Stark is excited to announce the launch of its new Accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Ministry + Master of Divinity (BA+MDiv) Program.
The Accelerated Bachelor of Arts + Master of Divinity (BA+MDiv) Program offers exceptional undergraduate students to pursue two degrees in a reduced timeframe, minimizing both duration and financial investment. The program is built for students called to vocational ministry and who can commit themselves to full-time academic study. The program provides preparation for those pursuing church ministry in any capacity, Christian non-profit work, or further postgraduate study.
Curriculum
Prospective students first enroll in the Bachelor of Arts in Ministry program. After completing one year (30 credit hours), they can apply for the accelerated program. In the first three years, students complete 96 undergraduate credits. In their final undergraduate year, they begin taking 24 credit hours at the graduate level. After earning their BA, students finish the remaining 49 credit hours of the MDiv program. This structure allows students to transition from undergraduate to graduate studies, saving time and reducing overall tuition costs.
Career Paths
Graduates of the Master of Divinity will be equipped to serve in the following roles:
- Pastor
- Church Planter
- Associate Pastor (Family/Young Adults/Youth)
- Missionary
- Church Staff
- Non-profit
- Para-church Ministry (e.g. Chaplaincy, Counseling)
- Lay church leader (e.g. Sunday school teacher, youth volunteer, small group leader)
FAQs
How does the Accelerated BA+MDiv Program work?
Prospective students initially apply to the Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Program. After completing one year of study (30 credit hours), they are eligible to apply for the Accelerated BA+MDiv Program. Once admitted, students will complete the 96 prescribed undergraduate credits during their first three years (see Program Guide here). Upon successful completion of these credits and maintaining a GPA of 3.00, students will begin their MDiv courses in their fourth year.
How much does it cost?
The accelerated Bachelor’s plus Master of Divinity program at Stark Seminary follows a tiered tuition model. Students begin by paying the Certificate tuition rate for the first 19 credit hours ($125 per credit hour). They then transition to the Diploma tuition rate ($175 per credit hour) for the next 41 credit hours. For the remaining 36 credit hours of the bachelor’s degree, students pay the Bachelor tuition rate ($225 per credit hour). Once students start graduate-level coursework, even if it fulfills both bachelor’s and master’s degree requirements, they pay the Master of Divinity tuition rate ($350 per credit hour). This structure provides a cost-effective pathway through both degrees. For more details on current tuition rates, please visit Stark Seminary Tuition and Financial Aid.
When will I graduate with my Bachelor’s degree?
You will graduate with your Bachelor’s degree once you complete all 91 prescribed undergraduate credits for your major, along with a total accumulation of 120 undergraduate and/or graduate credits. For most students, this milestone is reached by the end of their fourth year of full-time studies.
Why should I pursue the BA + MDiv?
The program saves students time and reduces the financial burden compared to traditional Bachelor’s and Master of Divinity programs. Additionally, it allows students to enter full-time ministry more quickly, equipping them with a comprehensive theological education and practical ministry skills. By integrating both degrees, students gain a cohesive learning experience that prepares them for effective service in various ministry contexts, fostering their spiritual and professional growth.
What are the admission requirements for the Accelerated BA+MDiv Program?
Students who desire to pursue the accelerated BA+MDiv program must first enroll in Stark’s Bachelor of Arts in Ministry program. After completing 30 credit hours, students will apply to the BA+MDiv program. Qualified applicants will meet the following requirements:
- a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Academic Writing Sample
- Church Support Letter
- Pastoral Recommendation
- Academic Recommendation
What is the difference between the traditional MDiv program and the Accelerated BA+MDiv Program?
The Accelerated BA+MDiv Program allows students to earn both degrees in a shortened timeframe by integrating undergraduate and graduate coursework, whereas the traditional MDiv program requires separate completion of a bachelor’s degree followed by the MDiv.
Questions?
For questions about Stark Seminary’s programs, please contact the Director of Graduate Programs:
Brent Rempel, PhD
Senior Director of Graduate Programs | Lecturer of Theological Studies