Pastoral Studies, M.Div.
Students seeking preparation for general pastoral ministry, particularly the role of senior pastor and the responsibility for the theological and administrative leadership of a local church in the United States, are encouraged to pursue the M.Div. with a pastoral studies concentration.
A component of practical field experience is built into the requirements. (M.Div. Core plus 12 credit hours.) Being a pastor in the 21st century in the U.S. is a daunting challenge. The M.Div. in Pastoral Studies concentration is designed to help prepare current and future pastors to understand the issues facing the American church today and be equipped with the theological knowledge and ministry skills to address these challenges.
The MDiv degree program provides an optimal curriculum in graduate theological study to prepare men and women for various ministry roles. The three-year program requires 75 hours of study. There are eight concentrations: General Studies, Pastoral Studies, Pastoral Counseling, Christian Ministry, Exegetical Studies, Intercultural Studies, Women’s Leadership, and Chaplaincy Studies. Advanced Standing credit may be obtained for up to 18 credit hours of the MDiv degree and 36 credit hours may be transferred from an accredited institution. The combination of Advanced Standing and Transfer Credit is limited to 36 credit hours.
Ideal Fit
Students who are called to prepare for general pastoral ministry, particularly the role of senior pastor may consider the Pastoral Studies concentration.
The Master of Divinity program in Pastoral Studies is appropriate for those called to provide the theological and administrative leadership of a local church in the United States.
Career Opportunities
Pastors are called to serve God’s people by loving, leading, and teaching them by personal example and practical exposition from God’s Word.
Pastors provide church leadership, administration, pastoral care, spiritual guidance, teaching, preaching, and biblical counseling to those in need.
-
Senior Pastor
-
Associate Pastor
-
Assistant Pastor
-
Executive Pastor
-
Church Elder
It is impossible to put a price on the value of my seminary education. I grew in my depth of understanding, but more than that I grew in my love for Jesus and passion for the gospel. The relationships with classmates and professors have proved life changing since graduation. The professors taught us out of their expertise and modeled what it means to treasure Jesus. My classmates were not simply fellow students, but deep friends and partners in the gospel. I can’t imagine being in ministry without the training I received.
Zac Hess
Master of Divinity - 2013Course Overview
Building on a foundation of basic orthodox systematic theology, students will explore the issues that create tensions within a theological system.
The course will also encourage experience in creative methodologies of preaching, methodologies designed to impact 21st century listeners.
This course will examine Scriptural truths and principles along with a biblical theory of personality.
This course seeks to promote appropriate ministry perspectives especially as applied to the local church in North America.
Through reading and writing, pastoral interviews, you will learn about: servant leadership, mentoring, visionary leadership, and leading as a change agent.
Entry Requirements
In order to be considered for enrollment in the Master of Divinity program at Grace Theological Seminary, you must fulfill certain admissions requirements:
-
A four-year bachelor‘s degree or its equivalent (for international students) from a recognized institution of higher learning. Graduates of Bible colleges, liberal arts colleges, and state colleges and universities are encouraged to apply.
-
A student who received his or her pre-seminary education at an institution that is not accredited or who achieved less than a 2.5 grade point average in pre-seminary education may be admitted on academic restriction.
-
Applicants without a bachelor’s degree who have completed some or no college may be admitted if they meet certain ministry and research/writing requirements. Please contact seminary admissions for more information; email: gtsrec@grace.edu or phone: 877.607.0012.
Admission Requirements
Grace Theological Seminary welcomes applications from all individuals who have a testimony of personal faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior
To be admitted as a Grace Theological Seminary student, you’re asked to provide:
-
Official transcripts from the school where you obtained your degree. (If you are currently working on your degree, you can submit an unofficial transcript for admission until term completion, at which time an official transcript is required. Transcripts should be sent to admissions@grace.edu.
-
A spiritual life reference
-
International applicant must provide a copy of TESOL test scores, and provide a financial certificate indicating sufficient funding for the program of study.
-
Master of Arts applicants may have additional non-academic requirements as well as longer ministry experience requirements. MA applicants are encouraged to contact admissions for more information.
Learn More
