What is Trilogy?

The Trilogy Project is a college-level, three-year biblical and leadership training program geared for present and emerging leaders in the church. Trilogy combines courses in biblical theology, biblical hermeneutics, leadership theory and practice, missions, and church history to equip students for effective leadership within the local church. Trilogy Online refers to the web-based version of the Trilogy Project.

In 2001 the Trilogy Project was launched in a commuter-based format in St. Louis, MO. Since then nearly seventy-five people have been trained and are now serving local churches in a leadership capacity and more than dozen are involved in church planting initiatives in the US.

Who should take Trilogy?

Trilogy is open to men and women who are currently leading (small group, ministry team, etc.) or are emerging as leaders in their local church. It is an excellent option for elders and deacons, especially those who are not full-time. A reference from an elder is required as part of the application process.

Trilogy is a training initiative of the Newfrontiers USA family of churches (www.newfrontiersusa.org), but it is not restricted to those who are part of a Newfrontiers USA church.

Can I get credit for the courses?

The Trilogy Project is accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (www.acsi.org). Trilogy courses have been accepted for continuing education credit (CEU’s) in some cases. Students are responsible for determining if their particular educational institution will accept Trilogy courses for credit.

How much does it cost?

There is a non-refundable $35 application fee that is due with the application and a one-time $50 registration fee if accepted into the program. The cost per semester is the cost of two courses, which range from $300 to $350 per course, or up to $1,300 per year. Unless otherwise stated in the class description students are responsible for purchasing their own textbooks.

Why do I need a local mentor?

Local mentors are a key part in making Trilogy more than a program that simply transfers knowledge. What is being imparted in class times, assignments and discussion boards is meant to have a practical outworking in local church life and it is the local mentor who best equipped to guide this process. A student’s gifting is best assessed by the mentor because they are responsible for grading assignments and gathering students in learning communities on a regular basis and is therefore the best person to direct students into appropriate local leadership responsibility.

Can I audit Trilogy courses?

Not at this time, but it is under consideration, so stay tuned!

How do I apply?

Application and reference forms can be downloaded from this website. Before applying we recommend that you talk with a local elder or church leader about your interest in Trilogy.

How will this help me plant a church?

Trilogy seeks to combine a biblical theology foundation with practical leadership instruction, both of which are necessary for anyone considering planting a church or participating in a church planting team. Newfrontiers USA also offers Church Planting Training, a one-year residential program for training those who are called to start new churches. For more information go to www.churchplantingtraining.org.

What kind of work is involved?

Courses last 5 months and include ten to twelve audio/video sessions. Every four weeks students will listen to or view two or three sessions and complete an exam (closed-book, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer) that will be graded by their mentor. During that four-week period there will also be discussion board topics/questions related to the video and reading /study assignments in which students are required to participate.

What is a normal course load?

The normal Trilogy course load is two classes per semester (or four per year). A student would complete the program in three years at a normal pace. There is the option to take one course per semester (two per year) if the time commitment required is unmanageable.

How much time will be required?

Completing homework assignments, taking tests and participating in the discussion board(s) is intended to take approximately 2 hours per week for each course. However, the time required will vary based on the student, the course material and the particular assignment. Time spent meeting with a mentor and/or the local learning community is not included in this estimate. This time also will vary but is expected to be 2 to 4 hours during each month.

What do mentors do?

Mentors are responsible for grading monthly exams and sending the information to Trilogy administration. They are also responsible for gathering students (presumably in the same class) into a local learning community and administrating the time together. These times are expected to be discussion or group oriented learning (i.e. not typically a lecture) and to include times of worship and prayer. Mentors are also committed to the character development and spiritual growth of each student through personal support and accountability.

If I was accepted into the last Trilogy cycle, but did not complete the program, do I have to apply again this time around?

You will have to fill out an application again, but you will not have to pay the application fee and you will not have to provide references.

Where can I get more information?

The Trilogy website contains a wealth of information including an overall prospectus to individual class descriptions. If you have a question that is not answered, you can email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .