The LEAD Master of Divinity (MDiv) program prepares missional ministry leaders for contemporary cultural settings. The program uses an interdisciplinary approach where Bible, theology, and practical ministry skills are taught together so that theology and ministry flow directly from consideration of the biblical text.

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is the foundational degree for Christian vocation. Biblical's professors employ a missional hermeneutic to their approach to theological study and practice. Missional theology and biblical studies are integrated so students can grasp the great sweeping narrative of God's redemption in every aspect of creation through Jesus Christ.

Who are LEAD MDiv Students?

• Full-time Senior Pastors
• Youth Pastors, Worship Leaders
• Church Planters
• Ministry Leaders
• Parachurch Ministers
• Anyone desiring to follow God

What can you expect from the LEAD Program?

Expect to be changed. The LEAD MDiv is a three-year, cohort based program, where students remain together throughout their studies. This provides the unique ability for students to work on team building in ministry while sowing into each others lives. The classes are structured to provide practical and spiritual growth.

How can the LEAD Program change you?

At Biblical, the cohort model is a powerful delivery format for professional development because it taps into students’ prior ministry experience, it is collaborative, and it occurs over a period of three years. Because students move through the program together, the quality of learning from one course to another is enhanced. Cohorts develop strong communication skills where students sharpen and challenge each other. This dynamic learning community produces the kind of deep learning, authentic contextualization, and relational wisdom that missional leaders need today.

In addition, students will embrace spiritual formation through participation in five retreats (included in tuition) and an intercultural learning experience at the completion of the program.

Are you short on time?

Of course you are, however, Biblical Seminary's LEAD MDiv program is custom tailored to the full-time ministry candidate, or the full-time career oriented person who desires additional training and are strapped for time. LEAD MDiv program is designed to allow a student to earn a degree in three years. Throughout the program classes are offered on Tuesday nights with an additional Saturday class once a month.

"My Master of Divinity training at Biblical Seminary helped me transition directly from a role as president of a successful business in New Jersey to a senior pastor position in Michigan. Our church is re-igniting its passion for Christ and currently walking through a vision and name change."

- Phil DiLernia, MDiv '05

LEAD Master of Divinity Curriculum
Biblical Studies - 21 Credits Reading the Old Testament Missionally Reading the New Testament Missionally (pre-req., Reading OT) Take 5 of These 6 Old Testament Pentateuch Book Study Old Testament Prophets Book Study Old Testament Writings Book Study New Testamnet Gospels Book Study New Testament Acts or Pauline Book Study New Testament General Epistles Book Study
Theology - 21 Credits Intro to the Christian Tradition Missional Theology 1: God and Creation Missional Theology 2: Reconciliation and Redemption - (pre-req., MT1) Theology, Ethnicity, and Gender - (pre-req., Intro to CT and MT2) Christianity and World Religions - (pre-req., Intro to CT) World Christian History 1 and 2
Practical Theology - 18 Credits Formation and Mission Community and Mission - (pre-req., Formation and Mission) Leadership Development - (pre-req., Formation and Mission) Organizations and Change - (pre-req., Leadership Development) Pastoral Counseling Homiletics - (pre-req., 4 book study courses)
Electives - 15 Credits Integrative - 10 Credits Senior Seminar (3 Credits) Intercultural Learning Experience (7 Credits) Retreats - 5 Credits You may choose any five classes of your choice to complete elective requirement of 15 credits. Not all classes are offerred at the same times each year.
Total Required Credits - 90

How long will it take to complete the MDiv program?

The Master of Divinity program can be completed in three years with a total of 90 credits. However, many students pursue the program on a part-time basis for all or part of their course of study. A comprehesive schedule of night classes allows for a flexible program of study.

What are the entrance requirements to the MDiv program?

Biblical welcomes men and women who have or are about to complete a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Prior study in Bible or theology is not required. International applicants have additional requirements that are posted on our website .

The admissions committee assesses each applicant on the basis of academic ability, personal characteristics, and educational and ministry goals and objectives.

For more information, contact Rev. Darryl Lang in admissions at 800.235.4021 or 215.368.5000 x147 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

A great sign of a seminary is how far people will travel to go there. Personally my 2.5 hour drive up from Baltimore to attend classes for the LEAD MDiv program was well worth the trip. In this program my faith and confidence in God grew - isn't that the way it is supposed to be? Part of the design of the LEAD program integrated team building, which is such an important skill for ministry. What a great new style of seminary.

– Tim Leary, LEAD MDiv 2004 InterVarsity Christian Fellowship