Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree

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Overview

Master of Divinity (MDiv) Program

Prepare to fulfill your mission in life by earning your Master of Divinity degree (MDiv) online or in person at Grand Canyon Theological Seminary. Scholars undergo a rigorous program of ministry training and biblical and theological study to lay the framework for a future career ministering to God’s people. Master of Divinity degree online or on-campus programs offered by Grand Canyon University empowers individuals with a bachelor’s degree to develop a strong foundation for vocational ministry. 

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Impact Your Community with GCU’s Master of Divinity
Why GCU

Benefits of GCU’s Master of Divinity Degree

Examine the fundamental teachings of Scripture and learn to apply biblical knowledge to various ministerial contexts. As you grow your knowledge of the cardinal doctrines of the Christian faith, so too will your Christian character develop. Graduates of the online MDiv degree program are prepared to serve their faith-based communities in person with the compassion, wisdom and sensitivity that Jesus himself exhibited. 

Earn Your MDiv Degree Online or on Campus

Pursue advanced study in Christian leadership and biblical principles by enrolling in on-campus or online MDiv degree program classes at GCU. Study the Word of God from anywhere, at any time with our dynamic online learning platform. Participate in intellectually stimulating discussions with instructors and your fellow students in face-to-face classes and sharpen your skills as an effective and sensitive communicator. 

Those who are a part of the online MDiv degree program are required to attend three week-long residencies throughout the program. Each residency is an opportunity to work closely with professors, missionaries and ministerial leaders to inspire deeper understanding and plant the seed for lifelong relationships in the Christian community. Because on-campus MDiv students are Arizona residents who are attending courses in person, there are no designated residency requirements for in-person students.

Coursework

Explore the Master of Divinity Degree Curriculum

This degree follows a pastorally oriented curriculum. It is an intensive program of study that walks you through the history of Christianity, the biblical languages and the principles of Christ-centered preaching.

There is an emphasis on rightful biblical interpretations and the application of 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

During your course of study, you will be taught with an emphasis on the faithful development of Christian character.

Faithful Ministry

Deepen your understanding of evangelism and discipleship which are vital to a faithful ministry.

Faithful Leadership

Future Christian leaders are trained to faithfully lead lives that align with the Word of God.

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Core Classes in GCU’s Master of Divinity Program 

Throughout the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree program, you will participate in ministry experiences under supervised guidance. You may elect to participate in an optional internship for the Master of Divinity degree of either modality to gain additional hands-on, practical experience under the supervision of a seasoned gospel minister.

Some of the core class topics for the on-campus or online MDiv degree program include the following:

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

What You Can Do With a Master of Divinity Degree

Graduates of the on-campus or online MDiv degree program are prepared to pursue ordination. Some graduates feel called to serve Christ in local churches or Christian organizations. If you become an ordained member of the clergy, you would fulfill an important role in the spiritual life of your congregation. As a Master of Divinity program graduate, you would be called upon to provide moral and biblical guidance, and may preside over special ceremonies, such as weddings, funerals and baptisms. You may also feel called to pursue a career as a philosophy or religion teacher (postsecondary).

Accreditation

Accreditation of GCU’s Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree

Grand Canyon Theological Seminary is fully accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), and the Commission has approved the Master of Divinity program. This MDiv program and all curriculum in the Seminary are designed to align with ATS’ Standards of Accreditation. Specialized accreditation for the Master of Divinity online and on-campus program speaks to GCU’s overall commitment of excellence and rigor in all its colleges and programs.

FAQ

On-Campus and Online MDiv Degree FAQs

Read through some of our most frequently asked questions as you prepare to earn your MDiv.

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Make an Impact in Your Ministry

If you wish to be well-educated and properly equipped for ministry, the Master of Divinity degree is the standard degree.

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