Master of Divinity (MDiv)
Our Distinctives
* With demonstrated biblical language proficiency.
**Cairn University Ranks #2 in Glanzer’s Guide to Christian Colleges and Universities
Distinguished Faculty
Study with faculty who combine scholarship and pastoral wisdom.
Biblically Rooted
Cairn University demonstrates a consistent commitment to biblical authority.
Strong Academics
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.
Affordable
Receive a superior learning experience and education at the rate of an online degree.
Program Description
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.
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.
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Program Outcomes
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.
Curriculum Highlights
- Homiletics
- Pastoral Counseling
- Biblical Hermeneutics
- History & Doctrine of Humanity, Sin, and Salvation
- Apologetics
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Career Paths
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.
Admission Requirements
- 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: Order official transcripts for all conferred degrees to be sent to Cairn University. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher is required.
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.
Tuition and Aid
Cairn University strives to keep tuition costs affordable despite providing a rigorous education. Courses are taught by Cairn faculty, not TAs.
The tuition rate for the 2026-2027 academic year is $4350 per semester for 9+ credits. Additional details on fees and part-time status are available on this page. A limited-time offer for a 50% off MDiv scholarship is currently available. Apply now to take advantage of it.
Cairn University also partners with many organizations and offers tuition discounts. Please contact us to find out if your organization has a partnership with Cairn University.
Information on scholarships, grants, and loans is available from this page.
Accreditation Information
Cairn University is regionally accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Programmatic Accreditation
“I chose to pursue my MDiv because I wanted to further my education, be better prepared for ministry, and sharpen my theology and my gifts. At Cairn, I learned how to read the Word more carefully, and as a result, I feel more equipped to teach and preach it in the church more faithfully.”
– Dwayne S., MDiv
FAQs
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.
Are there plans to offer the MDiv program online?
At Cairn University, we purposefully deliver our MDiv program in-person. Though online learning is valuable, the essential face-to-face interactions with faculty and peers are key to fully equipping pastors and leaders for effective vocational ministry.
When can I start the program?
There are six entry points in the program: September, October, January, March, May, July.
Provided you submit the enrollment materials, applications are typically processed within 2 weeks of submitting your application.
Books written by our faculty
At Cairn, you will study with faculty who combine scholarship and pastoral wisdom. Below are just some of the books written by our faculty.
Next Steps
Information Sessions
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