LIFE Theological Seminary (LIFE), started as an open-air Bible school for the training of men and women for practical Christian ministry. The school was founded by Reverend and Mrs. Harold Curtis, American Foursquare missionaries to Nigeria, in 1955, at a rented space in King George Avenue, now Herbert Macaulay Street, Yaba.
Certificate in Christian Ministry (CCM)
The Certificate in Christian Ministry (CCM) is a foundational, one-year programme designed for men and women who sense a genuine call to Christian ministry but whose circumstances — whether limited time or educational background — do not yet permit entry into the Seminary's regular Diploma programme. The CCM equips church workers, lay leaders, and emerging ministers with essential biblical knowledge, ministerial skills, and spiritual grounding for effective service within the local church, while offering a pathway of preparation towards further theological study.
1. To provide foundational instruction in biblical and theological knowledge for Christian workers.
2. To develop practical ministry skills, including preaching, teaching, and pastoral care, for effective church service.
3. To nurture spiritual growth and Christian character consistent with the student's ministerial calling.
4. To prepare students who so desire to proceed to Diploma-level theological study.
One academic year, comprising two semesters.
Weekend Session: classes are held on Fridays (6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.) and Saturdays (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) at the Seminary campus, across the two semesters of the one-year programme.
On successful completion of the CCM, graduates will demonstrate:
• A foundational grasp of biblical content and core Christian doctrine.
• Basic competence in preaching, teaching, and pastoral care.
• Evidence of spiritual maturity and Christian character consistent with ministerial calling.
Readiness, where called, to proceed to Diploma-level theological education.
Diploma in Theology (Dip.Th.)
The Diploma in Theology (Dip.Th.) is a post-secondary programme for Christians called into ministry who do not yet meet the entry requirements for the Bachelor of Theology degree. Through a structured curriculum of biblical, theological, and ministerial courses, the programme builds a solid foundation for effective and sustainable Christian service, while opening a pathway towards degree-level study for those who progress successfully.
1. To provide broad-based instruction in biblical studies, theology, and church history.
2. To develop practical skills in preaching, teaching, counselling, and church administration.
3. To cultivate personal spiritual discipline, character, and integrity.
4. To prepare students for direct engagement in ministry or for progression to the Bachelor of Theology programme.
Three academic years (Day Session) or four academic years (Weekend/Summer Sessions), open to students who meet the general admission requirements.
Classes are held Tuesdays through Fridays at the Seminary campus, over three academic years.
Classes are held on Fridays (6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.) and Saturdays (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) at the Seminary campus, over four academic years.
An intensive six-week format, with classes held Mondays (10:00 a.m.) through Fridays (6:00 p.m.) between June and July each year. The programme runs over four academic years, comprising two contact periods annually, each beginning in June and ending in July.
1. Four credit passes, including English Language, in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSSC), National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), National Examinations Council (NECO), or General Certificate of Education (GCE).
2. An applicant who lacks the above qualifications but has attained the age of forty (40) years, with at least three years of experience in ministry, shall be considered for admission to the Diploma programme.
3. The applicant must give evidence of a genuine salvation experience, with promise of continual spiritual growth and potential for future usefulness in the Church and society.
4. The applicant must have been personally committed to faith in Christ for not less than two years at the time of application, and must be a regular worshipper in a local church.
5. The applicant must complete the full admission process as stated on the Seminary's admissions portal.
On successful completion of the Diploma in Theology, graduates will demonstrate:
• A working knowledge of Old and New Testament content and major Christian doctrines.
• Demonstrated ability to preach, teach, and provide pastoral care with competence.
• Evidenced spiritual maturity, integrity, and servant leadership.
Readiness for pastoral responsibility or progression to the Bachelor of Theology degree.
Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.)
The Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.) is LIFE Theological Seminary's flagship undergraduate degree, offering a comprehensive, academically rigorous, and spiritually formative programme of theological education for men and women preparing for pastoral ministry, missions, Christian education, and other vocations of Christian service. The programme integrates biblical and theological scholarship with practical ministry training, character formation, and leadership development, equipping graduates to serve with competence, integrity, and conviction in the Church and in the wider society. Open to students of any Christian denomination who meet the general admission requirements, the B.Th. is offered through Day, Weekend, Summer, Executive, and External Centre study modes, enabling access for a broad range of learners across differing vocational circumstances and geographic locations.
1. To provide a comprehensive academic grounding in biblical studies, systematic and historical theology, and practical ministry.
2. To develop skills in biblical exegesis, theological reflection, and critical thinking appropriate to undergraduate degree-level study.
3. To form students spiritually and morally for lives of Christian integrity and service.
4. To prepare graduates for pastoral leadership, church planting, missions, teaching, and other ministry vocations.
5. To cultivate a missional orientation toward evangelism and the propagation of the Gospel, within Nigeria and beyond.
Classes are held Tuesdays through Fridays at the Seminary campus, over four academic years comprising two semesters each, beginning in August and ending in May.
Classes are held on Fridays (6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.) and Saturdays (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) at the Seminary campus, over five academic years comprising two semesters each, beginning in August and ending in May.
An intensive six-week format each year, with classes held Mondays (10:00 a.m.) through Fridays (6:00 p.m.) between June and July. The programme runs over five academic years, comprising two contact periods annually, each beginning in June and ending in July.
Designed to equip executives and professionals with sound theological education and relevant ministerial training for reaching society for Christ and promoting Christian values within a secular context, the Executive Session is delivered in a flexible, modular format that accommodates the demanding schedules of its participants without compromising academic standard. Lectures are held on Saturdays at designated executive study centres, including the CMD/Foursquare Gospel Church International Conference Centre, Idimu, and the VGC Foursquare Gospel Church District Headquarters. The programme runs over three years, comprising twelve modules.
For students resident outside Lagos State who desire access to theological education, the Bachelor of Theology is also offered at the following External Centres: Abeokuta, Ado-Ekiti, Akure, Badagry, Ibadan, Ile-Ife, Ilorin, Ilaro, Sango-Ota, and Sango-Ibadan.
The Bachelor of Theology is a four-year (Day Session) or five-year (Weekend/Summer Sessions) post-secondary programme, open to students of any denomination who meet the general admission requirements together with the following:
1. Five credit passes, including English Language, in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) or the General Certificate of Education (GCE).
2. An applicant who lacks the above qualifications but has attained the age of thirty-five (35) years, with at least five years of experience in ministry, shall be considered for admission, subject also to: (a) a letter from the applicant's supervising minister attesting to years of experience; and (b) a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.00 upon completion of the Diploma programme.
3. The applicant must give evidence of a genuine salvation experience, with promise of continual spiritual growth and potential for future usefulness in the Church and society.
4. The applicant must have been personally committed to faith in Christ for not less than two years at the time of application, and must be a regular worshipper in a local church.
5. The applicant must complete the full admission process as stated on the Seminary's admissions portal.
Individuals who already hold a Bachelor's degree (for example, B.A., B.S., B.Sc., or H.N.D.) may pursue a second degree through any department of the Seminary. To do so, the student must fulfil the specific requirements for the major courses of the department of choice.
Academic Departments
LIFE Theological Seminary's programmes are delivered through four academic departments, each contributing distinct disciplinary strength to the Seminary's overall mission of biblical, theological, and ministerial formation.
The Department of Pastoral Studies focuses on the Christian faith and prepares students for leadership roles within the church and religious organisations more broadly. Students are equipped to fulfil pastoral responsibilities in their congregations and communities, including counselling individuals in crisis, guiding others in their spiritual development, and applying sound principles of biblical preaching and teaching.
The Department of Biblical Studies acquaints students with the content of Scripture and the major doctrines of the Christian faith, leading to greater spiritual maturity. Coursework and topics include:
• Foundational Old and New Testament knowledge.
• Critical thinking and persuasive communication.
• Principles for interpreting Scripture.
• The history, background, and culture of the biblical books.
The Department of Christian Education is designed to develop students' abilities and spiritual gifts for leadership in parachurch organisations and specialised ministries within the church. Students gain biblical wisdom and practical insight for discipling the specific groups to which they are called — whether children, teenagers, youth, adults, families, or others. Coursework focuses on lay leadership training, teaching, administration, evangelism, and discipleship, with specific application to the educational ministry of the Church.
The Department of Missions and Church Growth equips students to reflect on the historical, theological, cultural, and strategic realities that shape effective cross-cultural witness and service. As agents of the Great Commission, students are prepared to exegete both Scripture and cultural context, learning from the mistakes of the past while employing the most effective means available to advance the Gospel. Students engage in numerous hands-on learning opportunities that deepen their insight into cross-cultural communication and gospel proclamation, with coursework focused on the study of peoples and cultures, linguistic and cultural diversity, and the development of meaningful relationships across diverse backgrounds.
On successful completion of the Bachelor of Theology, graduates will demonstrate:
• Sound theological and biblical scholarship applicable to ministry and society.
• Demonstrated competence in preaching, teaching, counselling, and church leadership.
• Capacity for independent theological research and critical engagement with Scripture and culture.
• Christlike character and ethical integrity in personal and public life.
Readiness for pastoral ministry, missions service, Christian education leadership, Biblical expositor or further graduate theological study.
Theological Education by Extension (TEE)
Theological Education by Extension (TEE) is a grassroots, part-time programme that brings theological training directly to church workers and ministry leaders within their own local church context, rather than requiring relocation to the Seminary campus. The programme strengthens the Church's capacity for effective ministry by equipping believers with essential biblical and theological knowledge without removing them from active service in their communities.
1. To assist the local church in developing effective workers and leaders.
2. To assist local church workers in acquiring the knowledge and skills needed for effective ministry.
3. To educate potential church leaders while they continue in active ministry, rather than removing them from their communities.
4. To assist contemporary organisations and ministries in ministerial training and leadership development.
5. To bring theological education and ministerial training closer to people within their immediate context and culture.
Part-time study at the local church level, over a period of 12 to 18 months.
Admission Requirements: Primary School or its equivalent
• Increased biblical literacy and theological competence among church workers.
• Strengthened local church leadership capacity.
Practical ministry skills applied directly within the learner's existing context of service.
Master of Arts in Theology Programmes
LIFE offers Master of Arts in Theology programme, designed to produce competent leaders who have expert knowledge in particular fields. The Postgraduate School is committed to providing the best opportunities and support for advanced theological studies. A competent team of full-time staff and adjunct lecturers serve an ever-growing number of postgraduate students from all parts of the world. The Master of Arts in Theology (MATh)programme provides an advanced level theological education for those who have already completed a recognized Bachelor’s level degree in theology and want to upgrade their knowledge in a specific area of Theological education. The MATh combines a programme of taught courses and written thesis. The degree provides opportunity for Master’s level biblical and theological study related to the fields of Biblical Studies, Christian Education, and Missions and Church Leadership.
The duration of the programme will be two academic sessions. Applicants must understand the high level of commitment that is expected and required to actively participate in this programme year-round for this stated period. Throughout the programme plan of study, students will be drawn to intimacy with God, acquire new ideas, tools, strategies, and techniques that will increase effectiveness and expand opportunities within current and future roles.
Objectives
On completion of the MATh programme, students should be able to:
1. Evaluate critically a wide spectrum of literature in each of the coursework areas and in the areas of the research undertaken;
2. Demonstrate mastery of the issues of debate in each of these areas:
1. Give a fair and informed account of representative points of view in each subject area
2. Write a coherent narrative survey which is internally consistent, interacts critically with central issues, and demonstrates ability to form a reasoned opinion;
3. Utilize sound hermeneutical principles in contextualizing biblical theology within the subject areas studied;
4. Demonstrate advanced skills of research, critical analysis and constructive synthesis, and application to make a significant contribution to knowledge in their area of specialization;
5. Demonstrate the distinctive contribution of biblical and theological principles to central issues in their subject areas;
6. Participate in the international academic discussion of their field of study with a competence appropriate to Master’s level
7. Reflect on the professional, ethical and relational implications of their study for ministry in the modern world.
Departmental Programmes
1. Biblical Studies
This MATh. programme is designed to engage the students in a broad course of biblical, historical, theological and church ministry studies. The programme also equips students with skills at unraveling treasures of the scriptures.
2. Missions and Church Growth
This MATh. programme is tailored primarily for persons committed to the ordained ministry as church leaders and church planters. It integrates theological curriculum with a supervised missiological field education in contemporary church setting.
3. Church Leadership
This MATh. programme in Church Administration trains men and women to organize, administer and evaluate church programmes and work successfully with people in a variety of church ministry situations.
4. Christian Education
This MATh. programme in Christian Education is packaged to train ministers who intend to meet the educational needs of the church. It integrates the Philosophy of Christian Education with Educational Administration. Special attention is given to Bible College Administration and Instructional Design both in theory and in practice.
Admission Requirements:
1. Candidates must have successfully completed a recognized undergraduate degree in theology or Christian ministries or have qualifications which, in the judgment of the Academic Committee, are of an equivalent standard.
2. A Bachelor’s degree with minimum of 2.34 GPA from an accredited institution is required for admission
3. Matured student admission policy is based on a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, and at least ten years of fruitful ministry. Eligible candidate must not be less than 35years of age.
4. Candidates must complete the admission process as stated on the Seminary portal.
5. Candidates with degrees from theological institutions other than LIFE may be admitted and if there be any deficiencies, such will need to be made up prior to the beginning of the Master of Theology Programme.
Graduation Requirements for the Master Degree Award:
1. Successful completion of forty (60) credit units divided as follows:
|
a. |
12 Seminars |
54 Credit Units |
|
b. |
Thesis |
6 Credit Units |
2. To enroll continuously and pay tuition for every session, students will be allowed a maximum of four (4) years in which to complete the degree. The time begins from the week of Orientation.
3. Each student is to attend a minimum of six contact sessions which will be held in February, April and July or as may be determined by the Seminary.
4. And any other that the Seminary authorities may require from time to time.
Duration: 18 Months
Mode: Modular (2 Weeks 3 Times in a Year)
Number of Modules: 7
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
Doctor of Philosophy Programme
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is a research doctorate designed to advance the knowledge base of a discipline through research and writing, typically within an academic setting. The Ph. D engages in intensive original research and is meant primarily to advance the knowledge base of a discipline with insights into phenomena touching the church and the society.
The degree is intended at developing experts in an academic setting focused on teaching, research and writing. A Ph. D student is expected to accumulate and master knowledge in the relevant discipline and expected to continue in academic research and publication, relevant to the needs and dynamics of the church and society, and with the aim evolving new epistemic horizons in relevant contexts.
Admission Requirements:
The requirements for entry into the Doctor of Philosophy programme are as follows:
1. Master in Theology, or it’s equivalents from recognized theological institutions.
2. A minimum grade point average of 3.0 in Master`s degree.
3. An applicant with Master`s degree from a theological institution other than LIFE may be admitted with deficiencies that must be made up prior to the beginning of the Doctor of Philosophy programme.
Graduation Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree Award:
1 Successful completion of forty-eight (48) credit units
2 Must achieve a minimum grade point average of 3.0 and if lesser will be awarded a Master of Philosophy degree
3 Must complete and defend the doctoral thesis
Duration: 3 Years
Mode: Modular (2 Weeks 3 Times in a Year)
Number of Modules: 9
Departments
· Biblical Studies (O.T./N.T)
· Missions & Church History
· Christian Education
DOCTOR OF MINISTRY
The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min) is a professional doctorate focusing on developing skills in application-oriented research for a ministry setting. The Doctor of Ministry is the terminal ministry-oriented professional degree open to those who demonstrate the highest level of competence, dedication, and potential for excellence in Christian ministry. The programme will be for three academic years and no greater than six years. New Entrants must understand the high level of commitment that is expected and required to actively participate in this degree programme year-round for this period of time. Throughout the degree plan of study, students will acquire new ideas, tools, strategies, and techniques that will increase effectiveness and expand opportunities within current and future roles.
Purpose of the Doctor of Ministry Programme
The main purpose of the programme is to help ministers grow in their understanding and interpretation of Church's ministry in relation to biblical, theological, historical, ethical and practical areas. Students are challenged to develop their ministerial skills, refine and articulate a theology of ministry while in a setting of ministry.
Admission Requirements
The requirements for entry into the Doctor of Ministry programme are as follows:
1. Master in Theology, or its equivalents from recognized theological institutions.
2. A minimum grade point average of 3.0 in Master’s degree.
3. An applicant must have a minimum of five years of full-time ministerial experience (e.g. pastor, missionary, theological educator, minister of education, etc.).
4. An applicant must be involved in ministry throughout the entire period of his or her doctoral studies.
5. An applicant with degree from a theological institution other than LIFE may be admitted with deficiencies that must be made up prior to the beginning of the Doctor of Ministry programme.
Graduation Requirements for the Doctoral Degree Award:
1. Successful completion of forty-nine (49) credit units divided as follows:
a. Courses/Seminars 43 Credit Units
b. Dissertation 6 Credit Units
2. Complete and defend the doctoral dissertation.
3. Must adhere to the principles and practice of ministry
4. Must meet all the financial requirements for graduation as specified by the Seminary authorities.
Duration: 3 Years
Mode: Modular (2 Weeks 3 Times in a Year)
Number of Modules: 9
Departments
· Global Ministries
· Communication & Expository Preaching
Guardians & Counselling
LIFE SCHOOL OF MUSIC (LSM)
The establishment of LIFE School of Music was an intentional response to the growing need for well-trained Christian musicians who combine spiritual depth with musical expertise. The school was designed:
● To raise music ministers who understand worship as a calling not a performance.
● To address the shortage of skilled church musicians.
● To position music as a vital tool for missions, evangelism, and church growth.
● To set a standard for music education rooted in faith, discipline, and excellence.
With a fully equipped music studio, training instruments, and professional tutors, the school offers a conducive environment where raw talent is refined into godly skill. LIFE School of Music has always been interdenominational in outlook. Students from different churches across Nigeria and beyond are equipped to return as influencers in their local ministries. This reflects the seminary’s broader vision to serve the body of Christ globally.
Every student undergoes practical and theoretical training, including music theory, ear training, sight reading, voice training, composition, church music administration, voice training, instrumentation, music technology, worship leadership among others. Before graduation, piano playing is compulsory for all levels of students, then mastery of any other musical instrument. Diploma students in final year are attached to churches for four months practicals. They are also expected to compose and score songs using muse score, Sibelius and other music software’s. After graduation, one can become music director, studio manager, form a band, own a studio, start a music school or go further in music studies in the university.
Admission is open to persons with basic educational qualifications and gifted individuals who demonstrate proficiency during auditions.
LIFE SCHOOL OF MUSIC PROGRAMMES
1. Diploma in Music
(a) Full-time 2 years (Tuesday to Friday from 8am-4pm)
(b) Part-time 3 years (Friday 5 pm -9pm and Saturday 8am-5pm)
Requirements: at least 4 Credits including English language in WAEC/ NECO or GCE. At the end of this program, one will obtain Diploma in Music Certificate.
2. Certificate in Music (1 year full-time).
This is designed for people who are called into music ministry but do not have WAEC/ GCE/ NECO or its equivalent. It meant to equip grassroot musicians with basic knowledge of music. At the end one obtains Certificate in Music.
3. Single Instrument Training: This is for people who want to learn one instrument or the other within a short time. (3 to 6 months classes on instruments)
4. Summer Music Classes: This for children and teens during long holiday (August).