Candler School of Theology is committed to educating faithful and creative leaders for the church’s ministries in the world. In order to assess its effectiveness in fulfilling this mission, the school attends to a number of metrics, including completion rates within degree programs and placement rates following graduation. Degree programs are listed below in alphabetical order, beginning with master’s degrees.
Master of Divinity (MDiv)
The MDiv is a professional degree for those preparing for service in churches or in other forms of ministry. Over the last decade (i.e, beginning with the class entering in Fall 2013) 80 percent of students enrolling in the degree program have successfully completed it, with 72 percent of full-time students doing so within three years. According to the most recent placement survey (covering students graduating in 2022), 51 percent of MDiv respondents had secured employment within a few months of graduation, with 72 percent of those employed working in ministry settings. Another 9 percent of respondents were pursuing further education after graduation.
Master of Religious Leadership (MRL)
The MRL is designed to enhance the leadership potential of those interested in Christian service. Full-time students may complete the degree in two years, or part-time students over four years. Since the degree began in 2014, 58 percent of those enrolled in the program have completed it, and 37 percent of those who began the program full time have completed it in two years.
Master of Religion in Public Life (MRPL)
The MRPL is designed for those in non-religious professions who wish to explore the dynamics of faith in the public sphere. It can be completed in as little as one year of full-time study, but most students elect to complete it on a part-time basis over several years. Since the degree began in 2015, 55 percent of students who have enrolled have completed the program, with 45 percent of students who began the program full time completing it in one year. Because the MRPL is designed for those already engaged in professional life, a high percentage of graduates are employed immediately after graduation; in 2022 the figure was 100 percent.
Master of Theological Studies (MTS)
The MTS is an academic degree for those who wish to pursue post-baccalaureate study in theology or religion without the objective of preparing for ordained ministry. In the last decade, more than 82 percent of students enrolling in the degree program have completed it, with 71 percent of full-time students doing so in two years. According to the most recent placement survey (covering students graduating in 2022), 83 percent of MTS respondents either had secured employment or were planning to pursue further education after graduation.
Master of Theology (ThM)
The ThM is designed for those who have already completed a master’s degree in religion or theology and wish to deepen their knowledge of a particular area in order to enhance their vocational or academic preparation. In the last decade, 86 percent of students who enrolled in the degree program have completed it, with 45 percent of full-time students doing so within two semesters. According to the most recent placement survey, 100 percent of ThM respondents were planning to pursue further education after graduation.
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
The DMin is designed for experienced ministers who want to strengthen the connection between theology and ministry practice. Since the program accepted its first cohort in the fall of 2014, 90 percent of those enrolled have completed the degree, with 83 percent finishing within three years. This program requires students to be in a professional position throughout the degree, so placement data is not relevant.