The Master of Divinity Program (M.Div.)
The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) is the normative professional degree to prepare persons for ordained ministry and for general pastoral and Christian leadership responsibilities in congregations and other settings. The M.Div. is also the required prerequisite degree for Doctor of Ministry programs and is the recommended graduate theological degree for those intending to pursue advanced theological research degrees (Th.M., PhD). ACPL’s distinction is that our M.Div. as a ministerial leadership degree heavily emphasizes general biblical theological and missiological studies. Those persons anticipating to be church planting pastors and leaders in the local church and other settings are likely best served by the M.Div. degree.
M.Div. Admission Requirements & Pre-requisites
In addition to the general admission requirements described in the Admissions section of the catalog, the following further requirements are specific to the Master of Divinity program:
(i). Applicants must possess a baccalaureate (undergraduate) degree, or the educational equivalent, from a recognized accredited institution or University. In some cases, admission with deficiencies is possible with fulfillment of those deficiencies at ACPL.
(ii). The applicant’s undergraduate cumulative grade average (CGA) must be a minimum of 60% or first class. However, since CGA is not always an accurate indication of an applicant’s abilities for graduate work, those with a lower CGA are encouraged to consult with the Academic Dean.
(iii). Applicants whose undergraduate cumulative grade average (CGA) is less than minimum prescribed above will be required to take additional qualifying exams and fulfill deficiency loads determined at the time of admission.
(iv). A demonstrated working knowledge of the content of the English Bible, Basic Theology, English, basic missiology and general knowledge by taking the entrance exam.
(v). Those with prior theological and missiological training either in the undergraduate or MA level at an institution accredited by IIM and/or ATA may enroll in the 2 year M.Div. program as full time. All others must enroll in the 3-year M.Div. program as full time students.
(vi). Part time students must take note of the statute of limitation.
Statute of Limitation
All Master of Divinity program requirements must be completed within seven years of matriculation into the program. Petition to extend the statute of limitation may be made by a student to the Academic Exceptions Committee.
M.Div. Graduation Requirements
After the student has filed for candidacy, the following requirements need to be met inorder to participate in the graduation service.
(a). Complete the General Graduation Requirements for all master’s programs.
(b). Complete the Field Education; or have an approved plan for completion over the summer following the graduation.
(c). Complete the M.Div capstone project in the form of an integrative paper or ministry project equivalent to 2 semester hours.
(d). Exemplify the character, emotional stability, maturity, and leadership ability that are essential to effective service in Christian ministry.