Project Starling is an innovative online learning platform developed by the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC) launching Summer 2025. With a goal of making theological education accessible to all, Project Starling will offer a rich array of courses, known as resources, as well as certificate programs, workshops, and training opportunities tailored for those seeking theological education.
Designed to support career and spiritual growth, Project Starling caters to a diverse audience, including those who aspire to leadership in the church, rostered ministers, pastors, deacons, lay leaders, individuals on personal spiritual journeys, and lifelong learners passionate about exploring faith and theology. Learners can choose from individual resources, or complete specializations—a series of interconnected resources—for a more in-depth educational experience.
The platform provides both free and paid options, allowing learners to earn certificates and credentials upon completion. Whether pursuing professional development, spiritual formation, or simply learning for its own sake, Project Starling offers accessible and high-quality theological education for all.
LEARNING PATHWAY
Theological Education for Emerging Ministries (TEEM)
This two-year, fully online certificate program is designed for ELCA emerging ministry leaders. The program covers theology, pastoral care, worship, leadership, and Lutheran identity—with practical formation through CPE and internship. Entrance into the candidacy process within the ELCA is required for participation in this program.
This competency-based training program is designed for Synod Authorized Ministers. It equips ELCA church leaders with the theological knowledge, intercultural skills, and practical tools needed for ministry in today’s church. Bishop authorization is required for learners to participate in this program.
Each course offers a comprehensive exploration of theological topics, designed for flexible learning and practical application in real-world ministry contexts.
Project Starling is LSTC’s new asynchronous learning platform designed to expand access to theological education for a diverse range of learners. It provides high-quality, flexible, online learning rooted in LSTC’s commitment to justice, public engagement, and inclusive ministry.
Who is Project Starling for?
Project Starling serves three main audiences: those pursuing rostered ministry through ELCA pathways (like TEEM and SAM), lifelong learners seeking theological enrichment, and church leaders looking to strengthen their skills through targeted modules.
What makes Project Starling different from traditional theological education?
Project Starling is for anyone who wants to learn. To access individual courses or modules, there are no prior educational or experience requirements. Project Starling is fully online, modular, and self-paced. It is designed to meet learners where they are, both geographically and vocationally, offering flexible and affordable access to theological formation.
Is Project Starling affiliated with LSTC?
Yes. Project Starling is an initiative of the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC), developed to meet the evolving needs of theological education in today’s church.
What kinds of learning experiences does Project Starling offer?
Project Starling offers certificate programs, individual courses, and standalone modules that can be used for personal enrichment, professional development, or toward ELCA ministry requirements.
Programs and Certificates
What certificate programs are currently available through Project Starling?
Currently, Project Starling offers the TEEM Certificate Program and the SAM Development Training Program. Our platform is ever expanding and in the future we will offer a broader range of certificates.
What is the TEEM Certificate Program?
The TEEM Certificate is a 12-course, competency-based program designed to meet the ELCA’s educational requirements for Theological Education for Emerging Ministries (TEEM). Learners must be entranced into candidacy by their synod to be eligible.
What is the SAM Development Training Program?
This program is designed for Synod Authorized Ministers (SAMs) and includes six core competency units delivered in a fully online, asynchronous format. The timeline is flexible and depends on the learner’s pace.
Can I take courses without pursuing a full certificate?
Yes. Learners may enroll in individual modules or courses for personal enrichment or professional development.
How long does it take to complete a certificate?
The TEEM Certificate typically takes 2–3 years. The SAM Training Program may be completed in 2 years, depending on the learner’s pace.
Are certificates accredited or recognized by the ELCA?
Yes. Project Starling programs are aligned with ELCA competency requirements and standards for candidacy and ministry preparation.
Enrollment and Eligibility
How do I enroll in a course or certificate program?
Start by visiting our website and selecting either a certificate program or individual module. TEEM learners must also submit an application and documentation of entrance into ELCA candidacy.
Do I need to be a member of the ELCA to learn on the Project Starling platform?
No. While TEEM and SAM programs are designed for ELCA candidates, individual courses are open to anyone seeking theological formation.
What does it mean to be “entranced” into candidacy?
Entrance is the first formal step in the ELCA Candidacy process, confirming a synod’s support for your preparation for rostered ministry.
Can I begin a course before being fully admitted into a certificate program?
Learners can take courses on our platform prior to being admitted into a certificate program. Learners cannot be admitted into TEEM or SAM certificate program prior to meeting the ELCA or synod requirements.
What academic background is required?
Individual enrichment courses and modules do not require a specific degree.
Is Project Starling open to lay leaders or lifelong learners?
Yes. Anyone interested in theology, ministry, or leadership development can benefit from Project Starling’s offerings.
Technology and Access
How do I access the courses?
Courses are delivered through Brightspace, LSTC’s learning management system. Enrolled learners will receive login credentials.
What is Brightspace and how do I use it?
Brightspace is a secure online platform for learning. It hosts all course content, assessments, and discussion spaces.
What if I need tech support during my course?
Learners will receive instructions for technical support, including contacts for troubleshooting and Brightspace tutorials.
Can I access courses on mobile devices?
Yes. Brightspace is mobile-friendly and accessible on most smartphones and tablets.
Costs and Financial Questions
How much do courses or certificates cost?
Costs vary by program. Individual modules are affordably priced; certificate programs have a full tuition schedule available on our website.
Are scholarships or financial aid available?
Financial support may be available for learners in certificate programs. Congregations and synods may also assist with funding.
Do synods pay for their learners? Can my congregation sponsor me?
Yes. We encourage learners to talk with their synods or congregations about sponsorship options.
Are there group licensing options available?
Yes. Synods and church bodies can license modules for cohorts or wider use.
Learning Experience
Are the courses self-paced or instructor-led?
Courses are primarily asynchronous and self-paced. Some certificate programs may include cohort-based facilitation.
How much time should I expect to spend on a module or course?
Each module requires approximately 3–7 hours of work over two weeks.
What do I receive upon completion of a module or course?
Learners receive a digital certificate of completion. Certificate program learners earn formal academic credit or recognition.
Will I get academic credit for these courses?
Courses on the Project Starling platform are non-credit bearing.
User Testing
What is user testing and how can I participate?
User testing allows early access to courses in exchange for feedback. It helps us refine course content before wider release.
Will I be charged for user testing?
No. During user testing, selected participants will receive voucher codes to access courses at no cost.
Will my work during user testing count toward a certificate?
If you later enroll in the TEEM or SAM Certificate Program, completed user testing courses may count toward your requirements pending committee approval.
Partnerships and Institutional Use
Can my synod or organization license Project Starling content?
Yes. Synods, churches, and ecumenical partners can license content for use in their own leadership development initiatives.
How does Project Starling support Synod Authorized Ministers (SAMs)?
Our SAM Development Training Program offers a contextual, flexible learning track aligned with ELCA SAM competencies.
Can I use Project Starling content in my congregation or ministry setting?
Yes. Many modules are ideal for small group learning, Bible studies, and ministry training.
Still have questions?
Contact us at kdyson@lstc.edu and we’ll be happy to assist you.
