Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Ministry

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Program
Ministry

Procedures for Admission to the Doctor of Ministry Program

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states. Please contact an admissions representative for further information.  

The criteria used in determining admission to the doctoral program include: 

  • An earned undergraduate degree from an accepted accredited institution with a CGPA of 2.7 or better on a 4.0 scale OR
  • An earned undergraduate degree from an accepted accredited institution with a CGPA of 2.7 or better on a 4.0 scale during the applicant's last 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours earned on the bachelor's degree and/or subsequent graduate work OR
  • An earned graduate degree from an accepted accredited institution with a CGPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale.
  • Interview with the Program Director or Chair.
  • Submission of official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, with submission due within 5 weeks of the class start date (refer to Conditional Acceptance).
  • Applicants for whom English is a Second Language (ESL) must submit a minimum paper-based TOEFL
    (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 550 or the electronic-based score of 79-80 to be considered for the program.
  • Completion of an application for admission.
  • Applicants who are not citizens of the United States should refer to the section in the South University catalog entitled International Student Admissions Policy.

Exceptions to the Minimum GPA

Applications with CGPA lower than the stated program minimum (2.7 for the bachelor's degree and 3.0 for a graduate degree/coursework) may be considered for admission on the basis of evidence of academic and professional potential demonstrated by career and/or personal accomplishments indicated in a personal statement of academic and professional goals, a career resume or curriculum vita, and two letters of academic and/or professional recommendation.  The Program Director/Chair in consultation with the Dean of the College or designee must approve exceptions.

Students admitted on an exception basis will be admitted as regular students on provisional status for the first quarter of enrollment.  In order to remain enrolled after completion of the first quarter the student must achieve a CGPA of at least 3.0.

For additional admissions information please see the admissions section here. 

Offered at Montgomery, Richmond and Online Programs.

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states. Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

The Doctor of Ministry degree at South University is a 96 credit hour program and is designed to be the first-professional degree to prepare ministry practitioners to seek or advance in vocational or bi-vocational ministry.  The program can help to develop a student's understanding of the nature and purpose of ministry, enhance the student's competencies in ministry skills, and promote the student's growth in spiritual maturity.

The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree program at South University is designed to equip ministry practitioners to provide ministry leadership and spiritual care in the following roles: 

  • Pastors, ministry staff, and lay ministers in local churches/parishes
  • Program staff leaders in parachurch organizations
  • Chaplains and spiritual care coordinators in a variety of institutional settings
  • Program staff leaders in non-profit service agencies, community development, advocacy and justice ministries
  • Social entrepreneurs pursuing business as mission, and commercial and industrial chaplaincy

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to: 

  1. Articulate a biblically informed and theologically reasoned understanding of the helping relationship that is consistent with the student's faith tradition and the needs of the student's chosen ministry setting.
  2. Explain the nature of the practice of ministry and exhibit a commitment to its ethical and professional expectations appropriate to the context.
  3. Display knowledge of the nature and causes of interpersonal conflict and strategies to resolve disputes and achieve resolution and reconciliation among parties in ministry settings.
  4. Formulate an awareness of the diversity found in ministry, and an ability to work effectively with differences of religious beliefs (or none), denominational differences, racial and ethnic differences, generational differences and gender differences.
  5. Acquire the specific skills required for competent practice of ministry in a variety of settings.
  6. Engage complex issues and problems of ministry settings and demonstrate the capacity to design and implement strategies to successfully overcome and/or resolve them.

The Standard Track of the D.Min. program is designed for students seeking to prepare for vocational or bi-vocational ministry.  Foundational courses provide an introduction and overview to the various disciplines required for effective ministry leadership.  Ministry skills courses, advanced ministry studies courses, and the final project further integrate biblical and theological perspectives into the practice of ministry.  Students can have the opportunity to gain lifelong learning skills that will enable them to continue their personal, intellectual and professional growth.

The Advanced Track of the D.Min. program is designed for students who have completed a graduate degree or a significant amount of coursework in biblical, theological, and ministry studies, and who are currently engaged in vocational ministry.  Students in the Advanced Ministry Study can further develop their understanding of the nature and purpose of ministry, enhance their ministry skills, and continue their growth in spiritual maturity.

Doctor of Ministry Standard Track: 96 Credits

Orientation: 8 Credits 

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course offers an introduction and orientation to advanced professional ministry studies. It is designed to assist students in clarifying their career objectives by focusing on vocation/calling, personal gifting, strengths and limitations. It will also orient students by offering an overview of the program from beginning to end, examining in turn the kinds of disciplines they will encounter. Finally, the course will also explore the various academic skills required to successfully complete the program and serve in ministry effectively, including reading, research and writing, critical thinking skills, computer skills, constructive conversation, personal organization and time management, and planning a course of studies.

Credits : 4

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This foundational course develops students' critical thinking and academic writing competencies. Students engage in learning activities to become better readers of academic texts, to understand the process of academic research and writing, and to become better writers. Emphasis is placed on understanding similarities and differences between various academic writing genres, correctly using Chicago Manual of Style guidelines, and conducting research appropriate to their assignments. Students develop a scholar-practitioner perspective through reading, writing, and reflection within the context of ministry. Students will be evaluated on their writing skills in this course. The course is Pass/Fail.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
8

Foundation: 28 Credits

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course is an introduction to the methods and principles of biblical interpretation and personal Bible study. It includes a survey of the various kinds of biblical literature and offer guidance on how to dig further into the original setting and meaning of Scripture. The course will also examine the major approaches to biblical interpretation in the history of Christianity. Finally, the course addresses the role of proper biblical interpretation in spiritual life and ministry.

Credits : 4

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This course provides a survey of Old Testament literature in its historical and cultural context. It focuses on variety of themes in the Old Testament including creation, anthropology, sin, covenants, sacrifices, law, and prophecy. Students will study various theological approaches to the Hebrew scriptures with special attention to the historical interpretation of the theology of the Old Testament.

Credits : 4

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This course surveys the different kinds of literature in the New Testament in its literary, historical and cultural contexts. It also addresses key themes in the New Testament including Christology, sacrifices, law, ecclesiology, and prophecy. Students will study various theological approaches to the New Testament with special attention to the historical interpretation of the theology of the New Testament and the methods of interpreting the gospels and Paul's writings.

Credits : 4

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This course offers students an introduction to the study of theology, including theological methodology and the main topics of systematic theology. It presents brief surveys of the nature and character of the Triune God, revelation and the Bible, theological anthropology, Christology and salvation, the Holy Spirit, the Church, and eschatology. Particular attention will be given in each case to the significance of Christian doctrine in ministry.

Credits : 4

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This course surveys the major world religions and several newer religions found in North America. By better understanding their beliefs and practices the course aims to equip students to minister more effectively in religiously diverse settings. Note: this course does not include apologetic strategies for evangelism/proselytism. It will encourage students to carefully consider how best to present their own convictions through constructive engagement with persons of other religious traditions or of no religious affiliation.

Credits : 4

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This course presents an overview of the biblical principles of the Christian life and a survey of key historical figures and developments in the Catholic and Protestant Western tradition. It will address the issue of pastoral identity as participation in the ongoing ministry of Christ on behalf of the world, and explore the primary spiritual disciplines of prayer, study, worship, solitude, fellowship, and service from the perspective of leadership in pastoral ministry.

Credits : 4

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This course examines the many forms of diversity in North American culture and in ministry. Beginning with biblical and theological perspectives on diversity, the course will address racial/ethnic diversity, gender, class and socioeconomic status, religious diversity, and sexual orientation. Each topic will be analyzed in the context of pastoral ministry, and students will be able to develop personal strategies for engaging people of many different backgrounds.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
28

Ministry Skills: 28 Credits

Course Code
Title
Credits
Participants in this course will survey the biblical and theological foundations of community and discipleship, and the process of spiritual transformation. Specific attention will be given to strategies for gathering and leading small groups, and to effective practices in making disciples. Students will develop personal strategies for small groups and discipleship in their own ministries.

Credits : 4

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This course gives students an overview of the basic models of leadership drawn from biblical and theological sources as well as contemporary leadership theory in business, non-profit, and ministry settings. Students will develop an understanding of their own personal leadership styles from the perspective of leadership development theory, and will examine the various roles and tasks of leadership. Attention will also be given to racial/ethnic, gender, and socio-economic factors in diversity, power dynamics, conflict, and trust and credibility.

Credits : 4

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Participants in this course will learn the basic theory of communication and develop skills in the practices of effective communication for ministry leaders. The theoretical foundations will draw on biblical and theological resources as well as contemporary communication theory. A variety of communication forms will be addressed, including preaching, teaching, one-on-one, small groups, writing, and social media. Attention will also be given to the communication needs of different audiences and to the dynamics of cross-cultural communication.

Credits : 4

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Participants in this course will develop skills of mediating conflict and promoting reconciliation in the context of pastoral ministry. The course will consider biblical and theological resources as well as sociological and psychological research for understanding the causes of conflict and God's intention for reconciliation. Using case studies and role-play, students will have supervised opportunities to try out methods of resolving conflict.

Credits : 4

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The basic theory, principles, and techniques of counseling and its application to professional counseling settings are explained. Also considered are the various theories of counseling and issues, e.g., counselor self-evaluation (moral), ethical, and legal, in the practice of professional counseling.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
20

Choose one of the following sequences: 

Course Code
Title
Credits
8
8
8
Sub-Total Credits
8

Advanced Ministry Study: 20 Credits

Course Code
Title
Credits

This course surveys the complex of issues related to ministerial integrity. It addresses a number of issues, including but not limited to: the minister's personal life, relations with members of the congregation, relations with those in authority, interactions with peers, and engagement with the wider community. Particular attention will be given to issues of financial impropriety and sexual misconduct.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
4

Choose four additional courses from the following: 

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course explores the meaning of health and wellness in the Bible and examines different interpretations of the texts in their application in the ministry of healing. Consideration will also be given to perspectives on healing in other religious traditions. Students will be encouraged to develop their own theological understanding of healing and wholeness as a foundational perspective for their own ministry.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

This course provides an introduction and orientation to ministry leadership in the local church setting. Building from foundational biblical and theological perspectives on pastoral ministry, it will examine various pastoral roles and tasks, including preaching/teaching, worship/liturgy, pastoral care, fellowship, evangelism and new member assimilation. Special attention will be given to developing a pastoral awareness of the cultural context of the local church.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

This course provides an overview and orientation to pastoral ministry in institutional settings, including hospitals, care facilities, correctional facilities, first responders (fire/police/FEMA), residential recovery programs, recreation and retirement developments. It will equip participants to recognize and understand the unique opportunities in chaplaincy, and to formulate personal ministry strategies suited to their calling and vocation. While the primary focus of attention will be given to the theology of chaplaincy ministry from a Christian perspective, chaplaincy ministries in other faith traditions will also be addressed.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

This course includes studies that provide a broad understanding of the nature and needs of individuals at all levels of development: normal and abnormal behavior; personality theory; lifespan theory; and learning theory within cultural contexts. Appropriate strategies for facilitating development over the lifespan are also integrated into the course.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

The course provides a foundation for ministry with the dying and the grieving with a survey of biblical and theological resources as well as insights from the social sciences on grief and loss. Particular attention will be given to the Christian tradition of the ars moriendi (art of dying). The course will also assist the student in developing skills for ministry with the dying and their families and friends.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

Students in this course will develop skills in preparing and delivering sermons. Particular attention will be given to different types of sermons as well as understanding the setting and audience for their teaching and preaching. Each student will prepare and deliver at least one sermon and will receive feedback from the instructor and his or her peers.

Credits : 4

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Participants in this course will develop skills for ministry to and with disabled persons. The course provides a foundation for ministry from biblical and theological resources, as well as perspectives from the social sciences. Attention will be given to the different forms of disability, as well as legal and ethical issues involved in ministry to and with disabled persons.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

This course offers a foundation for understanding the ministry of worship from biblical and theological perspectives. It also examines the various elements of corporate worship and the organization of the worship ministry. Special issues in worship will also be considered, including the variety of worship styles, the use of media, and cultural and generational diversity.

Credits : 4

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This course develops a comprehensive understanding of the family from biblical and theological perspectives and from the social sciences, in particular family systems theory. It will assist students in developing pastoral care strategies with couples and families. Particular attention will be given to gaining skills in pre-marital and marital counseling, and counseling parents.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
16

Final Project 12 Credits

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course provides students with an opportunity to develop their own theology of ministry and begin laying the academic foundations for their dissertation or ministry project. Biblical and theological resources for a theology of ministry will be examined, and students will explore different models of integrating theology and ministry. Considerable attention will also be given to the process of research in ministry and writing.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
4

Choose one of the following sequences: 

Course Code
Title
Credits
8
8
8
Sub-Total Credits
8

Doctor of Ministry Advanced Track: 96 Credits

Advanced standing credit is determined based on student's previous college work providing 56 credit hours of transfer credit.

Advanced Standing Credit: 56 Credits

Orientation: 8 Credits

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course offers an introduction and orientation to advanced professional ministry studies. It is designed to assist students in clarifying their career objectives by focusing on vocation/calling, personal gifting, strengths and limitations. It will also orient students by offering an overview of the program from beginning to end, examining in turn the kinds of disciplines they will encounter. Finally, the course will also explore the various academic skills required to successfully complete the program and serve in ministry effectively, including reading, research and writing, critical thinking skills, computer skills, constructive conversation, personal organization and time management, and planning a course of studies.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

This foundational course develops students' critical thinking and academic writing competencies. Students engage in learning activities to become better readers of academic texts, to understand the process of academic research and writing, and to become better writers. Emphasis is placed on understanding similarities and differences between various academic writing genres, correctly using Chicago Manual of Style guidelines, and conducting research appropriate to their assignments. Students develop a scholar-practitioner perspective through reading, writing, and reflection within the context of ministry. Students will be evaluated on their writing skills in this course. The course is Pass/Fail.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
8

Foundation: 4 Credits

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course examines the many forms of diversity in North American culture and in ministry. Beginning with biblical and theological perspectives on diversity, the course will address racial/ethnic diversity, gender, class and socioeconomic status, religious diversity, and sexual orientation. Each topic will be analyzed in the context of pastoral ministry, and students will be able to develop personal strategies for engaging people of many different backgrounds.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
4

Ministry Skills: 4 Credits

Course Code
Title
Credits
Participants in this course will develop skills of mediating conflict and promoting reconciliation in the context of pastoral ministry. The course will consider biblical and theological resources as well as sociological and psychological research for understanding the causes of conflict and God's intention for reconciliation. Using case studies and role-play, students will have supervised opportunities to try out methods of resolving conflict.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
4

Advanced Ministry Study: 12 Credits

Course Code
Title
Credits

This course surveys the complex of issues related to ministerial integrity. It addresses a number of issues, including but not limited to: the minister's personal life, relations with members of the congregation, relations with those in authority, interactions with peers, and engagement with the wider community. Particular attention will be given to issues of financial impropriety and sexual misconduct.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
4

Electives

Choose two electives from the following:

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course explores the meaning of health and wellness in the Bible and examines different interpretations of the texts in their application in the ministry of healing. Consideration will also be given to perspectives on healing in other religious traditions. Students will be encouraged to develop their own theological understanding of healing and wholeness as a foundational perspective for their own ministry.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

This course provides an introduction and orientation to ministry leadership in the local church setting. Building from foundational biblical and theological perspectives on pastoral ministry, it will examine various pastoral roles and tasks, including preaching/teaching, worship/liturgy, pastoral care, fellowship, evangelism and new member assimilation. Special attention will be given to developing a pastoral awareness of the cultural context of the local church.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

This course provides an overview and orientation to pastoral ministry in institutional settings, including hospitals, care facilities, correctional facilities, first responders (fire/police/FEMA), residential recovery programs, recreation and retirement developments. It will equip participants to recognize and understand the unique opportunities in chaplaincy, and to formulate personal ministry strategies suited to their calling and vocation. While the primary focus of attention will be given to the theology of chaplaincy ministry from a Christian perspective, chaplaincy ministries in other faith traditions will also be addressed.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

This course includes studies that provide a broad understanding of the nature and needs of individuals at all levels of development: normal and abnormal behavior; personality theory; lifespan theory; and learning theory within cultural contexts. Appropriate strategies for facilitating development over the lifespan are also integrated into the course.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

The course provides a foundation for ministry with the dying and the grieving with a survey of biblical and theological resources as well as insights from the social sciences on grief and loss. Particular attention will be given to the Christian tradition of the ars moriendi (art of dying). The course will also assist the student in developing skills for ministry with the dying and their families and friends.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

Participants in this course will develop skills for ministry to and with disabled persons. The course provides a foundation for ministry from biblical and theological resources, as well as perspectives from the social sciences. Attention will be given to the different forms of disability, as well as legal and ethical issues involved in ministry to and with disabled persons.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
8

Final Project: 12 Credits

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course provides students with an opportunity to develop their own theology of ministry and begin laying the academic foundations for their dissertation or ministry project. Biblical and theological resources for a theology of ministry will be examined, and students will explore different models of integrating theology and ministry. Considerable attention will also be given to the process of research in ministry and writing.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
4

Choose one of the following sequences: 

Course Code
Title
Credits
8
8
8
Sub-Total Credits
8

*Supervisory Clinical Pastoral Education: Opportunities to pursue Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) are a unique feature of the D.Min. program. CPE Level I or Level II fulfills the ministry practicum requirement; students who have completed CPE Level II (4 credit hours) may elect to use Supervisory CPE for their final project if they have been accepted into a supervisory clinical pastoral education program.

Total Credits
96