Master of Divinity

Distinctives, Benefits, and Goals

Program Distinctives

• Learn to navigate the complexities of pastoral work through on-site internships.
• Develop transformational mentoring relationships with HGST faculty who are equipped with academic credentials and years of ministerial experience.
• Benefit from an excellent professor-to-student ratio of 1:20.

Program Benefits

The M.Div. Program equips pastoral leaders to:

• Earn the recognized theology degree for ordination.
• Develop foundational understanding of the basics that comprise theological study: Bible, language, ministry, ethics, and practicum training.
• Institute patterns of effective ministry through a combination of classroom instruction, peer-to-peer learning, and practical application.
• Utilize resources from church history and systematic theology to shape contemporary ministry.
• Have global awareness of the church and its ministry.

Program Goals

The M.Div. program prepares ministry graduates who:

• Reflect theologically, integrating Scripture, church tradition, reason, and experience.
• Study scripture historically and critically, emphasizing an inductive approach in its interpretation.
• Investigate the various beliefs and practices of other Christian traditions, while being faithful to their own.
• Engage the Wesleyan heritage, recognizing its contributions to ministry.
• Contextualize their beliefs and practices in fulfilling the mission of the Church.
• Develop competency in the pastoral responsibilities of preaching, teaching, leadership, and pastoral care.
• Embody and model a holy life that is being formed in faith and love.
• Apply their beliefs and practices with global awareness and cultural sensitivity.
• Integrate social justice and social action into their various ministries.