The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) has launched a new Course of Study (COS) Catalog, a unified resource that — for the first time — brings together COS course offerings from the nine regional schools in one easily accessible location. This consolidated catalog features courses offered across three academic terms, Summer 2026, Fall 2026, and Spring 2027, helping licensed local pastors and conference leaders plan more effectively for the year ahead.
This new catalog provides a centralized view of Course of Study class options from centers such as Duke Divinity School, Emory’s Candler School of Theology, Garrett Seminary, Methodist Theological School in Ohio, Saint Paul School of Theology, and SMU Perkins School of Theology, among others.
“This catalog represents the strength of the United Methodist connectional system,” said Roland Fernandes, general secretary of Higher Education and Ministry and Global Ministries. “By gathering these offerings into one comprehensive platform, District superintendents, Board of Ministry members, and conference registrars can more strategically guide licensed local pastors and candidates through their educational pathways.”
“A key GBHEM goal is to provide equitable access to education,” said the Rev. Meg Lassiat, executive director of ministry. “Having these comprehensive catalogs equips students with information to better guide them in completing their theological education. We are grateful the Course of Study regional schools made this information available so we could offer this improved level of service for COS students.”
In addition to listing COS courses, the catalog also provides essential guidance on registration procedures, including the requirement for a PID number and the approval process involving district superintendents and conference registrars. The catalog further outlines course term schedules, class tuition, prerequisites, and links to registration windows for each participating school.
The new platform also offers streamlined access to information for those pursuing the Advanced Course of Study (ACOS). Students can now more easily identify ACOS offerings, understand eligibility requirements, and plan long-term educational progressions that align with their ministry and conference expectations.
GBHEM is committed to supporting the formation and education of licensed local pastors, and this consolidated COS Catalog represents a significant step toward simplifying the journey for clergy and conference leaders alike. For full catalog access, registration details, and term planning tools, visit here.
This content was originally published by The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry; republished with permission by ResourceUMC on March 6, 2026.