Empowering Global Visionaries for Transformative Impact
The Master of Divinity in Missiological Studies provides you with a comprehensive range of biblical-theological knowledge and practical skills for ministry leadership along with specialized skills to engage, encourage and support people from another culture with the gospel of Jesus Christ. It prepares you to serve cross-culturally in a local church or with an international agency.
- Specialized Knowledge: An MDIV in Missiological Studies provides focused and in-depth knowledge of missiology, which is the study of the theory and practice of missions and evangelism. You will gain a greater understanding of global cultures, religions, cross-cultural communication and strategies for effective mission work.
- Global Perspective: Missiological Studies equips you with a global perspective on Christianity and its interaction with diverse cultures and religions. This broader understanding allows you to engage in cross-cultural ministry, interfaith dialogue and work in international contexts.
- Practical Skills: The MDIV in Missiological Studies emphasizes practical skills that are relevant for mission work, such as cross-cultural communication, contextualization of the gospel and effective strategies for evangelism and discipleship. These skills can be applied in various ministry settings, both domestically and internationally.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Missiological Studies often incorporates insights from various disciplines, including theology, anthropology, sociology, history and linguistics. This interdisciplinary approach enriches your understanding of mission work and equips you with a well-rounded knowledge base.
- Cultural Competence: Through the study of Missiological Studies, you develop cultural sensitivity and competence, enabling you to engage effectively with people from different cultural, religious and ethnic backgrounds. This skill is increasingly valuable in our diverse and interconnected world.
- Career Opportunities: An MDIV in Missiological Studies can open doors to a range of career opportunities. You may pursue mission work, cross-cultural ministry, or leadership roles in religious organizations and nonprofits focused on global outreach. Additionally, this degree can be valuable for positions in academia, research, interfaith organizations, humanitarian agencies and international development.
- Personal and Spiritual Growth: Engaging in Missiological Studies not only enhances your knowledge and skills but also contributes to personal and spiritual growth. It deepens your understanding of God’s mission and challenges you to explore your own faith and calling within a global context.
Why Choose Columbia International University
CIU has been offering an MDIV in Missiological Studies for many years and has trained many missionaries currently serving around the world. While the program is tried and proven, the missiological studies faculty team continues to fine-tune the program so that it remains excellent.
At CIU, you’ll study with professors who have spent many years involved in mission work around the world and North America. You’ll study with faculty who have lived and continue to live what they are teaching.
Overall Benefits of the Degree
This degree will also prepare you for an advanced degree, such as a PhD.
Featured Faculty
Edward L. Smither
Dean, College of Intercultural Studies, Professor of Intercultural Studies and History of Global Christianity
What Will I Study?
In addition to the Master of Divinity core, you will take courses such as:
- INT 6110 Foundations of Internships
This course is intended as a prerequisite for other INT courses. You will prepare for an internship by establishing a clear plan for learning and understanding the expectations, responsibilities, and activities associated with your internship experience. You must complete this course before you begin your internship. You do not need to secure an internship before enrolling in this course.
0.00 credit hours
- INT 6217 Focused Internship I
In this course, you will enhane your proficiency in ministry and organizational knowledge, skills, and attitudes gained through your studies in a focused internship under the supervision of an on-site mentor and a faculty advisor. Each course involves at least 120 hours of direct ministry experience. (1.5)
1.50 credit hours
- INT 6218 Focused Internship II
In this course, you will enhane your proficiency in ministry and organizational knowledge, skills, and attitudes gained through your studies in a focused internship under the supervision of an on-site mentor and a faculty advisor. Each course involves at least 120 hours of direct ministry experience. (1.5)
1.50 credit hours
Admission Requirements
- completed application
- affirmation that you are a Christian and agree with CIU’s Statement of Faith
- official transcript(s) for completed bachelor’s degree(s) * +
- official transcript(s) for any graduate-level coursework +
- essay (approximately 800 words)
- church leader reference
- * If you have not completed an undergraduate bachelor’s degree, you can still potentially apply for admission in accordance with CIU’s Non-Baccalaureate Policy.
- + If you have attended a school outside of the United States, you must have your transcripts validated through World Education Services.
International applicants also need:
- submitted test scores for one of the following standardized tests for the English language:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (minimum score of 79)
- DuoLingo (minimum score of 105)
- completed educational background form (provided after application submission)
- financial certification of funds form (provided after application submission)
Accreditation and Accolades
Career Path Opportunities
An MDIV in Missiological Studies can open doors to a range of career opportunities. You may pursue mission work, cross-cultural ministry, or leadership roles in religious organizations and nonprofits focused on global outreach. Additionally, this degree can be valuable for positions in academia, research, interfaith organizations, humanitarian agencies and international development. The degree also opens the door to pursuing a PhD leading to careers in college, seminary and university-level teaching, both in the United States and abroad.
Top FAQs
- How much does the program cost?
-
Tuition and fees for this 75-credit-hour program average $41,250. Please check the tuition and fees page for the most up-to-date information. There are certain discounts and benefits given for military status, and to employees and family members of our partner organizations. Our financial aid counselors will help you determine the best way to finance this important investment in your future career earnings. For more detailed information, check our financial aid page and select the option for online students.
- How long does the program take?
-
Residential courses follow a 16-week semester format, with two semesters per calendar year (Fall and Spring). Thus, residential students can complete this program in about three years (full time, taking three courses per semester) or in about five years (part time, taking two courses per semester).
Online courses follow an eight-week term format, with six terms per calendar year (Spring 1, Spring 2, Summer 1, Summer 2, Fall 1, Fall 2). Online students can complete this program in about two years (full time, taking two courses per online term) or in about four years (part time, taking one course per online term).
Hybrid students can complete this program in about three years.
- When can I start?
-
There are six eight-week terms within a calendar year (Fall 1, Fall 2, Spring 1, Spring 2, Summer 1, Summer 2) so you may begin at any of these start dates in August, October, January, March, May or July.
- How do online classes work?
-
When you open the Canvas site, you will see that a week begins on Monday morning and ends on Saturday night at 11:59 p.m. Each week when you open the course, you will have readings, pre-recorded lectures and assignments. Most assignments are due on Wednesday or Saturday night of each week. You will discuss the readings and lectures each week in online forums with your classmates and instructor. Though there are no required class meetings since students are often spread across the world in different time zones, your professor may invite you to a voluntary Zoom meeting. You can also schedule a consultation with your professor over Zoom.
- How much time does a single class take?
-
You should plan on about 15 hours per week for one online class.
- Do I need to come to campus?
-
For online students, there is no requirement to come to campus but we are always happy to see you for a visit or when you come for graduation.
- What can I do with this program?
-
An MDIV in Missiological Studies can open doors to a range of career opportunities. You may pursue mission work, cross-cultural ministry, or leadership roles in religious organizations and nonprofits focused on global outreach. Additionally, this degree can be valuable for positions in academia, research, interfaith organizations, humanitarian agencies and international development. Also, some graduates may pursue academic careers.