Master of Divinity

The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) is the basic professional degree for ministry in the church. In many denominations it is one requirement for ordination. In the United Methodist Church, it is among the requirements in the primary track toward ordination as elder.

Degree Requirements

The M.Div. calls for the completion of 90 credit hours. Students may complete the degree in three years. However, the demands of course work, ministry setting, and family responsibilities prompt many students to take four years (22-23 credit hours per year) or longer. All requirements must be completed within eight years.

Specializations

M.Div. students who demonstrate strength and potential in a particular area and have a satisfactory level of achievement in their academic work can focus on a specific field of interest. After completion of 15 credit hours and consultation with faculty in the area of interest, a student may apply for a specialization in:

• Black Church Ministries
• Christian Religious Education (with an optional Youth Ministry focus)
• Evangelism
• Town and Country Ministry
• Women, Church, and Society

Specializations require 15 credit hours of course work. The electives required for specializations are offered on a 2-3 year cycle.

The M.Div. specializations in Christian Religious Education and Evangelism may meet the academic requirements for professional certification in Christian education, youth ministry, or evangelism in the United Methodist Church.

For more information download:

Saint Paul School of Theology Catalog, 2006-2008
Community Handbook 2007-2008

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