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Master of Divinity

Overview

The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree is the three-year program that is considered the "first professional" ministerial degree. It is the standard by which many denominations evaluate their prospective ministers for ordination. The program offers a balance in biblical, theological, and practical training and is carefully designed to equip prospective ministers for effective pastoral or missionary ministry.

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Although the M.Div. is not necessary for ordination in all churches or denominations, it is the degree that we recommends all prospective pastors to attain. The graduate-level of study involved in the M.Div. degree gives pastors greater practical and theological tools with which to accomplish their mission of serving the body of Christ.

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Students who have previously earned a bachelor's degree in biblical/theological studies may receive up to 15 hours of advanced standing.

What can I do with this degree?

A Master of Divinity degree will open for you the possibility of becoming an Ordained Pastor, a Chaplain in the military, police or in the U.S. prison system, a missionary, an executive in a Christian organization or a college professor. 

What are the degree outcomes?

  • Demonstrate a general knowledge of the Bible, including a synthesis understanding of the major books.

  • Evidence an understanding of the historical development of theology, and an ability to support one's theological views and apply them to contemporary issues.

  • Evidence of an increasing likeness to Christ as manifested in love for God, love for others, and evidence of the fruit of the Spirit.

  • Apply biblical principles in dealing with contemporary moral and social issues.

  • Identify and implement key principles to establish dynamic worship, spiritual warfare, intercession, and release of gifts in the ministry of the church.

  • Demonstrate ability with professional competencies for traditional church ministry and pastoral responsibility, while fostering church growth through discipleship, leadership development, and evangelism.

What unique experiences or opportunities will I have? 

  • Bethesda University Offers the best and most affordable on-campus and online Master of Divinity by providing the necessary ministerial tools for a successful career serving the Lord, our communities, and the world. 

What kind of courses will I take?

  • GBIB 503       OT Overview & Application

  • GBIB 508       NT Overview & Application

  • GBIB 512       Biblical Hermeneutics

  • GMIN 570      Leadership & Organizational Development

  • GMIN 571      Effective Evangelism & Community Outreach

  • GMIN 572      Counseling & Conflict Management

  • GMIN 575      Teaching methods & Discipleship

  • GMIN 578      Effective Communication & Performance

  • GMIN 596      Homiletics and Preaching in Contemporary Culture

Course Catalogs

For course descriptions, requirements, focus areas, options, and other program details see our full course catalog.

Program Review

For more details, please click program review.

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Ronnie Tejada
M.Div

​One thing that I love the most about Bethesda University is the availability of the Spirit-filled online biblical and theological studies. Many schools out there offers online programs as well, but I really appreciate that Bethesda University made it sure that the pentecostal/full gospel perspective of studying the Bible/Christianity are available from its curriculum.

3 Years
Standard Duration

This indicates the standard duration of this program. Completion time may vary depending on transferred coursework and preferred courseload.

96
Total Program Credits

This indicates the standard duration of this program. Completion time may vary depending on transferred coursework and preferred courseload.

TRACS/ABHE
ACCREDATION

Bethesda University is accredited by TRACS and ABHE

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