Advantages of Attending FAB School of Ministry. 

The Fellowship of Apostolic Believers – School of Ministry (FAB-SOM) offers an affordable biblical education that is both practical and informative. Our academic approach emphasizes self-directed study and peer engagement, creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment. 

With guidance from seasoned spiritual leaders and experienced instructors, FAB-SOM is designed to foster spiritual growth and academic excellence, welcoming students with little to no prior seminary training. Whether pursuing ministry, personal enrichment, or deeper scriptural understanding, students are equipped to grow in knowledge, purpose, and service to the Body of Christ.         

• Certificate in Christian Leadership or Christian Ministry

• Certificate or Degree in Biblical Studies or Theology 

• Certificate or Degree in Christian Education

Certificate in Biblical Studies

A Certificate in Biblical Studies is a focused, non-degree academic program designed to provide foundational knowledge of the Bible, Christian doctrine, and principles of ministry. This certificate is typically awarded after the successful completion of a structured series of courses—ranging from 12 to 30 credit hours—centered on the study of Scripture and faith-based application.

The program is ideal for:

• Individuals seeking spiritual growth and biblical understanding

• Aspiring ministers, lay leaders, or church workers

• Those preparing for further theological education

Coursework often includes topics such as:

• Old and New Testament Survey

• Hermeneutics (Biblical interpretation)

• Basic Theology

• Christian Ethics

• Ministry Foundations

The Certificate in Biblical Studies reflects serious engagement with the Word of God and equips students to serve effectively in local churches, outreach ministries, and personal discipleship. 

Associate of Arts Certificate in Biblical Studies

Associate of Arts Certificate in Biblical Studies is an academic credential awarded upon successful completion of a focused curriculum in biblical and theological studies. This certificate provides students with foundational knowledge of Scripture, doctrine, and Christian ministry principles from a faith-based perspective. It is designed for individuals seeking to deepen their spiritual understanding, grow in their calling, or prepare for further ministry or academic pursuits.

Students gain essential skills in biblical interpretation, church history, theology, and ministry application, equipping them for service within the church and broader faith community.

This program is ideal for lay leaders, ministry volunteers, aspiring ministers, or anyone pursuing structured theological education without the full commitment of a two-year degree.

Students enrolled in this program engage in:

• Systematic study of the Old and New Testaments

• Introduction to theology, hermeneutics, and Christian ethics

• Ministry training for personal growth and church leadership

• Development of spiritual disciplines and practical ministry skills

This certificate is ideal for:

• New or aspiring church leaders

• Laypersons seeking structured biblical education

• Those preparing for further theological training or degree programs

Purpose: To equip students with a solid biblical foundation for effective service in the local church, ministry settings, or personal spiritual growth.

Bachelor’s Certificate in Biblical Studies

A Bachelor’s Certificate in Biblical Studies is a non-degree academic credential that signifies the completion of advanced coursework in biblical and theological subjects at the undergraduate level. It is typically awarded to individuals who have completed a structured program of study—often between 18 to 36 credit hours—but not a full bachelor’s degree.

This certificate provides a concentrated exploration of Scripture, theology, ministry practices, and Christian leadership, equipping students for service, teaching, or further education in ministry contexts. It may serve as:

• A supplement to existing ministry experience

• A pathway toward a full bachelor’s degree

• A stand-alone credential for personal or vocational growth

Master’s Certificates and Degrees

Advanced Academic Programs in Ministry and Theology

Master’s Certificates and Master’s Degrees are advanced academic programs designed for individuals pursuing deeper knowledge, spiritual maturity, and leadership development in religious studies, theology, or ministry-related disciplines. These programs build upon undergraduate foundations and are suited for current or aspiring ministry leaders, educators, chaplains, or scholars.

Master’s Certificate in Biblical Studies or Ministry

Master’s Certificate is a graduate-level credential awarded upon completion of a concentrated series of courses, typically between 12 to 24 credit hours. This non-degree program is designed to offer advanced theological insight and ministerial training without the time commitment of a full master's degree.

Key features:

• Focused study in a specific area (e.g., Biblical Counseling, Pastoral Ministry, Christian Leadership)

• Ideal for professional development, continuing education, or credentialing within a denomination

• May be applied toward a full master’s degree, depending on the institution

Purpose: To equip individuals with specialized knowledge and practical skills for immediate application in ministry or church leadership.

Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies or Ministry

A Master’s Degree (Master of Arts in Biblical Studies) is a full graduate program, typically requiring 36 to 90 credit hours, depending on the field and institution. It provides a comprehensive academic and spiritual formation for high-level ministry or academic roles.

Key features:

• In-depth study of theology, biblical languages, pastoral care, church history, and ministry leadership

• Often includes a practicum, internship, or thesis component 

• Prepares graduates for pastoral roles, teaching positions, or doctoral-level study

Purpose: To develop well-rounded, theologically grounded, and spiritually mature leaders capable of serving the church and the broader community with excellence.

• Requirements: Requires a bachelor’s degree for admission, and life experience may allow exceptions for qualification.

• Outcome: Equips students with practical tools for ministry or religious leadership, and a stepping stone to further academic or professional advancement.

Key Differences

• Time Commitment: Certificates are shorter, while degrees are extensive, multi-year commitments.

• Focus: Certificates focus on specific skills or topics, while degrees provide broad and deep expertise.

• Career Impact: Certificates often enhance existing roles, whereas degrees open doors to high-level academic, leadership, or research positions.

These programs aim to deepen understanding of biblical studies, equipping students for advanced academic study and effective service in the church. 

Pastoral and Leaders Consultation 

Pastoral and Leaders Consultation refers to the spiritual, administrative, and visionary role of a pastor or ministry leader who is called to guide, oversee, and equip the body of Christ. It involves shepherding God's people through:

• Preaching and teaching sound doctrine

• Providing spiritual direction and biblical counsel

• Leading with integrity, humility, and vision

• Managing church operations and ministry teams

• Protecting the flock from false teaching and spiritual harm

• Discipling others into maturity in Christ

Pastoral leadership is both a calling and a responsibility. It requires not only theological knowledge but also spiritual maturity, discernment, and servant-hearted authority, modeled after Christ, the Chief Shepherd.