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Doctor of Ministry

D.Min. Program Overview

Develop your ministry further and help make a profound impact with the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) Program at Freed-Hardeman University. We invite you to expand your academic knowledge, skills, and insights to elevate your ministry to new heights.

Graduate Studies:

College of Biblical Studies

Director of Graduate Theology:

Dr. Richard A. Brumback
Ph.D.

Program Coordinator:

Dr. Matt Cook
Ph.D.

Learning at FHU

Why should you pursue a D.Min. at Freed-Hardeman University?

Pursuing your D.Min. at Freed-Hardeman University is an exciting and rewarding journey for your personal, professional, and spiritual growth. You will hone your leadership skills, advance your knowledge of best practices in ministry, and complete a dissertation on a topic of your choice.

new-worship leader

Ready to Apply?

All current and new students applying for a Master’s or Doctorate program will use the online application process. 

If students cannot participate in campus tours during their college search, our virtual campus tours can help them see what college life is like.

Futures for D.Min. Graduates

Advancing your education at FHU and pursuing a Doctorate in Ministry is a powerful investment in your career that not only deepens your spiritual and theological insights but also equips you with the skills and credibility to excel in Christian leadership, theology, and ministry itself.

Doctor of Ministry Degree Requirements

At Freed-Hardeman University, students enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program will gain the skills and advanced knowledge to enhance their ministry. Topics covered will include spiritual formation, intercultural engagement, leadership development, and much more!

In order to be eligible for this program, applicants must possess a Master of Divinity degree or the equivalent.

I. Required Courses: 36 hours

BIB 700

Methodology of Doctoral Research and Writing                           

3

BIB 705

Spiritual Formation for Ministry

3

BIB 710

Theological Foundations of Ministry

3

BIB 715

Intercultural Engagement

3

BIB 720

Ministerial Ethics

3

BIB 725

Contextual Homiletics

3

BIB 730

Multigenerational Ministry

3

BIB 735

Leadership Development

3

BIB 740

Theories and Practices of Church Growth

3

BIB 745

The Church and Social Justice

3

BIB 790A

Dissertation Seminar I

3

BIB 790B

Dissertation Seminar II

3

 

See the director for a pattern of course offerings for the year.

Admission Requirements for the Doctor of Ministry Degree

To be considered for admission into the Doctor of Ministry program at FHU, please submit the following:

  • Free online application
  • Official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate degrees
  • Must have completed a Master of Divinity or similar degree
  • Personal essay specifying your goals and how the FHU program will help you meet those goals (300-500 words)
  • Submit scholarship application (optional)
  • Copy of Photo ID

Frequently Asked Questions About FHU’s D.Min. Program

Why should I get a D.Min. at Freed-Hardeman University?

Simply put, you will be better equipped to serve in your role as a minister. The advanced knowledge you will receive combined with the mentorship provided by the faculty will transform you in ways you never thought possible!

Additionally, you will be eligible to participate in our annual guided archeological dig in the Holy Lands at a subsidized cost. It’s great to study Scripture, but it’s even better to see where it all happened with your own eyes!

Will a D.Min. help me advance my career?

A doctorate degree in ministry can certainly make you more attractive to churches seeking to hire. However, the true impact is in the difference you can make with the knowledge you receive from the program. The D.Min. program will make you a more effective minister, enabling you to lead others along their spiritual journeys and help them gain a better understanding of Scripture.

How long will it take me to complete a D.Min.?

The 36 credit hour program can be completed in 2 years. However, you can pace yourself as you choose. You can finish quicker as a full-time student (9+ credit hours per semester) or you can slow it down and take 6 or less credit hours per semester. How you pace yourself during the dissertation phase of the program will also affect the timeline of completion.

Are there scholarships available?

We know pursuing a graduate degree can come with a significant cost investment. So, in an attempt to help you further your education without breaking the bank, we offer competitive scholarships to many of our students. If you’re interested, complete the online application as well as the scholarship application. Afterwards, the Director of the Graduate School of Theology will be in touch regarding your potential for a scholarship award.

Questions about the application process?

Have more questions about applying for a graduate or doctorate program? If you’d like to discuss anything further, submit an inquiry or schedule a visit and we’ll have someone from the Office of Graduate Studies contact you.