Overview

A familiar ministry qualification in N. America, the Master of Divinity (MDiv) is a rarity in the UK or Ireland – although until 2014, for a decade or so, Union College already offered an MDiv qualification. From September 2019, a brand–new MDiv will be delivered part–time, on campus on one day per week over three years in Union College: you may begin your MDiv in any September or January, as modules are repeated on a six–semester cycle. 

The programme aims thoroughly to ground you in theology for ministry in contemporary contexts. Each semester, an academically rigorous and vocationally targeted module will aim to give you a strong foundation in the theory and practice of one of the main disciplines of Christian theology: Old and New Testament, Systematics, Church History and Practical Theology. Along with study of taught modules, you will also specialise in the area of your choice through a dissertation or research project. If you wish, and have more time to give, Union College also provides opportunities to gain expertise in the biblical languages or to audit additional non–award ministry courses. 

Union College is self–consciously in the Reformed tradition: to enrich the MDiv, your instructors will draw freely on this heritage and on the resources of the College’s Gamble Library. However, multiple perspectives will be explored and yours will be especially welcome in the conversation. Whatever your context for church, if your aim is robust preparation for ministry today in Ireland or beyond – or if you are already active in ministry and want to consolidate your knowledge and skills – the MDiv is designed to help you develop the fundamental competencies that pastors, theologians and church leaders need.