Master of Divinity

Purpose of the Program

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is a 136-hour program designed primarily for those who desire to enter the ministry as a pastor, chaplain, missionary, or other full-time Christian minister. The goal of the program is to equip students for ministry through the integration of biblical, theological, and practical studies. The program is designed for, but not restricted to the following:

1. Those who wish to serve as a pastor in full-time or part-time ministry;
2. Those who wish to serve as a chaplain in a clinical/pastoral setting or in the United States military; and
3. Those who wish to have a well-rounded theological education that involves biblical languages integrated with biblical, theological, and practical disciplines.

General Admission Requirements

The degree calls for students who demonstrate a potential for pastoral ministry, a faithful commitment to the Word of God, a heart for Christian service, and the personal discipline necessary to complete degree requirements. The normal prerequisite for the MDiv is a baccalaureate degree (minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale) from an accredited institution. Applicants must have read and signed that they are in agreement with and will uphold the Doctrinal Statement (pages 14 -15), that they will abide by financial policies and academic policies, and that they will adhere to the regulations described in the Code of Conduct and Drug Policy. All additional requirements can be found on the Application for Admission.

Learning Outcomes

1. Acquire an ability to study the Bible in Hebrew and Greek and to conduct biblical exegesis in order to properly interpret the Scriptures;
2. Acquire an ability to understand the creeds and doctrines of the historic Christian Church;
3. Acquire an ability to defend the orthodox teachings of the Bible;
4. Acquire an ability to rightly proclaim and model the message of the Bible in the public forum;
5. Acquire an ability to assume Christian leadership roles in a local or global environment and to administer educational and practical ministries in accordance with the Great Commission;
6. Acquire an ability to use the Bible to interact with contemporary issues facing the church and society;
7. Acquire an ability to provide professional pastoral care and basic Christian counseling; and
8. Acquire an ability to use the Scriptures for personal and corporate spiritual formation.

Master of Divinity Program Requirements

Note: Before beginning any graduate program, students intending to seek ordination or licensing for Christian ministry and/or vocational opportunities (religious or secular) should be knowledgeable of the specific requirements of their denomination, synod, religious organization, military association, or vocational institution to determine the applicability of this degree.