The School for Correctional Ministries
. . . a Community of Believers
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We welcome you to a community of believers who share your passion
for ministering to those affected by crime and its aftermath
and who are interested in developing professionally.The School for Correctional Ministries (SCM) exists to equip professionals and volunteers who serve in jails, prisons and reentry for effective ministry through the church. We are privileged to build on the vision of Dr. Thomas Beckner, founder of the American Chaplaincy Training School, which merged into the School for Correctional Ministries. We are honored to be recognized by national ministries such as Prison Fellowship, Good News Jail & Prison Ministries, Christian Association for Prisoner Aftercare and Crossroad Bible Institute. These ministries collaborated with the Billy Graham Center Institute for Prison Ministries to launch SCM at Wheaton College.
The SCM Credential Program is designed for people serving in correctional ministry to remain fully engaged in their ministry, while participating in college accredited courses in chaplaincy, reentry or correctional ministry. SCM students create a learning community (face-to-face and online) with their peers from around the nation and are guided by our expert faculty. This program begins with a one-week residential intensive in Wheaton, IL followed by five online courses, and ending with a one week intensive the following year.
Our Vision is that equipped professionals and volunteers will effectively fulfill the Great Commission through service in jails, prison and reentry ministries. Our core values, which include a strong Biblical foundation, a calling to evangelize and disciple, a commitment to the unity of believers in Jesus Christ, and a devotion to excellence, help guide our program.
As you consider enrolling in the SCM, let me share with you some practical benefits to help guide your decision.
Specialized Training
SCM is one of the few programs of its kind. Students receive specialized training in the focus area of correctional chaplaincy, reentry ministry and correctional ministry. The faculty are leaders in the field (regionally and nationally recognized) and with years of practical experience.
Networking
Participating in courses provides a great opportunity to meet and learn from others around the country who share the same passion and ministry.
Credibility
The learning gained from earning the credential demonstrates to your donors, employers, churches, and corrections and community agencies that you are specifically trained to meet the roles and responsibilities as a corrections chaplain, reentry leader or correctional minister.
Effectiveness
The School for Correctional Ministries values excellence and believes that quality equipping is needed for quality ministry. The inmates, former inmates, families and staff served in correctional ministry deserve the highest quality ministry possible.
We are glad you are interested in enrolling in SCM. Please continue to browse through our website to learn more about our unique program.
Dr. Karen Swanson
Director
