Graduate degrees that focus on ministry aim to prepare students for positions of church leadership as associate pastors or pastors. Some ministry degrees focus on specialized areas, such as religious education and church music. Theological degrees allow a student to pursue an in-depth program of theological and religious study, often in preparation for an academic career.
The most common graduate degree emphasizing ministry is the Master of Divinity (M.Div.). The Master of Theological Studies is the most common master's degree in theology.
Other graduate degrees emphasizing ministry include a master's in pastoral studies, religious education and church music.
Coursework for a Master of Divinity or other religious graduate degree often includes studies in Christian history and theology, philosophy, church history and biblical studies. Degrees oriented toward ministry also include courses in church leadership and pastoral counseling.
Some people in ministry or theology pursue doctoral degrees oriented toward church leadership or theological study. Doctoral degrees in ministerial areas include the Doctor of Ministry, Doctorate in Church Music and Doctor of Educational Ministry. Doctoral degrees in theology include the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in theology and the Doctor of Theology.