History of the Master of Divinity
For the study of theology at graduate level, the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) is frequently referred to as the first professional degree in pastoral ministry. It is the most sought after degree in seminaries and divinity schools.
In many denominations it is the prerequisite for ordination or licensing for professional ministry. At seminaries in the U.S.A. this degree requires between 80 and 104 credits, with 96 being considered the institutional standard.
The bachelor’s degree is required for admission to the M.Div. program.
Before the development of online technology in the mid-nineties, the M.Div. could only be earned by attending resident seminary classes for three years full-time, or 6-9 years of resident classes on a part-time study schedule.
About the Atlantic Coast Seminary
Master of Divinity Degree Program
This program meets institutional standards. It also reduces the minimum three years of full time study to what can be less than one year of 100% online study which will enrich your life, profession, and ministry. The Atlantic Coast M.Div. program is available to anyone with a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or professional doctorate from a University.
(The Bachelor’s degree can be in any discipline.)
Master of Divinity Program Requirements
Four online Master of Divinity program tracks are offered based upon previous education.
With a Bachelor’s Degree Only: Three Core Program Required
Those who have a Bachelor’s degree and no professional ministry experience will complete three Master of Divinity Core course groups. Core One, Competency in Scripture; Core Two, Major Ministry curriculum; Core Three, Minor Ministry curriculum.
With a Bachelor’s Degree and Professional Ministry Experience: Two Core Program Required
Those who have a Bachelor’s degree and at least five years of experience in ministry will complete Core Two, the Major Ministry Curriculum and Core Three, the Minor Ministry Curriculum.
Option: Professional Ministry experience; four M.Div courses; and a Writing Project.
With a Bachelor’s Degree and 32 Transfer Credits, or a Master’s Degree: Two Core Program Required
Those who have a Bachelor’s degree and at least 32 graduate level credits, or a Master’s degree in any discipline, will complete Core Two, Major Ministry Curriculum and Core Three, Minor Ministry Curriculum.
Option: Professional Ministry experience; four M.Div. courses; and a Writing Project.
With a Professional Doctoral Level Non-Ministry Related Degree: Two Core Program
Those who have earned professional Doctoral level university or College of Law degrees will complete Core One, Competency in Scripture and Core Two, Major Ministry Curriculum.
Option: Four M.Div. courses and a Writing Project.
The Atlantic Coast Mission is to provide you with the courses, technology, and academic support to ensure that you obtain the specific knowledge, skills, and credentials to maximize your potential for the demands of the 21st Century.
