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Seminary Academics

MDiv Degree Candidacy Evaluation

The Degree Candidacy Evaluation takes place when you are nearing the one-third mark of completing your MDiv program (26 credits), usually in the spring semester of the first year for full-time students. You will be assigned a two-member faculty team who will evaluate you academic performance, interaction with faculty and peers in conjunction with formal learning goals, your entrance essays, and a reflection paper prepared for the evaluation.

The purpose of the Degree Candidacy Evaluation is to:

  • Ascertain whether or not you have a realistic view of your academic abilities
  • Assist you in reflecting on and evaluating your capacities in relation to ministry
  • Pinpoint areas where growth is needed

Following this evaluation process, if appropriate, the faculty team will recommend you to the entire faculty for MDiv candidacy. You will be informed of this decision and then have the opportunity to decide either to proceed with further studies or to terminate studies at the end of the current semester.

Part-Time Students

The timeline of completion for online learners and part-time students will vary, depending on your schedule of coursework. Degree Candidacy should be done in the semester you will complete 26 credits. You should contact Seminary Student Services to make arrangements for all testing and evaluation requirements early in your degree program.