Discovery College is a ministry school and credentialing program rooted in Discovery Church in Bakersfield, California. It exists to equip, train, and credential men and women who sense a call to vocational or lay ministry.
The program combines foundational biblical study through the Berean School of the Bible (Global University), practical leadership development, and hands-on Pastoral Practicums — moving students from the classroom into the context of real ministry.
Discovery College runs as an annual cohort beginning every Fall. Students progress through ten courses together — building community, sharpening convictions, and growing into the leaders and ministers God has called them to be.
"Rooted, purposeful, and alive — formed for a life of faithful ministry."
Discovery College awards two credentials — each recognizing a distinct commitment to training and formation in ministry.
Awarded to students who complete the full Discovery College program — all six Berean Bible courses and all four Leadership courses. This is the flagship credential of the program, representing a full year of biblical, theological, and leadership formation.
Awarded to students who complete all four Discovery College Leadership courses. Designed for those called to lead teams, ministries, and communities with greater effectiveness and Christ-centered intentionality.
Ten courses spanning September 2026 through June 2027. Bible and Leadership courses alternate each month, with Pastoral Practicums paired throughout the year.
| # | Date | Track | Course | CEU |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sep 15, 2026 | Bible | Introduction to Hermeneutics BIB 121 · Berean School of the Bible |
5 CEU |
| 2 | Oct 13, 2026 | Leadership | Foundations of Personal Leadership LDR 101 |
5 CEU |
| 3 | Nov 10, 2026 | Bible | Introduction to Pentecostal Doctrine THE 114 · Pastoral Practicum: Freedom & Demonization |
5 CEU |
| 4 | Dec 8, 2026 | Leadership | Spiritual Authority LDR 201 |
5 CEU |
| 5 | Jan 12, 2027 | Bible | Old Testament Survey BIB 214 · Pastoral Practicum: House & Hospital Visitations |
5 CEU |
| 6 | Feb 9, 2027 | Leadership | Building Healthy Teams LDR 301 |
5 CEU |
| 7 | Mar 9, 2027 | Bible | New Testament Survey BIB 212 · Pastoral Practicum: Pastoral Counseling |
5 CEU |
| 8 | Apr 13, 2027 | Leadership | The Multiplying Leader LDR 401 · Pastoral Practicum: Officiating Weddings |
5 CEU |
| 9 | May 11, 2027 | Bible | Introduction to Homiletics MIN 223 · Pastoral Practicum: Conducting Baptisms |
5 CEU |
| 10 | Jun 8, 2027 | Bible | Relationships & Ethics in Ministry MIN 183 · Pastoral Practicum: Officiating Funerals |
5 CEU |
One flat rate per course — no enrollment fees, no hidden costs. Students are invoiced per course at the start of each month.
Tuition assistance may be available for those with demonstrated financial need. Contact nalleli@ilovediscovery.church for more information. Course materials and required texts are not included in tuition.
The next cohort begins Fall 2026. Fill out the interest form and we'll be in touch with enrollment details, course schedules, and next steps.
Fall 2026 Cohort · Discovery Church, Bakersfield