What Degree is Right for You?
We offer degrees and programs of study that meet your needs.
Are you called to be an ordained minister?
Our Master of Divinity degree combined with our mentored ministry program specifically trains you for the full scope of ministry-through biblical and theological courses, preaching and worship, pastoral care, and church administration.
If you have a degree from another seminary and wish to be ordained in the Christian Reformed Church in North America, our Ecclesiastical Program for Ministerial Candidacy gets you ready to be considered for candidacy.
Calvin Theological Seminary does not ordain students, but prepares them for candidacy and ordination. Questions about candidacy that go beyond the EPMC program or regular candidacy programs of Calvin Theological Seminary should be directed to the Candidacy Committee of the Christian Reformed Church.
Is the Holy Spirit leading you to pastoral care?
Students in both the Master of Divinity and the Master of Arts in Pastoral Care programs take courses in the theory and practice of pastoral care. In addition students can participate in clinical training to prepare them for pastoral care in a variety of institutional ministry settings. Students in the Master of Theology program can specialize in Pastoral Theology, which increases their knowledge of pastoral care issues and methods.
Internships in pastoral care are done in conjunction with the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education.
Do you have a heart for missions?
Our Master of Arts in Missions program prepares you for mission leadership positions in the church both domestically and in overseas settings. Master of Divinity students can incorporate an interest in missions through elective courses and internship experiences, and those in the Master of Theology program are provided advanced study in missions.
Do you long to work with youth?
Master of Arts in Youth and Family Ministry students take a series of courses that provide thorough training in youth ministry and beyond. Those working toward a Master of Divinity degree can use elective slots to take youth ministry courses. Internship experiences with a youth ministry focus round out your preparation.
Do you seek an expanded role in worship?
Master of Arts in Worship students receive specialized training in worship leadership and planning that equips them for emerging roles like that of "worship coordinator." The program includes internships individually designed to meet the interests and needs of the student.
Would biblical study help in other work?
The Master of Arts in Bible and Theology program provides a thorough foundation for those looking to teach in a secondary school setting, or those who are serving in non-ministry fields. Master of Theological Studies students complete a two-year program of theological education designed to support various vocational objectives outside of ordination including advanced theological study. The program includes a concentration in either biblical or theological studies.
Is advanced study your response to God's call?
Our Doctor of Philosophy degree prepares you for teaching and research in colleges, theological seminaries, and universities, as well as for church leadership.