Who is the "typical" Pastoral Ministries student?
There's great variety among the students God sends into our program. Students vary in academic ability, yet all are highly motivated to learn. This year's students range in age from 24 to 56. In general, the typical student has significant life and work experience, and has answered the call to ministry from both God and from their home church. The students who do best in this program are those whose churches have recognized their gifts and call, and who have felt that same call from within themselves.
How much education do students have when they enter the program?
Students have varied backgrounds - some have a GED, some are high school graduates, some have a little college work and a few have bachelor's degrees.
Can I transfer in some credits?
Yes. You may transfer in some or all of the general education requirements and a limited number of Bible and ministry courses. Transfer students who have extensive credits may, with careful scheduling, complete the program in a twelve month period.
What are some unique features of Hesston's program?
The Pastoral Ministries program features a small, caring student body, and you get plenty of individual attention from faculty. All Pastoral Ministries faculty are experienced ministers. Weekly meals together build friendships and community. Ministry formation groups include spouses, where we talk frankly about the realities facing the families of pastors. Our Clinical Pastoral Education unit allows students to practice counseling skills in a big city hospital, while gaining self awareness in peer growth groups. Introduction to Biblical Literature is a foundational course which will help you to become thoroughly familiar with the sweep of the biblical story.
You mentioned "formation groups." What are those?
Formation is a weekly support group meeting for students and spouses, with a faculty member facilitating. In these groups we begin to think about ourselves as persons. What is my unique story of grace? Who am I now? How do I function in my marriage and family? And how do I want to move into my first ministry? Formation groups are places of intimate sharing and self-discovery, offered because we minister out of who we are even more than out of what we know.
Will I be ready for a pastorate when I graduate?
The majority of our graduates step right into a pastoral assignment in a congregation. Some grads join the staffs of congregations as associate pastors; some become lead pastors; others accept assignments in missions or the chaplaincy in a retirement community or hospital.
We have a family. What is the community like, including schools for our children?
Hesston is a friendly town of 3,000 people, with several large businesses and many employment opportunities. There are also work opportunities in nearby Newton. Wichita, a city of 350,000, is a 30 minute drive from the college. Public schools have small classes (55-75 students graduate from Hesston High School each year). Students in Hesston schools score above average on national achievement tests. The cost of housing in Kansas is well below the national average, and the college has a good supply of affordable homes and apartments for students and their families.
Will I be able to afford the program?
Most students receive financial assistance from a variety of sources. Students receive grants from college, state and federal sources. Mennonite Mutual Aid provides matching grants. Many students' home churches offer assistance, and spouses can readily find work in the community. In 2006-2007 the average student paid $4,788 in tuition and fees (not including student loans).
Can students purchase health insurance through the college?
All students are required to carry health insurance. The college offers good, low cost health coverage to all students and families.