Doctor of Ministry Program

The Doctor of Ministry program at Dickerson-Green Theological Seminary is an advanced professional degree for experienced pastors, ministers, and religious leaders who seek to strengthen their leadership and ministry practice.

The program emphasizes the practical application of theological knowledge. Students engage in advanced study, research, and ministry-based projects that address concerns within their churches, communities, and other vocational settings.* The program encourages students to connect scholarly inquiry with their ministry experience and develop informed approaches to religious leadership.

Doctor of Ministry Admission Requirements

Applicants must submit the following materials:

1. A completed application form
2. Official transcripts showing an appropriate master’s degree: Applicants should possess a master’s degree in one of the following areas:
3. • Divinity
   • Theology
   • Religious Studies
   • Philosophy
4. Documentation of ministry or leadership experience: Applicants must have three or more years of experience as a pastor or as a leader in another capacity related to applying denominational teachings.
5. Additional graduate credentials and experience: The Seminary may consider other graduate credentials and professional experience that indicate a strong probability that the applicant can successfully complete the program.
6. A statement of purpose: Applicants must submit a statement of purpose containing no fewer than 500 words and no more than 800 words. (Prospective students who do not submit a statement of purpose will not be considered for admission).
7. Three letters of recommendation: Applicants must provide: • One recommendation from a church or denomination
   • One recommendation from a former professor
   • One character reference from a layperson

These requirements reflect the advanced professional character of the Doctor of Ministry program and the expectation that applicants enter the program with graduate education and substantial ministry or leadership experience.

*Please note that the seminary does not have a Chaplaincy program. However, students may enroll in CPE to gain units in chaplaincy through our partnerships found on our Resource page.

Transfer Student Requirements

Applicants seeking transfer admission must meet the following requirements:

1. Submit a completed application form.
2. Provide documentation of current or previous enrollment in a comparable accredited program.
3. Earn a grade of B or higher in each course submitted for transfer.
4. Request the transfer of no more than 18 credit hours.
5. Submit only courses completed within ten years of enrollment at Dickerson-Green Theological Seminary. Courses completed more than ten years before enrollment will not be considered for transfer.

Transfer coursework must come from an accredited institution, apply to the Doctor of Ministry program, and meet the Seminary’s standards for graduate-level work. Remedial or developmental courses are not eligible for transfer.

Program, Tuition, and Fee Information

For information about the Doctor of Ministry curriculum, tuition, fees, and degree requirements, please click here to view the academic catalog.

Apply to the Doctor of Ministry Program

Click here to begin your application through AdmissionPros.