Program Overview
The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) program equips experienced ministers with advanced knowledge and skills in ministry. Through a hybrid learning format, students enhance their ministerial abilities, engage in lifelong learning, and collaborate with faculty and peers. The program covers various aspects of ministry, including biblical studies, leadership, pastoral care, and mission, preparing graduates for advanced leadership roles in diverse ministry settings.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree equips students with advanced knowledge, theoretical clarity, and professional competence in ministry.
Objectives:
- Enhance ministerial skills
- Provide lifelong learning experiences
- Foster collaboration between students, ministry contexts, and the School of Theology
Program Description:
The D.Min. program is designed for individuals who are already actively involved in ministry and seek to enhance their professional skills and knowledge. The program utilizes a hybrid learning format that combines in-person seminars with online learning, allowing students to balance their studies with their ministerial responsibilities.
Outline:
Program Content:
The D.Min. program covers various aspects of ministry, including:
- Biblical and theological studies
- Historical and contextual analysis
- Ministry leadership and administration
- Pastoral care and counseling
- Preaching and worship
- Mission and evangelism
Structure:
The program consists of three 2-week on-campus seminars, normally scheduled during the summer. Students also engage in experiential learning units, faculty coaching, and the completion of a capstone project thesis.
Course Schedule:
The course schedule is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and integrated learning experience. Courses are typically offered in the following sequence:
- Year 1:
- Theological Foundations of Ministry
- Biblical Interpretation for Ministry
- Historical and Cultural Contexts of Ministry
- Year 2:
- Leadership and Administration in Ministry
- Pastoral Care and Counseling
- Preaching and Worship
- Year 3:
- Mission and Evangelism
- Ministry in a Global Context
- Capstone Project Thesis
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Written assignments
- Research projects
- Presentations
- Capstone project thesis
Assessment Criteria:
Students are evaluated based on their:
- Knowledge and understanding of course material
- Analytical and critical thinking skills
- Communication and writing abilities
- Pastoral and ministerial competence
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The D.Min. program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Case studies
- Role-playing
- Experiential learning
Faculty:
The D.Min. program is taught by a team of experienced and distinguished faculty members who are actively engaged in research and ministry.
Unique Approaches:
- Faculty Coaching: Each student is assigned a Faculty Coach who provides individualized guidance and support throughout the program.
- Experiential Learning Units: Students participate in one of three options: Ministry Coaching, Preaching Consultation, or Spiritual Practice.
- Capstone Project Thesis: An integrative project that applies research to a specific ministry context.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
The D.Min. degree prepares graduates for advanced leadership roles in various ministry settings, such as:
- Pastors
- Church leaders
- Chaplains
- Religious educators
- Missionaries
- Nonprofit executives
Opportunities:
Graduates of the D.Min. program have opportunities to:
- Serve in positions of leadership and influence
- Advance their careers in ministry
- Make a significant impact in their communities and beyond
Outcomes:
The D.Min. program has a strong track record of preparing graduates for success in ministry. Graduates have gone on to become leaders in their respective fields, making valuable contributions to the Church and society.
