Master of Divinity Degrees

A Master of Divinity Degree (M.Div.) is a commonly taken theology based degree in America. It's suited for people who plan to enter ordained ministry as either pastors or chaplains or in other ministry roles. Most churches consider it to be the benchmark degree for full-time vocational ministry. The content taught in the degree is also useful for those who wish to go on Doctorate level studies. In most American seminaries the Master of Divinity has replaced the Bachelor of Divinity degree.
  1. Courses

    • Several universities in America offer the degree, including the Denver Seminary, Notre Dame, Regent University, Wake Forest, and the Christian Leadership University. It takes between three and four years to obtain it (about 90 credit hours), and is considered to be more demanding than other Master's programs that only require 36 or 48. M.Divs are also available online through a number of institutions, allowing students to study the material in their own time. A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, or from an equivalent overseas institution, is usually required for admission. Those with experience in ministry work are usually given priority.

    Material

    • The degree covers material to provide students with a strong understanding of the Christian ministry and theology in general. Colleges in Europe (like Tyndale in the Netherlands) are keen to encourage religious study and more people to take a Master's in Divinity believing that people are becoming less religious and need to find faith again. Students typically take classes in philosophy, church history, and New Testament Greek, as well as looking at Latin, Hebrew and evangelism.

    Selecting a Course

    • Different Christian denominations have affiliations with particular colleges, so it's important to think about the church you would like to join after you finish the course. Some may also raise concerns or query why you have attended, for example, a secular school which teaches divinity. Meet the lecturers and current student to get an understanding of its theological ideas to see if you'll fit in.

    Accreditation

    • Be careful when looking for a seminary online. Some of them are unaccredited and just money-making scams. Make sure you select one that is accredited by the Council for Higher Education and the Association of Theological Schools.

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