To provide a comprehensive, coordinated system of training for candidates and ordinands to meet all educational requirements for Elder’s orders and a pathway to graduate education in seminary.

Persons with little or no formal undergraduate baccalaureate academic education. While a High School diploma is a recognized minimal level of formal education for application to ASOM, persons not possessing a diploma may still apply, and an assessment will be made by ASOM and church leaders to determine potential success.

Persons who possess an undergraduate baccalaureate degree only and wish to enter graduate studies in seminary.

Persons with no High School Diploma:

Upon recommendation of the local church pastor and appropriate conference officer, make application to ASOM for study in the two-year Certificate of Ministry & Theology. Assessment will be made by ASOM together with appropriate conference representatives in the first semester to determine potential for success. Guidance will be given as needed for continuation or redirection.

Persons with no baccalaureate degree:

Register for the Certificate of Ministry & Theology

Upon successful completion, examined for Deacons orders.

Apply for MDiv or other MA program at Northeastern Seminary (NES).

Upon successful completion, examined for Elders orders.

Persons with a baccalaureate degree:

May engage in one of the following options:

Make application for graduate studies at Northeastern Seminary, OR

Register in ASOM for at least one semester so as to refresh and prepare for entrance into seminary study at the graduate level.

OR

Register for the two-year certificate in ASOM should that be sufficient for educational requirements for ordination in the judgment of the conference Bishop. In any case, subsequent examination for Elder’s orders.

A candidate who successfully completes one of the above pathways may make an application for any Master’s program at NES. Decisions concerning admission and financial aid lie completely with the NES admission team.

Education in partnership with the African Methodist Episcopal Church offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the rich heritage and distinctives of this faith community.

At Aldersgate School of Ministry, we believe that learning is most impactful when it occurs within the context of a supportive community. Our collaboration with AME fosters an environment where students can integrate theological education with practical experiences, all geared toward shaping effective leaders who will impact their congregations and communities.

All approved AME students who are under the care of the AME credentialing process will receive a 10% tuition discount. Please connect with your local AME Conference to learn more about the partnership with ASOM.

After you complete a 2-year ASOM Program with AME Ordination Track Certificate, you can apply to Northeastern Seminary. Students who complete ASOM’s 2-Year Certificate Program are eligible for a tuition discount toward a Master’s Degree at NES.