Director of Christian Education

A director of Christian education, (DCE), is a professionally trained educator, called to a team ministry with a pastor. With approximately 6,700 Lutheran congregations in the United States and only 450 certified DCEs, there is a great demand in this field.

The DCE may share in the total ministry of the parish, but job responsibilities will very according to the needs of the congregation. DCEs will be particularly prepared for teaching, working with youth and organizing and administering the parish education program. DCEs work with children, youth, and adults in all facets of their parish educational experience.

Concordia University offers two tracks: One leads to certification by the Church as a director of Christian Education, the other leads to state certification as an elementary school teacher in addition to DCE certification. Both options are five-year programs which include a one-year paid internship.

For more information about Concordia University's DCE program, please click here, or contact program coordinator Dr. Debbie Arfsten.