Master of Divinity Concentrations

Students may choose their electives so as to focus their M.Div. studies on a particular area of theology or ministry. Such concentrations may be created by students individually with the approval of a faculty advisor or they may follow one of several patterns designed by the faculty. The regularly constituted concentrations described below also bring students and faculty together for special lectures, discussions, and other activities beyond the required course work in the area.

Biblical Studies
Concentrators must have elementary knowledge of both biblical languages and do intermediate work in at least one. They take 9 units (3 courses) in biblical studies in addition to the Area I requirements and write a final essay of grade A quality, which may be built on a course paper, on an approved topic in biblical studies and/or biblical hermeneutics.

History and Theology
A concentration in history and theology allows students to focus attention on some area or problematic within these fields, for example, contemporary Reformed theology, the history of the Reformed tradition, Christian social ethics, theology and natural science, ecumenical theology, third world theologies, Christianity in the African Diaspora, or to do course work in the various areas of study represented in Area II. Concentrators take 9 units (3 courses) in Area II beyond the area requirements and write a final essay, which may be built on a course paper, on an approved topic in history or theology.

Spirituality
Concentrators in spirituality participate in a continuing spiritual guidance group/seminar on spiritual life and leadership over three to six semesters (1 unit of credit per semester). They also take at least 3 full courses in spirituality and complete a project in leadership and service. For more information, click here.

Other possibilities for concentrations include the fields of World Christianity, Christian education/youth ministry, pastoral counseling, ethics, women's studies, and African American religious studies. See the section on the Southern California Programs for information about the culture specific groupings of courses that permit concentrations in various contexts for ministry.