Master of Divinity

The master of divinity degree program prepares students to be faithful and effective pastors in the 21st century. The four-year program includes one full year of internship. View an overview of the M. Div. program, including major steps and requirements.

Admission to the M.Div. Program

Admission requirements:

  • bachelor's degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
  • a commitment to Christ and his church
Application requirements:
  • three letters of recommendation
  • an autobiographical/faith statement
  • undergraduate transcripts
  • application form
View the current academic schedules and key dates.

Graduation Requirements

Coursework can be completed by a combination of residential study, distance learning and learning in context. Graduation Requirements include:

  • 30 courses of study
  • a Bible proficiency exam
  • teaching parish contextual education
  • internship

ELCA Candidacy Information

Outlines the requirements for candidacy in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

M.Div. Distributed Learning Program

The Distributed Learning Master of Divinity program (DL M.Div.) allows students to complete the requirements of a full M.Div. degree at Luther Seminary potentially without having to relocate to St. Paul. Find out more!

Students of Other Traditions

The Student Resource Center at Luther is poised to accompany ecumenical students through their degree and candidacy process.

Youth and Family Concentration

M.Div. students interested in focusing their pastoral leadership around youth ministry can take a concentration in youth and family ministries.

M.Div. Curriculum

Explore the M.Div. curriculum page for information on required and elective courses, organized by department and by class year.

 

Preparing Missional Pastors

Luther Seminary's goal for the master of divinity program is that our graduates will be prepared to serve as missional pastors in the church, empowering the faithful for lives of witness and service. We want our graduates to be known for excellence as preachers of the biblical message and leaders in worship, as people who are committed to engaging the word of God and serving their neighbors.

Mary Hinkle Shore
Associate Professor of New Testament

 

M.Div. students can take elective courses in many specialized programs, including

  • Islamic Studies
  • Sacred Music
  • Youth and Family Ministries
  • Ministry with the Aging