Doctor of
Ministry

Program Overview

The Doctor of Ministry is an ATS accredited professional ministers doctoral degree designed to develop expertise through research in a specific ministry topic or practice. It is designed for vocational ministers, counselors and chaplains to develop expert level knowledge and skills in their area of ministry. The classes focus on Spirit-empowered ministry and leadership competencies from a biblical, theological, practical and cultural perspective. The degree culminates in the student conducting a Ministry Research Project on a specific area of ministry research.

The Coursework Phase of the degree incudes 10 DMin classes plus other proficiencies (32.5 hours) on various topics related to leadership, ministry practices, and ministerial formation. The courses are designed to be completed in 2 years (full time) with 2 classes each semester (Fall, Spring, Summer). Each Fall and Spring semester has a week-long residency on campus for intensive lectures and discussions (Summer is online only). This format will allow you to continue to minister in your existing ministry position while completing your degree.

The degree culminates in the student designing and conducting a Ministry Research Project in their ministry context to demonstrate their expertise in ministry, theory, leadership and practice. The MRP can potentially be completed in 1-2 years (1 credit hour per semester enrollment till completion). 

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:

Church Ministries and Leadership Concentration

The Church Ministries and Leadership Concentration is designed for ministers in a variety of vocational contexts including pastors, ministry leaders, evangelists, missionaries and denominational leaders. Classes focus on developing the leadership competencies, ministry practices, and theological reflection skills needed to be effective and globally engaged Spirit-empowered ministry leaders. Applicants for the CML concentration must be presently engaged in vocational ministry in a specific context and have completed a MDiv Degree, or equivalent.  

Pastoral Counseling and Chaplaincy Concentration 

The Pastoral Counseling and Chaplaincy Concentration is designed for counselors, chaplains, and those serving in various counseling and therapy settings. This concentration includes specialized courses in counseling, chaplaincy, and moral injury as well as shared courses with the CML on ministerial development and theological reflection. Applicants for the PCC concentration must be presently engaged in vocational counseling or chaplaincy ministry and have a Masters in Counseling, MDiv with Counseling or Chaplaincy concentration, or related theological and counseling-based master’s degree. 

 

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

• Master of Divinity degree (or equivalent of 60 hours) with a 3.0 grade point average from an ATS accredited seminary. Leveling courses may be needed for any degree below 60 hours before admission into the DMin Program is approved.
• Verification of vocational ministry, counseling, or chaplaincy context throughout the degree. International applicants must have verification of a ministry context in the U.S. during the program.
• Evidence of ability to academically engage ministry topics through scriptural interpretation, contextual adaptation, self-reflections, and personal experience and calling.

 

Required Application Document

• Statement of Reasons for Applying to ORU and for pursuing the DMin Degree
• Autobiographical Essay
• Ministerial Experience and Current Vocational Ministry Essay
• Verification of Current Vocational Ministry 

or 

• Vocational U.S. Ministry Plan for International Students on Student Visa.
• Academic Writing Sample from master’s degree
• Financial Funding Guarantee 

 

ACCREDITATION

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY AND MINISTRY IS ALSO ACCREDITED BY:

The Graduate School of Theology and Ministry is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS). The following degree programs are approved: 

• Master of Divinity
• M.A. Biblical Literature
• M.A. Theological/Historical Studies
• M.A. in Professional Counseling
• M.A. in Missions
• M.A. in Practical Theology
• Doctor of Ministry

The Commission contact information is:
The Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the U.S. and Canada
10 Summit Park Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15275 USA
Telephone: 412.788.6505
Fax: 412.788.6510

THE UNIVERSITY HOLDS MEMBERSHIPS WITH THE FOLLOWING ASSOCIATIONS:

• Association of American Colleges and Universities
• National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities
• Council for Christian Colleges and Universities

Are there scholarships available?

There are several scholarships available to students in the Graduate Program. To learn more about financial aid, click here.

CONTACT

Office of Graduate Admissions
Phone:  918.495.6518
gradadmissions@oru.edu