The Florida Apostolic Bible Center (FABC) operates as a 15-month hybrid training program designed to prepare students for effective ministry through a structured and engaging learning experience. During the first three semesters, all students, regardless of their chosen ministry track, complete the same foundational courses to ensure a solid biblical and theological base. In the fourth semester, students then begin program-specific courses tailored to their particular callings, whether in pulpit ministry or other areas of church service. This approach creates a unified foundation while also allowing for personalized development in the later stages of the program.
FABC follows a hybrid learning model that combines in-person and independent study. Students meet on campus in Tampa on the third Saturday of each month for four hours of concentrated instruction. Between these monthly sessions, students are given homework, reading assignments, and research projects that reinforce classroom teachings and promote independent learning.
Though FABC is not yet a college, students are expected to meet rigorous academic and spiritual standards. Each semester also includes a required practicum, where students apply what they have learned in a real ministry setting such as preaching, teaching, organizing outreach, or serving in a local church department — providing hands-on experience that bridges the gap between knowledge and practice.
Church Planting Certification
The Church Planting Certification is tailored for individuals pursuing ministerial roles, particularly those interested in church leadership and planting new works. This program provides a solid foundation in biblical knowledge, doctrinal understanding, and ministry development, with specialized courses such as Church Growth, Planting Churches, Christian Pastorate, and Church Administration. For students seeking ministerial licensing through the United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI), the Florida District recognizes FABC as an approved training center. This program is designed to serve aspiring ministers throughout the entire Florida District who are ready to step into leadership and pastoral ministry.
Students are required to complete the following courses for certification:
The Gospels
The Book of Acts
The Doctrine of God
Multicultural Church
Man’s Religions
Biblical Interpretation
The Pentateuch
The Christian Life
The New Birth
Christian Counseling
Preaching I
Church Planting
Church Growth
Christian Pastorate
History of the Church – UPCI/NLT
Church Administration
Christian Education Certification
The Christian Education Certification is ideal for individuals passionate about ministry who may not feel called to pulpit preaching or pastoral roles. While the core curriculum overlaps with the Church Planting Certification during the first three semesters, students in the Christian Education program engage in specialized coursework during the final term focused on teaching, discipleship, and church support roles. Courses such as Good Communication, Excellence in Teaching, and Assimilation and Retention are designed to prepare students to effectively teach and mentor others, lead educational ministries, and support the overall growth and stability of the church. This track honors the vital role of educators and ministry workers who serve faithfully behind the scenes, ensuring that every soul is taught, nurtured, and retained.
Students are required to complete the following courses for certification:
The Gospels
The Book of Acts
The Doctrine of God
The Multicultural Church
Your Role in the Church
The Pentateuch
The Christian Life
The New Birth
Christian Counseling
Outreach & Personal Evangelism
History of the Church – UPCI/NLT
Good Communication
Man’s Religions
Excellence in Teaching
Assimilation and Retention
Practicum
FABC’s Mission is to produce well rounded, Spirit-led Leaders
As part of the Florida Apostolic Bible Center’s commitment to hands-on ministry training, all students enrolled in certification programs are required to complete a practicum each semester. The practicum is a vital component of the FABC experience, providing students with opportunities to apply what they are learning in real-world ministry settings. This practical element ensures that students are not only gaining knowledge but also developing the skills and character necessary to serve effectively in their local churches and communities.
The practicum includes a wide range of activities, depending on the student’s chosen program track. Ministry students may be required to teach Bible studies, conduct outreach and personal evangelism, visit the sick and shut-in, moderate church services, exhort, preach, and participate in other pulpit and pastoral responsibilities. Those on the Christian Education track may focus more on teaching, assisting with church retention strategies, volunteering in ministry departments, and supporting educational efforts within the church. Additionally, each student’s pastor plays a key role in the process by completing a Leadership & Character Evaluation, which should reflect the student’s spiritual maturity, commitment, and readiness for ministry. This integrated approach reinforces FABC’s mission to produce well-rounded, Spirit-led leaders who are equipped for every good work.
