A microdegree is a focused one-year study program designed for those who wish to deepen their knowledge in theology or practical Christian ministry but are not currently able to undertake a full bachelor's degree. The studies are divided into sessions, enabling you to complete the program alongside work, family and church responsibilities.
Why opt for the BMTS micro-degree?
- Targeted and practical content: You will be focusing on one specific area (e.g., Bible knowledge, practical ministry, Methodist identity) that supports your personal spiritual growth or ministry in the church.
- Short and flexible: The program is compact and lasts only one academic year, providing a convenient opportunity for lifelong learning and self-improvement.
- A safe bridge to higher education: In case you should wish to enter a full-fledged degree program in the future, you would have already completed an important part of the journey. All completed micro-degree courses count for the bachelor's degree in BMTS.
- Supportive community: Although the program is shorter, you will be joining our seminary community to study, pray, and grow together with fellow students.
The opportunity to deepen your knowledge and become more fruitful in ministry opens already this Autumn. Starting in September 2026, we offer the following micro-degree programs:
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Micro-degree: BIBLE AND THEOLOGY
LOAD: 22 ECTS
GOAL:
The goal of this micro-degree is to provide students with foundational knowledge of the Bible and Christian theology while developing the ability to interpret and analyze Scripture in a historically, theologically, and practically responsible manner. The program also seeks to equip students to apply biblical and theological knowledge in independent study, critical reflection, and contemporary Christian life and ministry.
Study outcomes:
Upon completion of this micro-degree, the student will be able to
- demonstrate a foundational understanding of the content, historical context, literary structure, and theological themes of the Old and New Testaments, including their role in the development of Christian faith and doctrine.
- apply sound principles of biblical interpretation and inductive Bible study, using appropriate research tools and methods to analyse, interpret, and communicate the meaning of Scripture responsibly.
- explain and evaluate major Christian doctrines — including God, the Trinity, Christology, the nature of man and salvation — in light of biblical, historical, and theological sources.
- demonstrate the ability to engage in independent theological study, critical reflection, collaborative learning, and practical application of biblical and theological knowledge to contemporary Christian life and ministry.
Courses:
Old Testament Survey: 4 ECTS
New Testament Survey: 4 ECTS
Biblical Hermeneutics: 2 ECTS
Inductive Study: Gospel of Mark: 3 ECTS
Inductive Study: Exodus: 3 ECTS
Theology: God, the Trinity, and Christ: 3 ECTS
Theology: Revelation, Humanity, and Salvation: 3 ECTS
Micro-degree: Christian Ministry
LOAD: 19 ECTS
GOAL
The goal of this micro-degree is to provide students with foundational knowledge and practical skills for Christian ministry that are grounded in biblical and theological principles. The programme seeks to equip students to communicate the Christian faith effectively, serve individuals and congregations compassionately, and engage in reflective and spiritually mature ministry practice in a variety of ministry contexts.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon completion of this micro-degree, the student will be able to
- demonstrate a foundational understanding of Christian ministry, including evangelism, discipleship, worship, pastoral care, counselling, preaching, and diaconal service, grounded in biblical and theological principles.
- communicate the Christian faith effectively and compassionately through personal witness, preaching, teaching, active listening, and pastoral interaction in a variety of ministry contexts.
- apply practical ministry skills in discipleship, sermon preparation, pastoral care, crisis support, worship leadership, and diaconal ministry in ways that support the spiritual growth and well-being of individuals and congregations.
- reflect critically on personal spiritual development, ministry practice, and interpersonal relationships in light of Scripture, Christian theology, and pastoral care principles.
Courses:
Evangelism: 3 ECTS
Discipleship: 2 ECTS
Homiletics: 3 ECTS
Introduction to Pastoral Care and Counselling: 3 ECTS
Pastoral Care and Counselling in Church Context: 3 ECTS
Theology of Worship: 3 ECTS
Foundations of Diaconal Ministry: 2 ECTS
Micro-degree: Methodist Identity, History, and Discipline
LOAD: 14 ECTS
GOAL
The goal of this micro-degree is to provide students with a foundational understanding of Methodist theology, history, and ecclesial identity, with particular emphasis on the theological and practical heritage of John Wesley and the Estonian Methodist Church. The program seeks to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed for responsible participation and leadership in Methodist worship, governance, and congregational ministry within the local church context.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon completion of this micro-degree, the student will be able to
- demonstrate understanding of Methodist theology, including the distinctive emphases of John Wesley, and their expression in the doctrine, identity, and mission of the Estonian Methodist Church.
- explain the historical development of Methodism, including the life and theology of John Wesley and the formation and growth of the Methodist movement in Estonia and its global context.
- describe and apply the governance, structure, and ecclesial order of the Estonian Methodist Church, including its constitution, church discipline, and practical administrative procedures.
- lead and/or participate appropriately in Methodist worship practices, including the administration of sacraments and rites such as baptism, communion, weddings, and funerals, in accordance with Methodist liturgical tradition.
- apply practical skills in congregational leadership and church ministry, including team leadership, event organization, administrative responsibilities, financial stewardship, and basic management within a local church context.
COURSES
Ministry of the Clergy in the Estonian Methodist Church: 2 ECTS
Estonian Methodist Church Discipline: 2 ECTS
The Liturgy and Leading of EMC Worship Services: 2 ECTS
Methodist and EMC History: 2 ECTS
Practical Congregational Leadership: 3 ECTS
Foundations of Wesleyan Theology: 3 ECTS