The Indiana Extension Course of Study School is an extension of the Garrett-Evangelical School of Theology Course of Study School, operating under the authority of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church.  It is intended for part-time local pastors. Student performance is reported to the Division of Ordained Ministry, the annual conference Board of Ordained Ministry, and the student's District Superintendent and District Committee on Ministry (dCOM).

The United Methodist Church requires part-time local pastors to complete the Course of Study in 12 years.  The student should complete two classes per year to be eligible for reappointment. (Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, 2020/2024 ¶318.2 See also ¶319.3)

The summer hybrid schedule makes attendance at the Indiana Extension COS School more possible for part-time pastors having a non-clergy vocation.

Applicants must complete the Candidacy and License to Preach requirements before beginning the Course of Study.

Tuition:
            $270     INUMC Local Pastor
            $300     Minister Other Denomination
            $300     Other Conference Local Pastor

For financial aid, applicants should check with the Local Pastor Registrar of his/her annual conference, District Superintendent, or District Committee on Ministry (dCOM).

Students pay for textbooks and any other personal expenses. Tuition includes noon meal on Saturdays.
 

Dates: May 9, 2026 through June 27, 2026

Registration deadline: May 1, 2026 at 11:59 pm

When registering, please have your Personal Identification Number (PID) available.  If you have forgotten that number or have not been assigned a number, contact GBHEM at cos@gbhem.org before starting your registration. If you have questions, contact Luska Natali at luska.natali@inumc.org.

Cancellations:  all cancellations must be received by 11:59 pm on April 27, 2026 via email to ministerialservices@inumc.org to be eligible for a refund, less processing fee. No cancellations after this date.

Faculty:  The men and women who teach in the Course of Study have academic credentials as well as practical experience in the areas that they teach.  They come primarily from the Indiana Annual Conference.  Most hold clergy credentials and have served as pastors of local churches.

Assignments:  Some assignments must be prepared before the first class session. Other assignments will be completed in a hybrid, online format during the term or will be due at the final class session.  All assignments must be submitted by or at the last class of the summer term.

Web Assistance: Some classes may use web assistance, which will require you to enroll in the online learning platform. For assistance with Moodle issues, please contact Dr. Britt Leslie at britt.leslie@inumc.org.

Grading:  Letter grades are assigned in the traditional A, B, C, D or F format.