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Expedite your way toward the D.Min degree
Focused on getting you ready to apply to the D.Min degree, the Master of Divinity Equivalency program allows students to work alongside faculty members to determine which courses could transfer into the M.Div. equivalency plan – granting as many credits as possible. Keeping in mind the rigor and coursework needed to successfully complete the D.Min, the plan assists students in pursuing their doctoral goals without wasting time or financial resources.
Online Option
Interested in completing your coursework in online? With our online Divinity Equivalency program, you can get the same flexible degree program with face-to-face instruction.
About the Program
ACU’s Master of Divinity (M.Div.) is the most comprehensive formational degree for ministry and future doctoral studies offered by ACU’s Graduate School of Theology. However, because many non-M.Div students share the same vision, the Graduate School of Theology offers a Master of Divinity Equivalency plan geared specifically for students who hold other theological master degrees, enabling them to transfer educational equivalent courses to complete the necessary courses to apply – and succeed – in the D.Min program. Focusing on courses related to critically analyzing biblical resources, research methods, and original research, students can rest assured that pursuing higher levels of theological education is within reach.
ALL THE DETAILS ON YOUR DEGREE
What To Expect
At ACU, our standard for evaluating M.Div. equivalency is our 72-hour M.Div. degree plan. We will review your graduate transcripts and determine which courses you have already taken will fit into the M.Div. equivalency plan, granting as many credits as possible.
Required Hours
Varied credit hours
Varied time frame
Department
Upcoming Start Dates
January 13, 2025
May 5, 2025
August 25, 2025
Common Job Titles
Lead Pastor
Associate Pastor
Christian educator
Chaplains, and various other ministry settings, including social justice and non-profit ministries
MEET THE PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Dr. Kelli Gibson, Master of Divinity
Dr. Kelli Gibson is the Program Director for the Master of Divinity. She earned her bachelor’s degree and Master of Divinity from ACU’s College of Biblical Studies in 2007. She received her doctorate at the University of Oxford in 2015.
Spotlight
Purpose Behind Earning a Master of Divinity
As the number of pastors and congregation members diminishes, the need for qualified and trained ministers becomes more prevalent than ever before. Honing in on the various aspects of Christian identity and biblical knowledge, ACU’s online Master of Divinity degree is perfect for those seeking to expand their understanding while seeking to serve in their vocation.
ACU GST Offering Scholarship for Military Chaplains
Several high-profile military chaplains matriculated from the Master of Divinity program in the Graduate School of Theology at Abilene Christian University, and now ACU is offering a 50% scholarship for future military chaplains.
Why Study Theology?
There are four benefits to studying in ACU’s Graduate School of Theology. Learn what they are now, in our latest blog post!
Research Sources: Graduates will have critical facility with the most important primary sources and issues of scholarly discussion in biblical studies, theology, or church history
Research Methods: Graduates will have the ability to use the best current methods of research in one of the following disciplines: biblical studies, theology, or church history
Original Research: Graduates will demonstrate the ability to produce scholarly contributions in their field of study
To be considered for admission, students must:
- Complete the program application accompanied by a non-refundable processing fee.
- Submit an official transcript of all previous colleges attended. The transcript must indicate an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university or equivalent.
- Have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Submit two letters of recommendation.
- Submit a reflective essay (purpose statement) 3-5 pages typed, double-spaced.
- Complete an academic writing assessment.
The Graduate School of Theology is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools, an organization of more than 250 graduate schools that conduct post-baccalaureate professional and academic degree programs to educate persons for the practice of ministry and for teaching and research in theological disciplines.
Upon receipt of all application materials, the Graduate School of Theology associate dean and Doctor of Ministry program director will review your files and transcripts to determine which courses you need to take to earn M.Div. Equivalency. Admission into M.Div. Equivalency does not guarantee admission to the D.Min. program.