Candler recently introduced three new master of divinity concentrations in chaplaincy, world Christianity, and Catholic studies to give MDiv students the opportunity to more closely align their coursework with their academic and vocational interests.

  • The chaplaincy concentration formalizes areas of expertise and engagement that have long been accessible to Candler faculty and students through Contextual Education and Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE). It will introduce students to the breadth of contexts in which one can serve in caregiving ministry while also providing depth in the practices of spiritual care. Along with CPE, students complete 15 credit hours, nine of which can be tailored to their own interests. Sample course offerings include the New Testament and Healing, Pastoral Ethics, Restorative Justice, Faith and Healing: Transforming Communities, and Care for Marginalized Populations. The coursework provides support and direction for students seeking Association of Clinical Pastoral Educators (ACPE) board certification as a chaplain, eventual licensing as a pastoral counselor, or nonprofit leadership roles that require significant direct care of spiritual needs. Candler’s new partnership with the Chaplaincy Innovation Lab, a think tank focused on the future of spiritual care that provides resources for those called to serve in a chaplaincy setting, will enrich learning and networking opportunities. Candler has also announced new scholarships covering 75% of tuition for three years for incoming MDiv students pursuing chaplaincy through the concentration. Learn more.
  • The world Christianity concentration enables students to gain competency in the study of Christianity as a global phenomenon and helps to equip them for ministry and church leadership in culturally and internationally diverse Christian communities. The 15-credit hour curriculum also prepares students interested in pursuing doctoral work. Courses include an overview in global Christianity or world evangelism, a course related to the students’ chosen region, electives, and a capstone project in the form of a substantive writing project. The coursework within the concentration can be fulfilled through travel seminars, ministry internships, directed study projects, and appropriate Emory College or Graduate Division of Religion courses, in addition to Candler course offerings.
  • Now in its second year, Candler’s Catholic studies concentration prepares leaders for lay ministry in the Catholic Church and other Catholic contexts, as well as research in the Catholic intellectual tradition. The 18-credit hour concentration includes courses in modern Catholicism, liturgical/sacramental history or theology, medieval Christian thought, and experiential learning in Catholic context under the direct supervision of a Catholic leader along with student-directed elective courses. The series of courses will prepare students for leadership in Catholic parishes, schools, nonprofits, and other contexts. Exploring the Catholic tradition alongside Candler students and faculty from other Christian denominations will uniquely equip Catholic lay ministers and scholars for service and research in the ecumenical reality of the 21st century.

Master of divinity students may declare a concentration after their first year, in consultation with their faculty advisor. Candler offers 14 approved MDiv concentrations ranging from 12 to 18 credit hours.