Ignite: Microcredentials for Ministry
Ignite: Microcredentials for Ministry
Flexible, non-degree training for lay pastors and ministry leaders
What is Ignite?
The Ignite: Micocredentials for Ministry Program is a new non-degree training initiative at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary designed to equip lay pastors and ministry leaders with the skills and theological grounding needed to serve 21st-century churches and communities. Built for those already engaged in ministry or preparing to answer a call, this program offers short-term, online microcredentials in ministry—stackable sets of courses designed to develop practical competencies in preaching, pastoral care, theological teaching, and more.
Program Highlights
- Fully Online Ministry Training
- Courses are delivered through asynchronous online instruction with syncronous personalized mentoring and coaching.
- Designed for Flexibility
- Each course is about 8 weeks. Complete 3-5 courses to earn one microcredential. Work at your own pace within a supportive cohort of learners.
- Affordable and Accessible
- Estimated cost: $250-$550 per course / $1,200-$2,250 per microcredential. Financial support and group enrollment options available.
- Practical Outcomes
- Participants will be prepared to:
- Lead small groups and teach Sunday School
- Offer pastoral care and trauma-informed ministry
- Preach, witness, and lead justice-focused ministries
- Serve as lay pastors in local churches
Who Is This Program For?
Ignite is ideal for:
- Lay people discerning a call to ministry
- Leaders in rural or underserved churches
- Church elders, Sunday School teachers, and ministry volunteers
- Anyone seeking online lay pastor training or non-degree ministry education
No seminary degree required—just a heart for ministry and a desire to grow.
Launching Soon
The first Ignite microcredentials are expected to begin in late 2026 or early 2027. If you're interested in learning more or being notified when the application opens, fill out our interest form below.
Program Areas
Examples of course topics include:
- Bible and Theology
- Trauma-Informed Pastoral Care
- Grief and Loss
- Preaching and Communication
- Witness and Justice
- Christian Leadership and Contextual Ministry
A Grant-Funded Initiative
Ignite is made possible through generous funding from the Lilly Endowment’s Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative. This support allows us to provide relevant, accessible theological training to help churches thrive in today’s complex ministry landscape.
Partner with us to identify, empower, and equip the next generation of lay leaders. Who is God calling in your community? Help them say yes!
