Students learn the disciplines of Biblical exegesis and interpretation, systematic theology, church history, ethics, liturgics, and ascetical theology. The traditional content is not studied in a vacuum. While the course materials provide substantial academic content, the focus of the program is on life as a ministry and understanding that ministry. In doing this, it sharpens the skills of personal and cultural assessment and enhances the students' abilities to be effective in a variety of ministries. There are thirty-six group meetings during the course of an academic cycle.
New students begin with the first lesson of the first year.
Frequently students in the same group may be studying at different levels. Students read thirty-three chapters of academic content and five common lessons which help the group to get started, to learn to reflect theologically, and to develop its spirituality.