Curriculum Options

M. Div. Curriculum Options

1. Exemption Examinations: A student may sit for the exemption examination in any of the foundation courses.  Normally courses exempted are replaced with elective courses in the same field.
2. Theology Elective: In addition to the foundation course ST1, students are required to take an elective in the field of SystematicTheology. The elective may be fulfilled by ST01.
3. History Substitution: One of the required church history courses may be replaced with an advanced elective course in the same historical period, with the written approval of the instructor of the course being replaced. If the instructor is on sabbatical or leave, another professor of church history may approve the substitution.
4. Spiritual Direction Practicums: M.Div. students may elect to take practicums in Spiritual Direction for education in specialized ministries related to spiritual formation.
5. Semester Abroad: Students may enroll for a semester in a seminary abroad during the M.Div. program. This offers opportunity to undertake theological study from a different cultural perspective, especially in Africa, Asia or Latin America. The student must consult with the adviser and Sub-Dean well in advance to ensure that curricular requirements are fulfilled. Plans must be approved by the Faculty.
6. Sexual Misconduct & Racism Prevention: Although not required in the curriculum, General offers training in sexual misconduct prevention and nti-racism, which many dioceses equire of their ordinands.
7. Master of Divinity with Honors: Students ay be awarded the degree of Master of Divinity with Honors.  Students maintaining an overall grade point average of at least a (3.67) are eligible to write a thesis.  Honors are conferred if the faculty adviser and second faculty reader assess the thesis as meriting honors. Aside from honors, the thesis-writing project is registered as a class for three credits.
8. Intern Year and Summer Field Placements: Full-time students may expand their Seminary programs to four years by spending a year in a supervised parish or institutional situation and may register for supplemental Field Education. Intern year and summer placements are arranged through the Field Education Director. Students are charged for credits received during intern years and summer field placements. (Students may participate in summer internships that do not carry academic credit, and these do not carry a charge from the Seminary.)