Dual Degree: Master of Divinity & Master of Arts (Theological Studies)

The dual degree is usually for persons desiring to continue his or her studies in a Ph.D. program. The degree offers the student the ability to achieve the requirements for ordination (M.Div.) and advanced study in a specific theological discipline. The thesis will provide the student with the opportunity to work independently on a sustained academic project. This type of work is essential for the Ph.D. process.

The two degrees require 96 academic credits and can be completed in four years full-time. Students who enroll into the dual degree program will not complete one degree and then transfer credits into the second degree.  The student will take all the courses in the dual program and be awarded two degrees at the time of graduation.

What is unique about NBTS’s program:

• Adaptive: Courses are offered days, evenings, and weekends in the traditional classroom format, as hybrid courses, with some courses completely online.
• Welcoming: Affirming of all persons desiring to study pastoral care and counseling.
• Innovative: Study with a faculty who offer innovative opportunities for learning and appreciate adult learners.
• Diverse: Learn with a diverse faculty and student body who will offer a variety of perspectives.
• Academic, Practical, and Spiritual: We believe students need all three to develop the needed skills for a future in academic teaching and writing.
• Flexible: Students select their path of study based on individual needs.
• Ph.D. Preparation: Work one-on-one with a faculty member in your specialty to prepare for further study.

Admissions Requirements

Application deadlines:
Spring semester – December 15
Fall Semester – June 15

Applications received after the deadline will be considered for admission in the following semester.
Each applicant must:

• Hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a grade point average of 2.5 or higher (4.0 scale).
• Official transcript(s)^* of all undergraduate and graduate work pursued to date are required.
• Complete a statement of purpose following the instructions on the application.
• Three letters of recommendation including one from the student’s pastor.
• Complete Application Form with $75 non-refundable application/background check fee;
• Students with additional master’s credits may receive transfer credits (see the transfer credit policy).
• Photo ID (state issued driver’s license, state identification card, or Passport) to verify identity
• Additionally, International Students
  • must submit transcripts of undergraduate degree programs that originate from an institution outside the United States or Canada be sent to a professional transcript service for a course-by-course evaluation.
  • Demonstrate their proficiency in English (see English Proficiency Requirements);

• A select number of students can be admitted without a baccalaureate degree, see the requirements for non-traditional students.

*The Admissions Committee requires that all transcripts that originate from an institution outside the United States or Canada be sent to a professional transcript service for a course-by-course evaluation.

*Students at the NY campus may need to travel to the NJ campus for some courses

Curriculum

96 total credit hours required  The program is divided into 4 modules.  Students would complete the courses in one module before moving on to the next.

*if taking Greek and Hebrew, bat least one language (3 elective credits) should be taken in module 1 

*if taking Greek and Hebrew, both languages (6 elective credits) should be completed by the end of module 2

*some denominations require students to take denominational studies electives (see your advisor for more information), amount of credits vary

^*Some denominations require students to take denominational studies electives (see your advisor for more information), amount of credits vary.

What is Field Education?

Field Education provides students an opportunity, with the assistance of experienced supervisors and lay committees, to integrate classroom learning with actual practice of ministry in context. A student is eligible to begin Field Education during Module 2 of the program [after 30 academic credits]. Once placed, students must spend 8-12 hours per week or 120-180 hours for the semester engaged at the field site. Included in the onsite hours is one hour of theological reflection with the field supervisor.

In conjunction with an approved field education placement, students must attend a class, which is designed to guide in the practice of theological reflection by examining the field placement experience.  The course provides peer group support and requires assigned readings, reflection papers and journaling. Successful completion of a unit of Field Education and the class earns one academic credit. The grading system is Pass (P)/Fail (F).

Both supervisor and student evaluations are completed at the end of each unit.

Remuneration is suggested, generally btween $150 – 175 /week.

Students register for FE510, FE511, FE512, and FE513 to receive the required 3 academic credits. 

Students may use CPE for two of the field education requirements. Students in CPE do not receive remuneration. All students are urged to check their own denominational requirements. Some require students to engage in CPE.

What is Clinical Pastoral Education?

According to the ACPE, “Clinical Pastoral Education is interfaith professional education for ministry. It brings theological students and ministers of all faiths (pastors, priests, rabbis, imams and others) into supervised encounter with persons in crisis. Out of an intense involvement with persons in need, and the feedback from peers and teachers, students develop new awareness of themselves as persons and of the needs of those to whom they minister. From theological reflection on specific human situations, they gain a new understanding of ministry. Within the interdisciplinary team process of helping persons, they develop skills in interpersonal and interprofessional relationships.” 

CPE is normally set in an institutional environment such as a hospital or nursing home. CPE is done in units and one unit is required for this degree. A unit of CPE can be completed full-time in an intensive full-time format of 10 to 12 weeks. Others are completed over a full academic year (3-4 hours per week). There are a limited number of online CPE programs, please contact the Office of Field Education for more information.

Program Outcomes (proposed)

Click here to see Learning Outcomes for this program.