Certificate program in applied urban ministry offered at NU

A community outreach program leading to a certificate of applied urban ministry will again be offered this spring at Niagara University.

The 2015 cohort of classes begins with a mandatory orientation session Feb. 10. Classes commence Feb. 17.

Designed by representatives of faith communities in Niagara Falls and Buffalo in cooperation with the university, the interdenominational program is intended to help pastors and lay people become more effective leaders in their respective churches and communities.

Students must complete 11 courses to meet the final requirements to graduate. The program consists of four core courses, three courses from either the clergy or lay tract, and four elective courses.

Instructors are selected from various denominations and areas of expertise in order to bring a comprehensive view to church leadership, faith, and the people who support their churches. This year, the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., Niagara University president, will lead a course on the role Christian teachings play in leadership development.

The only cost associated with the program is a $25 application fee. Returning students who were previously enrolled and need to make up a class from prior years only pay a $5 reprocessing fee.

For enrollment information, contact NU's Office of Continuing Education at 716-286-8181 or [email protected]. An application and full list of courses are available online at www.niagara.edu/ce.