Master of Divinity

Overview

The Master of Divinity has long been considered the first professional degree for Christian ministry. It provides a well-rounded education in Christian Scripture, Christian Faith and Heritage, Christian Character, Cultural Context, and Practical Theology. Though it is primarily intended to prepare graduates for ministry as pastors of local congregations, Master of Divinity graduates may also serve in a variety of roles: teaching in theological colleges, leaders of non- government charitable organizations (NGOs), consultancy, pastoral counseling, ecclesiastical leadership, and so on. Students who pursue the Master of Divinity with a view toward teaching ministry, particularly in college or seminary, are encouraged to supplement their studies through the Master of Arts in Religious Education (M.A.R.E.) or Master of Science in Theology (M.S.T.).

The Master of Divinity follows the paradigm for the educational formation of candidates for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene. With certain adjustments it may also fill this purpose for members of other denominations. The degree requires ninety (90) units of study.

The Master of Divinity is recognized by the Philippine’s Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and is accredited by the Asia Theological Association (ATA) and the Association for Theological Education in Southeast Asia (ATESEA).

Program Outcomes

The primary purpose of the Master of Divinity is the preparation of well-rounded ministers, particularly but not limited to pastoral leadership in local congregations. As a seminary operating under the aegis of the Church of the Nazarene, APNTS conforms to the standards of ministerial education as defined by that denomination. In addition to the overall mission of APNTS, the Master of Divinity is designed to prepare students to:

1. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the biblical, historical, philosophical, and theological underpinnings of Christian faith and practice.
2. Understand how the ministry of Christian congregations in various locations throughout the world contribute to accomplishing the Great Commission.
3. Seek to alleviate suffering in the world through compassionate ministries as well as through biblically- and theologically-informed advocacy for peace and justice.
4. Work both within and outside of denominational structures to contribute to the fulfillment of God’s mission in the world.
5. Develop a passion for understanding one’s own society on a deep level and for bringing the Gospel of Jesus to bear upon that society.

Course Delivery Method

Courses are offered through both full semester and intensive schedules. Courses are offered in traditional classroom and blended modalities. Practicum requirements are accomplished off. campus through partnership with churches, parachurches, and other organizations.

Admission Requirements

A completed application through the Admissions Office must be submitted including relevant transcripts, reference letters, and financial and personal information. All students must have completed a bachelor’s degree with a 2.0 GPA average or higher. A 500 English exam score or higher is needed for acceptance. Once a student applies with all transcripts, reference letters and completed application, the Admissions Office and Master of Divinity program director review all documents submitted and may ask for an interview. Transferring credits from accredited, recognized graduate programs are reviewed and approved by the Academic Dean. Up to 36 units (40% of the curriculum) may be transferred/credited from previous transcripts to the program.

Graduation Requirements

The degree may be completed with a minimum of three years of study, and the degree must be completed within ten years of first enrollment. A year of absence may be applied through the program director, which is not included in the 10 years statute of limitations. A 2.0 GPA is required for degree completion. Graduates must also pass a Comprehensive Examination and submit a Capstone Project.

Degree Specializations

The Master of Divinity does not offer specific specializations or concentrations. Students may direct their unregulated elective subjects entirely in one area as they desire. Students who choose to write a thesis should also dedicate their unregulated elective units toward a particular area of specialization.

Course Offerings

The Master of Divinity is a 90-unit degree professional program. The curriculum is divided among Introductory Courses (21 units), Core Courses (12 units), Regulated Cognates (9 units), Required Courses (36 units), a Capstone Project (3 units), and Unregulated Electives (9 units). Each class below is 3 units, unless otherwise specified.