Master of Divinity, M.Div.

Program Director: Brian Ross, D.Min

Overview

To prepare people for pastoral leadership, family ministry, youth work, pastoral care and counseling, chaplaincy, church planting, Bible teaching, community development and cross-cultural ministry; this degree combines classroom and field-based learning to produce personal growth in biblical knowledge, theological understanding, community building, and practical ministry experience. Under supervision, students engage in the practices of ministry for four semesters. Elective units provide opportunity for specialization. The M.Div. is the required degree for admission to Doctor of Ministry programs and for board certification as a chaplain.

Admissions Process and Requirements

Admission to the Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary Master of Divinity, M.Div. program, is based on a review of each applicant's academic achievements, experience, and personal statement by the admission committee.

Application Process

To be considered for admission to the Master of Divinity, M.Div. program, please submit the following items:

• Completed Application for Admission and $45 non-refundable application fee.
  • Fpu.edu/applysem
• Official college/university transcript(s) verifying receipt of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and any post-baccalaureate work.
  • If you are currently finishing up your degree, please submit current transcript.
  • A final transcript will need to be submitted before you may enroll in classes.
  • Transcripts can be sent electronically by your institution to trans.evaluator@fresno.edu or via mail in an enveloped sealed by your institution to:

Fresno Pacific University

Office of the Registrar

1717 S. Chestnut Ave

Fresno, CA 93702

• If your cumulative GPA for your bachelor's degree is below a 2.5 (4.0 scale), a letter of explanation is required.
• Short Answer Questions – During the application submission process, you will be asked to respond to some short answer questions in your application portal. These questions will help us get to know your character and career goals. Your file will not be reviewed for admission until your responses are received.
• Reference Forms – Two references are required for the Master of Divinity, M.Div. program. One spiritual reference from a pastor or other ministry leader (not a family member), and one academic reference.
  • Form can be found at fpu.edu/sem-ref
• Writing Sample – Submit three or more pages of original writing that you would consider some of your best work.
• Program Interview – After submitting your application materials, including transcripts, a representative will contact you to schedule an interview.
• International applicants must submit additional documentation including English Proficiency Score (TOEFL=minimum of 550 PBT or 79 iBT, IELTS=6.5), copy of passport, visa information, and a statement of financial support.

Notification of acceptance will be sent as soon as all necessary documents are on file and have been reviewed by the admissions committee.

Please view other admission policies and information in the Admissions Policies and Requirements section of the catalog.

View our State Professional Licensing and Certificate Disclosure at fpu.edu/about/disclosure-documents.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate commitment to live as a disciple of Jesus in Christian community.
2. Articulate commitment to a biblical theological Christian perspective.
3. Interpret diverse cultural contexts of ministry using theological perspectives integrated with social scientific approaches.
4. Practice Leadership skills in pastoral ministry.
5. Proclaim the biblical good news through culturally relevant words and deeds with the purpose of leading all people into covenant with Jesus Christ and the church.
6. Develop self-aware renewal practices that empower fulfillment of the contemporary pastoral vocation of leading, serving and reconciling in a resistant culture.
7. Provide best-practices in pastoral leadership that result in growing churches that prepare, plan, equip and empower members to engage in Gods transformative mission in the world.
8. Interpret the emerging post-Christian cultural context locally and globally.
9. Equip a congregation to attend to pastoral care needs of the congregation and its community.  

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno