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The aim of the program is to apply classic pastoral wisdom to contemporary challenges, in order that pastors might exert a radical, redemptive influence upon culture. There are four grids through which courses are offered: pastoral preaching, pastoral leadership, pastoral care, and pastoral life / spirituality. By exploration of biblical and theological knowledge and exposure to various issues in contemporary ministry the D.Min. student further develops practical skills for ministry and an enlarged vision for the service of the Lord and His Church.
CONTENT AREA CREDITS
Foundations for Ministry 3
Research/Design Methodology 3
Elective Courses 18
Dissertation 6
Total 30
Students may select electives from four key areas: pastoral preaching, pastoral leadership, pastoral care, and pastoral life/spirituality. Each of these courses incorporates the spectrum of the pastoral task as it applies to one key area in the minister’s life. A minimum of six courses are offered per year. The goal is to schedule at least three years ahead, so that students can plan wisely in their curriculum selection.
In addition the dissertation serves as a capstone project which is immediately related to the ministry of the writer. It is theological reflection applied to the pastoral situation, and normally something the author completes with the people to whom he/she ministers. The project allows the student to focus upon a specific area which is crucial to his/her own ministry effectiveness.
In a post-modern age of uncritical pragmatism, the church desperately needs shepherds who skillfully and faithfully apply classic pastoral wisdom to contemporary challenges. Western’s D.Min. program is committed to this task. With the centrality of the gospel as our anchor point, we seek to solidify one’s biblical foundation and convictions for doing ministry.
This advanced professional degree is intended for persons engaged in some aspect of full-time Christian ministry such as the pastorate, Christian education, chaplaincy, evangelism, music and worship ministry, and related areas of service. The goal is to prepare students to impact their ministry in even deeper and more strategic ways.
Courses are offered throughout the year in an intensive format. There is a period of pre-course preparation, an intensive four or five day seminar, either on Western’s campus or at other locations, followed by a post-course period to complete assignments. Depending on how quickly the student plans to complete the course-phase, this would mean two-four trips to Portland each year.
Instructors are encouraged to view their class as a community of learners, where the professor’s role is primarily interactive. Within this community of faith our students’ combined experiences sharpen and challenge one another with a view to learning from each other, ultimately enhancing the students’ skill for ministry and deepening their spiritual walk.
Our philosophy is simple: bring in the very best faculty. These seasoned veterans, both resident and visiting, reflect a mix of pastors, preachers, educators, para-church leaders and authors. We have been privileged to bring in such notable instructors as D.A. Carson, Haddon Robinson, Gordon MacDonald, Robert Smith, Jr., Michael Frost, Alan Hirsch, Kent Hughes, David Fisher and Gary Thomas.
Our strategic partnership with Phoenix Seminary provides our D.Min. students access to more courses and instructors. Students may take courses through Phoenix’ D.Min. program and apply the credits to their degree. Contact our D.Min. program office for more information.
Applicants must have earned a four-year baccalaureate degree or its full educational equivalent from a college or university accredited by a United States association holding membership in one of the six regional accrediting associations, that is a member of the Association of Universities and Colleges in Canada, that is a member of the Association for Biblical Higher Education, or from an institution which maintains similar academic requirements and standards.
Doctor of Ministry program applicants shall hold a three-year Master of Divinity degree or its educational equivalent from an institution accredited regionally and/or by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) in the United States and Canada. In certain cases, a student with a two-year theological M.A. degree may be admitted in a provisional status with the agreement to complete M.Div. equivalency courses prior to doctoral course work. A cumulative grade point of 3.0 (on a 4.0 point scale) is required. A minimum of three years of full-time ministry experience after the completion of the Master of Divinity degree is required. Current involvement in vocational ministry is required both for admission and for continuance in the program. |
