Since the D.Min. is designed to enhance the ministry competence of practicing professionals, courses are scheduled to accommodate the schedules of students in ministry. Doctoral courses consist of three segments: pre-seminar assignments, the doctoral seminar, and post-seminar assignments.

Pre-seminar work typically entails both reading and writing assignments. Post-seminar work typically includes a project and/or an integrative paper.

Seminars are scheduled for five days, Monday through Friday, during CIU's Winter Studies (January) and Summer Studies Program (June-August).