The MDiv is the professional degree that traditionally prepares graduates to serve in ordained ministry and is required by many denominations. The MDiv provides a balanced curriculum with courses in biblical studies, theology and church history, and the practice of ministry. The program requires 84-90 hours and can be completed in as little as three years of full-time study, entirely online, or a combination of online and in-residence courses.
Accelerated Ministry Program
Erskine has developed a partnership program that enables highly motivated undergraduate students who seek to enter the ministry to complete the Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Religion and a Master of Divinity in five years. Students who begin as freshmen in the undergraduate school will need to apply by their sophomore year. Students follow closely a regimented course of study participating in a cohort that will integrate fellowship, academic counsel, and mentoring in ministry (internships) throughout the program.
Students enrolled in this accelerated program will meet the same graduate academic and departmental requirements listed for the general MDiv degree (see above) and will build on the undergraduate courses. Accelerated ministry students can receive up to 18 hours of advanced standing toward the MDiv. This dual degree, 85 undergraduate credit hours and 66 graduate credit hours, will total 151 hours, with a significant weight in Bible, religion, and ministerial practice.
For current undergraduate students, contact Dr. William Evans, Chair of the Bible Department, at wbevans@erskine.edu.
The MDiv Chaplain Ministries is a flexible MDiv track designed for Christians seeking professional training for ministry as chaplains. This track provides a balanced curriculum in biblical studies, theology, church history, and the practice of chaplaincy ministry.
The MACC is a professional degree that prepares students to be effective, licensed counselors with a strong Christian worldview who are eligible to work in any public or private institution providing psychological care. The 60-hour program is intended to provide a broad base of scriptural knowledge with an intensive, State-mandated core set of competencies. Developed according to CACREP standards, this program is intended to be a two-year full-time program but may be completed part-time in up to six years. Advanced standing may be possible for students who already hold accredited MDiv, MAPM, MATS, or similar degrees.
The MAPM prepares graduates for specialized roles in churches or other ministries. Students from denominations that do not require the MDiv often use the MAPM to enhance their knowledge and ministry skills. The curriculum focuses on courses in the practice of ministry. The program requires 36 hours (or 48 hours with a specialized concentration) and can be completed in as little as two years of full-time study, entirely online, or a combination of online and in-residence courses.
The MATS deepens graduates’ understanding of the Bible, theology, and church history. Students pursue the MATS for personal enrichment, to enhance their ministries as leaders and teachers in their churches, or to prepare for further study. The program requires 48 hours and can be completed in as little as two years of full-time study, entirely online, or a combination of online and in-residence courses. Students who have a relevant undergraduate degree in biblical or theological studies may be eligible to complete the degree in one academic year of study.
The ThM provides MDiv and MATS graduates the opportunity to pursue research in biblical and theological studies that will enhance their ministries and/or provide a foundation for PhD studies. The program requires 24 hours and can be completed in as little as two years of full-time study, entirely online, or a combination of online and in-residence courses.
The DMin provides pastors and other ministry leaders the opportunity for advanced theological reflection on the work of ministry and to sharpen ministry skills. The MDiv (or its educational equivalent) and experience in ministry are required. The program requires 36 hours and can be completed in as little as three years of part-time study entirely online, or a combination of online and in-residence courses.