New DegreesCandler is slated to launch five new degree programs to meet the needs of people who are seeking a theological education to complement their work in ministry and other professions, such as medicine, law and community development.

The programs are scheduled to begin in 2013 and 2014 pending approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Association of Theological Schools.

“In today’s church, many leaders engage in meaningful ministries that might be enhanced with more formal training. Moreover, in today’s world, issues of faith often find their way to the forefront, and many people in a range of professions have questions about how to handle those situations,” says Candler Dean Jan Love. “A seminary education can be incredibly beneficial in understanding how to approach these complex, interrelated issues.”

The new Doctor of Ministry and the Master of Religious Leadership, for example, are designed for those who already work in churches but want to deepen their theological training and connect it to ministry practices. The Master of Religion and Public Life, on the other hand, is ideal for professionals in law or health care who frequently must negotiate issues of faith. 

The new degree programs are another way Candler prepares real people to make a real difference in the real world, says Love.

“Our new degree programs take a seminary education and apply it in a variety of new contexts. We’re excited to offer these new degrees to equip a wider variety of people who provide leadership in local congregations as well as successful leaders working outside the church as they encounter the intersections of faith, society, business and health.”

The new programs: 

Doctor of Ministry (DMin): Designed for experienced ministers who want to strengthen the connection between theology and ministry practice. Three-year program.

Master of Religious Leadership (MRL): Designed to enhance the leadership potential of those interested in Christian service. Two- to six-year program.

Master of Religion and Public Life (MRPL): Designed for professionals in law, health care, social work, education and other fields whose work requires them to negotiate issues of faith on a regular basis. One- to four-year program.

Master of Divinity/Master of Social Work (MDiv/MSW): In conjunction with the University of Georgia, designed for those interested in considering the role of faith and religious institutions in community health and development, the care of individuals in poverty and crisis, responses to systemic and institutional injustice and issues of social transformation. Four-year program.

Master of Divinity/Master of Development Practice (MDiv/MDP): Designed for those in sustainable development work who want to learn how to apply their theological convictions or engage religious communities with greater openness, and for religious leaders from developing countries who want to address social and economic issues and part of a holistic approach to ministry. Four-year program.

Applications are being accepted now for fall 2013 entry in the MDiv/MDP program. Pending approval, the other degree programs will begin in spring or fall 2014. For more information, contact the Admissions Office at Candler, 404.727.6326 or candleradmissions@emory.edu.