Certification Application Fee – $30 (one-time): This fee begins your certification journey with APA by establishing your certification record and allowing your approved coursework to be documented and applied toward certification.

Level II Certification builds on the foundation established in Level I by expanding your knowledge and leadership skills. Participants complete 45 hours of approved coursework (17.5 core hours and 27.5 elective hours), allowing for greater specialization while continuing to strengthen their understanding of church administration, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), and professional development.

Level III Certification is the highest level of APA certification and recognizes a sustained commitment to professional excellence. Participants complete 50 hours of approved coursework (12.5 core hours and 37.5 elective hours), with an emphasis on advanced learning, leadership, and continued professional growth in church administration and ministry.

Concentrated Studies provides an opportunity to develop in-depth expertise in a specific area of church administration. Participants complete 25 hours of approved coursework in a single concentration, such as Administration, Finance, Communications, Polity, Church History, or Theology, allowing them to deepen their knowledge and skills in an area of interest or ministry focus.