The Urban Ministry Institute at World Impact.

Empowering Urban Leadership Through Biblically Based Online Training

The urban landscape is ready for revival, and God is raising dedicated leaders like you to champion the Great Commission.

Are You Looking to Transform Your Ministry?

You feel that unique calling and a deep desire to see your community transformed by the power of Christ, especially for those experiencing poverty. How can you lead, teach, and remain steadfast in your faith during this critical moment?

Available Online Courses

Cornerstone Courses

1-Year Certificate Available

This is the accessible, affordable, one-year online program that delivers essential, Bible-centered training, custom-built for real-world urban pastors and ministry leaders in any role who serve in the toughest, most overlooked communities.

Students can also take courses individually without pursuing a certificate.

Capstone Courses

4-Year Certificate Available

Capstone Curriculum is a 16-module, four-year, training program, taught at a seminary level, specifically designed to serve as the most essential knowledge and skills necessary for effective urban ministry and church leadership.

With this curriculum you will have everything you need to equip yourself and your leaders for effective ministry in your church and community.

Course info coming soon!

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What's the Application Process?

Step 1:
Apply

Complete your online application and provide a name and email address for your pastoral reference. Contact Admissions with any questions you might have.

Step 2:
Review

The TUMI Admissions office will review your application within five business days of receiving your pastoral reference.

Step 3:
Enroll

You will receive an email notification that your application has been approved with instructions on how to register for your preferred course.

Affordable and accessible biblically-based online theological training that fits your context

We recognize the unique challenges and tremendous potential in your community, and we are here to provide you with the knowledge and tools to expand God’s Kingdom right in your area.

We believe that the local church is God’s Plan A, which is why we ensure your training is approved and supported by your spiritual authority leaders.

World Impact has a network of trained TUMI pastors and leaders across the U.S. and worldwide. For local in-person training, please contact us, and we will connect you with someone in our network. 

Flexible Learning to Fit Your Life

We know your schedule is demanding.

  • Our online experience features brief video lectures (10-12 minutes) and 24/7 access to materials, allowing you to study at your own pace.  
  • Balance your studies with your ministry and family commitments seamlessly. 

Content Transferrable to Any Denomination

Rooted in the Nicene Creed, our curriculum transcends denominational traditions, making it applicable across diverse Christian communities. (Learn about Sacred Roots: A Primer on Retrieving the Great Commission)  

  • This allows you to connect and learn with peers from various backgrounds, enriching your perspective.
  • Join a community as unique as you are – find a place to belong during and after the program. 

View Upcoming Courses

Your Online Learning Experience with TUMI

Flexible & Accessible

Flexible & Accessible

Learn on your own schedule with 24/7 access to all materials.

Engaging Video Lectures

Engaging Video Lectures

Absorb complex topics in manageable, short segments.

Small Class Size

Small Class Size

Benefit from personalized attention and strong peer connections.

Dedicated Mentorship

Dedicated Mentorship

Receive guidance, support, and spiritual formation from experienced leaders.

Real-World Application

Real-World Application

Put your learning into practice through thoughtful reflection and practical activities.

Vibrant Community

Vibrant Community

Engage with peers, share insights, and build lasting connections through online forums and group discussions.

Why Choose The Urban Ministry Institute (TUMI) from World Impact for Your Ministry Development?

At World Impact, we believe in practical, robust training that directly applies to your ministry context so you can apply it quickly.

Our Capstone Theological Curriculum is a seminary-level program specifically designed for individuals in pastoral leadership. Consisting of 16 modules, it covers key areas such as Biblical Studies, Theology and Ethics, Christian Ministry, and Urban Missions. Through this curriculum, you’ll gain a solid understanding of Scripture, empowering you to teach and lead with confidence and authority. The content is geared to those in pastoral leadership.

Our Cornerstone Curriculum is an accelerated, accessible, and affordable online training designed to provide a strong biblical and theological foundation along with practical urban ministry skills. This empowers you to serve effectively and fulfill God’s calling in your community without compromising quality or relevance. The content is particularly suited for aspiring pastors and lay leaders.

Go beyond theory with practical ministry projects, scripture memorization, and exegetical papers in each course. This hands-on approach enables you to apply your knowledge effectively in real-world ministry, so you can make a meaningful impact in your community.

You’re not alone on this journey.  

  • TUMI emphasizes group learning in small class sizes (fewer than 12 students), guided by dedicated mentors.
  • These experienced urban ministry leaders will provide personalized guidance, foster spiritual growth, and invest personally in your life, creating a supportive and collaborative learning environment.

TUMI equips leaders with a strong biblical foundation, practical ministry skills, and tools to defend their faith confidently, grow in spiritual depth, and leadership capacity to transform communities, especially in urban and underserved contexts.

We know your schedule is demanding.  

  • Our online experience features bite-sized video lectures (10-12 minutes) and 24/7 access to materials, allowing you to study at your own pace.  
  • Balance your studies with your ministry and family commitments seamlessly. 

Upon completing the Capstone Curriculum, you can earn a Certificate in Christian Leadership Studies.

Additionally, TUMI courses can provide up to 32 college credits through our participating partner institutions, opening doors for further academic pursuit if desired. 

Ready to Equip Yourself for Greater Impact?

God has called you to lead!

TUMI is here to provide the biblically sound training you need to answer that call with confidence and power. 

To ensure a committed and Christ-minded learning community, we ask that applicants:

  • Be a member in good standing within a Christian church body. 
  • Provide one pastoral reference (email address required). 
  • Hold a sincere conviction of God’s call on your life. 
  • Share belief in the World Impact affirmation of faith. 
  • Affirm the Nicene Creed and Lausanne Statement.  

Frequently Asked Questions

If you still have a question after reading through these FAQs, please contact Admissions.

Each course has a $35 fee. Please note that books are additional and prices may vary depending on whether you choose a digital or printed version.

Required books are listed in the course syllabus, which is shared via our learning platform before the course begins. You’ll receive guidance on where and how to purchase them.

We use Canvas as our primary course site. It’s where you’ll find assignments, session agendas, course resources, and announcements. No pre-requisite knowledge is required.

Live sessions are hosted via Zoom, with links and schedules provided through Canvas.

If you’ve previously completed TUMI courses, you may qualify as a transfer student. You’ll be asked to indicate prior coursework during the application process and provide a reference for where your transcripts can be obtained. If you’re unsure whether we already have your transcripts, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to assist.

Each course includes a combination of readings, assignments, live sessions, and discussion forums to support learning and engagement.

Courses typically run for 8 weeks, depending on the schedule and format. Specific timelines are provided in the course syllabus.

Some courses may require completion of foundational courses or prior approval. Prerequisites are listed in the course syllabus or catalog.

Yes, students may enroll in multiple courses simultaneously, depending on their availability and capacity to manage the workload.