Master of Divinity
The Master of Divinity degree is a professional degree whose purpose is preparation for ministries in the Church. Designed chiefly for qualified Orthodox students who wish to prepare themselves for ordination to priestly ministry in the Orthodox Church, the degree program also provides appropriate preparation for other forms of Church service and for graduate study in theology and related disciplines.
Qualified applicants demonstrate that:
- they have completed a B.S., B.A., or its equivalent from an accredited college or university;
- they are capable of working at a graduate degree level;
- they are capable of working with, learning from, and interacting with others.
Note: St. Vladimir's is able on a very limited basis to admit to the M.Div. program applicants without a B.A., B.S., or its equivalent.
The program is designed to be completed in three years of full-time study. International students must demonstrate a working knowledge of the English language.
For a full description of the Master of Divinity degree, please see Academic Programs: Master of Divinity.
Program Director: The Very Rev. Dr. Chad Hatfield
Master of Arts
The Master of Arts program in general theological studies is intended for those wishing to explore Orthodox theology at a graduate level without the professional preparation demanded of M.Div. cadidates. It does not provide the educational qualifications needed for priestly ordination.
Qualified applicants demonstrate that:
- they have completed a B.A., B.S., or its equivalent from an accredited college or university;
- they are capable of working at a graduate degree level;
- they are capable of working with, learning from, interacting with others.
Note: Students who are admitted with advanced theological study, normally an earned graduate theological degree, may complete the program in one year of course work, in addition to the thesis.
The program is designed to be completed in two years by full-time students. M.A. candidates are required to write a major research paper. International students must demonstrate a working knowledge of the English language.
For a full description of the Master of Arts degree, please see Academic Programs: Master of Arts.
Program Director: Dr. John Barnet
Master of Theology
The Master of Theology program serves to prepare qualified Orthodox students in America and abroad for higher-level studies, teaching, and research. The program also welcomes qualified non-Orthodox students who wish to specialize in Orthodox studies.
Qualified applicants demonstrate that:
- they have completed the M.Div. degree or its equivalent in graduate studies in theology. The applicant's academic preparation should approximate that which is provided by the M.Div. program at St. Vladimir's Seminary;
- they are capable of working at an advanced graduate degree level;
- they have a working knowledge of relevant scholarly languages (one ancient and one modern).
The Th.M. degree is designed to be completed in one year by full-time students. Th.M. candidates are required to write a thesis ranging in length from 60-100 pages. International students must demonstrate a working knowledge of the English language.
For a full description of the Master of Theology degree, please see Academic Programs: Master of Theology.
Program Director: Dr. Alex Tudorie
Doctor of Ministry
- Work online, at home, on your schedule
- Connect with a community of priests, pastors and ministry professionals
- Study with world class Orthodox Christian faculty
- Serve others more effectively in the love of Jesus Christ
Combining distance learning, one-week onsite intensives, and an academic schedule tailored to the cycles of the liturgical year, this three year accredited Doctor of Ministry program at St. Vladimir's Seminary makes doctoral level study available to pastors throughout North America.
Qualified applicants demonstrate that they:
- hold a Master of Divinity degree (or 72 graduate semester hours that include a Master's degree representing broad-based work in theology, biblical studies, and the arts of ministry, which includes the supervised practice of ministry).
- have at least three (3) years experience in ministry subsequent to the first theological degree; and are currently serving in a position of ministry.
- are capable of doing doctoral-level academic work.
For a full description of the Doctor of Ministry degree, please see Academic Programs: Doctor of Ministry.
Program Director: The Rev. Dr. Sergius Halvorsen
Transfer Credit and Advanced Standing
Applicants to the Master of Divinity and Master of Arts programs transferring from other accredited seminaries and graduate institutions may have credits accepted at St. Vladimir's Seminary on a limited basis. Please see Academic Programs: M.Div. or Academic Programs: M.A. for details. All inquiries regarding transfer credit and advanced standing should be directed to the Academic Dean.
