By Whitney Knight

Mid-America Christian University (MACU) has entered into a learning partnership with First Church of God in Columbus, Ohio, to establish the Bishop Timothy J. Clarke School for Professional Studies. The Clarke School for Professional Studies offers continuing education courses and certificates for individuals looking to improve their leadership skills. Courses train students in both theological knowledge and practical skills that can be applied to a variety of career fields.

“Mid-America is excited to partner with our friends at First Church of God in order to offer new certificate programs,” said MACU President Dr. John Fozard. “These programs are specially designed to provide individuals, from all walks of life, with an avenue to improve their leadership skills, whether they are in a position of leadership at their workplace or in the church, or if they are simply wishing to become better leaders in everyday life,” Fozard said.

The school is a culmination of a longstanding relationship between MACU and First Church of God, said Senior Pastor Bishop Timothy J. Clarke, for whom the school was named. “The partnership between First Church, MACU, and me is one we’ve had for many years,” Clarke said. “We are committed to developing the lives and leadership of those in our church and community.”

Students who enroll in the certificate program will earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) that can be used to maintain licensure in certain professions, as well as the opportunity to turn those CEUs into college credit towards a bachelor’s degree at MACU.

Certificate courses are offered 100-percent online at the cost of $195 per course. Free books and $100 scholarships are available to the first twenty-five students.

Enrollment is currently open for the first two certificate courses taught by Dr. Cliff Sanders, “Exploring Wesleyan Theology 1” and “Exploring Wesleyan Theology 2.” Sanders, a field expert, author, and ordained minister of more than forty-three years, currently serves as chair and professor for MACU’s School of Ministry.

More certificates will be available through the school in 2021, including courses on ministry, mental health, and leadership, developed and taught by Clarke himself.

“I would encourage students of all ages to continue to expand and extend their impact and influence through training in education,” said Clarke, “and this program is a wonderful way to do that.”

To learn more about MACU’s continuing education certificates through the Bishop Timothy J. Clarke School for Professional Studies, visit www.macu.edu/bishop-clarke.

Mid-America Christian University offers more than a hundred degree and certificate programs covering many specific fields. MACU is dedicated to offering a quality, affordable Christian education to traditional high school seniors, college transfers and busy adults who are looking to finish their education, pursue graduate work or get a college degree for the first time. MACU is an endorsed agency of the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana) and is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Visit www.macu.edu for more information.