Midwestern School of Divinity

Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)

Degree Title: Doctor of Ministry
Program Duration: 2-3 years
Program Overview
The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) is a professional doctoral program designed to enhance the practical skills and theological knowledge of experienced ministers. This program focuses on advanced leadership, pastoral care, and ministry strategies, equipping participants to address contemporary challenges in their ministerial contexts effectively.
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Program Objectives

Graduates of the D.Min. program will:

  • Demonstrate advanced pastoral and leadership skills for ministry in diverse contexts.

  • Integrate theology and practice to address complex challenges in faith communities.

  • Develop innovative ministry strategies grounded in sound theology and cultural awareness.

  • Conduct original research and implement a ministry-focused project.

Program Requirements

Admissions Criteria:

  • A Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

  • At least five years of active ministry experience

GPA Requirement:

  • Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 throughout the program.

Practical Ministry Engagement:

  • Active involvement in a ministry context throughout the program to integrate learning with practice.

Residency Requirement:

  • While the program is fully online, optional virtual seminars and workshops are available for peer and faculty interaction.

Program Outcomes

Graduates of the D.Min. program will:

  • Apply advanced theological and practical knowledge to enhance ministry effectiveness.

  • Lead faith communities with innovative strategies and cultural sensitivity.

  • Contribute to the broader field of ministry through original research and practical projects.

Program Structure

Core Curriculum (15 Credit Hours)

Foundations of Advanced Ministry Practice (3 credits)

  • Exploration of the theology and philosophy of ministry with an emphasis on practical application.


Transformational Leadership in Ministry (3 credits)

  • Developing leadership skills to guide faith communities through change and growth.


Pastoral Care and Counseling in a Contemporary Context (3 credits)

  • Advanced approaches to pastoral care, addressing mental health, trauma, and spiritual well-being.


Theology of Social Justice and Community Engagement (3 credits)

  • Examining the role of the church in promoting justice, equity, and community development.


Liturgical and Sacramental Practices in Ministry (3 credits)

  • Enhancing worship leadership with a focus on cultural and contextual relevance.


Elective Courses (9 Credit Hours)

Students select three courses aligned with their ministry focus:

  • Afrocentric Theology and Ministry Practices (3 credits)
  • Church Growth and Revitalization Strategies (3 credits)
  • Cultural Competence in Ministry Leadership (3 credits)
  • Digital Ministry and Online Church Strategies (3 credits)
  • Global Missions and Intercultural Ministry (3 credits)


Doctoral Project (6 Credit Hours)

Project Proposal and Design (3 credits)

  • Develop a proposal for an original ministry-focused project, including research methodologies and implementation strategies.


Doctoral Project Implementation and Evaluation (3 credits)

  • Execute the project in a ministry context, analyze outcomes, and present findings in a written report (10,000-15,000 words).
  • Oral presentation and defense of the project before a faculty panel.