Master of Divinity (M.DIV.)

A theological curriculum reflects an understanding of the nature of theology in its historical and cultural contexts. The M.Div. program at CDSP is designed to address the special needs of professional ministry, both ordained and lay, in The Episcopal Church.

The design and content of the CDSP M.Div. curriculum provides:

  • a thorough and integrated grounding in the Christian tradition;
  • opportunities for learning the distinctive role of Anglicanism-socially, historically, and theologically;
  • a clear focus on spiritual growth and discipline in the context of theological study;
  • an awareness of different religious, theological, and cultural perspectives;
  • integrative experience and study in all courses; and
  • opportunities to honor differing needs, abilities, and cultural backgrounds of students;
  • experience and practice in the skills of ministry, both on campus and at field education sites.

The curriculum reflects an understanding of theology that includes the following elements:

  • The discipline of theology is seen as an integrated whole.
  • For practical and pedagogical reasons, the curriculum is organized by fields of study.
  • Courses seek to explain historical and cultural forces that shape Christian institutions and thought.
  • Courses are directed to personal formation in the Christian faith as well as to its conceptual underpinning.

Summary of Requirements

The length of the program is three years full time, but not more than six years part-time, including internship and leaves of absence. The curriculum includes requirements for specific minimum area coverage, which can often be met by successful completion of one of several courses.

Course Requirements

Courses marked with an asterisk must be taken with CDSP faculty.

Anglicanism * (1 Course)
Biblical Studies (4 courses)
  • 1 Old Testament Introduction
  • 1 New Testament Introduction
  • 1 Biblical Language
  • 1 Using Exegesis
History (2 courses)
  • 1 Early Church
  • 1 Medieval to Modern
Theology (2 courses)
  • 1 Constructive Theology I
  • 1 Constructive Theology II
Ethics (1 course)  
Liturgics (2 courses)
  • 1 Introduction to Worship
  • 1 Liturgics *
Pastoral Studies (3 courses)
  • 1 Pastoral Theology *
  • 1 Homiletics
  • 1 Christian Education
Issues in Ministry (1 course)
Field Education * (2 courses)
Electives (6 courses)
Intersession
  • 2 Electives, one in each of 2 separate January intersessions
Multicultural Experience

Areas of Focus in the Master of Divinity Program

Building upon the strength of offerings at Church Divinity School of the Pacific and the Graduate Theological Union, students enrolled in the Master of Divinity program may pursue a specialized area of focus. Interested students would take three elective courses in addition to any relevant required courses that might fall within an area of focus. These elective courses may be taken at CDSP or any GTU member school. These areas of focus would enable a student to design a course of study in preparation for ministry in particular fields or to deepen understanding of a particular area. Students would discern studying for an area of focus in consultation with their academic adviser.

Areas of Focus Offered at CDSP:

  1. Theological Studies
  2. Biblical Studies
  3. Liturgy, Music & Homiletics
  4. Pastoral Studies and Christian Education
  5. Ministry Development
  6. Historical Studies
  7. Anglican Studies
  8. Interfaith Relations

See admissions requirements.

 

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