Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree
journey today.
Prepare to fulfill your calling by earning a Master of Divinity degree online1 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.
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 online1 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 online1 classes.
GCU’s MDiv online1 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.
On-campus students can experience an immersive learning experience. They can benefit from direct engagement with faculty and peers, fostering strong community connections and participating in practical ministry education. These students are Arizona residents as they attend courses in person, so there are no designated residency requirements.
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 online1 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:
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to our most frequently asked questions as you prepare to earn your MDiv.
You don’t always need a Master of Divinity (MDiv) to become a pastor, but many churches and denominations prefer or require it for ordination. An MDiv can offer essential theological and ministry education, along with spiritual formation, which can help you prepare for leadership in the church. This degree can be valuable for those seeking to serve with depth, wisdom and biblical understanding.
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.
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:
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.
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.
Lead and serve others with wisdom and compassion. Step into your calling with a Master of Divinity degree.
Excludes programs with residencies and practicums.