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Our Programs
McMaster Divinity College offers a variety of degrees and certificates to meet your vocational and ministry goals.
Explore Your Calling
Choosing a Program
At McMaster Divinity College, we offer two distinct educational streams—research programs and professional programs—to cater to the diverse theological and ministry goals of our students.
Our research programs are designed for individuals who feel called to academic teaching, scholarly research, and writing ministries within the Church and broader theological community. These programs emphasize rigorous academic training, critical thinking, and original research, preparing students to contribute significantly to theological scholarship. The research stream is ideal for those aiming to delve deeply into theological studies, engage in scholarly discourse, and pursue careers in academia or advanced research roles within ministry settings.
Our professional programs are tailored for individuals seeking to apply theological knowledge directly within various ministry contexts, focusing on practical skills, spiritual formation, and leadership development. These programs integrate academic learning with hands-on ministry experience, equipping students to serve effectively in a variety of vocational settings. The professional stream is ideal for those who wish to integrate theological education with practical ministry, aiming to serve in pastoral roles, counselling, spiritual care, or other leadership positions within faith-based organizations.
Research Programs
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology) Accelerated MA–PhD Program Master of Arts (Christian Studies)Professional Programs
Doctor of Practical Theology Master of Divinity Master of Arts (Theology & Ministry) Master of Arts (Counselling & Spiritual Care) Master of Arts (Global Christianity) Graduate CertificateIf you’re not ready to commit to a degree program, apply as an occasional student.
With this option, students can take up to 3 courses which allows the opportunity to experience the academic environment and community at McMaster Divinity College without committing to a full program. It’s an excellent choice for those who are exploring their academic and vocational direction, allowing them to take courses that can later be applied toward a degree or certificate program if they choose to continue their studies.
Occasional Students benefit from the same high-quality instruction as full-time students and have access to campus resources, including the library and student support services. This flexible option is ideal for individuals seeking to deepen their theological knowledge, enhance their ministry skills, or discern their next steps before making a longer-term commitment.
Students currently enrolled at other institutions can take courses at McMaster Divinity College through a Letter of Permission (LOP) issued by their home institution. This allows students to earn credits at MDC that will transfer back to their degree program, providing flexibility in course selection and access to our diverse theological curriculum.
Studying at MDC under an LOP offers students the opportunity to engage with our faculty, benefit from our academic resources, and experience our dynamic learning environment while staying on track with their primary program. Whether you’re looking for a specialized course, a unique learning perspective, or scheduling flexibility, the LOP option makes it easy to incorporate MDC courses into your academic journey.
For those looking to engage in theological learning without the pressure of assignments or grades, applying as an audit student allows individuals to take any number of courses for personal enrichment or continuing education. Audit students participate in lectures, discussions, and classroom activities but do not receive academic credit. This option is ideal for pastors, ministry leaders, or lifelong learners who want to deepen their understanding of theology, biblical studies, or ministry without pursuing a formal degree.
As an audit student at McMaster Divinity College, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from experienced faculty, engage with our academic community, and explore subjects of interest at your own pace. Whether you’re seeking professional development or personal growth, auditing courses provides a flexible and enriching way to expand your theological knowledge.
Alumni and seniors are eligible for discounted audit rates.
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Occasional Student
If you’re not ready to commit to a degree program, apply as an occasional student.
With this option, students can take up to 3 courses which allows the opportunity to experience the academic environment and community at McMaster Divinity College without committing to a full program. It’s an excellent choice for those who are exploring their academic and vocational direction, allowing them to take courses that can later be applied toward a degree or certificate program if they choose to continue their studies.
Occasional Students benefit from the same high-quality instruction as full-time students and have access to campus resources, including the library and student support services. This flexible option is ideal for individuals seeking to deepen their theological knowledge, enhance their ministry skills, or discern their next steps before making a longer-term commitment.
-
Letter of Permission Student
Students currently enrolled at other institutions can take courses at McMaster Divinity College through a Letter of Permission (LOP) issued by their home institution. This allows students to earn credits at MDC that will transfer back to their degree program, providing flexibility in course selection and access to our diverse theological curriculum.
Studying at MDC under an LOP offers students the opportunity to engage with our faculty, benefit from our academic resources, and experience our dynamic learning environment while staying on track with their primary program. Whether you’re looking for a specialized course, a unique learning perspective, or scheduling flexibility, the LOP option makes it easy to incorporate MDC courses into your academic journey.
-
Audit Student
For those looking to engage in theological learning without the pressure of assignments or grades, applying as an audit student allows individuals to take any number of courses for personal enrichment or continuing education. Audit students participate in lectures, discussions, and classroom activities but do not receive academic credit. This option is ideal for pastors, ministry leaders, or lifelong learners who want to deepen their understanding of theology, biblical studies, or ministry without pursuing a formal degree.
As an audit student at McMaster Divinity College, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from experienced faculty, engage with our academic community, and explore subjects of interest at your own pace. Whether you’re seeking professional development or personal growth, auditing courses provides a flexible and enriching way to expand your theological knowledge.
Alumni and seniors are eligible for discounted audit rates.
Explore the Student Experience
Get in touch
Contact Our Admissions Team
We would love to meet with you to answer any questions you might have about our programs. Reach us by:
Phone: 905.525.9140 x24402
Text: 289.237.0224
Email: divadmit@mcmaster.ca
