The Certificate of Progress Program (COPP)
Introduction
The Certificate of Progress Program (COPP) was organized at the Sunday School Publishing Board in October 1937. It was designed to produce qualified church leaders.
Objectives
The objectives of the Certificate of Progress Program, which are the same as those introduced by Dr. Talley in 1939, are as follows:
- To increase the biblical knowledge of the student;
- To create an understanding of the Baptist faith;
- To provide an educational structure that will develop candidates qualified for teaching and leadership positions;
- To provide incentives for the candidates to complete the program, and
- To produce trained church leaders.
Persons currently enrolled in the COPP are challenged to meet new objectives and to prepare for Christian service.
Policies and Procedures
A person wishing to enter the Certificate of Progress Program must follow specific procedures for enrollment:
The participant will have a dean of record made available to him or her by a Christian leadership school certified dean. The dean of record is responsible for giving guidance throughout the COPP.
Phase Requirements
Classes can be taken in any order within a phase, but each phase should be completed within a five-year period. Phases should be completed in sequential order. Upon completion of Phases 1, 2, and 3, students will receive a certificate for each phase. A COPP diploma will be issued upon completion of Phase 4.
Alternate COPP Fulfillment Requirements
A candidate may be exempted from the COPP by submitting a copy of an official transcript from an accredited Bible college, divinity school, seminary, or school of religion for evaluation.
A candidate with a degree from a liberal arts college - desiring exemption from the COPP must have a minimum of twelve (12) semester hours of courses in religion, Christian education, church history, or theology. Official transcripts should be submitted for evaluation and approval.
