Foundation Certificate in Biblical Ministry

Join us for this unique ten-month part-time hybrid course with online classes once a week and two 2-day intensives in Oxford.

Now accepting applications for September 2026

APPLY NOW

Every Christian is called to Ministry!

The Foundation Certificate in Biblical Ministry is designed for anyone who desires to grow in their knowledge of God's Word and be further equipped for service in the local church — while continuing to serve there.

The programme runs from September to June and is built around the rhythm of local church life. Classes take place once a week online on Monday evenings during term time, with two 2-day intensives in Oxford (October and May). At its heart is verse-by-verse teaching of books of the Bible by experienced pastors and Bible teachers, alongside foundational training in how to study Scripture and defend the faith.

Whatever your ministry calling, you will gain a solid foundation in doctrine and practical ministry that you can put to work straight away in your local church.

CBI Oxford is not accredited, and we are not seeking accreditation. Our heart is simply to disciple and equip the saints for the work of ministry through the teaching of the Word of God — recognising that ministry is not the calling of the few, but the calling of every believer in Jesus (Ephesians 4:12). A certificate is awarded on successful completion of the programme.

This programme is not a substitute for the teaching and discipleship ministry of the local church; it is intended as a resource to support it.

PLEASE READ THE FULL COURSE INFORMATION BELOW

Have Questions?

If you have any questions at all, we would love to hear from you! Please contact us.

APPLY NOW

Course Information

Programme Summary

A ten-month part-time hybrid programme (September to June) for believers who want to grow in God's Word and be equipped for service in their local church — without stepping away from it.

The programme consists of eight modules, plus Bible Survey — an independent study course that runs alongside them across the full ten months. Six of the eight modules are taught online on Monday evenings (7–9.30pm) during term time, and two are taught in-person at weekend intensives in Oxford (October and May). Teaching is verse-by-verse through books of the Bible, with foundational training in Inductive Bible Study, Theology & Apologetics, and Practical Christian Ministry. Alongside this, Bible Survey takes students through every book of Scripture at their own pace, building a clear overview of the whole Bible from Genesis to Revelation. All classes are led by experienced pastors and Bible teachers, with time for interactive discussion.

Assessment is built around the local church: attendance, written module reflections, one-to-one meetings with a mentor from your church, and three short book reports across the year. A certificate is awarded on successful completion.

The programme is not accredited, and we are not seeking accreditation. Our aim is simply to disciple and equip the saints for the work of ministry through the teaching of God's Word (Ephesians 4:12).

Cost

The cost of the programme is £500. This does not include accommodation for the intensives or required books (approximately £50).

Sponsorship and scholarships
Our desire is for this programme to be both accessible and affordable.

If the cost is a barrier, please speak first with your local church leadership to see whether your church is able to sponsor you. We are also able to offer a limited number of scholarships covering up to 50% of the cost — you can indicate your interest on the application form, and we will contact you to discuss.

Payment
Full payment is due before the programme begins in September. Monthly or termly payment plans are available on request — please mention this on your application.

Admissions Requirements

The Foundation Certificate in Biblical Ministry is a discipleship programme, open to all believers in the Lord Jesus Christ regardless of academic background. There are no previous education requirements.

To be accepted onto the programme, you will need to:

Be a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. The programme is open to all believers — men and women — regardless of how long you have been a Christian.
Have the support of your local church. This programme is designed as a resource for the local church in equipping the saints for ministry. You will need to provide a reference from your pastor or church leader on application, and to meet with them at the end of each module to discuss what you have learned and how to apply it (see Assessment). Please discuss your desire to enrol with your church leadership before applying.
Respect our Doctrinal Statement. CBI Oxford is a Calvary Chapel ministry, and all teaching is in accord with our Doctrinal Statement. We ask that all students respect the Statement. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Commit to full participation. This means attending all classes (including both in-person intensives) and completing the required assessments. Please review the Schedule and Assessment sections to make sure you're able to commit.

How to Apply
If you meet all the above criteria, you can complete the online application form.

We will review your application and contact you within two weeks. Successful applicants will be invited to a short informal meet-and-greet on Zoom — no preparation needed, just an opportunity to meet one another and ask any questions.

Places are limited each year. If we receive more applications than places, we reserve the right to give priority to applicants from Calvary Chapel affiliated churches.

Assessment

The primary goal of this programme is discipleship, and so there are no formal academic assessments. Instead, assessment consists of four elements:

Attendance. Students are required to attend a minimum of 80% of online classes and both in-person intensives.
Module reflections. At the end of each module, students complete a short set of written questions designed to help them reflect on what they've learned and how to apply it in their local church. This is not a graded test but an opportunity to reflect on what the Lord has taught you through His Word.
Meetings with a mentor. At the end of the Autumn & Spring terms, you will meet one-to-one with your mentor — your pastor or a nominated church leader — to discuss what you've learned and how to apply it in your local church. The module reflection sheet serves as a guide for the conversation.
Reading assignments. Three books are required reading across the year (one per term). A short book report is submitted for each before the end of the relevant term.

The programme is not accredited, but a certificate is awarded on successful completion.

FAQ's

If your question isn't answered here, please contact us.

About the programme
Is the programme accredited?
No. CBI Oxford is an independent institution and a ministry of Calvary Chapel Oxford, and is not affiliated with any accredited college or university in the UK. However, we are part of the wider Calvary Bible Institute network, and credits may be transferable to other CBI campuses around the world.

What is the time commitment?
The programme is designed to fit around an already busy life of work and ministry. The main commitment is attending classes — Monday evenings 7–9.30pm online during term time, plus two in-person intensives in Oxford (a Friday and Saturday in October and May). Beyond that, you'll need a couple of hours at the end of each module for reflections and your mentor meeting, and several hours each term for the reading assignment (one short book per term, three in total).

Who is the programme for?
Any believer in Jesus Christ who desires to grow in their knowledge of God's Word and be further equipped for service in the local church. It is especially suited to those already serving in local church ministry or leadership who want to be further equipped while continuing to serve.

Can I take individual modules?
It may be possible to join a single module. Please contact us to discuss.

Admissions
What is the application process?
Complete the application form in full and provide a reference from your pastor or church leader. We'll review your application and respond within two weeks. If successful, we'll invite you to a short informal meet-and-greet on Zoom. Places are limited each year; if oversubscribed, priority may be given to applicants from Calvary Chapel affiliated churches.

Do I have to attend a Calvary Chapel to apply?
No. While CBI Oxford is a Calvary Chapel ministry, you don't need to attend a Calvary Chapel to apply. We do ask all prospective students to read our Doctrinal Statement to understand what we believe and teach, and to consider whether CBI Oxford is the right fit for you.

Finances
Do you offer scholarships?
If cost is a barrier, please speak first with your local church leadership about possible sponsorship — your pastor is welcome to contact us directly with any questions. We also offer a limited number of scholarships each year, covering up to 50% of the cost. You can indicate interest in a scholarship on the application form.

Can I pay by instalments?
Yes — monthly or termly payment plans are available on request.

Programme Schedule 2026/27

The Foundation Certificate in Biblical Ministry runs from September 2026 to June 2027. It consists of eight modules — six taught online on Monday evenings, and two taught in-person at intensives in Oxford — plus Bible Survey, an independent study course that runs throughout the ten months alongside the other modules. Attendance at both intensives is required.

Welcome & Orientation (online) — Monday 7 September 2026, 7–8pm

AUTUMN TERM
Module 1 · The Gospels
Online · Mondays 7–9.30pm · 14 Sept – 19 Oct 2026

Module 2 · Inductive Bible Study
Intensive in Oxford · Fri 23 – Sat 24 Oct 2026

Module 3 · The Book of Acts
Online · Mondays 7–9.30pm · 2 Nov – 7 Dec 2026

Christmas break

SPRING TERM
Module 4 · The Book of 1 Timothy
Online · Mondays 7–9.30pm · 4 Jan – 8 Feb 2027

Module 5 · The Book of Nehemiah
Online · Mondays 7–9.30pm · 22 Feb – 22 Mar 2027

Easter break

SUMMER TERM
Module 6 · The Book of Daniel
Online · Mondays 7–9.30pm · 12 Apr – 17 May 2027

Module 7 · Theology & Apologetics
Intensive in Oxford · Fri 21 – Sat 22 May 2027

Module 8 · Practical Christian Ministry
Online · Mondays 7–9.30pm · 31 May – 21 June 2027

Bible Survey
Independent study · runs throughout the programme, September 2026 – June 2027

Graduation — Saturday 26 June 2027, at Teach the Word 2027 in Oxford.

Intensive Weekends — Practical Details

Both intensives run to the same schedule:

Friday 1.00–4.00pm and 6.00–9.00pm
Saturday 9.00am–12pm and 1–3.30pm

Venue: Calvary Chapel Oxford, 1 Church Way, Botley, Oxford OX2 9TH

Accommodation: We recommend the Premier Inn Oxford Botley, right next to the church.

Arrival & lunch: Classes start after lunch on Friday so you can travel on Friday morning. A free fellowship lunch is served from 12 noon — please join us if you can.

Curriculum

The programme consists of eight modules taught over ten months, plus Bible Survey — an independent study course that runs alongside them across the full ten months. Six modules are taught online on Monday evenings, and two are taught in-person at weekend intensives in Oxford. Every module includes both teaching and interactive discussion, led by experienced pastors and Bible teachers.

At the heart of the curriculum is verse-by-verse study of specific books of the Bible, with a particular focus on practical Christian ministry in the local church. Alongside this, you'll gain foundational skills in how to study the Bible (Inductive Bible Study) and how to defend the faith (Theology & Apologetics), and you'll work steadily through the whole of Scripture in Bible Survey.

Online Modules (Monday evenings)

The Gospel of John
The Book of Acts
The Book of Nehemiah
The Book of 1 Timothy
The Book of Daniel
Practical Christian Ministry

Intensive Modules (in-person in Oxford)

Inductive Bible Study (October)
Theology & Apologetics (May)

Independent study (runs throughout the programme)

Bible Survey

For the full teaching order and dates, see the Programme Schedule section

Module Descriptions

The Foundation Certificate in Biblical Ministry is made up of eight core modules, plus Bible Survey — an independent study course that runs alongside them across the full ten months of the programme. Each book-of-the-Bible module is taught through verse-by-verse study, with a focus on the practical lessons in ministry that emerge from its content. Below is a description of each module.

MODULE 1: THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
Online — Monday evenings (6 weeks)
This module takes students through key chapters of John's Gospel in a verse-by-verse study, set within an overview of the book as a whole. At the centre of the module is the person of Jesus — our Lord, our Saviour, and the supreme example of Christian service. As students trace His words and works through John's account, the focus throughout is on what His life and ministry teach us about following Him faithfully today: how He loved, how He served, how He taught, and how He laid down His life for others. Students will finish this module with a deeper grasp of who Jesus is, and a clearer vision of what it looks like to walk in His footsteps in ministry.

MODULE 2: INDUCTIVE BIBLE STUDY

In-person Intensive — Friday & Saturday (October)
This intensive equips students with foundational skills for studying the Bible for themselves, using the inductive method of Observation, Interpretation, and Application. Students will be introduced to the major genres of biblical literature and how each should be approached and understood. This is a hands-on, practical class: rather than simply learning the method in theory, students will apply it directly by working through several passages of Scripture together. The skills gained in this module are not a one-off exercise — they form a lifelong toolkit for reading, understanding, and rightly applying God's Word.

MODULE 3: THE BOOK OF ACTS

Online — Monday evenings (6 weeks)
This module is a verse-by-verse study of key chapters in the book of Acts, set within an overview of its full content. The focus is on the lessons in ministry that emerge from the life of the apostles and the early church — particularly the ministries of Peter and John, and the Apostle Paul. Special attention is given to the church's utter dependency on the power of the Holy Spirit in all ministry, and to the church's God-given mission of evangelism. Students will come away with a model for ministry drawn directly from the example of the first believers: Spirit-empowered, gospel-centred, and outward-facing.

MODULE 4: THE BOOK OF 1 TIMOTHY

Online — Monday evenings (6 weeks)
This module is a verse-by-verse study of Paul's letter to Timothy, focused on God's will and purpose for how we conduct ourselves within the church. Writing to a young pastor, Paul addresses a wide range of practical matters relating to church ministry, including the qualifications and conduct of church leadership, sound doctrine, and the order and health of the local church family. Students will gain a clear, practical grounding in what God expects of His church and those who serve within it — equipping them to serve with wisdom and integrity in their own church context.

MODULE 5: THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH

Online — Monday evenings (6 weeks)
This module is a verse-by-verse study of the book of Nehemiah, drawing out Nehemiah's example as both a leader of God's people and a servant in the Lord's work. Particular focus is given to Nehemiah as a man of prayer and a man of faith, who overcame significant challenges and opposition while encouraging God's people to press on with His work. Nehemiah's example offers rich and practical application for ministry in the local church today, particularly for anyone called to lead, serve, or encourage others in the work God has given them.

MODULE 6: THE BOOK OF DANIEL

Online — Monday evenings (6 weeks)
This module is a verse-by-verse study of the remarkable book of Daniel. Though written two and a half thousand years ago, its message speaks directly into our lives and culture today. Students will first learn from the example of Daniel himself — a man who served faithfully in a pagan culture hostile to his faith, without compromising his convictions. The module then moves into Daniel's prophetic visions, exploring what they reveal about God's sovereignty over history and the nations, and what that means for how we live with faith and courage in our own day.

MODULE 7: THEOLOGY & APLOGETICS

In-person Intensive — Friday & Saturday (May)
This two-part intensive grounds students in what we believe as Christians (theology) and why we believe it (apologetics). The theology component is a systematic study through the foundational truths of the Christian faith, covering subjects such as the Bible, the nature of God, the person and work of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Church, and the last things. The apologetics component equips students to defend and share their faith with confidence and grace in a secular culture that is often hostile to Christian truth. Together, these two days give students a firm theological foundation and the practical tools to engage thoughtfully with the questions and challenges they will face in everyday life and ministry.

MODULE 8: PRACTICAL CHRISTAIN MINISTRY

Online — Monday evenings (4 weeks)
This final module brings a series of guest speakers to teach on subjects relating to practical Christian ministry, drawing on the wisdom and experience of seasoned pastors and ministry leaders. Topics may include missions and evangelism, biblical counselling, discipling others, and prayer. Each session includes an extensive Q&A time, giving students the opportunity to ask questions and gain insight directly from those experienced in these areas of ministry. This module brings the programme to a close by turning attention outward — equipping students to put what they have learned into practice in the everyday life and ministry of the local church.

COMPANION MODULE: BIBLE SURVEY

Independent Study — runs throughout the programme
Running alongside the eight core modules across the full ten months, Bible Survey is a self-paced, independent study course taking students through every book of the Bible. Using Pastor Jim Gallagher's "Step by Step — Book by Book" survey series, students listen to a short study on each book of Scripture, building a clear grasp of its main theme and place within the single unfolding story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. By the end of the programme, students will have gained an overview of the whole of Scripture, complementing the in-depth study undertaken in the other modules.

CBI OXFORD

Foundation Certificate in Biblical Ministry

Every Christian is called to Ministry!

Course Information