Ministry, Theology, & Culture - Master of Divinity
Master of Divinity
Welcome to the Master of Divinity Tabor Adelaide
The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is perhaps the most common first degree in theology and ministry in the world. It is certainly the standard first degree in North America and increasingly in Asia. It has been available in Australia for the last 8 years or so and it is now available in Adelaide only at Tabor Adelaide.
Who qualifies to enrol in a Master of Divinity?
A person must have completed an undergraduate degree in a discipline other than theology or ministry (e.g., BA, BSc, BEd). For this reason it is considered a post graduate degree.
If you are eligible to enrol in the MDiv you have the advantage of studying at the post-graduate level rather than completing a second undergraduate degree. Students, who may, at some time in the future, undertake post-graduate studies in North America are advised to complete an MDiv if they are eligible.
What are the benefits of completing an MDiv rather than a Master in Christian Studies?
The Master in Christian Studies (MACS) is a “terminal” qualification and is not intended to lead to further post graduate study. It is designed for people to grow in their faith and use to enhance the field of work they are currently in, but who are not necessarily seeking work in the Ministry or Theology field. If you complete an MDiv, you will be eligible for enrolment into the Master of Ministry or Master of Theology programs on the basis of the subjects you have completed and ultimately into a Doctoral program.
How does the course structure work?
The course is made up of 25 subjects (equivalent 3 years fulltime study) each subject is worth 6 credit points. You are required to complete 150cp to graduate with a Master in Divinity. The course is set as follows:
- Core subjects (90cp)
- Electives/minor (24cp)
- Complete at least one specialisation in either biblical, theology or ministry studies (36cp)
- A total of 150 credit points
Pre-requisites and timetabling determine the progression of the subjects studied. Postgraduate electives can only be undertaken once the required graduate level pre requisites have been completed. MDiv students will be required to undertake at least one postgraduate subject to incorporate in their chosen specialisation.
Can I study externally?
Yes, all of your courses can be taken externally. Tabor Adelaide uses the high quality, simple online program called moodle. Please contact our school administrator Samantha Docherty at sdocherty@adelaide.tabor.edu.au or (08) 8373 8777 for more information on external studies.
What are my choices for electives /minor?
The electives you choose in your specialisation are required in be in the same relative field. Please consult your course advisor for guidance on subject selection in each semester. Students also have another four electives. You can opt to use choose a variety of subjects or create a minor in the following fields:
- Pastoral Care
- Church History
- Contemporary Church
- Intercultural Studies
Some students may wish to choose TM4230 Denominational History and Polity (taught in partnership with their denomination) as a way of preparing themselves for entering an ordination stream. With permission from the Head of School, students may also choose from selected subjects that compliment their study program offered by the other schools within Tabor Adelaide.
