Master of Divinity (MDiv)
Cairn University is committed to preparing shepherds and teachers for the local church.
Prepare for pastoral leadership in local churches focused on the Word of God. Study the Bible cover-to-cover while developing a foundational understanding of Christian doctrine and applied theology, preparing to approach pastoral responsibilities ranging from counseling to financial management with a biblical perspective.
Why the Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree?
The Master of Divinity degree is often the preferred degree for entry into vocational ministry. Cairn MDiv graduates are prepared for service in the church across a broad spectrum of denominations and models of ministry through a Christ- and Bible-centered curriculum. Graduates are taught to care for the people of God as teachers and shepherds who are themselves spiritually fit followers of Jesus Christ.
At Cairn University you’ll receive everything you need to lead, teach, and preach from God’s Word and prepare for pastoral leadership in your local church. You’ll study the Bible cover to cover while developing a foundational understanding of Christian doctrine and applied theology, and become equipped to approach pastoral responsibilities ranging from counseling to financial management from a biblical perspective.
Why the Master of Divinity (MDiv) at Cairn University?
Christ-Centered Without Compromise
Experience a rigorous biblical education to equip you with all you need to lead, teach, and preach.
Intentionally In-person Learning
Proper ministry preparation requires you learn and engage with the faculty and fellow students.
Affordable
Receive a superior learning experience and education at the rate of an online degree.
Distinguished Faculty
Learn from distinguished faculty who are deeply committed to preparing you for service in the church.
Equipped to Serve
Prepare to preach and teach with in-depth training in the exegesis of biblical texts and a thorough study of biblical Greek and Hebrew, hermeneutics, and homiletics.
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Get an inside look at our Master of Divinity (MDiv) Program
The MDiv program at Cairn University equips students to master pastoral ministry essentials for diverse church settings, preach and teach through advanced training in original biblical languages (Greek and Hebrew), exegesis, hermeneutics, and homiletics, while integrating theology, exposition, and practical service in a balanced academic and experiential framework.
Overview of the Curriculum
Biblical Studies: 30 credits
Systematic Theology: 18 credits
Applied Theology: 18 credits
Biblical Languages: 24 credits (see FAQs for details)
Electives: 6 credits
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Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Articulate a master’s level understanding of the Bible appropriate for vocational ministry.
- Articulate a master’s level understanding of systematic and historical theology appropriate for vocational ministry.
- Demonstrate exegetical skill in the original languages of the Bible.
- Demonstrate expositional skill in communicating God’s Word.
- Demonstrate shepherding skills of caring for and leading God’s people within a ministry setting.
- Demonstrate evidence of mature Christian character necessary for vocational ministry and lead God’s people to spiritual maturity as one who models the same.
- CHM 621 The Spiritual Life
- CHM 631 Pastoral Care and Leadership
- CHM 731 Issues in Christian Education
- CHM 791 Guided Field Experience
- PMN 631 Homiletics
- PMN 721 Pastoral Counseling
- PMN 731 Advanced Homiletics
Learn more:
The Master of Divinity (MDiv) program at Cairn University equips graduates for a range of vocational ministry roles, often in pastoral, educational, or leadership capacities within churches, missions, and related organizations. Here are some common career paths:
- Pastor: Leading congregations, preaching, and overseeing church operations.
- Youth Pastor: Ministering to young people in church settings, often building on foundational ministry training.
- Chaplain: Providing spiritual care in hospitals, military, prisons, or other institutional settings.
- Missionary or Overseas Ministry Program Director: Engaging in cross-cultural evangelism, international outreach, or directing global ministry initiatives.
- Church Administrator: Managing administrative and operational aspects of churches or ministries.
- Camp Director: Leading Christian camps, retreats, or youth programs with a focus on spiritual development.
- Professor or Teacher: Teaching biblical studies or theology in schools, churches, or seminaries.
- Elder or Lay Ministry Roles: Serving in non-ordained leadership or volunteer capacities within churches.
Many graduates pursue ordination upon receiving the MDiv degree.
Cairn University is regionally accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Programmatic Accreditation
- Application: Submit the Application for Admission along with the $25 non-refundable fee. Apply today using code InChristAlone and we will waive the fee.
- Transcripts: Submit official academic transcript(s) for all conferred degrees. Request transcripts to be sent to Cairn through the application portal. Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Essays
- Personal Testimony: Describe your conversion to Christ, spiritual growth, and church involvement. (250-500 words)
- Statement of Purpose: Describe your reasons for pursuing graduate studies in this field at this time. Please explain your current employment situation and your long-term goals. (250-500 words)
- Academic Essay: Choose an author, theologian, well-known ministry leader, or Christian philosopher and discuss how his/her views have shaped your thinking on a biblical text or theme that has significant meaning for you. What are its implications for pastoral ministry? (1000-1200 words)
References
- Submit an Academic/Professional Reference
- Submit a Pastoral Reference.
Do I need to take the biblical languages courses?
The MDiv program requires students pass a language proficiency test for Greek and Hebrew. Depending upon the results of the test, up to 12 additional credits of Greek and/or up to 12 additional credits of Hebrew may be required. The graduate Divinity Electives
may be used for this purpose.
Greek Courses:
- GRK 631 Elem NT Greek I
- GRK 632 Elem NT Greek II
- GRK 731 NT Greek Exegesis I
- GRK 732 NT Greek Exegesis II
Hebrew Courses:
- HEB 631 Elem Biblical Hebrew I
- HEB 632 Elem Biblical Hebrew II
- HEB 731 Exegesis of Hebrew Prose
- HEB 732 Exegesis of Hebrew Poetry
Being proficient in biblical languages enables you to earn the degree sooner.
Does Cairn University accept advanced standing credits?
Advanced standing of up to 24 credits may be granted for Bible/Theology credits earned at an accredited Bible college, Christian liberal arts college or university, or seminary. Credits will be granted on a course-by-course basis.
How often do I need to come to campus for class?
Classes are typically scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays to accommodate your busy work, ministry and family schedule.
What is the cost of attendance?
The tuition for post-secondary education has become expensive in general. However, Cairn programs rank amongst the most affordable particularly for the in-class learning experience. The tuition rates are available from this page. Scholarships, grants and loans are also available.
A limited-time offer for a 50% off MDiv scholarship is currently available. Apply now to take advantage of it.
Are there plans to offer the MDiv program online?
Limited-Time Scholarship Offer
The MDiv Scholarship is available to a limited number of qualified students each term. Apply now to claim this offer!
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