Master of Divinity

Degree Description

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree at Pacific Theological Seminary is designed to equip those called to preaching, church planting, bible translating, and missional work in languages. The degree provides a biblical and theological foundation. Our diverse, multidenominational faculty and student body foster whole and holy persons who are committed to service in Christ’s kingdom as God’s agents of change.

Objectives of the MDiv Program

  1. Demonstrate proficiency in biblical content while integrating a conversant and discerning approach to biblical interpretation.

  2. Engage in well-rounded theological reflection rooted in historical traditions in response to ministerial needs.

  3. Cultivate lifelong Christian formational practices evidenced by the fruit of the Spirit and authentic love for God and others.

  4. Develop a missional worldview that empowers a global and local witness to the kingdom of God.

  5. Learn and apply servant-leadership skills for preaching, teaching and guiding others within ministerial contexts.

Academic Requirements

A prospective student will need an earned Bachelors from an approved or accredited institution.

Length of Study

The MDiv requires 78 units to complete. Students may complete the program in 4 years, but may take longer to finish all requirements for the program depending on the number of credits taken each term. All credits earned at PTS are semester-credits.

Required Coursework

Core Requirements (27 credits)

  • Christian Social Ethics

  • Church History

  • Hermeneutics

  • New Testament Survey

  • NT Exegetical Explorations

  • Old Testament Survey

  • OT Exegetical Explorations

  • Systematic Theology I & II

Degree Specific Requirements (21 credits)

  • American Christianity

  • Discipleship in Community

  • Global, Cultural and Contextual Ministry

  • Introduction to Pastoral Care and Counseling

  • Introduction to Preaching

  • Introduction to Transformational Leadership

  • Leading Worship in the Christian Life Cycle

  • Missional Outreach and Evangelism

  • Organizational Leadership and Church Government

Additional Degree Requirements

  • Concentration and Electives (4.5-12 credits)

  • Formation Course Requirements (7.5 credits)

  • Internship (3 credits)

Biblical Languages (7.5-15 credits)

Courses in Greek, Hebrew, or both

Concentrations

No two callings are alike. Students in the MDiv program are not required to choose a concentration, but may take any elective courses that interest them. However, students have the option to choose from one of three concentrations if they would like to specialize their study and demonstrate competency for ministry in a particular context. Below you will find more information on each concentration along with a list of the required courses.

Anglican Studies (12 credits)

The Anglican Studies courses are intended primarily for Master of Divinity students seeking ordination in the Anglican Church of North America; however, these courses can be used as an Anglican Studies concentration.

  • The Anglican Way in History

  • The Anglican Way in Liturgy

  • The Anglican Way in Ministry

  • The Anglican Way in Theology

Chaplaincy (12 credits)

This program will enable chaplains and those preparing for chaplaincy to train for ministry in contexts such as healthcare services, educational institutions, businesses and corporations, correctional facilities, and the military. In addition to theological and ethical training, graduates of the program will be knowledgeable of the ways in which pastoral care is put into practice in non-church/parish settings.

  • Chaplaincy in Contemporary Society

  • Crisis Intervention and Trauma Response

  • Introduction to Pastoral Care and Counseling

  • Lifespan Development and Aging

Pastoral Care and Counseling (12 credits)

This concentration enables students to prepare for the counseling tasks common in ministry settings as well as for preventive educational efforts in the church. The curriculum provides preparation in pastoral care and counseling that would enable those involved in local church as well as agency ministries to enhance health and wholeness in the variety of organizational and social contexts served by these ministries.

  • Community Mental Health

  • Crisis Intervention and Trauma Response

  • Introduction to Pastoral Care and Counseling

  • Lifespan Development and Aging