MDiv Program
Our Master of Divinity (MDiv) program is a dynamic three-year curriculum combining coursework in the study of religion and the arts of religious leadership with significant field work in multiple settings, alongside ongoing participation in a cohort-based learning community that nurtures students’ intellectual, spiritual, professional and personal formation.
Program Overview
The MDiv consists of 27 courses that require students to establish a breadth of competence in religious studies, develop a thorough understanding of textual, historical, and philosophical/theological foundations for religious leadership and engagement, integrating reflective practice with scholarship. To support these goals, students participate in community engagement and field education throughout all three years of the program. They acquire basic skills in a language relevant to their tradition, either textual and exegetically focused or a modern language that will help them engage with the communities they hope to serve.
Rooted in the Divinity School’s historic commitment to the training of scholarly ministers, today’s MDiv program welcomes students of many traditions—Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, Jain, Confucian, Christian, and humanist—as they prepare for engagement in an ever-increasing variety of contexts alongside students anticipating ordination and traditional vocations in religious community leadership. Coursework in the traditions’ histories, languages, texts, theologies, philosophies, ethics, and anthropological studies of living communities deepens students’ understanding of their own commitments and those of the communities they will serve. MDiv-specific cohort courses offered throughout the three-year curriculum invite students to explore and experience the arts of religious leadership and practice in their own traditions and in others. These courses build students’ knowledge and skills, expanding their religious imaginations to equip them for thoughtful and innovative public engagement in our increasingly varied religious landscape.
Situated in the heart of a major research university, within walking distance of five seminaries and surrounded by Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods, MDiv students may tailor their learning to their anticipated contexts with dual degree programs, interdisciplinary certificate programs, or additional denominational studies at neighboring schools. Whether or not they elect to pursue these compound programs, all MDiv students are encouraged to engage in coursework offered by other University departments and professional schools. This approach helps them gain the multidisciplinary sensibilities requisite for skillful and adaptive religious leadership, community-building, and meaning-making in complex and multivalent public spaces.
Want to learn more about dual-degree programs, see examples of past MDiv theses, or dig deeper into frequently asked questions? Follow your line of inquiry below:
For a comprehensive outline of the degree requirements, including a typical timeline, consult the Ministry Program Handbook.
Applying to the MDiv Program
Admission into the MDiv Program is offered on a yearly application cycle. The application usually opens in September and has three application deadlines: one in early January, early April, and early June. See Dates and Deadlines here. Questions about the application process? Explore our Application FAQs.
Applicants are automatically considered for Divinity School scholarships upon admission. Scholarships are offered based on the strength of the application materials. Still, applicants wishing to ensure that they are considered for the full range of funding options should apply by the January priority deadline. Scholarships are renewable for the second and third years if students maintain good progress through the program. Students can receive funding for summer language study at the University, and MDiv students also receive additional funding when completing field placements. For more information about scholarships and funding opportunities, please see Scholarships and Financial Aid.
Tuition is charged quarterly. Please see the Bursar's fee schedule for tuition rates.
Required Application Materials
- Divinity School Application for Graduate Admission
- Candidate Statement reflecting intellectual influences and professional goals
- Academic Transcripts
- 3 Letters of Recommendation
- Current Resume or CV
- Writing sample, between 15 and 25 pages
- Application fee: $75 (waiver available)
- English Language Proficiency
The Director of the Ministry Studies is Cynthia Gano Lindner, Director of Ministry Studies and Clinical Faculty for Preaching and Pastoral Care in the Divinity School