What is a Master of Divinity?

A Master of Divinity (MDiv) is a postgraduate degree to help train students in the field of ministry by deepening their knowledge and understanding of scripture, Biblical languages, theology, and ministry leadership. The degree came about in the mid-20th century to ensure ministers were properly trained and prepared for the vocation. Today, across the globe, many students obtain this degree to gain a foundation of theology and to prepare themselves for all types of ministry.

Though the degree’s primary purpose is to prepare future ministry leaders, an MDiv is a deep, academic study of theology benefitting all types of Christians seeking to advance their knowledge of Scripture and to elevate Christ in their lives.

Depending on the school, an MDiv will be anywhere between seventy to ninety hours of academic credit. Most programs will take around two and a half to three and a half years to complete. Students looking to obtain an MDiv should be aware that a bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite.

Pastoral and Practical Training

Within the degree, there are several subsets of topics to help ensure students are well-rounded in their skill set and knowledge. One of the key components of an MDiv will include studying Scripture, language, and interpretation. Most MDiv programs will require students to take courses in Hebrew and Greek to give students the skill of effectively translating Scripture. Courses in biblical interpretation help students delve into the depths of Scripture, gaining a more comprehensive understanding by exploring the historical context and authors of the text.

In addition, coursework in historical theology gives students a better understanding of church history and historical interpretations of Scripture. This will help students to be able to defend church practices, theologies, and established traditions and sacraments. Courses in systematic theology help students organize the doctrines of our historical and evangelical heritage into a whole that can be applied to the real-world contexts of ministry today.

Finally, an MDiv provides classes to equip individuals in the practical areas of ministry such as biblical counseling and marriage and family counseling. Courses on the art of preaching help train students to effectively communicate the message of Scripture. An MDiv program will also contain classes to train students on leadership development in ministry, helping future ministry leaders navigate effectively leading others. Some MDiv programs may also offer opportunities for spiritual formation in preparation for ministry, such as small groups or mentorship programs.

Denominational Variations

MDiv course requirements will vary, depending on which denomination is offering the program. However, there are foundational courses that will often be required across all denominations, such as language and interpretation, to effectively train students in the field of translation. Additionally, most schools will require courses in both the Old and New Testament. However, depending on the denomination and school, classes on theological topics such as ethics, baptism, church history, exposition, and counseling will vary.

If you are interested in learning more about a Master of Divinity, be sure to check out Trinity Evangelical Divinity School’s (TEDS) program. This program has residential and remote options, making it flexible for all types of students. TEDS also ensures online students can interact directly with professors, giving online students the ability to have the same resources as in-person students.

Advantages of the Master of Divinity Program at TEDS

The Master of Divinity from TEDS is a total of eighty-seven credit hours, covering four pillars of ministry education: Scripture and Interpretation, Theology and Tradition, Worldview and Culture, and Ministries and Practice. An additional advantage of the TEDS MDiv program is it offers a Logos software package for students at a discounted price, which provides students with the resources they need to study the Bible. An additional area of support in this program is the formation of groups that are required in this program, giving students direct access to a professor’s leadership.

For anyone seeking to work in vocational ministry, nonprofit work, or any other ministry work, TEDS’ Master of Divinity program will equip each student for their chosen vocation. TEDS is a leading institution in training and equipping students to be servants of the gospel. Visit Trinity Evangelical Divinity School’s website to learn more about our programs.