Program Overview

Introduction to the Divinity – Graduate Entry (MDiv) Programme

The Divinity – Graduate Entry (MDiv) programme is an accelerated Honours degree designed for graduates who wish to develop a broad range of core skills in Christian Theology. This programme is particularly suited for students who are candidates for ministry in the Church of Scotland and other denominations.

About the Programme

This programme is tailored to graduates looking to move towards ministry within the setting of a world-class research university. Students will be taught by world-renowned scholars, some of whom have also served in ordained ministry, covering a range of Christian traditions and cultural settings. The programme offers a rich and stimulating formation in Christian Theology, with emphases on Theology and Ethics, Church history, biblical languages, and Practical Theology.

Degree Structure and Courses

• Students take 420 credits over three years (140 each year).
• In year one, students take 140 credits from pre-honours courses.
• In year two, students take 80 credits from pre-honours courses and 60 credits from honours courses.
• In year three, students take 140 credits from honours courses, including a 40-credit dissertation.
• Courses are chosen from subject areas including:
  • Biblical studies: Considering the history, literary context, and interpretation of the Bible.
  • History of Christianity: Providing foundations for understanding Christianity's past, present, and future.
  • Theology and Ethics: Focusing on the field of Christian Theology, including systematic theology, Christian ethics, and practical theology.

Aims and Outcomes

The Divinity MDiv programme has six main goals:

1. To provide breadth of acquaintance with the disciplines that make up the academic study of Christian Theology.
2. To provide understanding of Christianity as a world religion, considering its historical and cultural contexts.
3. To provide opportunities to reflect on Christianity's historic and continuing encounter with other major world religions.
4. To develop students' experience and abilities in research, comprehension, analysis, critical thinking, and oral and written communication.
5. To equip students for ordained ministry or a variety of other appropriate careers or further academic study.

Related Information

The University of Edinburgh, through its School of Divinity, offers a unique environment for the study of Christian Theology, with a strong focus on research, academic excellence, and practical application. The Divinity – Graduate Entry (MDiv) programme is designed to meet the needs of graduates who are seeking a comprehensive education in Theology, preparing them for ministry, further study, or careers where theological knowledge and skills are valued.