Master of Divinity

Formed for Faithful Leadership. Prepared for the Church and the World.

At Leland Seminary, the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) is more than a degree—it is a formative journey. Here, rigorous theological education is woven together with spiritual formation, supportive community, and hands-on ministry, preparing you to serve God and your neighbors faithfully in a complex and changing world.

You will build meaningful relationships with world-class faculty – almost all of whom are currently practicing pastors -- and with a diverse community of students. As Leland alumni will enthusiastically attest: you’ll be spiritually renewed and powerfully equipped to bring life-changing messages and guidance to your congregation.

A Program Shaped by Calling

The Leland M.Div. is designed for women and men called to vocational ministry—pastors, chaplains, educators, and Christian leaders serving locally and globally. Through rich academic study, intentional ministerial formation, and focused theological reflection, you will develop the imagination, wisdom, and resilience needed to meet the challenges facing the church, academy, and the world.

Whether you are preparing for ministry for the first time or deepening your current vocation, Leland walks with you as you discern and follow God’s call.

What You’ll Gain

The Leland M.Div. forms leaders who are deeply rooted in faith, fluent in Scripture, and ready for real-world ministry. Graduates leave with a strong spiritual foundation, the ability to interpret and teach the Bible responsibly, and the confidence to lead churches and ministries with wisdom, humility, and courage. You will be equipped to serve faithfully across cultures, contexts, and communities – wherever you are called.

Areas of Study

The M.Div. curriculum brings together rigorous theological study and relevant and practical ministry to prepare you for a God-honoring life of service:

• Biblical and Theological Studies – Deep engagement with Scripture and leading Christian thought

• Preaching, Worship and Teaching – Communicating the gospel with clarity and relevance

• Pastoral Care and Spiritual Formation – Sustaining your own faith while caring for others

• Leadership and Ministry Practice – Leading churches and organizations with integrity

• Mission and Evangelism – Participating in God’s work in the world

Flexible, Accessible, and Deeply Formational

Leland’s M.Div. is offered online, with optional on-campus intensives, making it both flexible and accessible. A pioneer in designing curricula for bi-vocational students since 1998, Leland combines academic excellence, affordability, and a biblical worldview—welcoming students from a wide range of educational backgrounds.

The 75-credit professional degree integrates academic study, spiritual formation, and practical ministry preparation. Students engage deeply with Scripture, theology, preaching, evangelism, discipleship, and ministry research, with opportunities to study Greek and Hebrew and to tailor areas of concentration to specific ministry goals.

Prepare for a Life of Faithful Service

The Master of Divinity is the foundational professional degree for ordained ministry and religious leadership—forming resilient pastors and public leaders for congregations, chaplaincy, nonprofits, and beyond. At Leland, you will learn in community through worship, shared life, and faculty mentorship, all centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ.

When you’re ready to take the next step in following God’s call, Leland Seminary is ready to walk with you.