The MDiv at CTS is a core professional degree in theology, preparing students for leadership across a spectrum of ministries—church-based, nonprofit, advocacy, or civic sectors. CTS is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada.
Flexible Learning Design
- Low-residency, high-quality: The program blends remote learning with required in-person intensive sessions, giving you flexibility regardless of where you’re located.
- Individualized pacing: Students create tailored degree plans and complete credits at their own speed within a supportive, structured framework.
Program Structure & Practical Formation
- Supervised Ministry: One full year of hands-on ministry experience is embedded in the curriculum, allowing students to integrate theory with real-world practice.
- Intensive formats: Coursework often includes weekend or week-long intensive sessions. Some courses require pre-intensive reading and post-intensive assignments, with around 135 hours expected per three-credit course.
Theological Formation & Support
- The program emphasizes theological reflection, vocational discernment, and practical skills—such as trauma-informed leadership, teaching in community, interfaith collaboration, and social ethics.
- CTS supports students’ denominational ordination goals and helps align requirements accordingly. For instance, students preparing for United Methodist ordination are guided by the Director of United Methodist Studies.
- Additional support includes counseling resources and a dual-degree pathway with counseling available.
Application Details & Academic Load
- Prerequisites: A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- Requirements: Tuition is approximately $710 per credit hour. A single-degree MDiv spans between 30 to 72 credit hours, with higher-hour dual-degree options reaching up to 111 credits.
- Deadlines:
- Fall intake: Apply by June 15
- Spring intake: Apply by November 15
Why CTS MDiv May Be Right for You
- Balanced flexibility and hands-on ministry learning make it ideal for learners balancing other commitments.
- Strong focus on theological reflection and social ethics fosters formation that is both spiritual and socially engaged.
- Supportive of ordination pathways across denominations, with tailored guidance.
- Financial and emotional support through dual-degree options and counseling services.
A Few Final Thoughts
The MDiv at CTS empowers students to become thoughtful, justice-oriented leaders through an inclusive, practice-connected, and flexible learning experience. Its low-residency design embodies a pragmatic response to modern educational needs while honoring the depth of pastoral vocation.
