Seminary and School of Counseling

From the Desk of the Dean…

Greetings from the faculty and staff team of the Seminary & School of Counseling (SSC). It is my privilege to provide a brief introduction to the mission and goals of our college. Picture of Dr. Croteau

As one of the colleges of CIU, we wholeheartedly embrace the purpose of educating people from a biblical worldview to impact the nations with the message of Christ, or to put it more succinctly, “to know Him” better and “to make Him known” more effectively.

In SSC we pursue our role in implementing that purpose through two divisions: the Clinical Counseling Division, and the Seminary Division-Columbia Biblical Seminary (CBS). Although the missions of the individual divisions are stated differently, each presupposes the same four educational components: biblical-theological knowledge, spiritual formation, practical skill development, and a Great Commission focus.

As a faculty and staff, our desire is that studying with us will transform your life while enhancing your knowledge, attitudes, and skills in four areas:

The biblical-theological knowledge necessary to interpret and apply the biblical text and to engage contemporary theological, ethical, and apologetic issues
Consistent growth toward Christ-like attitudes and behavior accompanied by a commitment to helping others grow in Christ
A set of practical skills necessary to serve others with cultural understanding and sensitivity
A Great Commission mindset toward life and work

In other words, we hope you will strengthen your ability to think biblically, grow spiritually, and minister effectively with a Great Commission focus.

The following information will give you a taste of our programs, our personnel, and our passion, but it might not tell you everything you want to know. If we can help you personally, please call us at 800.777.2227 or email us at SSC@ciu.edu so we can answer your questions or discuss your specific needs.

Yours in Christ,

David A. Croteau, Ph.D.
Dean of the Seminary & School of Counseling

A Note on SSC Program Expectations

Community expectations (evangelical or secular) do not ultimately determine the meaning of a degree from the Seminary and School of Counseling (SSC). We are responsible to define our own purpose and establish our own achievement standards. All SSC graduate programs are intended to help students prepare for Christian ministry or professional roles. Criteria for granting a degree, therefore, are designed to reflect the graduate’s character and competence in both general and professional areas.

Our commitment to whole-life training designed to prepare you “to know Him and to make Him known” means that earning a degree from SSC involves more than meeting academic requirements. Graduating students also must reflect appropriate achievement of SSC educational objectives, including evidence of personal morality, positive interpersonal and family relationships, and local church involvement.

Programs

Graduate Certificate

Masters

Postgraduate

Doctoral Degree