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2019-2020 Academic Bulletin [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Divinity/Community and International Development Dual Degree MDiv/MSCID
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Return to: Programs by Department
Andrews University has formed a collaborative program between the Master of Divinity Program of the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary and the Community and International Development Program in the College of Arts & Sciences. Students can potentially complete the two degrees in 3 years; 2 years in the Theological Seminary and 1 year in the Community and International Development Program.
The objectives of this program are to prepare students to better follow Christ’s model for ministry by equipping pastors, evangelists and missionaries with important tools, skills and knowledge in order to address the socio and economic needs of their churches and community.
Students who receive this degree will have a more holistic view of the Church’s mission and their community. They will receive practical training in:
- Finding innovated approaches to improving quality of life of church and community members.
- Addressing urban issues that affect the church: poverty, economic crisis, unemployment, etc.
- Assessing the needs of the community they will serve.
- Fundraising and grant writing.
- Program management.
- Managing humanitarian crises and programs.
- Program design, monitoring and evaluations.
- Analyze, evaluate and design and execute policy that affect constituents and local community.
- Advocacy.
- Research (design, analysis and recommendations).
Students will receive 6 months of Field experience. This increases their job readiness and marketability. CID/Seminary based dual degree students will have two options:
- A six-month supervised internship abroad or in a local community full time, utilizing knowledge and skills from both degrees. This is the regular standard for the degree.
- Work 6 months in the church and community selected for TFE assignment. Students will be expected to identify humanitarian needs and issues in their churches and surrounding community and provide a feasible solution.
The knowledge and skills provided will allow students to more confidently address issues in their church and community. Student will be able to use both biblical and research/professional based answers to respond to social and economic issues in their community. An understanding of the humanitarian field and its expectations will increase the legitimacy of programs they implement and chances of receiving funding.
A CID degree will allow students to be more marketable to other fields outside of the church and improve their chances for employment. CID degree holders have a wide range of potential career paths in which the spiritual and physical contributions could be greatly beneficial. These roles generally fall into the following categories (not including exclusively pastoral roles):
- Practitioner: Project management and implementation in the field.
- Policy/Advisory: Research, evaluation, lessons learned and developing policy recommendations to use within the organization and to advocate outside of the organization.
- Advocacy & Outreach: Ministry, campaigning, lobbying, fundraising, media, communications.
- Support: Human resources, finance, logistics, IT, etc.
Since the MSCID and MDiv programs share certain cognate courses to achieve a more streamlined and efficient program, both degrees must be conferred simultaneously in order to fulfill the requirements of each degree. In the event that one degree was completed prior to enrollment for the dual degree program, the cognate requirements for the other degree will be adjusted as shown below. A dual student cannot march in graduation or March-without-Completion if both halves of the dual degree are not completed.
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Total Credits: 95
Graduation requirements consist of the satisfactory completion of 95 semester credits with an overall grade point average of 3.0 GPA for the MA CIDS program. and 2.75 or highter for the MDiv program. 65 credits are MDiv credits, and 30 credits are Master of Community and International Development credits.
13 MDiv credits are used to fulfill equivalent MSCID requirements:
NOTE: If dual degree students choose to complete a concentration, this will increase their total credits required by 12.
Program Information
Information for the two programs (Divinity MDiv and Community & International Development MSCID) follows:
Click here to jump to Community & International Development MSCID.
Divinity MDiv
E-mail: mdiv@andrews.edu
The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is a 78-credit professional program recommended as the graduate training for Adventist ministry by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and the North American Division. It is a two-year professional program (including summers) for full-time students. Additional semesters may be required for students lacking prerequisites.
Concentration Options
Students may - if desired - complete one of two concentration options:
- Chaplaincy
- Youth and Young Adult Ministry
MDiv Dual Degree Options
The MDiv is also available with the following dual degree options:
Mission
In harmony with the mission and core values of the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary, the Master of Divinity degree equips called, committed men and women with practical biblical, theological, and ministerial knowledge and skills to prepare them for Christlike service as leaders and equippers.
Vision
We envision the Master of Divinity community as a relationally healthy and diverse family focused on developing balanced and spiritually mature ministry leaders who are committed to equipping people in accomplishing God’s mission and the prophetic calling of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Interdisciplinary - 2
- GSEM 501 - New Student Orientation Credits: 0
Students must attend and register for the Fall semester 0 credit orientation as a graduation requirement. - GSEM 505 - Colloquium: ______________________ Credits: 0
Brief (4.5 hour) colloquia on a variety of ministry topics will be offered each semester for MDiv students.
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On-campus students are required to attend at least 5 colloquia sessions during their MDiv experience. Students may take more than one colloquia per semester if desired. A repeat course override will be entered by the MDiv office upon request which will permit student to register.
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Colloquia requirements for transfer students or those completing part of their MDiv off-campus will be one colloquium for each semester that they are on the main campus.
- Students from previous bulletins who petition into the 2018-19 bulletin will take 1 colloquium per semester for the remaining semesters of their program.
- 2 credits of GSEM 530 - Doctrine of the Sanctuary Credits: 2,3
Great Controversy, Covenant, Law, and Sabbath - 2-3
Discipleship and Religious Education - 9
New Testament - 8
Before registering for New Testament courses, check the course description for Greek Language and/or other course prerequisites.
Students who have not taken NTST 530 - Introduction to Revelation or a comparable undergraduate course approved by the department MUST take one of the following courses as a New Testament Core Elective: - NTST 647 - Eschatology Credits: 2,3 (as New Testament Theology)
- NTST 648 - Revelation Credits: 2,3 (as New Testament Exegesis)
Choose one of the following New Testament Exegesis courses for 3 credits (NTST List A) - Intermediate Greek proficiency required: - NTST 645 - Hebrews Credits: 2,3
- NTST 646 - Topics in New Testament Exegesis Credits: 2,3
- NTST 648 - Revelation Credits: 2,3
- NTST 653 - Advanced Studies in the General Epistles Credits: 2,3
- NTST 655 - Advanced Studies in the Gospels Credits: 2,3
- NTST 658 - Advanced Studies in the Pauline Writings Credits: 2,3
- NTST 678 - Seminar in Greek Exegesis Credits: 2,3
Choose one of the following New Testament Theology courses for 3 credits (NTST List B) - Intermediate Greek proficiency required: - NTST 613 - Love, Marriage and Divorce Credits: 2,3
- NTST 614 - Suffering, Death and Resurrection Credits: 2,3
- NTST 616 - Theology of Luke-Acts Credits: 2,3
- NTST 623 - New Testament Theology of Prayer Credits: 2,3
- NTST 627 - New Testament Theology of Salvation Credits: 2,3
- NTST 628 - The Holy Spirit in the New Testament Credits: 2,3
- NTST 629 - New Testament Ecclesiology Credits: 2,3
- NTST 630 - Theology of the Synoptic Gospels Credits: 2,3
- NTST 633 - Social Issues in the New Testament Credits: 2,3
- NTST 634 - Theology of the Pauline Epistles Credits: 2,3
- NTST 641 - Theology of the Johannine Writings Credits: 2,3
- NTST 647 - Eschatology Credits: 2,3
- NTST 650 - Great Controversy, Covenant, Law and Sabbath Credits: 2,3
- NTST 667 - Topics in New Testament Theology Credits: 2,3
- NTST 668 - New Testament Ethics Credits: 2,3
- NTST 676 - Jesus in Recent Scholarship Credits: 2,3
- NTST 679 - Seminar in New Testament Theology and Ethics Credits: 2,3
Choose one of the following New Testament Background courses for 2 credits (NTST List C) - Intermediate Greek proficiency required: - NTST 606 - New Testament Textual Criticism and Canon Formation Credits: 2,3
- NTST 615 - New Testament Archaeology Credits: 2,3
- NTST 626 - Seminar in Classical Jewish Literature Credits: 2,3
- NTST 635 - Intertestamental Literature Credits: 2,3
- NTST 636 - Jerusalem in the Time of Jesus Credits: 2,3
- NTST 654 - Second Century Christianity Credits: 2,3
- NTST 680 - Greco-Roman World Credits: 2,3
- NTST 684 - Judaism and the New Testament Credits: 2,3
- NTST 689 - Seminar in New Testament Backgrounds Credits: 2,3
- NTST 695 - Topics in New Testament Backgrounds Credits: 2,3
Old Testament - 8
Before registering for Old Testament courses, check the course description for Hebrew Language and/or other course prerequisites.
- 2 credits of OTST 674 - Daniel Credits: 2,3
Choose one of the following Old Testament Exegesis courses for 2 credits (OTST List A) - Intermediate Hebrew proficiency required: - OTST 628 - Methods of OT Exegesis Credits: 2,3
- OTST 639 - Studies in Old Testament Exegesis Credits: 2,3
- OTST 664 - Pentateuch Credits: 2,3
- OTST 666 - Historical Books Credits: 2,3
- OTST 668 - Psalms/Wisdom Literature Credits: 2,3
- OTST 675 - Minor Prophets Credits: 2,3
- OTST 680 - Seminar in Old Testament Exegesis Credits: 2,3
- OTST 686 - Major Prophets Credits: 2,3
Choose one of the following Old Testament Theology courses for 2 credits (OTST List B) - Intermediate Hebrew proficiency required: - OTST 610 - The Great Controversy, Covenant, Law, Sabbath Credits: 2,3
- OTST 619 - Theology of the Old Testament Credits: 2,3
- OTST 620 - Seminar in Old Testament Theology Credits: 2,3
- OTST 627 - Jewish Life and Thought Credits: 2,3
- OTST 685 - Principles of Hermeneutics Credits: 2,3
Choose one of the following archaeology courses: - 2 credits of OTST 510 - Archaeology and the Bible Credits: 2,3
or Students who have taken an undergraduate course in biblical archaeology may replace OTST 510 with a 2-credit advanced archaeology course from the following list (OTST List C): - NTST 615 - New Testament Archaeology Credits: 2,3
- OTST 514 - Bible Lands and Their Explorations Credits: 2,3
- OTST 604 - History of the Ancient Near East Credits: 2,3
- OTST 635 - History of Israel Credits: 2,3
Theology - 13
- 3 credits of THST 611 - Revelation, Inspiration and Hermeneutics Credits: 3
- 2 credits of THST 635 - Issues in Origins Credits: 2,3
Choose one of the following Systematic Theology courses for 3 credits (THST List A): - THST 608 - The Great Controversy, Covenant, Law, Sabbath Credits: 2,3
- THST 615 - Doctrine of the Church Credits: 2,3
- THST 616 - Doctrine of God Credits: 2,3
- THST 617 - The Works of God Credits: 2,3
- THST 618 - The Works of Christ Credits: 2,3
- THST 619 - Principles and Methods of Theology Credits: 2,3
- THST 630 - Doctrine of Christ Credits: 2,3
- THST 637 - Biblical Eschatology Credits: 2,3
- THST 639 - Doctrine of the Holy Spirit Credits: 2,3
- THST 640 - Doctrine of Salvation Credits: 2,3
- THST 647 - Human Nature and Destiny Credits: 2,3
- THST 649 - Seminar in Theological Issues:_______________________________________ Credits: 2,3
- THST 678 - Science and Religion Credits: 2,3
Choose one of the following Historical Theology courses for 2 credits (THST List B): - THST 623 - Contemporary Adventist Theological Issues Credits: 2,3
- THST 624 - Protestant Theological Heritage Credits: 2,3
- THST 625 - Early Christian Theology Credits: 2,3
- THST 626 - Modern Christian Theology Credits: 2,3
- THST 627 - Roman Catholic Life & Thought Credits: 2,3
- THST 628 - Contemporary Theology Credits: 2,3
- THST 629 - History and Theology of Ecumenism Credits: 2,3
- THST 656 - Seminar in Historical Theology:_________________________________________ Credits: 2,3
- THST 667 - Postmodernism and the Church Credits: 2,3
- THST 676 - History of Philosophy Credits: 2,3
Choose one of the following Ethics courses: - 3 credits of THST 605 - Principles of Christian Ethics Credits: 2,3
or Students who have taken an undergraduate course in Ethics may replace THST 605 with a 3-credit advanced ethics course from the following list (THST List C): - THST 622 - Foundations of Philosophical Ethics Credits: 3
- THST 633 - Christian Personal Ethics Credits: 2,3
- THST 634 - Christian Social Ethics Credits: 2,3
- THST 643 - Christian Professional Ethics Credits: 2,3 (MDiv/MSW Dual Degree students must replace this course with SOWK 515 )
- THST 644 - Theological Ethics Credits: 2,3
- THST 659 - Seminar in Philosophy, Theology, and Ethics:____________________________ Credits: 2,3
- THST 660 - Church and Society Credits: 2,3
- CHMN 549 - Philosophy & Ethics of Chaplaincy Credits: 3
General Electives - 6
- Students will take 6 credits of general electives.
- Electives may not be used to satisfy prerequisites and/or deficiencies.
- Students may use elective credits toward the completion of an MDiv concentration or a dual degree program.
- Up to 6 credits in relevant courses offered by other schools of the university on the graduate level may be included in the general electives, including up to 4 appropriate workshop credits.
- Transfer credit petitions from other schools/colleges within Andrews University or from any other University must be done in consultation with the MDiv Office.
Thesis Option
Students anticipating academic doctoral studies after the completion of their MDiv program are advised to undertake the thesis option as some academic institutions require a master’s-level thesis for entry into doctoral programs. Students undertaking the thesis option should plan to take more than seven semesters to complete the program.
The thesis counts as 6 general elective credits allowed for the MDiv degree. Students should register for 2 or more thesis credits per term for at least two semesters. Therefore, initial registration for a thesis must be no later than two semesters prior to graduation. Students electing to write an MDiv thesis must apply to the director of the program and must (1) demonstrate superior scholarship over a minimum of two consecutive semesters, normally with a GPA of 3.50 or above; (2) take Research Methods before the thesis is started; and (3) submit a paper of superior quality before permission is granted by the director to begin writing the thesis. The student is guided in thesis preparation by a three-member committee appointed by the director in consultation with the student and department chair in which the subject of the thesis is chosen. The chair of this committee serves as the thesis advisor.
The format of the thesis must conform strictly to the Andrews University Standards for Written Work. Students are strongly urged to consult the dissertation secretary before formatting and printing a thesis.
At least six weeks before graduation, the committee-approved draft of the thesis should be submitted to the dissertation secretary. After appropriate changes have been made, the corrected copy should be submitted at least four weeks before graduation to the dissertation secretary for approval. Copying on non-acid paper should be completed at least two weeks before graduation. Three copies of the thesis, including a 150-word abstract and an approval sheet, must be submitted to the dissertation secretary. The abstract should contain a short statement of the problem examined, a brief exposition of methods and procedures, and a condensed summary of the findings.
Students obtain a Thesis Completion Form from the dissertation secretary. They must take the form to the Academic Records Office no later than noon on Friday, a week preceding graduation. A fee is charged by the university for binding the three copies of the thesis, two of which are deposited in the library and one in the department in which the student earns the degree.
Students who do not adhere strictly to the deadlines noted above will have their graduation postponed. Thesis candidates must pass an oral examination no later than two weeks before graduation. The candidate is expected to demonstrate mastery of the thesis topic.
Concentrations
Note: Dual degree students who choose to complete a concentration will increase their total credits required by 12.
Chaplaincy Concentration - 12
A Chaplaincy Concentration is available for students interested in earning a Chaplaincy Endorsement from Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries.
Youth and Young Adults Ministry Concentration - 12
A Youth and Young Adult Ministry (YYAM)Concentration is available for students wishing to gain specialized skills and knowledge for service in pastoral and administrative leadership to address the needs of youth and young adults. The MDiv with the YYAM Concentration requires a total of 84 credits.
Students who choose this concentration must select 2 Credits of CHMN 632 Contextualized Preaching: Youth in fulfillment of the Christian Ministry requirement for an Advanced Preaching Core Elective (CHMN list).
Additional Requirements
MDiv students must meet the following requirements in addition to those required of all graduate students:
- Attend and register for the Fall semester 0 credit orientation as a graduation requirement.
- Complete the MDiv curriculum of at least 78 credits. Students lacking adequate undergraduate preparation will be required to complete additional prerequisite credits. The actual number of credits required is based on individual academic evaluation.
- Attend selected brief colloquia from among those offered on a variety of ministry topics each semester for MDiv students. On campus students will be required to attend at least 5 of these 0 credit colloquia sessions during their MDiv experience.
- Maintain a GPA of 2.75 or above.
- Meet the qualitative standards of the MDiv program.
- No U grade or any grade below C- will count towards the MDiv degree, but will be counted in the student’s cumulative GPA.
Academic Probation
MDiv students whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.75 will be placed on academic probation and will have their course load reduced to no more than 10 semester credits. MDiv students whose cumulative GPA remains below 2.75 for a second consecutive semester will be required to enter into a probation contract, and have regular meetings with their academic advisor. Following that, should their GPA not improve, they may be asked to withdraw from the program.
When an incomplete or Deferred Grade has not been cleared by the end of the following semester, the student’s course load must be reduced as follows:
- One Incomplete/DGs—no reduction
- Two Incompletes/DGs—may register for no more than 10 credits
- Three Incompletes/DGs—may register for no more than 9 credits
With more than three I/DGs, the student must cease taking classes until the Incompletes/DGs are cleared.
Evaluation of Students
Since the MDiv program prepares individuals for professional and pastoral leadership, periodic assessments are made of the students by the faculty in areas other than academic standing. Areas reviewed are students’ spiritual growth, lifestyle reflective of the beliefs and practices of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, social/family relations, and developing potential for ministry. As a result of these assessments, students are affirmed in the MDiv program, advised of needed adjustments, or discontinued from the program.
Maintaining Active Status
Residency Requirements: Students must maintain active status by enrolling for at least two semesters within one academic year. When this fails to happen, the student must follow the bulletin in force at the time active status is reestablished.
Following an absence of two years or more, a student’s previous admission status will have lapsed and the student will need to reapply to the program.
Graduation
The Seminary follows the University graduation procedures and requirements for the conferral of degrees section of this bulletin. A dedication ceremony for graduating seminary students is held on the Sabbath afternoon of graduation weekend, or as announced.
Admission Requirements
All MDiv applicants must meet the Graduate Programs Admission Requirements applicable to all graduate students and the general seminary requirements.
- Hold a baccalaureate degree: A four-year degree from an accredited United States institution, or its equivalent from an institution outside the U.S.
- Minimum of 2.5 Undergraduate GPA.
- Normally hold membership in the Seventh-day Adventist Church inasmuch as the MDiv program is specifically designed for Adventist ministers and is sponsored and financed by the Adventist church.
- Represent high moral integrity with a character, lifestyle, and spiritual commitment reflective of the beliefs and practices of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and show promise of usefulness for Adventist ministry through personal maturity and adequate experience in the Church. (Persons of other faiths who are willing to live in harmony with these standards are welcome to apply.)
- Submit an autobiographical history and a 350+ word statement of purpose reflecting the applicant’s family and spiritual development, sense of calling to ministry, experience in church work, and future goals in relationship to the MDiv program. A guideline is provided in the admissions package.
- If married, the spouse of the applicant is also asked to complete a statement in regard to his or her feelings and relationship to the partner’s aspirations for future ministry.
- Background Check. Applicants to all Seminary programs are required to undergo a criminal background check as specified in the online application process. The criminal background check must be completed within six months of beginning coursework and be redone every three years while in attendance at the seminary. The basic cost of the background check is paid as part of the application process. Applicants are responsible for any additional fees charged by municipalities in which they have resided, and for the costs of subsequent background checks.
- An interview with a representative of the MDiv program may be required, either by personal contact, telephone, or video.
- Complete and return the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire as directed.
- Pre-admission Conduct Disclosure Statement - Applicants to all Seminary programs are required to complete and submit to the Seminary the “Pre-Admission Conduct Disclosure Statement.”
- Recommendations:
- Church board where the applicant is a member
- Church administrator, pastor, or elder
- General Recommendation from: College teacher or advisor, recent employer, or some other non-family member
Prerequisites
Students are expected to present a broad range of undergraduate general education represented in such studies as behavioral sciences (including psychology and sociology) communication, education, English composition, fine arts, health, history, philosophy and computer literacy. In addition, courses in the following areas are strongly recommended: Christian ethics, missions, and apologetics.
Students who enter the Master of Divinity program who have not previously taken the following classes on the undergraduate level must fulfill the following prerequisite areas, all of which may be taken either at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary or at the undergraduate level. Courses taken outside of the seminary must be approved through the MDiv office in consultation with the appropriate department.
- Pastoral Ministries and Church Policy - 2 credits
- Basic Bible Proficiency* - 1 credit
- Biblical Preaching - 2 credits
- Personal Evangelism - 2 credits
- Introduction to Church History - 4 credits
- Adventist Heritage - 3 credits
- Christian Theology - 6 credits
- Christian Ethics - 2-3 credits
- Survey of the New Testament - 4 credits
- Intermediate level Greek proficiency*
- Survey of the Old Testament - 4 credits
- Intermediate level Hebrew proficiency*
* Subject can be cleared through optional challenge exam.
Students who have not previously taken the following classes on the undergraduate level must fulfill these prerequisites. Some of these subjects can be cleared through optional challenge exams. Current Greek and Biblical Hebrew language intermediate level proficiency must be accomplished through placement exam or by passing both the beginning and intermediate levels of each language.
- 1 credit of GSEM 525 - The Bible and Biblical History Credits: 0,1
or Biblical Literacy Exam 80% - August
NOTE: All entering students must take the Biblical Literacy Entrance Exam in the first August they are in the MDiv program. Students must either pass the exam at 80% or higher or take GSEM 525 during the Fall or Spring of their first year in the MDiv program. - 2 credits of CHIS 506 - Church History to 1500 Credits: 2,3
- 2 credits of CHIS 507 - Church History 1500 to Present Credits: 2,3
- 1.5 credits of CHIS 570 - History of the Seventh-day Adventist Church Credits: 1.5,2
- 1.5 credits of CHIS 571 - The Life and Writings of Ellen G. White Credits: 1.5,2
- 2 credits of CHMN 505 - Biblical Preaching Credits: 2
- 2 credits of CHMN 536 - Personal Evangelistic Ministry Credits: 2,3
- 2 credits of CHMN 552 - Foundations of Pastoral Ministry Credits: 0,2
NOTE: Students who have passed a basic course in pastoral ministry from an accredited Seventh-day Adventist undergraduate institution, or who have pastoral experience equivalent to what would qualify them to be exempted from TFE, will be exempted from CHMN 552, provided their hiring/sponsoring organization can provide proof of at least two years of pastoral employment via their service record. Exemptions to this rule will be granted on a case by case basis as determined by the Christian Ministry Chairperson. - 2 credits of NTST 520 - Introduction to the New Testament Credits: 2
- 2 credits of NTST 530 - Introduction to Revelation Credits: 2
- 2 credits of NTST 551 - Beginning Greek Credits: 0,2 (C- or higher)
or Greek Placement Exam 45% or higher - May, August
NOTE: Any student who wishes to take a biblical language placement exam must take at least one of the exams in May or August of the year they enroll in seminary. If the student wishes to take the exam for the second language it must be taken before the start of their second year in seminary. - 3 credits of NTST 552 - Intermediate Greek Credits: 0,3 (C or higher)
or Greek Placement Exam 60% or higher - May, August - 2 credits of OTST 500 - Survey of the Old Testament Credits: 2,3
- 3 credits of OTST 551 - Biblical Hebrew I Credits: 0,3 (C- or higher)
or Beginner Hebrew Placement Exam 65% or higher - May, August
NOTE: Any student who wishes to take a Biblical language placement exam must take at least one of the exams in May or August of the year they enroll in seminary. If the student wishes to take the exam for the second language it must be taken before the start of their second year in seminary. - 2 credits of OTST 552 - Biblical Hebrew II Credits: 0,2,3 (C+ or higher)
or Intermediate Hebrew Placement Exam 65% or higher - May, August - 2 credits of OTST 565 - Pentateuch Credits: 2,3
- 3 credits of THST 521 - Christian Theology I Credits: 2,3
- 3 credits of THST 522 - Christian Theology II Credits: 2,3
English Language Requirements
All students whose first language is not English must demonstrate adequate proficiency in English to succeed in the academic setting. Language proficiency requirements must be met before enrolling full-time in regular course work.
- TOEFL Paper-based - 565
- TOEFL Internet-based - 85
- MELAB - 81
- IELTS - 6.5
- PTE - 58
Application Deadline
Given that applying and obtaining pertinent documents for admission can be a long process, the student must start the application process at least 4-6 months before the desired starting semester. See University deadlines for individual semesters here.
Placement, Entrance, and Challenge Examinations
MDiv students may challenge the prerequisite courses above (marked by an asterisk) by taking examinations developed for that purpose. Zero credit shall be granted for each examination passed and the student academic transcript will show the equivalent course name, number, and a grade of P – the designation for Challenge by Examination. No entry shall be made on the transcript if the examination is failed and the student shall be required to take the prerequisite course for credit. Each examination may be taken only once.
Biblical Hebrew and Biblical Greek Prerequisites
Hebrew and Greek are required at the Intermediate proficiency level. Language Proficiency must be demonstrated within the first two years in seminary. For each language, students may demonstrate proficiency by either: (1) passing the Beginning (OTST 551/NTST 551) and Intermediate (OTST 552/NTST 552) courses in that language at the required level, or (2) passing the Placement Exam. Undergraduate credits alone do not demonstrate current proficiency in a language.
Option 1: Language Courses
Students may demonstrate proficiency in Biblical Hebrew by passing Hebrew I (OTST 551) and earning a grade of at least C+ in Hebrew II (OTST 552).
Students may demonstrate proficiency in Greek by passing Beginning Greek and earning a grade of at least C in intermediate Greek (NTST 552).
Option 2: Placement Exam
Students also have the option of demonstrating proficiency in a biblical language by passing the corresponding placement exam. Placement exams may be taken only once for each language. Any student who wishes to take a placement exam must take at least one of them in May or August of the year they enroll in seminary. If the student wishes to take the exam for the second language it must be taken by September of their second year in seminary. Placement exams must be taken at the regular May or August dates set by the seminary.
Instruction sheets designed to help students prepare for the placement examinations are available from the Old Testament and New Testament departments or on the MDiv website under Student Resources.
Based on the score achieved on the exam, the student will be assigned to do one of the following as soon as possible: (1) Take both the beginning and intermediate language courses, (2) take the Intermediate language course, or (3) enroll in exegesis and theology courses without further language study necessary.
Students who do not pass the exam and do not obtain the required grade in the course must retake the course without delay until the required grade is achieved.
Biblical Literacy Entrance Exam
All entering students must take the Biblical Literacy Entrance Exam. The passing score for this exam is 80%. This test will be administered to all students before the beginning of their first fall semester. As an alternative, the student can take the course GSEM 525 - The Bible and Biblical History. If students fail the test or do not take it, they must enroll in the course during the Fall or Spring of their first year in the MDiv Program. The test can only be taken once. Information on the test including a list of items that must be mastered in order to pass it is available from the New Testament Office and on the MDiv website under Student Resources.
Additional Information
Hybrid Course Delivery Options
MDiv students may take up to one-half of their program off-campus. The Hybrid delivery method utilizes various delivery methods to assist students in completing their MDiv degree. These options include:
- On-line classes through the Seminary Online Learning Center (SOLC).
- One week intensives at seminary extension sites in Unions throughout the United States and Canada (offered by the MA Pastoral Ministry English track). Certain classes in the MAPM program cannot be used by MDiv students. Advising is necessary prior to registration.
- Summer Session intensive courses on the main Andrews University campus
- Full semester, on-campus courses
For financial information regarding hybrid studies please click here .
Students interested in the Hybrid delivery method must obtain approval and instructions on specific class options, costs and how to sign up for this option from the MDiv program office before beginning part-time studies.
Transferred and Earned Credit Term Limits
All Course credits applied towards degree requirements should be earned within 10 years of the awarding of the degree.
Transferring Credits to the MDiv Program
Provided the content of the courses are assessed as comparable to the curriculum of the Andrews University Master of Divinity program, students intending to transfer credits into the Master of Divinity Program should be aware of the following policies:
- A transfer of credits must be made by petition.
- Transfer credits are granted only for courses in which the grade is B or higher.
- A student may transfer a maximum of 39 credits (graduate level) may be transferred from an uncompleted graduate-level program.
- Up to 24 credits (graduate level) may be transferred to the Master of Divinity program from a completed master’s-level degree.
- At least 39 credits must be taken in-residence.
Summer Course Load
The 12 week summer semester is divided into two 4-week sessions and two 2-week sessions. The total amount of course work during the summer session may not exceed 12 credits. Students taking a biblical language during a summer session may not take other courses during that session.
Workshop Credit Limit and Grading Pattern
Master of Divinity students may apply up to 4 workshop credits appropriate to degree requirements. If workshops are taken during the semester breaks, the credits are counted as part of the class load for either the previous or the following semester.
Workshops are graded S/U. Any deviation from this pattern must be approved by the dean prior to the conclusion of the workshop. Students must register at the Academic Records Office for all workshops for which academic credit is desired.
Independent Study Restrictions
Students in the MDiv program are allowed to register for Independent Study only for a compelling reason such as a schedule conflict or the need to take a subject that is not offered (for a maximum of 8 credits during their MDiv program). Independent study is only available to students on the main campus. Normally, Independent Study cannot be used to meet a core requirement. Students must first seek approval from the MDiv office before arranging with a teacher to do Independent Study.
Fees
The current MDiv fee structure allows students to take up to 14 credits in the Fall and Spring semesters, and up to 12 credits in the Summer semester. Any credits over 14 for Fall and Spring semesters or over 12 for Summer will be charged at the current per-credit master’s tuition rate.
MDiv students taking a graduate course in the College of Arts & Sciences in fulfillment of an elective course requirement may request a 50% tuition reduction (up to 9 credits cumulative), provided the class is not full and there are a sufficient number of students paying full tuition to warrant the teaching of the course. Directed study, laboratory courses, and study tours are not eligible for reduced tuition. Neither is this discount available for dual enrollment students who have been accepted in a graduate degree program in the College of Arts & Sciences. (Application form is available in the MDiv office.)
If a student wishes to receive CPE credit for units already earned, a per-credit recording fee is charged by the university for CHMN 557 Practicum in Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), or CHMN 641 Practicum in Military Chaplaincy. Units must be earned in accredited centers not connected with a graduate-level school. (Application form is available in the MDiv office.) If a student wishes to register for their CPE units concurrently with other full semester courses, the registration will be part of their MDiv load, and there will be no recording fee assessed.
Hybrid or off-campus students will be charged the current summer semester rate for each 12 credit package used within the academic year (May–April). A reduced part-time general fee will be charged each semester that a student is registered, and online courses will be charged the current online fee per credit registered.
Student Learning Outcomes
A graduate from this program:
- Models spiritual humility, maturity and integrity grounded in a living experience with God in joyful assurance of His salvation, nurtured by the sanctifying presence and power of the Holy Spirit. (Character)
- Manifests the practices of a Biblical scholar-theologian engaging the Bible, Christian/Adventist heritage and professional resources with theological maturity for personal growth and for facilitating the theological competence of others. (Scholarship)
- Demonstrates personal commitment, passion and essential skills for discipleship and evangelism, while equipping members to carry out ministry within the scope of the local and global mission of the Seventh-day Adventist church. (Discipleship & Evangelism)
- Exercises creative and visionary leadership as a minister and servant of Christ, discerning the needs, spiritual gifts and potential of others, in order to equip and engage in their God-given ministries. (Leadership)
- Facilitates enriching corporate worship that brings diverse peoples into the transforming presence of God. (Worship)
- Engages the abilities of self and others to strategically steward personal and corporate resources including time, health, finances, property and service in areas of spiritual giftedness. (Administration/Management)
- Models effective relationships with people of diverse cultures, backgrounds, character, and persuasions, reflecting the wisdom, compassion, and discernment of Jesus through the work of the Spirit. (Relationships)
Community and International Development MSCID
The Community and International Development program offers interdisciplinary study in the humanitarian and development field at the graduate level. This unique approach equips students with the skills needed to identify and respond to social and economic challenges across the globe. Program concentration options offer in depth training - preparing students for professional service in academia, policy, advocacy, project management, and administration.
In order to receive a Masters in Community and International Development, students will complete 33 credits of required coursework and have the option to add 12 credits of coursework for a concentration.
This degree is offered in both an on-campus and a blended format.
MSCID Dual Degree Options:
The MSCID is also available with the following dual degree options:
Foundations - 12
Choose a minimum of 12 credits from the following courses:
Concentrations - 12
The concentration area is selected by individual choice and will draw on University faculty strengths. The program director/advisor, in consulation with the student, will select a minimum of 12 credits of elective courses related to the chosen concentration to meet the student’s career goals.
Students may choose an area of concentration that aligns with their research and career interests. Concentration areas are listed below, along with courses a student may take in each area. Students, in consultation with their advisor, may substitute courses within a concentration area. Additionally, students may choose a different area of concentration, contingent upon documentation that they are able to meet the general concentration requirements (adequate credits, appropriate field practicum, and research projects are available).
NOTE: Students who choose to complete a concentration will need a total of 45 credits to complete the program. Students in the MSCID/MAYYAM Dual Degree program are not required to complete a concentration.
Development Communication
Disaster Preparedness and Management*
NGO Development and Operations
Peace Studies
This concentration is offered in cooperation with Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) for the purpose of establishing a limited articulation of graduate courses as part of an academic exchange program between the Master of Science in Community and International Development program at Andrews University and the Master of Arts: Peace Studies program at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary. Students will work with the Director of CIDP to choose appropriate courses and steps to take to be registered. Students will not register for these courses through Andrews. They will take the courses from AMBS and register through the AMBS system and be transferred to AU.
Select a minimum of 12 credits from the following courses:
HTE 550 Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence
HTE 644 Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, & Revolution
CHM 542 Education for Peace and Justice
CHM 633 Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation
HTE 641 Economic Justice and Christian
HTE 643 International Politics in Christian Perspective
CHM 608 Christian Spirituality for Peace-and-Justice-Making
Assistantships
Students may have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships within the Community and International Development Program. Please apply in the CIDP Office.
Additional Information
The schools and departments regulate policies that govern the elective courses offered as part of the concentration package and some may not be available. Some elective courses may require prerequisites and should be discussed in advance with the program director/advisor for guidance in completing the concentration.
The Field Practicum and Research Project/Thesis will necessarily be related to the area of concentration in order to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the chosen area, and with the possibility of applying course work in practice. Students are required to undertake a 720-hour internship (approximately 6 months at 30 hours per week) through a field placement with a domestic, national, or international organization/project. Internships are based on prior approval and advice from the program director. Arrangements for the internship will be made by the program director/advisor pending availability and feasibility of the placement proposed by the student.
Admission Requirements
All applicants must meet the following criteria, in addition to general admission requirements of the Andrews University School of Graduate Studies & Research:
- A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university.
- An overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 in 8 or more credits of previously taken graduate courses graded A-F. Students may be admitted provisionally with a GPA of 2.6 or higher. Such students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher during their first 12 graduate credits to continue in the program.
- Completed Graduate Application packet.
- Completed coursework in Statistics and Research. Provisional acceptance may be granted without these courses with the expectation that the student will take them during the first year of enrollment. Credits for these prerequisites will not apply toward the MSCID.
The director of the program may request a personal interview or a third reference and/or other information.
Students who apply for admission to the MSCID program have two options related to the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). For those students who are seeking a graduate scholarship, the GRE must be taken. Scholarship amounts are based on the score achieved on the exam. For students who do not seek a graduate scholarship based on the GRE score, the exam is not required.
A reading knowledge of a foreign language is strongly recommended for those planning on graduate work.
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