General
What's the schedule?
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HCSM is broken into two semesters:
Semester One: September 10 – December 17, 2026
Semester Two: January 14 – April 15, 2027
We meet every Thursday night from 7:00pm–9:00pm at the Mill Woods Campus for class.
How do you choose who is accepted into HCSM?
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Spots in HCSM are limited, and not everyone who applies will be accepted. Acceptance is based on several factors: your history at Hope City Church (attendance at Hope City is required), your engagement in the life of the church including small groups and serving, and your references. Applicants who have a demonstrated history of engagement and strong references will be given preference over those who have not yet contributed meaningfully to the life of Hope City Church.
What about accreditation?
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Hope City School of Ministry (HCSM) is a non-accredited educational program. However, we're excited to partner with Vanguard College to provide a clear pathway for continued theological study.
Upon successful completion of HCSM, students can transfer up to seven academic credits toward the first semester of a Vanguard College certificate or degree program.
Credit Breakdown:
- Bible as Story – 3 credits (equivalent to 105 hours of classroom and homework time)
- Introduction to Personal Formation – 3 credits (equivalent to 105 hours of classroom and homework time)
- One Semester of Practicum – 1 credit (equivalent to 60 hours of practical ministry experience)
This partnership allows HCSM graduates to continue their education seamlessly while receiving recognition for the work they've already completed.
What if I can't afford the program fee?
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We have attempted to make this program as affordable as possible. You do have the option to pay in two installments of $250. Unfortunately we do not have any scholarships available.
School and homework isn't my thing — should I still apply?
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This program will require some grit to get through some of the reading and homework. If you're not willing to put in the work or don't have any margin for homework, this isn't the program for you.
What does the application process look like?
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Once you submit an application form, our team will review it. If everything checks out, an in-person or Zoom interview will be scheduled.
Our team will review the applicants and make decisions on students based on previous church engagement, pastoral/ministry leader references, and prior schooling.
Applicants will be notified in August if they have been accepted. Once accepted, you will receive an email to pay the program fee.
What does the practicum look like?
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The practicum component of HCSM is crucial for applying what you're learning in a real-world ministry context and expressing your desire to serve and build God's church.
You can choose which area of church ministry you want to do your practicum in (hospitality, groups, youth, kids, care ministry, music, Alpha, etc.). The time allotment is ~3 hours/week.
Practicums are 'self-directed,' meaning we work on the honour system! We'll help you get involved in a ministry, but no one will hold your feet to the fire to ensure you honour your commitments. Luke 16:10 is the driver behind our practicum: "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much."
Worship track
Do I need to already be on the worship team to apply?
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Yes. If you are not already on a worship team at Hope City Church you will not be eligible to apply.
How is the worship track different from the general track?
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The Worship Track shares 80% of its content with the General Track — including all theological and Bible training, Thursday night classes, the retreat, and homework expectations. The remaining 20% is made up of specialized lessons, mentorship, and practical training tailored specifically to worship ministry, led by Hope City worship pastors and guest speakers.
What does worship-specific training look like?
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Throughout the year, we'll bring in experienced worship pastors, musicians, and practitioners to give live teaching and mentorship during Thursday night classes — typically 5–6 sessions over the course of the program. In addition, the practicum component for Worship Track students is done entirely within the worship ministry department.
Will my practicum hours count toward my worship team serving?
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Yes!
Can I switch from the worship track to the general track?
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The only scenario in which that would happen is if you choose to step down (or are removed) from the worship team.