Whether you're exploring our programs for the first time or are a current student seeking information, we've compiled answers to the most common questions about the Leadership Institute at Allen Temple.
Our mission is to make quality education accessible to those called to ministry or driven to create community change, and that begins with providing clear information about our programs, processes, and community.
If you don't find the answer you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact our administrative team:
Rev. Marcus Van Hook
mvanhook@allen-temple.org
707-334-2750
We're committed to supporting your leadership journey every step of the way.
LIAT offers four main programs:
LIAT uniquely combines academic rigor with grassroots wisdom. Our programs are designed specifically for working adults and bi-vocational leaders, with classes scheduled in evenings and weekends. We maintain master's-level faculty while keeping tuition affordable and accessible.
Our approach embraces diverse theological perspectives—from prophetic preaching to Black theology, from womanist thought to social justice ministry—while maintaining deep connections to practical community engagement.
For most programs, you'll need:
For certificate programs, you’ll need to submit official transcripts.
No prior theological education is required. Our programs are designed to accommodate students from diverse backgrounds and experience levels.
Yes, you can take individual courses without a high school diploma or GED. However, a diploma or GED is required to enroll in our certificate programs.
The Certificate in Christian Ministry focuses on theological education and ministry preparation, while the Certificate in Civic Engagement emphasizes community organizing, advocacy, and civic leadership skills. Both are two-year programs with structured curricula.
The Emerging Leaders Program has a more selective application process and offers a hands-on, experiential learning approach with personal mentorship. It emphasizes servant leadership and direct community organizing, culminating in the Certificate in Civic Engagement.
This is a one-year program offering intensive training in homiletics (the art of preaching). It features courses taught by experienced preachers with doctoral degrees and focuses on connecting scripture with contemporary issues.
LIAT has strategic partnerships with institutions like Fuller Theological Seminary and Berkeley School of Theology. Credit transferability depends on the receiving institution's policies. We recommend consulting with any institution where you plan to transfer credits.
Classes typically meet weekly during evenings or Saturday mornings to accommodate working adults. The academic year consists of fall and spring semesters, with some programs also offering intersessions and summer courses.
The cohort model groups students (no more than 15 per cohort) who progress through the program together. This creates a supportive community, exposes students to diverse perspectives, enhances spiritual growth, provides regular mentorship, and leads to higher program completion rates.
Additional costs include required textbooks and course materials, which are not included in tuition. Instructors will provide information about required materials before classes begin.
Yes, LIAT offers flexible payment plans to accommodate various financial situations. Please contact our Registrar Connie Grier at 510-326-8031 for more information.
Classes are primarily held online. Occasional hybrid and intersessions are held at the Allen Temple Campus in Oakland.
Yes, LIAT offers some remote learning options, making our programs accessible to students throughout the Bay Area and beyond. The availability of remote options varies by program and course.
Students have access to library resources, academic advising, spiritual mentorship, and networking opportunities with community leaders and organizations.