Candler School Overview: Programs Revealed

The Candler School of Theology at Emory University is a premier institution for theological education, offering a wide range of programs that cater to the diverse needs of students seeking to pursue a career in ministry, academia, or other related fields. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, spiritual formation, and social justice, Candler School provides a comprehensive education that prepares students to become leaders in their communities and beyond. In this overview, we will delve into the various programs offered by Candler School, exploring their unique features, curriculum, and outcomes.
Academic Programs

Candler School offers several academic programs, including the Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.), Master of Theology (Th.M.), Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Theology. The M.Div. program is designed for students who wish to pursue ordained ministry or other forms of church leadership, while the M.T.S. program is geared towards those who want to explore the theological disciplines in a more general way. The Th.M. program is a post-M.Div. degree that provides advanced training in a specific area of theology, and the D.Min. program is a professional doctorate that focuses on the practice of ministry. The Ph.D. program in Theology is a research-oriented degree that prepares students for careers in academia or advanced research.
Master of Divinity (M.Div.) Program
The M.Div. program at Candler School is a three-year degree that requires the completion of 87 credit hours. The curriculum includes courses in biblical studies, theology, church history, and practical theology, as well as a number of electives that allow students to specialize in a particular area of interest. Students in the M.Div. program are also required to participate in a number of contextual education experiences, including internships, field education, and clinical pastoral education. These experiences provide students with hands-on training in ministry and help them to develop the skills and competencies needed to become effective leaders in their communities.
Program | Credit Hours | Duration |
---|---|---|
Master of Divinity (M.Div.) | 87 | 3 years |
Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) | 48 | 2 years |
Master of Theology (Th.M.) | 24 | 1 year |
Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) | 30 | 2-3 years |
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Theology | 48 | 4-5 years |

Specialized Programs and Certificates

In addition to its academic programs, Candler School offers a number of specialized programs and certificates that cater to the diverse needs of students. These include the Certificate in Theological Studies, which provides a basic introduction to theological education, and the Certificate in Ministry, which focuses on the practice of ministry and provides advanced training in areas such as preaching, teaching, and pastoral care. Candler School also offers a number of joint degree programs with other schools at Emory University, including the Master of Divinity/Master of Business Administration (M.Div./M.B.A.) and the Master of Divinity/Master of Public Health (M.Div./M.P.H.). These joint degree programs provide students with a unique combination of theological and professional education, preparing them for careers in ministry, non-profit management, and other related fields.
Certificate in Theological Studies
The Certificate in Theological Studies is a 24-credit hour program that provides a basic introduction to theological education. The certificate is designed for students who wish to explore the theological disciplines in a more general way, but do not want to commit to a full degree program. The curriculum includes courses in biblical studies, theology, and church history, as well as a number of electives that allow students to specialize in a particular area of interest.
- Candler School's Certificate in Theological Studies is a great option for students who want to explore the theological disciplines without committing to a full degree program.
- The certificate can be completed in as little as one year, making it a great option for students who want to get started with their theological education quickly.
- The certificate is also a great option for students who want to prepare for further theological study, but do not have the necessary academic background.
What are the admission requirements for Candler School's academic programs?
+Candler School's admission requirements vary depending on the program. However, all applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and must submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Some programs may also require standardized test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT.
How long does it take to complete a degree program at Candler School?
+The length of time it takes to complete a degree program at Candler School varies depending on the program. The M.Div. program typically takes three years to complete, while the M.T.S. program can be completed in as little as two years. The Th.M. program typically takes one year to complete, and the D.Min. and Ph.D. programs can take two to five years to complete.
In conclusion, Candler School of Theology at Emory University offers a wide range of academic programs and specialized certificates that cater to the diverse needs of students seeking to pursue a career in ministry, academia, or other related fields. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, spiritual formation, and social justice, Candler School provides a comprehensive education that prepares students to become leaders in their communities and beyond. Whether you are interested in pursuing a degree in theology or simply want to explore the theological disciplines, Candler School has a program that can meet your needs and help you achieve your goals.