University of Dubuque Theological Seminary offers Distance Master of Divinity (M. Div.) Degree
Aug 23, 2007 | University of Dubuque Theological Seminary
On Saturday, August 4, 2007 a full cohort of students representing three denominations and 12 presbyteries of the Presbyterian Church (USA) enrolled as the inaugural class of the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary's (UDTS) Distance Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree program. UDTS is the first seminary of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to offer a Master of Divinity distance education program. This 5-year program allows participants to take the majority of classes via the Internet. Two-thirds of the courses are taught online, while the remaining credits are earned in residency at the Dubuque campus. The curriculum and faculty for the Distance M.Div. are the same as those in our residential program.
The program begins with a two-week residential intensive in Dubuque followed by online courses for the fall semester. Students return to campus for two weeks in January prior to the spring semester's distance learning. The combination of online and residential instruction enables the close integration of theological education and congregational life.
Online instruction allows participants to benefit from the flexibility of independent learning and the interaction of group learning in a new educational experience that permits participation from nearly anywhere in the world. Small classes encourage an intimate and productive learning environment. Throughout the 5-year program, interaction with instructors and other students occurs in residency and through Internet based email and discussion boards.
The University of Dubuque Theological Seminary has a strong track record for successful distance learning programs. In the past seven years, more than 1,000 students from across the nation have participated in our innovative Commissioned Lay Pastor Program. In 2004, UDTS began offering several online Master of Divinity courses.
Those who are considering a theological education, but cannot relocate, may find the answer to prayer through one of these three distance learning options:
- Distance Master of Divinity Degree Program
- Single M. Div. courses
- Commissioned Lay Pastor (non-degree) Program
Online learning is not for everyone. Learning styles are as unique as each individual. However, for those who are self-motivated and disciplined, this program provides a new means of pursuing the call to ministry.For more information regarding admission to one of the University of Dubuque Theological Seminarys distance theological education programs, please contact Ms. Peggy Sell, director of admissions, at 1.800.369.UDTS.
