work. Each week, I found myself carving out several hours to immerse myself in study. This schedule fit me perfectly. I read the required books for each class and used the lectures. Throughout the semesters, I learned different biblical arguments and applications in the Christian community. You can really tell that these educators love God and love Scripture. All the courses are taught to edify your faith, increase your knowledge, and feed your Spirit.

My experience at ORU has impacted my education and it has impacted my heart. I am leaving with a more profound knowledge of God, His working power and His plan throughout history for our salvation. ORU has prepared and helped me to have confidence. I truly enjoyed earning my certificate and diploma.

-Lisa Romig

I started attending the Online Bible Institute because I wanted to improve my knowledge of the Word and prepare myself for future ministry. Through the OBI program, my personal devotional life improved significantly and now I have a better grasp on the Word of God. The knowledge which I gained proved to be so helpful to my ministry. The instructors were helpful and informative in interacting with me as well.

-Jimmy Halim

I am the director of Kingdom Bible Institute at Greater Shiloh Church in Easton, PA. In the summer of 2014, my Pastor and I began to work on developing a Bible institute with two goals in mind: we wanted to enhance the depth of knowledge of the Word for our church members, and we wanted a source of training for emerging leaders within the church.

ORU offers a variety of subject matter that satisfies so many areas of need within the church. One of the most challenging aspects of my work as director is determining which courses we will make available during the academic year. There are Certificate programs that are amazing, but there are also courses we can offer as stand-alones that address needs within the church as well.

ORUBI and Dr. Sam Barsoum have been wonderful to work with. The bookstore personnel have bent over backwards to get our materials to us on time. The structure of the program is easy to follow and work with. I believe the Holy Spirit was leading my Pastor and I when we chose ORUBI to be a major resource for our school. I couldn’t be happier.

Marsha K. Griffin