Master of Divinity
The Master of Divinity is a 96-hour program that prepares men for pastoral ministry. It also prepares men who desire to teach at the Bible college level, continue their education to pursue the Master of Theology (Th.M.), Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) , Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), and apply for the military or hospital chaplaincy.
Why does the Master of Divinity require so many hours?
Are not most master’s degrees 36 hours in length?
The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) is much longer than a typical master’s program. Accrediting organizations consider the M.Div. to be a professional degree similar to a lawyer or a medical doctor. You understand why professions such as these require a thorough education if they are to serve the common good. The M.Div. prepares leaders who impact others for eternity. A Christian leader requires a body of knowledge and skills that enable one to accurately interpret and apply God’s word, clearly communicate God’s word in oral and written form, to gather and carefully evaluate information and to lead others. This is especially true for pastors who desire to care for God’s flock (1 Pet 5:1-15). The Bible is clear that those who teach and preach God’s word are held to a higher standard and are accountable to the Lord (1 Cor 3:10-15; 2 Tim 2:1-2; Jas 3:1).
I understand the M.Div. is required if I continue my education.
Is that correct?
Yes, the M.Div. is required if you want to pursue a higher theological degree. The M.Div. is the prerequisite for the Doctor in Ministry (D.Min.), Doctor of Missiology (D.Miss.), Master’s of Theology (Th.M.) and Doctor of Theology (Th.D.). (A number of seminaries offer a Ph.D. instead of the Th.D.)
I understand that the hospital chaplaincy requires a M.Div.
Is that correct?
Yes, hospital chaplaincy requires a M.Div.
I really like the number of elective hours. How do I choose my electives?
Some students complete their elective hours by taking courses from a single department. For example, some students take counseling courses. Other students take courses from a number of departments. Your faculty advisor can offer recommendations depending on your future ministry goals.