Bookkeeping Certification
Program Code: 5FNCB-MBCP-L1
Credential Type: Certification
Credential Code: 5-Fold Certified Ministry Bookkeeping Professional – MBCP-L1
Program Overview
The Ministry Bookkeeping Certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals responsible for managing financial records, stewardship accountability, and reporting within a church or ministry. Issued by the 5-Fold National Certification Board, this certification affirms the ability to apply financial ethics, recordkeeping systems, and church-specific budgeting practices.
This certification is exam-based and not a course. Candidates may pursue formal training in bookkeeping, accounting, or financial stewardship through Emet School of Ministry (ESOM) or Emet Global University (EGU).
What the Certification Exam Includes
- Online Study Guide
- Practice Test (Included in Cost)
- Comprehensive Certification Exam
- Certification Conferral upon Passing
What You Will Learn if You Enroll in a Partner Program (ESOM or EGU)
Formal programs offer instruction in:
- Church finance basics and nonprofit structure
- Budget planning, expense tracking, and reporting
- Tithe, offering, and donation accountability
- Internal controls and audit preparation
- Software tools for church bookkeeping (e.g., QuickBooks for ministries)
- Real-world ministry financial scenarios and reporting projects
Note: These are covered in coursework and are not included in the certification exam itself.
What the Refresher Course Includes (Optional)
- Key concepts in ministry bookkeeping
- Manual with templates for tracking and reporting
- No instructor support
- Best for exam readiness and compliance awareness
Mentoring Guidelines
- Mentoring follows the Ministry Bookkeeping Manual
- The manual is included in course and refresher packages
- The certification exam does not include the manual
Career Field Application
This certification prepares individuals for roles such as:
- Church Bookkeeper or Financial Clerk
- Ministry Finance Team Member
- Stewardship & Tithing Coordinator
- Budget Administrator for a Religious Organization
- Reporting Assistant for Boards and Pastoral Oversight
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition (Certification Exam) | $587.00 |
| Enrollment Fee | $25.00 |
| Refresher Course (Optional) | $199.00 |
| Tutoring – 4 Sessions (Optional) | $150.00 |
| Exam Re-Take Fee (with 1 Year Exp.) | $250.00 |
| Credential Conferral Fee | $38.00 |
| Total Program Cost | $650.00 |
| Certification Renewal (Every 5 Years) | $199.00 |
Program Structure
- Credit Hours: 3
- Program Length: 4 Months
- Delivery: Online, Self-Paced
- Support Options: Optional mentoring and tutoring available.