On Dec. 19, Charlie Martin, worship pastor at NorthPark Baptist Church, Trussville, became the first person to earn a post-doctoral certificate from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.
Martin earned his doctorate of educational ministry with a specialization in worship studies from NOBTS in 2017, then began to look into the possibility of getting another doctorate in 2019.
“But after talking with administration, the short-term Post Doctorate Certificate Program was a much shorter program and would give me a second specialization in order to be able to teach classes on a college level in multiple areas,” he said. “This second specialization in discipleship and spiritual formation also helps me to fulfill my strong passion for making disciples and developing leaders and hopefully will open other doors of opportunity for me in the future.”
Randy L. Stone, director of NOBTS’ doctor of educational ministry and doctor of education programs, said the certificate is available to all their professional doctoral graduates.
“The nine-hour certificate requires three seminars but no summative project,” he said. “The additional work allows students to complete a second (or third) specialization. Many of our students find the collegial learning environment academically, relationally and professionally rewarding. Some students are pursuing additional credentials for teaching or leading in specific areas of ministry.”
Other specializations include Christian apologetics, church revitalization or strategic leadership, or students can customize their topic with advising from the program director.
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