Karlstadt Theological Seminary

Karlstadt Theological Seminary

Free Bible & Theology Courses

Study God's Word. Deepen Your Faith. Prepare for Ministry.

Access rigorous biblical and theological education at no cost. These courses are designed for pastors, church leaders, ministry workers, theological students, and believers seeking a deeper understanding of Scripture and Christian doctrine.

Apply for free courses

Deep in Holiness. Truth Without Compromise.

Why study with Karlstadt?

We believe theological education should be accessible to every believer. Our free courses provide rigorous biblical training rooted in Scripture, academic excellence, and practical ministry application.

Comprehensive video lectures

Study notes and reading materials

Practical ministry assignments

Discussion forums

Digital certificate upon completion

Access to theological resources

Explore the catalog

Available free courses

Choose one course or build a foundational pathway across Scripture, doctrine, history, ministry, and mission.

Open Bible in a warm theological library

Course 01

Foundations of Christian Theology

LevelBeginner

Duration8 weeks

FormatSelf-paced

CategorySystematic Theology

Cranmer School of Theology (CST) This introductory course explores the fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith, including God, Christ, salvation, humanity, the church, and the last things.

What you will learn

  • Doctrine of God
  • The Trinity
  • Christology
  • Pneumatology
  • Salvation and Grace
  • Ecclesiology
  • Eschatology

New theological students, church leaders, Bible teachers, and ministry volunteers.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Bible text and study materials on a scholarly table

Course 02

Introduction to Biblical Studies

LevelBeginner

Duration6 weeks

FormatOnline

CategoryBiblical Studies

Cranmer School of Theology (CST) Learn how the Bible was written, transmitted, interpreted, and applied throughout church history.

What you will learn

  • Structure of the Bible
  • Canon Formation
  • Biblical Languages
  • Principles of Interpretation
  • Historical Background
  • Literary Genres

Bible students, Sunday school teachers, church members, and ministry candidates.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Desert landscape in the biblical world

Course 03

Old Testament Survey

LevelBeginner to intermediate

Duration10 weeks

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryBiblical Studies

Cranmer School of Theology (CST) A comprehensive exploration of the Old Testament from Genesis to Malachi, focusing on God's covenantal dealings with His people.

What you will learn

  • Pentateuch
  • Historical Books
  • Wisdom Literature
  • Major Prophets
  • Minor Prophets
  • Messianic Prophecies

Students seeking an overview of the Old Testament.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Antique map of the Mediterranean biblical world

Course 04

New Testament Survey

LevelBeginner to intermediate

Duration10 weeks

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryBiblical Studies

Cranmer School of Theology (CST) Study the life of Christ, the growth of the early Church, and the theological teachings of the Apostles.

What you will learn

  • The Four Gospels
  • Acts of the Apostles
  • Pauline Epistles
  • General Epistles
  • Revelation
  • Early Church History

Students seeking an overview of the New Testament.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Scholar teaching theology in a lecture hall

Course 05

Christian Apologetics

LevelIntermediate

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryApologetics

School of Missions & Evangelism (SME) Learn how to defend the Christian faith intelligently, biblically, and compassionately.

What you will learn

  • Existence of God
  • Reliability of Scripture
  • Historical Jesus
  • Resurrection Evidence
  • World Religions
  • Modern Challenges to Faith

Church leaders and believers seeking to articulate their faith.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Bible study with theology books

Course 06

Systematic Theology Essentials

LevelIntermediate

Duration12 weeks

FormatSelf-paced

CategorySystematic Theology

Cranmer School of Theology (CST) A deeper examination of core Christian doctrines and their practical implications for ministry and Christian living.

What you will learn

  • Theology Proper
  • Anthropology
  • Hamartiology
  • Soteriology
  • Ecclesiology
  • Eschatology

Students ready for deeper doctrinal study.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Historic church interior with stone columns

Course 07

Church History I

LevelIntermediate

Duration8 weeks

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryChurch History

Cranmer School of Theology (CST) Explore Christianity from the Apostolic Age through the Reformation period.

What you will learn

  • Early Church
  • Church Fathers
  • Councils and Creeds
  • Medieval Church
  • Protestant Reformation
  • Global Christianity

Students interested in the history of the Church.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Ancient manuscripts arranged on a study desk

Course 08

Biblical Hermeneutics

LevelIntermediate

Duration8 weeks

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryBiblical Studies

Cranmer School of Theology (CST) Master the principles and methods of accurately interpreting Scripture.

What you will learn

  • Exegesis
  • Contextual Interpretation
  • Literary Analysis
  • Historical Background
  • Practical Application

Bible teachers and students who want to interpret Scripture faithfully.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Pastor leading a church congregation

Course 09

Introduction to Christian Ministry

LevelBeginner

Duration6 weeks

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryMinistry

School of Ministry & Leadership (SML) An introduction to pastoral ministry, servant leadership, discipleship, and church administration.

What you will learn

  • Biblical Leadership
  • Preaching Essentials
  • Discipleship
  • Counseling Foundations
  • Church Administration
  • Ministry Ethics

Emerging ministry leaders and church volunteers.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Community outreach volunteers gathering together

Course 10

Evangelism and Mission

LevelBeginner to intermediate

Duration6 weeks

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryMissions

School of Missions & Evangelism (SME) Discover biblical principles for sharing the Gospel and fulfilling Christ's Great Commission.

What you will learn

  • Theology of Mission
  • Personal Evangelism
  • Church Planting
  • Cross-Cultural Ministry
  • Global Missions
  • Digital Evangelism

Believers called to evangelism, outreach, and mission.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Student listening during a counseling session

Course 11

Foundations of Biblical Counseling

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryBiblical Counseling

School of Biblical Counseling, Care & Discipleship (SBCD)  Explore Scripture-centered approaches to listening, encouragement, and spiritual support. Learn to offer compassionate care while recognizing the boundaries of ministry counseling and when professional referral is needed.

What you will learn

  • Biblical Foundations of Care
  • Active Listening
  • Hope and Encouragement
  • Confidentiality and Care Ethics
  • Healthy Ministry Boundaries
  • Professional Referral and Safeguarding

Church care teams, small-group leaders, ministry volunteers, and believers seeking to support others wisely.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Older woman praying in a church

Course 12

Discipleship and Compassionate Care

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryDiscipleship & Care

School of Biblical Counseling, Care & Discipleship Connect disciple-making with compassionate service. Explore how mentoring, prayer, practical support, and caring relationships help people grow in faith through everyday challenges.

What you will learn

  • Christ-Centered Discipleship
  • Spiritual Mentoring
  • Prayer and Spiritual Formation
  • Supporting People Through Grief
  • Family and Community Care
  • Building Church Care Networks

Discipleship mentors, pastoral care volunteers, small-group facilitators, and community ministry workers.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Pastor preaching from a church pulpit

Course 13

Pastoral Leadership and Preaching

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryPastoral Ministry

School of Ministry & Leadership (SML) Develop a foundation for faithful pastoral leadership and biblical preaching. Learn to interpret Scripture responsibly, prepare clear sermons, and lead congregations with humility, integrity, and care.

What you will learn

  • Servant Leadership
  • Pastoral Character and Ethics
  • Biblical Sermon Preparation
  • Expository Preaching
  • Communicating with Clarity
  • Shepherding the Congregation

Emerging pastors, lay preachers, ministry candidates, and church leaders developing their preaching skills.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Team meeting around a boardroom table

Course 14

Ministerial Works, Leadership and Church Formation

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryMinistry & Church Formation

School of Ministry & Leadership (SML) Explore the practical work of ministry and the formation of healthy church communities. Learn to organize ministry teams, develop leaders, support congregational life, and align church activities with biblical purpose.

What you will learn

  • Biblical Foundations of the Church
  • Ministry Planning and Administration
  • Team and Volunteer Leadership
  • Worship and Congregational Life
  • Developing Emerging Leaders
  • Healthy Church Formation

Ministry coordinators, church leadership teams, church planters, and volunteers preparing for greater responsibility.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Volunteers organizing donation boxes at a community center

Course 15

International Missions, Evangelism and Mission-Focused Service

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryInternational Missions

School of Missions & Evangelism (SME) Prepare for Gospel witness and compassionate service across cultures. Explore respectful evangelism, local partnerships, cultural humility, and practical mission preparation that supports the communities being served.

What you will learn

  • Biblical Foundations of Global Mission
  • Cross-Cultural Communication
  • Contextual Evangelism
  • Mission Preparation and Teamwork
  • Compassionate Community Service
  • Local Partnerships and Sustainable Mission

Prospective missionaries, outreach teams, mission volunteers, and believers preparing for international service.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Church choir members holding sheet music and singing during rehearsal

Course 16

Christian Music and Singing Ministry

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryChristian Music & Worship

Anna Baker Institute for Biblical Worship Develop the musical and biblical foundations for singing in Christian worship. Explore healthy vocal technique, breathing, pitch, rhythm, harmony, and song interpretation while learning to lead and encourage congregational singing.

What you will learn

  • Biblical Foundations of Singing
  • Breath Support and Vocal Care
  • Pitch, Rhythm and Music Fundamentals
  • Harmony and Choir Participation
  • Interpreting Hymns and Worship Songs
  • Leading Congregational Singing

Worshippers, worship leaders, singers, ministers, pastors, and scholars seeking to develop their singing and musical ministry.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Couple praying together

Course 17

Biblical Worship and Liturgical Planning

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryWorship & Liturgy

Anna Baker Institute for Biblical Worship Equip church leaders to plan, prepare, and deliver Scripture-centered worship. Integrate biblical readings, prayer, music, preaching, and congregational participation into coherent services, with thoughtful liturgical planning that respects the church's theological tradition.

What you will learn

  • Biblical Theology of Worship
  • Designing the Order of Service
  • Scripture, Prayer and Song Selection
  • Liturgical Seasons and the Church Calendar
  • Coordinating Pastoral and Worship Teams
  • Service Preparation, Delivery and Review

Church leaders, senior pastors, worship pastors, ministers, and service-planning teams responsible for biblical worship and liturgy.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Christian worshippers raising their hands at an outdoor gathering

Course 18

Strategic Planning for Evangelistic Events, Crusades and Revivals

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryEvangelism & Mission Strategy

School of Missions & Evangelism (SME) Build practical skills for organizing evangelistic events, crusades, and revivals through strategic mission planning. Develop a prayerful outreach strategy, coordinate local church partnerships and volunteers, manage event logistics responsibly, and connect participants with ongoing discipleship.

What you will learn

  • Community Assessment and Mission Objectives
  • Prayer and Local Church Partnerships
  • Event Design, Budgets and Timelines
  • Volunteer Training and Gospel Communication
  • Permissions, Safeguarding and Event Safety
  • Follow-Up, Discipleship and Mission Evaluation

Evangelists, outreach coordinators, pastors, ministry teams, and specialists in strategic mission planning preparing evangelistic events, crusades, and revivals.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Bible study participants holding hands in prayer

Course 19

Strategic Mission Planning for Small Groups and Church Planting

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryMission Strategy & Church Planting

Center for Missional Mobilization & Church Planting Develop a strategic pathway from small-group discipleship to healthy church planting. Learn to understand local communities, launch and nurture small groups, mentor emerging leaders, and plan sustainable new congregations in partnership with local churches.

What you will learn

  • Community Research and Contextual Mission
  • Launching and Facilitating Small Groups
  • Disciple-Making and Group Multiplication
  • Identifying and Mentoring Local Leaders
  • Church-Planting Stages and Resource Planning
  • Accountability, Sustainability and Evaluation

Strategic mission planners, church planters, small-group leaders, missionaries, and pastors developing discipleship networks and new congregations.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Christian leader guiding friends in a Bible study

Course 20

Discipleship Systems and Organizational Development

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryDiscipleship & Organizational Development

School of Ministry & Leadership (SML) Build specialist skills for designing church-wide discipleship systems and strengthening ministry organizations. Develop clear pathways from welcome and spiritual formation to mentoring and leadership, aligning teams, responsibilities, and review practices with the church's biblical mission.

What you will learn

  • Mapping Discipleship Pathways
  • Mentoring and Leadership Pipelines
  • Organizational Structure and Ministry Roles
  • Volunteer Development and Support
  • Managing Change with Pastoral Care
  • Evaluating Spiritual Formation and Ministry Health

Discipleship coordinators, pastors, ministry organizers, and emerging specialists in church discipleship systems and organizational development.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Diverse volunteers discussing their work at a community center

Course 21

Strategic Planning and Community Transformation

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryStrategy & Community Transformation

School of Ministry & Leadership (SML) Develop specialist skills for turning a ministry vision into a community-centered strategy. Listen to local residents, identify community assets and priorities, establish realistic goals, and coordinate church and community partnerships that support lasting transformation.

What you will learn

  • Biblical Vision for Community Transformation
  • Participatory Community Assessment
  • Mission, Goals and Strategic Priorities
  • Action Plans, Resources and Responsibilities
  • Church and Community Partnerships
  • Monitoring Outcomes and Adapting Strategy

Community ministry leaders, strategic planners, pastors, and emerging specialists coordinating church-led community transformation.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Diverse young adults listening and taking part in a group discussion

Course 22

Cross-Cultural Ministry and Conflict Resolution

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryCross-Cultural Ministry & Peacemaking

School of Missions & Evangelism (SME) Build specialist skills for serving across cultures and responding constructively to conflict. Practice cultural humility, careful listening, and biblical peacemaking while learning to recognize power differences, protect vulnerable people, and distinguish appropriate mediation from situations requiring safeguarding or professional support.

What you will learn

  • Cultural Humility and Contextual Ministry
  • Intercultural Communication and Listening
  • Understanding Conflict and Power Dynamics
  • Biblical Peacemaking and Reconciliation
  • Facilitating Dialogue and Appropriate Mediation
  • Safeguarding, Boundaries and Referral

Missionaries, multicultural church leaders, ministry mediators, and emerging specialists in cross-cultural ministry and conflict resolution.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Church aisle leading toward a pastor standing in front of a cross

Course 23

Leadership and Church Administration

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryLeadership & Church Administration

School of Ministry & Leadership (SML) Develop specialist skills for responsible church leadership and day-to-day administration. Connect servant leadership with sound governance, transparent stewardship, clear policies, and reliable systems that support pastoral ministry and congregational life.

What you will learn

  • Servant Leadership and Accountable Governance
  • Church Policies and Decision-Making
  • Budgeting and Financial Stewardship
  • Records, Privacy and Administrative Systems
  • Staff and Volunteer Coordination
  • Facilities, Risk Awareness and Ministry Review

Church administrators, senior pastors, ministry directors, trustees, and emerging specialists responsible for church operations and governance.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now
Volunteers working together at a table for a community charity project

Course 24

Collaborative Projects and Organizational Development

LevelIntroductory

DurationFlexible

FormatSelf-paced

CategoryCollaboration & Organizational Development

School of Ministry & Leadership (SML) Build specialist skills for leading collaborative ministry projects and strengthening the organizations behind them. Bring churches, teams, and community partners together around shared goals, clarify responsibilities, and use project learning to improve organizational capacity and cooperation.

What you will learn

  • Shared Vision and Partnership Agreements
  • Project Scope, Milestones and Work Plans
  • Team Roles and Collaborative Leadership
  • Resource Sharing and Responsible Budgeting
  • Communication, Accountability and Problem-Solving
  • Project Evaluation and Organizational Learning

Ministry project coordinators, partnership leaders, organizational development practitioners, and emerging specialists leading collaborative church and community initiatives.

CREDIT

Course: Free*

Audit: Free

Add a Verified Certificate for: $80 (Optional)

Apply now

Free Course Access Policy

KTS is committed to providing theological education at the lowest possible cost. The preparation, maintenance, and delivery of free courses require substantial resources, technology, administrative support, and faculty time.

Therefore, students may initially enroll in one free course without selecting the paid Certificate option. To continue accessing additional free courses, students must obtain a certificate for at least one previously completed course, or for another course of their choice, by paying the applicable certification fee beginning with their second course.

This policy helps the Seminary sustain its educational mission while continuing to make theological training accessible to all.

Apply for free courses

Begin your enrollment today

Complete the application below to enroll in one or more free online courses. Fields marked with an asterisk are required.

Personal details
Contact information
Educational background
Christian background

Current ministry role

Course selection

Select your desired course(s)

Study preferences
Personal statement
Statement of understanding

After submission

What happens next?

  1. 01

    Application received

  2. 02

    Admissions review

  3. 03

    Enrollment confirmation

  4. 04

    Course portal access

  5. 05

    Begin learning

Helpful answers

Frequently asked questions

Are the courses really free?  Do I receive a certificate?

Yes. Course enrollment is completely free — Every student may enroll in one free course. Students who successfully complete course requirements may receive a digital certificate.

Do I receive a certificate?  Can international students apply?

Absolutely. A certificate may be obtained by paying the applicable certification fee. Students from all nations are welcome.

Why must I certify a course to continue receiving additional free courses?

Because the Seminary invests significant resources in creating and maintaining educational content. Certification fees help sustain the ministry and expand access to theological education.

Are there deadlines?

Most courses are self-paced and may be accessed according to your schedule.

Do I need prior theological education?

No. Many courses are designed specifically for beginners.

Begin your theological journey today

Join a global community committed to biblical learning, Christian discipleship, and faithful ministry — whether you are preparing for ministry, pursuing deeper biblical knowledge, or strengthening your Christian faith, Karlstadt is committed to equipping you for lifelong service and discipleship.

Apply for free courses