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Our online degree programs are designed for busy working adults just like you – intentionally structured to allow you to balance work, life and other commitments. As a student of ACU Online, you are part of a vibrant, virtual, Christ-centered community.
About the Program
Our online Master of Divinity (M.Div.) is the most comprehensive formational degree for ministry that ACU’s Graduate School of Theology offers. The program emphasizes learning in context – you will explore case studies and ministry scenarios. The program also provides an informal setting for prayer and discussion with a local mentor.
Program Structure
All the Details on Your Degree
This graduate degree, which offers a missions or ministry concentration, will prepare you to enter into ministry or expand your current vocation. This accredited online M.Div. program also provides a solid foundation for further study in Ph.D., Th.D. and D.Min degree programs. The Master of Divinity is also available as a residential program in Abilene.
Required Hours
72 hours
4 years
Example Coursework
Foundations of the Theology of Ministry
Critical Interpretation of the New Testament
Introduction to Hebrew I
Christian Mission in Global Context
Department
Upcoming Start Dates
August 28, 2023
January 16, 2024
Meet the Program Director
Dr. Tera Harmon, Master of Divinity
Dr. Tera Harmon is an assistant professor in Abilene Christian University’s Graduate School of Theology. After receiving a BA in Biblical Text and an MDiv from ACU, she went to the Catholic University of America to study patristics, completing a Ph.D. in Church History in 2016. Her major field of study is Greek patristics and has done work on Gregory of Nyssa. She teaches courses on the history of Christianity and is the Director of Distance Learning for the Graduate School of Theology. She has lived in Washington D.C.; Charlotte, North Carolina; Los Alamos, New Mexico; and now lives in Abilene, Texas with her husband, David Todd, and their three children.
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.
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!
Student Spotlight: Mason Norman
Mason Norman’s goal was to teach ministry at the college level, but to do so in the United States, he’d need a Ph.D. So he got creative. In April 2016, less than two months after getting married, Mason and his wife Haley, moved to a new continent.
Four Benefits of Getting a Theology Degree at ACU
When it comes to theology master’s programs, what makes ACU’s stand out? Hear directly from Dr. Myles Werntz, Director of ACU’s Baptist Studies Center, in a recent blog post.
Steps to Advance Your Ministry Career with a Graduate Degree
Interested in taking the next step towards a ministerial career? You could be an ideal candidate for enrollment in an M.Div. program. Read on to learn more about the Master of Divinity and how it might play into your future career.
Student Spotlight: Angela Logan
Mom, professional, student … Angela Logan does it all with a smile on her face. She’s busy, but excited for the next phase in her life – pursuing ministry full-time.
Student Spotlight: Dre Taybore
Dre Taybore, online Master of Divinity student, is bringing together ministers across various denominations for important conversations about racial injustice. “As I reflect on the role of the minister I am reminded by Eric Mason in his book, Woke Church, that we must be aware, be accountable, and be active when it comes to racial reconciliation and justice.” Read more about Dre’s efforts on the Graduate School of Theology Blog.
Upon completion, graduates will be able to:
- Integrate theology in contemporary cultural contexts.
- Gain awareness of the historical and contemporary beliefs and practices of the worldwide church, and the Stone-Campbell heritage in particular.
- Lead and equip the church for its various ministries.
- Exercise care of souls in fitting and compassionate ways.
- Demonstrate growth in Christian character essential for ministerial faithfulness and effectiveness.
To be considered for admission, students must:
- Complete the online 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 approximate B average or above in the area of focus or related area and evidence of an overall productive GPA.
- Submit two letters of recommendation.
- Author a personal statement of interest.
- Complete a 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.