The primary purpose of the program is to enhance the study and practice of ministry for those persons already holding the M.Div. degree and who also have ministry experience. The program seeks to further develop both the intellectual and practical components that are typically exercised in ministry. As a professional degree, the D. Min. stresses the practical aspects of ministry through biblical, historical and theological reflection and application. The program is not designed to prepare students for a college or university teaching ministry

Areas of Study in the D.Min Program

Biblical Exposition
This area of study concentrates on the use of the Bible in preaching and ministry. This concentration will follow an interdisciplinary approach that includes both homiletics and biblical exegesis—seeking to emphasize the content and interpretation of the biblical message in the Church’s ministry as well as the skills necessary for effective preaching and teaching in congregational settings.

Ministry at the Margins
This area of study explores the unique challenges, gifts, and joys involved in ministering to urban and other marginalized communities. It explores the unique psychology and needs of marginalized communities with an eye toward preparing the minister for a variety of ministry settings including but not limited to parish ministry, street ministry, homeless ministry, pastoral care and counseling, and spiritual guidance.

Interspirituality
This concentration requires the integration of one non-Abrahamic system of spirituality with Christianity (e.g. Buddhism and Christianity, Hinduism and Christianity, Native Spirituality and Christianity) in such a way that the non-Abrahamic spirituality informs and enriches the ability to express and understand the spiritual experience in a way that acknowledges that the totality of God can never be contained in ANY single system of belief. This track seeks to provide opportunities for persons in ministerial leadership to reflect upon the rich, broad history of people seeking God cross culturally, thereby enhancing the congregational experience of God in the contemporary Church.

Christian History
This concentration encourages a deeper and more dynamic exploration of a period or tradition within the history of Christianity with an eye toward the assessment of the period or tradition explored and it's possible application (if any) to the contemporary Christian experience. It is designed to explore the relationship between history, tradition, and a living, vital contemporary Christian spirituality and theology.

Interdisciplinary Studies
This concentration provides opportunities for persons in ministry to study within a program designed to fit their own particular situation and needs in ministry. This program will be developed in conjunction with the student's academic advisor and approved by the Dean.

Components of the D. Min. Program

Doctor of Ministry Coursework:
The courses offered are intended to integrate biblical, historical and theological reflection with practical ministry experiences. The student should carefully consult with their advisor to ensure that courses taken correspond to their chosen D. Min. track.

Seminar in Ministry:
This three-credit on-line seminar is required for all D. Min. students. Its primary purpose is to offer an intentional atmosphere for integrating biblical, historical and theological reflection and the concerns of practical ministry.

D. Min. Project:
The Project constitutes 6 credit hours of work. It should have a professional focus that provides opportunities for reflection on professional development, integrates the academic learning experience with personal ministry experiences, and demonstrates how the student’s understanding of ministry is enhanced. The student must consult with his/her advisor and submit the project proposal before the D.Min. Committee.

Possibilities for Projects:
1) Action/Reflection model – a presentation of the results growing out of some direct engagement within a context of ministry.
2) Program Model – a presentation or description of program possibilities (educational, liturgical, homiletical, pastoral, etc.) designed by the student for his/her work.
3) Thesis or Essay – a study of some topic related to the integration of one’s academic work and professional focus.