Master of Divinity Degree
The Master of Divinity degree (MDiv) prepares students for a variety of ministries. From the very beginning of their studies, students are led to reflect on their Christian experience and call to ministry, to consider the nature of theological education, and to strengthen their spiritual resources.
In required courses students examine the biblical, historical, and theological foundations of the Christian faith as the basis for the practice of ministry. Other required courses facilitate the development of competencies in several significant areas of ministry. Students are encouraged to consider their own interests and gifts in their selection of elective courses.
Our Master of Divinity is considered to be a three-year program; however, many students choose to take longer to complete it. Available in our course catalog (PDF), beginning on page 46, are outlines of suggested programs of study leading to the completion of the MDiv degree in three years.
Areas of Emphasis in Our Master of Divinity Degree Program
The Master of Divinity curriculum at BTSR includes three basic areas of emphasis that are seen as integral to the preparation of every student, regardless of his or her specific ministry interest. These special emphases are:
Spirituality. We stress that academic preparation must be accompanied by attention to spiritual formation. In addition to required courses in spirituality, the seminary community worships and prays together.
Global Mission Immersion. We recognize that the church has truly become global in composition; therefore we seek to help students broaden their vision to attain a global perspective. Students are required to complete at least one course involving work in a cross-cultural mission setting where they are immersed in a culture different from their own.
Congregational-focused Theological Education. We emphasize that theological education is to be focused toward ministry within a congregation or community of faith. Faculty and students work together to examine ways in which theological education can be transferred into practical ministry. A year-long, field-based experience draws the student into close contact with one particular church fellowship or community of faith.
Beyond these three emphases, BTSR upholds the principles of servant leadership within the church and the role of women in ministry.
Five MDiv Concentrations Available
There are five recognized concentration areas that are a part of our Master of Divinity degree:
- Christian Education
- Children & Family Ministries
- Pastoral Care & Counseling
- Youth & Student Ministries
To learn more, begin reading on page 47 of our course catalog (PDF). Here we provide an overview of our MDiv concentrations and the course requirements for each concentration.
Additional Information on BTSR and our MDiv Degree Program
General Information
- Overview for Prospective Students, including information on our Preview Days, call to ministry stories from members of the BTSR community, directions to BTSR, and photos of our students, faculty, staff, and campus
- Learn more about the BTSR community and the students who attend our seminary <link to new BTSR Community page>
- Our Academic Calendar
- Student Life at BTSR, including housing, estimated living expenses, library, bookstore, student activities and job placement information
- MDiv Dual Degree Programs available:
- Social Work: Master of Divinity & Master of Social Work
- Chaplaincy/Pastoral Counseling: Master of Divinity & Master of Science
- Online Seminary Courses are available for MDiv students
Admissions and Financial Aid Information
Contact Us for More Information on our Master of Divinity Program
You can request additional information on our Master of Divinity degree program through our Information Request Form. If you are interested in admissions information, please call our Admissions Office at 888-345-BTSR (2877) or email us at admissions@btsr.edu. |
