Graduate and Seminary Admission Requirements
What are the application requirements?
To apply for admission to LCU, applicants will need to turn in:
- Application
- LCU Written Essay
- LCU Written Essay for DMin
- Christian Character Reference
Online Christian Character Reference
- The Christian Character Reference Form (please submit two) should be completed by someone in leadership at a Christian church, organization, company, or other ministry who has a close relationship with the applicant and can vouch for the applicant’s Christian character. It cannot be completed by a relative of the applicant.
*Please email or call us at 888-522-5228 if you need a paper form to fill out and we would be happy to provide one.
Lincoln Christian University desires to enroll Christians who have a heart for God, a love for people, a desire to serve in some form of leadership ministry, an ability to do graduate work, and a commitment to the University’s mission. Students should present a record of achievements that document their academic experiences, their call to ministry and church involvement as it relates to the University mission. Skills in critical thinking, communication and reading, along with a solid foundation in writing, Bible, and language are highly desirable.
Students are admitted to the Seminary once they have demonstrated, through the application process, that they meet the characteristics described above. Students are also required to have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale). Additional admission requirements for international students, the Doctor of Ministry program and the MA in Marriage and Family Therapy are described below.
Additional Requirements for the Doctor of Ministry (DMin) Program
In keeping with ATS standards, you must have a Master of Divinity or its equivalent. Equivalency is defined by the breadth and depth characteristic of MDiv studies. Equivalency can be granted to those who have completed 72 hours of seminary studies. To see if you qualify, contact Enrollment Services for a preliminary evaluation.
- A 3.0 GPA in your master’s courses is expected, though rare exceptions may be made if there are compensating factors.
- Basic skill in Greek-based and Hebrew-based Bible study tools is needed. This can be demonstrated in a variety of ways. Contact Enrollment Services for a preliminary evaluation.
- You will be interviewed by the director of the DMin program to clarify program expectations and to assess the suitability of our program for your needs.
- Students in the preaching, spiritual formation, and leadership tracks must be currently serving in a ministry context that provides opportunity for integration of class content.
- Students in the pastor care track must demonstrate proficiency in pastoral counseling, as measured by appropriate coursework/licensure, and will be interviewed by the coordinator of that specialization.
An admissions committee comprised of the Seminary deans and DMin director will approve students and participate in any elements of the admissions process deemed necessary by the group.
Additional Requirements for the MA in Counseling Program
In addition to the general application process, all Master of Arts in Counseling applicants are required to interview with the Master of Arts in Counseling program director.
Admission of Military Veterans
Military veterans who qualify for education benefits should obtain the necessary certification of eligibility for training online at www.irs.gov or from the nearest Veteran Affairs Office (VA). Specific questions concerning unusual programs should be directed to the Veteran’s Administration. General questions concerning application for veteran’s benefits may be directed to the LCU Financial Aid Office.