Online Master of Divinity (MDiv)
The flexible online Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree program at Houston Christian University (HCU) prepares you for leadership in church or parachurch settings, missionary or evangelist callings, or further inquiry in biblical and theological studies.
With a customizable internship and course concentrations, the Master of Divinity online program involves work and study under the guidance of experienced pastors, chaplains, biblical scholars and theologians, biblical languages experts, and other leaders from our Houston Theological Seminary faculty and broader network.
With online coursework that allows for learning engagement from anywhere, HCU’s online-format MDiv degree positions in-service church professionals for elevated ministry leadership and impact.
Program Highlights
- 75 Credits
- Complete in Three to Four Years
- Online Classes and Assignments
- Prepare for Ministry Careers and Beyond
- Connect With Scholars and Practitioners
- Bachelor’s Degree Required
Online Master of Divinity Requirements
Identical to the in-person format, the curriculum for the Master of Divinity online program emphasizes personal spiritual formation, provides opportunities for practical internship experience in church or parachurch settings, and studies the biblical world and history of Christianity. Course requirements encompass the following areas:
- Biblical Studies
- Theological Studies
- Spiritual Formation
- Practical Theology and Internship
- Language Track (Biblical Languages or English)
MDiv students complete in-depth research seminars with the program culminating in real-world applications of biblical knowledge and pastoral experience through practical ministry opportunities. Through these practical ministry applications, hone the skills needed to continue to doctoral or research careers and make the most impactful difference in ministry careers across cultural contexts.
Language Tracks
In addition to core course requirements, select a Master of Divinity track in Biblical Languages or in English Language. The Biblical Language track requires 12 hours of Greek and Hebrew. The English track replaces the language courses with English language Bible classes.
Review English Track requirements
Review Biblical Languages Track Requirements
Internship and Ministry Formation
Key components of the MDiv programs at HCU are spiritual formation and practical ministry applications. Grow in your personal relationship with God through Spiritual Formation courses, where you learn about and practice the historical disciplines of the Christian life. Then, complete an internship over the course of your studies, which complements both our fully online format and our in-person format. Over several semesters, you’ll connect what you learn in class with the issues faced in ministry.
Program Benefits and Opportunities
Our MDiv’s online format provides a foundation for Christian leadership and service, building the theological knowledge, pastoral skills, and communication abilities to excel in a church context, missionary work or faith-related nonprofit service. Backed by practice in critical thinking and a comprehensive approach to reading and applying God’s word, you’ll be equipped to research and teach, interpret historical sources and complex analytical writings, and provide support and guidance to others with wisdom, reflection, and deliberate inquiry.
An MDiv with the rigor offered by our revered faculty can also be a stepping stone for further education in theological and religious studies, such as a Doctor of Ministry (DMin).
Careers With an MDiv from HCU
Your Master of Divinity can be leveraged for careers in pastoral ministry and Christian leadership, chaplaincy in school, hospital, military, or prison settings, and Christian education. You may pursue leadership in faith-related non-profit settings, creating and bringing to life difference-making initiatives serving various Christian and cultural populations.
If you want to continue on to doctoral programs or further study to become a published researcher, college religious or theological studies professor, or hold a post-doc appointment, you may excel in careers teaching classes or publishing new insights.
More From Houston Theological Seminary and HCU Online
The Pampell Online Division also offers fully online formats for master’s degrees in specialized areas such as apologetics, Christian leadership, and theological studies, ideal for deepening expertise in practical areas.
If you’re interested in continuing your education and research interests alongside the engaged and learned faculty of HCU’s Houston Theological Seminary, you may be interested in the Doctor of Ministry (DMin) degree program after graduation.
Admissions and Aid Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Earn a Master of Divinity Degree Online at HCU
Prepare for vocational ministry and embody core Christian beliefs and practices with Houston Christian University’s online MDiv degree program format, where unequaled faculty who are established practitioners help you confront issues and opportunities in your ministry career.
