MICRO-CREDENTIAL course

Introduction to the Theo-Futures Approach

 This micro-credential serves as the essential entry point into the Theo-Futures framework. It introduces the core concepts and commitments of Theo-futures thinking, equipping participants with the foundational capacities necessary to engage in future-oriented conversations within Christian contexts. As the first step in leveraging the full Theo-Futures Cycle, this course emphasizes retrospective theological reflection, contextual analysis, and personal locating practices. Participants will examine their assumptions, explore their theological and cultural identity, and consider their posture toward change. This grounding work provides the critical orientation needed for faithful and strategic engagement with the challenges and opportunities of future ministry. 
Launch Date

Oct 1 2025

End Date

Self -Paced 

FORMAT

 Online

 Asynchronous
TIME COMMITMENT

 40-45 hours

INSTRUCTOR

Joel Murphy

STREAM

Anticipatory Innovation

Course Details

 Dates: Course launches October 1
Location: Online
 Completing the Micro-Credential Course: At the successful completion of this course, students will be awarded a micro-credential badge approved by Acadia University and Acadia Divinity College to your MyCreds account
 Grading: All ADC Expand micro-credential courses are pass/fail 
  Format: This micro credential is entirely asynchronous, with students able to enroll at any time and complete at their own pace.

How to Apply

1. Create an Account & Fill out the Application Form
After you've created your account, an application form will pop up. Fill out all fields and submit - it should only take a few minutes to complete. Your application will be reviewed by ADC and you will receive a response within the week. 
2. Enroll in the course of your choice
Once you have been admitted to ADC Expand, you can enroll and pay for your course by clicking the 'Enroll' button on the relevant course page. You will not have to re-apply to take future courses and you will be notified when new courses are launched. 
Your instructor

Joel Murphy

Joel Murphy leads the Hub of Trend Research and Analysis within the Futuring Lab at Acadia Divinity College, a strategic initiative supported by the Lilly Endowment’s Pathways for Tomorrow program. He brings a strong background in research design, community-based inquiry, social impact assessment, evidence-informed program development, and knowledge mobilization.
With an Engaged Scholar approach, Joel has contributed to a range of academic and applied research contexts, holding research-related roles at St. Francis Xavier University, Mount Saint Vincent University, Acadia University, and the Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada (CBAC).
Joel is currently a PhD Candidate in Educational Studies at Mount Saint Vincent University. He holds a Master of Arts from Saint Mary’s University and a Bachelor of Theology from Acadia University. His research interests include youth development, career education, experiential learning, futures studies, and applied research methodology.
He lives in the Annapolis Valley with his wife Kathleen, their two daughters, Adley-Jo and Elliott, and their English bulldogs, Winnie and Moose.