Search
Program Design
The Master of Divinity degree requires:
- 90 credit hours of successfully completed study
- satisfactory demonstrations of information literacy, completion of a ministry integration paper, senior presentation based on significant learning during the seminary experience and faculty interview, and faculty recommendation for graduation
The 90-hour degree is designed as a three-year program. By taking 12 hours per semester plus three hours during interterm and summer each year, a student can complete the program in three years. However, some students combine study and employment, extending the time to complete the degree. The dual-degree MDiv and MSW program enables the student to earn both degrees in four years.
Forty-five credit hours of course work must be taken at AMBS, with 30 of those credit hours in residence on the Elkhart campus. However, candidates for the MDiv degree are encouraged to take two years of credit work (60 credit hours) at AMBS to benefit from the formational and ministry assessment aspects of the program. MDiv students completing a semester or more of theological education elsewhere, and who intend to graduate from AMBS, should apply for AMBS admission as soon as their intention is clear so that a faculty adviser can be assigned to guide the program of study, assess growth in ministry during the MDiv program, and guide the completion of the integration paper and the senior presentation and interview process.
The Bible curriculum orients students to the study of Scripture by introducing them to the biblical languages, guiding them into the disciplines of Old and New Testament studies and biblical theology, and aiding them in the interpretation of Scripture. The Recommended sequence is for those who will use the Bible actively in pastoral ministry; it prepares students best to work with the biblical languages, interpret Scripture, and use commentaries, skills which enhance preaching and teaching. The requirements also can be met through the Alternative sequence with the approval of the student’s faculty adviser.
The History, Theology, and Ethics curriculum encourages thoughtful engagement with and appropriation of Anabaptist-Mennonite and broader Christian traditions and develops the ability to address modern problems in light of biblical and historical perspectives.
The Church and Ministry curriculum develops vision for and practice in a variety of ministry arts and skills.
Additional Background Information
- Ministry in Church and World handbook
- Congregationally Supervised Pastoral Education handbook
- Field Education Application
