College of Theology & Christian Ministries
Residency Program for Churches
CTCM Residency Information
Northwest Nazarene University’s College of Theology & Christian Ministry (CTCM) Residency Program partners with Nazarene churches to prepare future ministry leaders through a two-year residency experience.
Churches play a vital role by mentoring and investing in students as they complete an online Master of Arts theology degree through NNU’s Northwest Nazarene Divinity School while serving in ministry within the local church.
The goal of the program is to help students transition from the academy to the Church through practical ministry experience, mentoring and theological education.
Church Partnership Overview
Participating Churches Provide
- A healthy and supportive ministry environment
- Mentorship from experienced ministry leaders
- Practical ministry opportunities and leadership development
- Approximately 30 hours per week of ministry experience for the resident
While residents are ministers in training, they also serve as contributing members of the church staff and ministry team.
Financial Partnership Expectations Churches or district partnerships provide
- $15,000 annual salary for the resident
- Housing and utilities
- Approximately $10,000 annually toward tuition in NNU’s online Master of Arts program
- Health insurance support if needed
Additional grant support may be available through Made to Flourish (MTF).
Mentorship Expectations
NNU values strong mentorship relationships as one of the most important aspects of the residency experience.
Preferred mentors:
- Have 10+ years of ministry experience
- Possess formal theological education
- Demonstrate spiritual maturity and healthy ministry practices
- Model longevity, balance and holistic health in ministry
Mentors do not need to be the lead pastor, but should be thoughtful, experienced ministry leaders committed to investing in residents.
How to Become a Partner Church
- Complete the church partnership Residency Program form below
- Identify potential mentors and ministry opportunities
- Partner with NNU to match and support a resident
Residency Partnership Request Form
Complete the following form to request a residency partnership.
Vision for the Residency Program
“Our hope is to help students move from the academy to the Church through meaningful ministry experience, mentoring and graduate education so they are prepared to serve in ministry for a lifetime.” — Dr. Mike Kipp, Professor of Practical Theology and Director of the Residency Program
Dr. Mike Kipp
Professor of Practical Theology | Director of NNU's Residency Program