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Master of Divinity

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree stands at the center of the School of Divinity’s degree offerings. The program prepares students from diverse ministry experiences and theological perspectives for religious leadership. The program encourages students to explore the rich histories and traditions of Christianity, to understand the changing social and religious landscape of our times, and to gain awareness and practical experience of the issues facing churches in their local and global contexts. Through their studies in the MDiv curriculum, students will connect their knowledge of a full range of theological and ministry disciplines with what they encounter in ministry settings and in the world. Through imaginative courses and community engagement, students are challenged to become religious leaders committed to justice, reconciliation, and compassion in congregations and other ministries.

Goals for the Master of Divinity Degree

  • A knowledge of Christian scripture, history, and theology that is substantial and relevant for pastoral ministry;
  • Evidence of sustained reflection on and participation in spiritual nurturing, both individual and communal
  • Development of skills, gifts, and arts of ministry appropriate for leadership in local congregations and other settings.

The Master of Divinity degree is an 81 hour program designed to be completed in three years of full time, residential study. Students may also pursue the degree on a part time basis with permission of the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and the Associate Dean of Admissions. The maximum length of time allowed to complete the program is six years.

Note: Students who entered Fall 2011 or before may still choose the 90 hour program course of study. The student will need to consult with his/her advisor and complete the appropriate election form.

 

Requirements:

Biblical Studies (15 hours)
Course ID Course Name Hours
Bible Courses: 12 hours
BIB 521 Old Testament Interpretation I 3 hours
BIB 522 Old Testament Interpretation II 3 hours
BIB 541 New Testament Interpretation I 3 hours
BIB 542 New Testament Interpretation II 3 hours
     
Biblical Studies Elective 3 hours
Historical and Theological Studies (18 hours)
Course ID Course Name Hours
History: 6 hours
HIS 501 History of Christianity I 3 hours
HIS 502 History of Christianity II 3 hours
     
World Religions: 3 hours
Satisfied by courses offered each semester
in Divinity and Religion Department 
 
Theology: 6 hours
THS 521 Christian Theology I 3 hours

Theology elective 3 hours
     
Ethics: 3 hours
THS 521 Foundation of Christian Ethics 3 hours
  or  
THS 522 History of Theological Ethics 3 hours
Ministerial Studies (21 hours)
Course ID Course Name Hours
Art of Ministry: 11 hours
MIN 501 Art of Ministry I 2 hours
MIN 601A Art of Ministry II 3 hours
MIN 601B Art of Ministry II 3 hours
     
Choose one:
MIN 701 Art of Min III: Senior Project  
  or  
MIN 702a,b Art of Min III: Internship  
     
Homiletics: 3 hours
MIN 551 Homiletics and Worship 3 hours
     
Pastoral Care: 3 hours
MIN 631 The Ministry of Pastoral Care 3 hours
     
Multicultural Contexts for Ministry: 3 hours
Choose one:
MIN 590, 591, 592, 593, 594
     
Spirituality: 1 hour
Satisfied by courses specified each semester
General Elective Courses (27 hours)

For the remaining 27 hours of the degree program, students may choose from a broad selection of courses in the School of Divinity or from approved courses from the University.