Teaching Summer 1987

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Thinking about advanced studies? In this age of extension studies, D.Min. programs, and the general openness of graduate schools, many church leaders are considering a return to the academic world for further education and training. Is it right for you?

When I was wrestling with this issue, I realized my reasons for continuing education were as important as my choice of school. Below are some of the questions I asked myself.

Do I have a specific goal in mind? Melanie wanted to learn Spanish fluently in order to minister in a Hispanic community. John acquired a master's degree in counseling beyond his M.Div. so he could open a practice. Albert entered doctoral work in theology so he could teach in a seminary. What do all of these people have in common? They all had a clear idea of why they were studying. They had seen a need and were offering themselves to fill it.

I need a clear sense of vocation to reenter the student life; otherwise I'm wasting precious time and money. Unlike the undergraduate world, the graduate world offers no "generic" studies. Graduate study is focused on specific topics or research, and hence I should have specific reasons for undertaking it.

Do I have the support of family and church? Graduate school requires more than personal effort and sacrifice. It requires the support of my loved ones in terms of love, patience, and cold hard cash. Time and finances will be taxed heavily. The family, congregation, and denomination must be aware of this or they might quickly lose patience with this new student. Supporting a student is not easy. When church and family are willing to help the returning student, the effort can be joyful, but they should be aware continuing education is a costly undertaking.

Is this an ...

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