The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) is a comprehensive and rigorous degree for ministry leadership. The M.Div. equips men and women with competency in ministry leadership, biblical exegesis, and theological study. Graduates are prepared to serve faithfully in a variety of ministry settings–inside and outside the local church. Here are Five Master of Divinity Career Paths.
Master of Divinity Career Path 1: Vocational Ministry
Vocational ministry is one of the most common career paths for M.Div. graduates. Graduates may serve as pastors, youth pastors, children’s pastors, or worship leaders in a local church. With their well-developed leadership and ministry skills, M.Div. graduates are well-equipped to lead and serve in a variety of vocational ministry settings. However, there are many other, non-traditional, career paths for M.Div. graduates.
Master of Divinity Career Path 2: Chaplaincy
Chaplaincy is another career path for M.Div. graduates. Chaplains provide spiritual care and support to individuals and groups in a variety of settings, including hospitals, the military, police departments, and sports teams. M.Div. graduates are well-equipped with ministry and leadership skills to provide spiritual care, making chaplaincy an excellent career path for those who desire to serve in a non-church setting.
Master of Divinity Career Path 3: Para-Church Ministry
Graduates may pursue careers in para-church ministry which includes a variety of organizations and roles, such as Christian education, missions, and social justice work. Current Stark students serve in the following ministries: Baptist Student Ministries (BSM), STCH Ministries, and refugee ministry.
Master of Divinity Career Path 4: Christian Education
Many MDiv students serve in their local churches in lay ministry roles. The local church needs equipped women and men to lead ministries such as worship, Sunday school teaching, pulpit supply, and children’s and youth ministry. M.Div. graduates acquire the knowledge, skills, and virtues necessary to serve faithfully in these roles and make a significant impact in their local churches.
Master of Divinity Career Path 5: Doctoral Studies
Finally, M.Div. graduates who desire to continue their studies may pursue doctoral degrees in ministry, biblical studies, and theology, leading to careers in academia, research, or writing. Graduates pursue degrees such as the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Doctor of Ministry (DMin) and Doctor of Education (EdD). Stark Seminary graduates have gone on to study at various institutions, including Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fuller Seminary, B.H. Carroll Theological Institute, and United Theological Seminary.
Overall, the Master of Divinity program at Stark College and Seminary offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education that equips them to serve in a variety of ministry settings. Whether in vocational ministry, chaplaincy, para-church ministry, or Christian education, M.Div. graduates are prepared to serve faithfully and make a significant impact in their communities.