Competency-based theological education (CBTE) is reshaping how future church leaders are formed – and it’s more than just skills training. In this episode, Dr. Susan Reese of Kairos University and Dr. Nathan Hitchcock, CBTE consultant, discuss how this approach emphasizes character, spiritual formation, and lived practice alongside academics. From mentoring and integration with local churches to assessing “heart” competencies like friendship, rest, and resilience, they also discuss issues like assessment and rigor, and offer reasons why schools may consider CBTE. 

The CBTE 2025 conference (in November 2025) was referenced in the show. You can find out more here.  

The book, "Theological Education: Principles and Practices of a Competency-Based Approach" was also mentioned. It can be found on Amazon here. (The In Trust Center does not earn any compensation from the link.)