How To Apply

Enrolling in Courses at the Oregon Extension Program

Students enroll in courses offered by this Oregon Extension Program through NHTS. Information about class schedules, admissions and enrollment can be obtained from the NHTS Registrar (registrar@nhts.org).

Though it is strongly recommended (and considered the norm) that potential students be admitted by one of the accredited schools prior to enrolling for classes in this extension program, they may be allowed to begin their studies in this program upon the completion of a short enrollment form and acceptance by NHTS. This acceptance, however, is provisional and temporary, and it does not constitute admission to a degree or certificate program. Upon approval of this registration, a student will be allowed to enroll in classes for a period not to exceed one semester.

During that time the student must complete the admission process at one of the accredited schools. A grade will not be recorded for any course or courses taken during that initial semester unless the student has been admitted by one of the accredited schools by the end of that semester. (The school of record cannot create a transcript for a student whom they have not admitted.)

Selecting a School of Record and a Degree Program

Information regarding the accredited schools that are members of the Northwest Consortium and their respective degree programs is available from their respective web sites and catalogs. Requests for information should be addressed directly to the school(s) of interest. (See our list of partners for contact information) Some information is available at the NHTS office; however, the most current information can be obtained directly from the schools.

These schools offer a truly impressive and rich number of opportunities, with both breadth and depth. Some of the programs offered by the accredited member schools are tailored for candidates for diaconal ministries and for specialized ministries, such as:

Christian educators
Youth ministry specialists
Church musicians
Parish nurses
Spiritual directors
Counselors.

Others are designed for the academic study of theology. The Master of Divinity (M. Div.) is normally considered the basic degree for ordination. To complete the M. Div. degree, a student should plan on at least one and one-half years of study “in residence” at the degree granting schools

You will want to consider carefully your own professional goals when deciding on a school and degree program. The admissions and academic staff of the various schools can help you in your discernment process. The NHTS staff is also available to work with students in reflecting on these choices.

In many cases the choice of school will be based on denominational considerations. However, various factors should be considered in making this determination, including the particular program of study desired. In some cases, one’s own denomination will not be represented among the member schools of the Northwest Consortium, thus the decision will necessarily be guided by other factors.

Admissions

Requirements and General Considerations

Admission requirements and policies are established by each of the accredited member schools; therefore, it is important that a prospective student be in active communication with the Admissions Office of the school or schools that you are considering. The general process for application is as follows:

Request application information from the school or schools that you are considering. Much of this information can be obtained on-line, including application forms. (See our partner schools.) If you need additional information or advice, feel free to contact the offices directly. You may also want to consult with the Registrar, the faculty and the Academic Dean of NHTS, who may be able to assist you.
Return the completed application form directly to the admissions office of that school, together with any application fee. Request that all required transcripts and reference letters be sent directly to the admitting school. (For privacy reasons, NHTS cannot forward such materials on your behalf.)
Send a copy of the completed enrollment form only to the NHTS Office (680 State Street, Suite 180, Salem, OR 97301. (Other materials should not be sent to NHTS.)
When you have received your letter of acceptance from a Consortium school, you must provide a copy of that letter to NHTS for our records. This is a condition for enrollment (beyond an initial semester) in the Salem, OR based extension program.
A student may apply for admission as a candidate for the M. Div. degree or another appropriate master's level degree. Persons seeking admission as a non-degree student, e.g. to a certificate program, must consult with the accredited consortium schools. Policies on such matters vary considerably.

The requirements for admission to a degree program include a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university, favorable letters of recommendation, and evidence of promise for service in the ministry of the church and/or to society.

Admission will be granted to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religious tradition, or national/ethnic origin. NHTS will make reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities who are enrolled in the Salem, OR, based extension program.

Each accredited school will have its own policies and procedures concerning such matters as background check. The student seeking admission must comply with the requirements of the admitting school, signing any requested permission statement authorizing them to perform a basic background check on the following items: criminal records (national and regional); civil records; Social Security number validation/verification; educational credentials and professional credentials (if applicable).

Each school will set its own policies regarding transfer of credit for graduate studies completed prior to admission at that school. Check with the admitting school about such matters at the time of admission.