Academics

E-Learning Programmes of GSOL/CGLD

At GSOL, we have chosen to offer post-Graduate level programmes through myGSOL.in, which could be worked towards a Master of Arts in Christian Studies or a Master of Divinity Degree according to the requirement and choice of the learner. Special attention is also given to cater to the needs of those learners who would like to specialize in an area of their choice from the ones on offer, with certification points.

Flexibility in delivery and creativity in content marks myGSOL programmes.  We recommend and work 1Course @ aTime, keeping the learning objective as the priority to achieve. Our learners, then, can not only work towards preset Diplomas or Degrees mentioned below but may also create their own learning path with a little guidance according to their interests and receive validation for the same.

At myGSOL, we offer the following programmes:

• Master of Divinity (ONLINE)
  
• Post-Graduate Diploma (PGDPM)*
• Master of Arts in Christian Studies (MA-CS)*
• Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies/Missions (MA-IS)*
• Short Certification Courses/Nano courses (Certificate)*
  

*Proposed programmes, awaiting a final decision from the concerned authority.

ADMISSIONS

We at GSOL, purpose to help all those who desire to grow in the Lord by providing quality theological education through various modes of Distance Education. myGSOL aims to help those who seek this at the post-Graduate level. Therefore, it also demands a certain amount of learning/experience as a prerequisite. The following section will guide the applicant in this.

• The Basic Admission Requirements

The basic admission requirements are as follows.

1. A definite Christian experience
2. A clear conviction that one is called to God’s service
3. A reasonable proficiency in the English language
4. Minimum 20 years of age as of the date of application
5. Successfully completed a Graduate Degree, in any discipline from a recognized institution/university or have successfully received a ‘B’ as the final grade in the undergraduate level of theological programme from an ATA recognized institution/agency.

• Additional Requirements

In addition to the basic requirements for admission, the applicant must also consider the following additional competency and facility requirements for applying into myGSOL programmes:

1. Familiar with basic computer operations and internet browsing.
   
2. Should have at least a tablet (9.7")/Laptop/Desktop (with webcam and mic facility)
3. Should be able to spend a minimum of 50 minutes reading on screen
4. Access to a minimum 3G connection with a minimum of 1GB data plan per month
5. Should have the following software/apps for learning purposes:
   • A Word processor (eg. Microsoft Word, Open Office, WPS office, etc.)
   • PDF reader (Adobe Acrobat, Foxit, etc.)
   • WhatsApp or Slack (for instant messaging)

AREAS OF FORMATION

Quality theological programmes aim at holistic development. At GSOL, we design all our programmes to affect the head, heart, and hand - a holistic development. Our assessments and graduation requirements then are aimed at developing competencies in the domain of Academics, Spirituality, and Ministry.

1. Academic Formation:

Each course will have assessments in the form of Discussion Forums, Quizzes, Reflection papers, Research Assignments, and other forms of learning stimuli that will help understand and reflect on ideas and concepts leading to conclusions based on sound reasoning.

2. Spiritual Formation:

Students regardless of age and position in life and ministry need to grow spiritually. Character is of utmost importance to a life-bearing witness to Christ. By Character Formation, we mean, developing Biblical principles and values for life. These principles and values affect our moral and ethical actions and reactions. Engaging with Pastor, Mentor, Peers provides a window to develop sound biblical principles and values as well as insights for spiritual formation.

Spiritual Formation also involves the development of Spiritual Fruit that reflects Christ-likeness. Spirituality is more caught than taught and so we recommend the student to maintain accountability with the Pastor/Mentor in all areas, especially that of Personal Devotion, Prayer, Family life, and Inter-Personal Relationships.

While gauging the spiritual formation from a distance is challenging, the involvement of the Pastor, Mentor, and Peers in assessment along with self-assessment provides a comprehensive insight for objective evaluation.

3. Ministerial Formation:

Theological education demands ministerial formation along with academic and spiritual formations. By ministerial formation, we mean, the development of those skills that are essential to bearing witness, making disciples, nurturing the body of Christ, and serving the society.

While each of the course provides impetus to practically apply the learning to the student’s context, it should be done under the supervision of the leadership from the local church/para-church organization. We expect the learner to closely work with the local leadership for the development of set skills and exploration of newer frontiers.

This being an important aspect of learning, the assessment is carried out by seeking reports from the ministry supervisor, mentor, and self at regular intervals. These reports are collected and assessed by means of collation and feedback is provided to the student for betterment. 

Master of Divinity (M.Div.)

The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) programme is a wholistic approach to Christian ministry and leadership. The time allocated for completion of each course will be 30 days to 60 days, thus creating a framework for the student to complete the entire programme in 3 years.

Each course is guided by a dedicated Subject-Matter Expert (SME) and a Teaching Associate (TA). The course also incorporates asynchronous as well as Weekly Synchronous Interactions (WSI) and or monthly webinars. Continuous Assessments and interactions will help the student to stay focused and advance through the study.

Credit Hours

• 97 Credits
• 1Course @ aTime
• Badges and Level Certificates offered

Expected Learning Outcomes

1. Think Biblically, critically and creatively in demonstrating the relevance of Christian faith in the context of missions in a changing world.
2. Understand various theological views and trends and develop strong theological convictions.
3. Deepen personal commitment, discipleship and Christian maturity.
4. Synthesize Biblical truths and theological viewpoints and relate them to contemporary contexts.
5. Demonstrate an integrated wholistic approach to Christian leadership and service that embraces personal life, intellectual development and social responsibility.
6. Exhibit basic proficiency in essential relational skills and pastoral functions.

Graduation Requirements

1. Mandatory attendance for all the WSI and Webinar sessions
2. Successful completion of the required credit hours of coursework.

Master of Arts in Christian Studies (M.A. – CS)

The Master of Arts in Christian Studies (M.A. – CS) programme is designed for those who are seeking to be effectively used in Christian Service.  The programme is spread over 3 years with a minimum of 60 credits to be achieved. As in all myGSOL.in programmes, M.A. is divided into course-units of 1 credit each. The time allocated for completion of each course-unit will be 2 weeks, thus creating a framework for the student to complete the entire programme in 3 years.

Each course is guided by a dedicated Subject-Matter Expert (SME) and a Teaching Associate (TA). The course also incorporates asynchronous as well as Weekly Synchronous Interactions (WSI). Continuous Assessment and interactions will help the student to stay focused and advance through the study.

Credit Hours

• 60-62 Credits
• 1Credit @ aTime
• Badges and Level Certificates offered

Expected Learning Outcomes

1. A definite understanding of Christianity – its belief, doctrines, values and practices besides the contemporary society.
2. Think Biblically, critically and creatively in demonstrating the relevance of Christian faith in the context of missions in a changing world.
3. Express love and passion for God and people as modelled by Christ Jesus himself.
4. Demonstrate the relevance of the Christian faith in the contemporary context and employ the Scripture responsibly.

Graduation Requirements

1. Mandatory attendance for all the WSI and F2F sessions
2. Successful completion of the required credit hours of course work.
3. Receive a cumulative average score of 7 towards character commendation.
4. Receive a cumulative average score of 6 for ministerial involvement.

Diploma and Post-Graduate Diploma (PGDPM)

Diploma and Post-Graduate Diploma (PGDPM) certifications are designed to equip the learner in achieving her/his immediate need for theological education and enhancement of ministerial skills.

A Post-Graduate Diploma in any of the given concentration will require approximately 30 credit hours of work over a span of two years, while a Diploma commands around 20 credit hours of work over a period of one year. The flexibility of working the achieved credits into a full-fledged M.A./M.Div. degree is a built-in advantage of these certifications.

Credit Hours

• Depends on the Concentration/Specialization you want to choose.
• 1Course @ aTime
• Badges and Level Certificates offered

Expected Learning Outcomes

1. A definite understanding of the courses within the concentration enrolled for
2. Deepen personal commitment, discipleship and Christian maturity
3. Develop specific skill in the field of a chosen concentration

Graduation Requirements

1. Mandatory attendance for all the synchronous sessions
2. Successful completion of the required credit hours of course work.