Equip Yourself for Ministry with a Master of Divinity in Ministry Studies
The Master of Divinity in Ministry Studies will provide you with a comprehensive range of biblical-theological knowledge and practical skills necessary for ministry leadership in a variety of contexts. Through a personalized curriculum, this program prepares students to minister effectively in a local church, with a para-church organization or with a mission agency.
CIU’s Master of Divinity will enable you to:
- Analyze and synthesize the basic content, context and themes of the Old and New Testaments, with an emphasis on God’s historical-redemptive mission, as revealed through Scripture’s metanarrative and exemplified in the Great Commission
- Practice sound exegesis and exposition of the biblical text in its original languages, with an emphasis on how passages speak to contemporary issues in individual and corporate contexts
- Engage contemporary global challenges to orthodox belief and practice based on support from key biblical passages that undergird foundational doctrines, applying insights from the history of global Christianity to 21st century issues, needs and challenges
- Analyze cultures and worldviews from a biblical perspective as the basis for effective, biblically-contextualized ministry that equips and encourages others to grow as disciples and disciple-makers in the church, mission field and/or marketplace
- Apply biblical principles, techniques and paradigms to the practice of leadership, pastoring, preaching, teaching and counseling
- Demonstrate proficiency in ministry and organizational knowledge, skills and attitudes gained through M.Div. studies in a focused internship under the supervision of an on-site mentor and a faculty advisor
Why Choose Columbia Biblical Seminary for this degree program:
CIU’s Columbia Biblical Seminary offers an evangelical context for your education and practical hands-on learning with professors from a wide array of evangelical denominations. The faculty are skilled teachers and scholars who make it a priority to support and encourage their students.
Overall Benefits of the degree – what you can do with the degree:
Are you ready to take your passion for ministry to the next level? The Master of Divinity in Ministry Studies at Columbia International University is tailored to equip you for a diverse range of ministry roles, whether within the local church or parachurch organizations. By enrolling in this program, you will embark on a transformative journey that will empower you to make a significant impact in the lives of others.
Comprehensive Ministry Preparation:
Throughout your course of study, our well-trained faculty will guide you in developing the essential knowledge and skills needed for effective ministry. From pastoral care to preaching, leadership to counseling, you will gain a holistic understanding of ministry and cultivate the competencies necessary to serve with excellence.
Personalized Learning:
We recognize that each student has unique ministry interests and aspirations. That's why our program offers a wide range of elective courses and specialized tracks, allowing you to tailor your studies to align with your specific area of ministry or interest. Whether you are passionate about youth ministry, missions, discipleship or any other ministry focus, we will provide you with the resources and guidance to nurture your calling.
Engaging Academic Environment:
At Columbia International University, we prioritize your learning experience. Our faculty members are not only highly knowledgeable but also deeply invested in your growth and success. Through interactive classroom discussions, practical assignments and mentorship opportunities, you will engage in meaningful learning that goes beyond theory, preparing you to apply your knowledge in real-world ministry settings.
Flexible Credit Transfer:
If you have already started a master's program at another institution and decide to complete your M.Div. at Columbia International University, we offer the flexibility to transfer relevant course credits. This allows you to build upon your previous academic achievements and streamline your path toward earning your M.Div. degree.
By pursuing an M.Div. in Ministry Studies at CIU, you will join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about serving God and making a difference in the world. Whether you envision yourself leading a congregation, engaging in cross-cultural ministry or pursuing other ministry opportunities, our program will equip you with the knowledge, skills and spiritual formation necessary to thrive in your calling. Get ready to embark on a transformative journey that will shape your ministry and impact lives for the glory of God.
Featured Faculty
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
- MIN 6536 Management Essentials for Christian Ministries
In this course, you will learn the organizational and management principles needed to serve in the local church and para-church ministries. By the end of the course you will have created programs/events and administrative documents that accomplish the mission and vision of the ministry in which you serve.
3.00 credit hours
- LDR 6012 Organizational Culture and Change Management 3.00 credit hours
- LDR 6011 Conflict Management and Negotiation
Students will develop skills related to the principles, processes, and techniques of conflict management and negotiation and will be equipped with the innovative negotiation strategies needed to excel at the bargaining table and develop effective conflict resolution strategies. Students will also learn Biblical principles to resolve conflict.
3.00 credit hours
- LDR 6013 Finance 3.00 credit hours
Admission Requirements
- Completed application
- Official transcripts for highest earned degree and any master’s degree work
- Church leader reference
- Application Essay (800 words total, typed)
- Minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA
Accreditation and Accolades
Career Path Opportunities:
- Pastoring a local congregation
- Serving as an assistant or associate pastor
- Leading a para-church or campus ministry team
- Leading an outreach or discipleship team
- Leading a marketplace ministry team
- Discipleship ministry director
- Next generation (or family) pastor
- An executive in a nonprofit organization
- Administrative leadership
- Pastoral staff
- Small group leader
- Teaching pastor
- Church planter
- Can I take this program residentially, online or both?
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Columbia International University’s M.Div. in Ministry Studies is fully available either residentially or online. All required courses are offered in both formats.
As a residential student, you will benefit from close interaction with professors and other students, building relationships that can support you for a lifetime of ministry. Classes are designed around block schedules, which gives you flexibility if you are working or serving in ministry while taking courses. Residential students have the option to take courses online if they wish.
As an online student, you will benefit from courses that foster your learning within the context of an intentional learning community. We recognize that not everyone can uproot themselves and move to seminary. For this reason, all our courses are asynchronous. This allows you to continue working and serving where you are located while taking courses. At the same time, you will be provided with opportunities to have regular live online meetings with your professors and classmates, if you so desire.
This program is also offered in the Competency-Based Theological Education format, which delivers a formal theological education in a context that is specific to the students ministry under the guidance of experienced pastor mentors.
- How long does it take?
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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.
Competency-Based Theological Education (CBTE) students may take residential, online and CBTE courses, may enroll six times per year and complete the program in as little at 28 months.
- When can I start this program?
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Residential courses follow a 16-week semester format and have two starts every year. The spring semester begins in January and the fall semester begins in August, with a break for summer in between semesters.
Online courses follow an eight-week term format and have six starts every year. Every eight weeks is a new start, meaning there are two online terms offered each spring, summer and fall.
Competency-Based Theological Education (CBTE) students follow an eight-week term format and have six starts each year. Every eight weeks is a new start, meaning there are two online terms offered each spring, summer and fall.
- How much does it cost?
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CIU’s Master of Divinity is economical and affordable. Visit Tuition and Fees for detailed costs. Competency-Based Theological Education (CBTE) students have a different scale. Check the CBTE page for details.
- Am I provided with Bible software?
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Yes, upon enrolling in your first course, you will receive a professional-level copy of Accordance Bible Software, customized for your studies at Columbia Biblical Seminary. It is yours to keep upon graduation.