Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree - Online & Campus

Overview

Build a Strong Foundation for Serving Faith Communities

Prepare to fulfill your calling by earning a Master of Divinity degree online^{(See disclaimer 1)} or on campus at Grand Canyon Theological Seminary. This rigorous program combines ministry training with biblical and theological studies, which can help you position yourself for potential Christian leadership roles. Whether you’re called to pastoral work, missions or chaplaincy, our Master of Divinity online or on-campus programs can help lay the foundation for a future career serving God’s people.

Master of Divinity

Offered By

College of Theology

Class Settings

Campus

Online

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Online: $410 per credit [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 82

Campus: 15 weeks

Online: 8 weeks

[]

Transfer Credits

Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Master's)

Undergraduate Degree*
2.8+ GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

GMAT: 500
GRE: 300 combined**

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).

Why GCU

Prepare To Lead Faithfully With a Master of Divinity Online

Examine the fundamental teachings of Scripture and apply biblical knowledge to various ministry contexts. This theological education program for ministers can deepen your understanding of core Christian doctrines while helping you grow in character and spiritual maturity. Graduates of the MDiv online^{(See disclaimer 1)} degree program can prepare themselves to serve faith-based communities with compassion, wisdom and Christian sensitivity.

Earn Your MDiv Degree Online or on Campus

Pursue advanced study in Christian leadership and biblical principles by enrolling in on-campus or Master of Divinity online^{(See disclaimer 1 )}classes.

Online

GCU’s MDiv online^{(See disclaimer 1)} offers the flexibility of faith-based distance learning, which can enable students to study divinity online while managing their ministry, work and family commitments. The program includes three in-person residencies, which provide hands-on opportunities to connect with professors, missionaries and ministerial leaders. These immersive experiences help enhance theological understanding and foster lasting relationships within the Christian community.

Campus

Coursework

Explore the MDiv Program Curriculum

This degree follows a pastorally oriented curriculum that is designed to help students prepare for ordination and leadership. It is an intensive program that covers the history of Christianity, biblical languages and Christ-centered preaching. There is an emphasis on sound biblical interpretation and applying biblical principles. You will study the basics of Hebrew and Greek to acquire linguistic tools for studying the Bible and explore the fundamentals of ethical Christian leadership within organizations.

Throughout your program, you will be taught:

Faithful Development

The faithful development of Christian character

Faithful Ministry

A deeper understanding of evangelism and discipleship

Faithful Leadership

To faithfully lead lives that align with the Word of God

Master of Divinity Degree Class Topics

Throughout the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree program, you can participate in supervised ministry experiences that can help you develop practical skills and enhance your ministry readiness. Both online^{(See disclaimer 1)} and on-campus students have the option to take part in an internship to gain hands-on experience under the mentorship of an experienced gospel minister.

Core topics for the MDiv degree program include:

Developing and exploring the Christian worldview and mission
Old and New Testament exegesis
Biblical leadership and ministry practices and concepts
Christian apologetics studies

Careers

Career Paths for MDiv Degree Graduates

Graduates can prepare to seek ordination and step into a ministry career path. Many feel called to serve Christ in churches, Christian organizations or as chaplains. As ordained clergy, they may provide spiritual guidance and lead ceremonies such as weddings, baptisms and funerals. Others may choose to teach philosophy or religion at the postsecondary level.

Accreditation

Earn Your Master of Divinity Degree From an Accredited University

Grand Canyon Theological Seminary is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), which has also accredited the Master of Divinity program. The curriculum is carefully designed to meet with ATS Standards of Accreditation. This specialized recognition demonstrates GCU’s commitment to academic excellence and rigor as an institutionally accredited university across all its colleges and programs.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to our most frequently asked questions as you prepare to earn your MDiv.

Do you need an MDiv to be a pastor?

What are the entrance requirements for GCU’s MDiv degree?

Entrance into GCU’s MDiv degree, and all programs in the Grand Canyon Theological Seminary, is based upon affirmation and adherence to the GCU Doctrinal and Ethical Positions Statement, the College of Theology’s Covenant and the College of Theology’s Dispositional and Behavioral Standards. These guidelines emphasize the college’s dedication to core doctrines of the Christian faith and its concern to exemplify these doctrines. You could be denied admission or expelled from the program if you exhibit behavior or actions that contradict these statements during the program.

Are there any GCU degree programs similar to the Master of Divinity degree?

Yes, GCU offers several graduate degrees focused on ministry and church leadership and practical development. Each is approved by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools and upheld by the College of Theology’s commitment to biblical truth. Degree options include:

What is an MDiv degree?

A Master of Divinity is a graduate-level degree designed for individuals called to serve in ministry, whether as clergy, educators or leaders within faith-based communities. This program can equip students with the understanding and abilities for teaching, leading and guiding others in their walk with God. Earning this degree can support a career focused on sharing and embodying the Christian faith.

What is the difference between a degree in divinity and theology?

The terms “divinity” and “theology” are closely related but have slightly different meanings. Divinity is a more traditional term which focuses on preparing students for roles in ministry. In contrast, theology refers more broadly to the study of God, Scripture and religious beliefs. Most divinity programs include substantial theological study, so the two terms are often used interchangeably in academic contexts.

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

Major82 credits

Degree Requirements82 credits

Core Courses

UNV-505

2 Total Credits

MIN-526

4 Total Credits

BIB-650

4 Total Credits

MIN-509

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course examines the biblical truths of the gospel and the corresponding virtues and habits that contribute to the process of discipleship. Students study God's work in the formation of Christ-like character as they learn to keep in step with the Spirit in all aspects of life. Special attention is given to the doctrine of sanctification and teaching related to ministerial ethics and character in the Pastoral Epistles. This course requires supervised ministry hours. Practicum/field experience hours: 45.

HTH-505

4 Total Credits

INT-525

4 Total Credits

MIN-524

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a practically oriented study of biblical principles and practices for faithfully communicating the gospel of Jesus Christ to non-Christians and guiding them toward spiritual maturity in Christ. Emphasis is placed on understandings, disciplines, and habits that facilitate the process of discipleship. This course requires supervised ministry hours. Practicum/field experience hours: 45.

HEB-501

4 Total Credits

BIB-611

4 Total Credits

GRK-501

4 Total Credits

BIB-620

4 Total Credits

HTH-611

4 Total Credits

HTH-550

4 Total Credits

HTH-640

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course examines the biblical basis, history, and proper formulation of ecclesiology for the purpose of leading the church to display more fully God's glory through worship, ministry, and mission. Emphasis is placed on the application of biblical and theological principles within students' denominational heritage and ecclesial context. This course requires supervised ministry hours. Practicum/field experience hours: 45. Prerequisite: HTH-505.

BIB-610

4 Total Credits

BIB-621

4 Total Credits

HTH-510

4 Total Credits

MIN-601

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is an integrative study of biblically sound principles and practices for rightly handling God's word for the purpose of developing skill in the preparation and delivery of expository sermons. Emphasis is placed on the Christological focus of the Old and New Testaments and the vital relationship between the character of the messenger and responsible exegesis. This course is offered in residency for non-traditional students. Prerequisites: HEB-501 and GRK-501.

MIN-675

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces principles of biblical leadership and ministry through an examination of the roles and responsibilities of Christian leaders within churches and parachurch organizations. Coursework focuses on leadership, administration, ministry, and interpersonal relations within particular ministry contexts. Emphasis is placed on living a life that exemplifies the gospel while leading and organizing the church according to the biblical principle. This course requires supervised ministry hours. Practicum/field experience hours: 45.

HTH-511

4 Total Credits

PHI-610

4 Total Credits

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

More Resources