Master of Divinity (MDiv)
The most comprehensive preparation for vocational ministry
79 Credit Hours + 11 Field Education Credits
Master of Divinity at North Park Theological Seminary
The Master of Divinity (MDiv) at North Park Theological Seminary is a 79-credit-hour program, plus 11 field-education credits, designed to prepare students for pastoral ministry, chaplaincy, teaching, and leadership in the church.
Our most comprehensive program of study, the degree is rooted in biblical and theological studies— equipping students with a graduate-level understanding of Scripture, Christian history, and theological worship and ethics, while integrating practical ministry training. Traditionally focused on congregational leadership, and preparing students for Ordination to Word & Sacrament in the Evangelical Covenant Church, the MDiv degree also serves those pursuing ministry in nonprofit, parachurch, and academic contexts.
Students develop skills to interpret Scripture faithfully, communicate the gospel effectively, and lead with pastoral wisdom. Courses in preaching, pastoral care, and spiritual formation cultivate both personal ministerial identity and the ability to guide others. With an emphasis on cultural competency and global Christianity, graduates are prepared to serve with humble curiosity across diverse communities, applying theological knowledge with compassion, integrity, and vision.
Areas of Study
By Credit Hour
Learning Outcomes
After completing a Master of Divinity, you will be able to:
- Interpret Scripture with historical and theological integrity for diverse churches, communities, and contexts.
- Interpret the Christian historical and theological tradition for appropriation in the life and mission of the Church.
- Demonstrate a theology and practice of worship that integrates word and sacrament, and attends to its historical and cultural expressions.
- Embody a ministerial identity committed to caring for the spiritual formation of the self, individuals, and communities.
- Demonstrate vision and growing capacity to excel in leadership for God’s mission.
- Communicates the whole gospel of Jesus Christ in contextually appropriate and effective ways.
- Engage diversity and exhibit growth towards inter-cultural competence for ministry reflective of God’s global redemptive work.
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Featured Courses
BIBL 5111 Greek Exegesis for Preaching & Teaching
Attention will be given to procedures and tools used in the exegetical process, textual criticism, translation, New Testament Greek syntax, theological implications, and application to ministry. Experience will be gained through the exegesis of a New Testament book.
MNST 5125 Introduction to Pastoral Care & Counseling
Pastoral care and counseling issues specific to contemporary congregational contexts. It will focus on the pastoral concerns of the congregation, families, and individuals, as well as the broader community issues. Pedagogical approaches include case method, role play, demonstrations, readings, and lecture.
I hope that every student in my courses walks away with a greater knowledge about the culture and social values of the first century world, a greater love of reading the New Testament in its ancient context, and a greater faith to live out this same gospel message more radically today.
—Dr. Max Lee, The Paul W. Brandel Chair of Biblical Studies and Professor of New Testament
Program Notes
Time to Completion
3 year (full-time) or 5 year (part-time). Plan your program.
Ordination
The Master of Divinity is the principal ministerial degree for those seeking Ordination to Word & Sacrament with the Evangelical Covenant Church.
Distance or Local
This program can completed as a distance, commuter, or residential on-campus student. Distance students work online during Spring and Fall semesters, and travel to campus for immersion experiences. Learn more about our program design.
Admissions Advisor
Nearly all seminary students are eligible for financial aid packages, and our admissions counselors can walk you through your tuition options. Explore your cost.
The prerequisite for entrance to the seminary master’s degree or graduate certificate program at North Park Theological Seminary is a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of a 2.5. In special cases we will review an applicant who does not meet these academic requirements—please contact seminary admissions)
The prerequisite for the dual-degree options is a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of a 3.0.
To Apply
Complete the master’s degree online application. Applications are taken on a rolling basis. Start the application any time, save as you go, and submit when you are ready.
These supplemental items are required
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- Recommendations: Each application requires three recommendations: pastor, church committee, and faculty or colleague. You provide name and email address, and our application system will email secure recommendation forms.
- Essay Questions: You will find the essay question prompt and space to upload your answers in the online application.
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Official Transcripts: North Parth Theological Seminary requires official academic transcripts from each postsecondary institution you have attended. How to send a transcript
The time in life exploring seminary options is exciting but can be lead to a lot of questions. We’re ready to help! Get in touch with an admissions counselor.