Master of Divinity (M.Div) Program

Master of Divinity (M.Div)

Advanced Theological Education for Ministry Excellence

The Master of Divinity program is designed primarily to provide advanced skills and knowledge necessary for church leadership and congregation-based ministries. This comprehensive graduate-level program equips students with critical thinking skills, deepens theological understanding, and prepares graduates to function as effective leaders in churches, Christian organizations, and as teachers at undergraduate (B.Th) level.

🎓 Advanced Biblical Scholarship

In-depth exegetical and theological study of Scripture with graduate-level research excellence.

🤔 Critical Theological Thinking

Sophisticated analysis of Christian doctrine and contemporary theological issues.

👥 Expert Ministry Leadership

Advanced training in pastoral care, preaching, and organizational management.

🌏 Cross-Cultural Competence

Deep understanding of Asian Christianity and global missions context.

📋 Program Overview

⏱️ Duration

4-6 Years (Full-time Residential)

🎯 Total Credits

60-90 Credit Hours (depending on entry qualifications)

🏫 Delivery

On-campus with intensive community experience

Online

🗣️ Language

English with comprehensive theological discourse

📝 Entry Requirements

⚠️ IMPORTANT: All applicants must sit for and pass a comprehensive entrance examination before admission.

Academic Prerequisites

For Theology Graduates: Bachelor of Theology or equivalent from a recognized institution
For Non-Theology Graduates: Bachelor’s degree in any field plus completion of bridging courses (30 credit hours)
Proof of English language proficiency for theological education

Application Requirements

Completed application form
Official transcripts from previous institutions
Sending pastor’s recommendation and evaluation report
Character assessment focusing on spiritual development
Pass comprehensive entrance examination
Personal interview (may be required)

🎓 Graduation Requirements

Academic Standards

Theology Graduates: 60 credit hours
Non-Theology Graduates: 90 credit hours
Maintenance of satisfactory academic standing
15,000-word thesis demonstrating original research

Character & Ministry Evaluation

Comprehensive recommendation from sending pastor
Assessment of spiritual maturity and character development
Demonstration of advanced leadership competence
Evidence of theological understanding and ministry effectiveness

📚 Curriculum Structure

Foundation Year: Biblical & Historical Foundations

Biblical Studies

New Testament Backgrounds, Old Testament Backgrounds, Advanced Hermeneutics

Historical Studies

Sri Lankan History & Culture, Modern Religions & Secular Movements

Theological Foundations

Christian Ethics, Environmental Studies

Development Year: Theological Depth

Systematic Theology

Old Testament Theology, New Testament Theology, Asian Contextual Theology

Biblical Exegesis

Synoptic Gospels, Pauline Thought in Romans & Galatians, I&II Corinthians

Historical Theology

History of Reformation, Modern Church History, History of Asian Christianity

Specialization Years: Ministry Excellence

Advanced Homiletics

Sophisticated preaching and communication skills development

Pastoral Leadership

Pastoral Theology, Christian Counseling, Church Management

Mission Studies

Current Trends & Issues in Mission, Relevance of OT to Christian Mission

Apologetics & Philosophy

Philosophy of Religions, Christian Apologetics

Research & Integration Year

Advanced Biblical Languages

Hebrew/Greek Intermediate I & II (6 credits total)

Specialized Studies

Christian Education, Advanced Biblical Studies

Research Project

15,000-word thesis research, methodology, and completion

⌚ Program Duration Options

Standard Track

4 Years

For Theology Graduates

60 credit hours
Accelerated path
Strong theological foundation
Advanced theological development focus

Extended Track

6 Years

For Non-Theology Graduates

90 credit hours including bridging
Comprehensive foundation building
Integration of secular education
Thorough theological formation

🚀 Career Pathways

👨‍💼 Senior Ministry Leadership

Lead Pastor
Denominational Leader
Mission Director
Church Planting Coordinator

🎓 Theological Education

Seminary Faculty
Academic Dean
Curriculum Developer
Research Scholar

⚕️ Specialized Ministry

Hospital Chaplain
Military Chaplain
NGO Executive
Interfaith Dialogue Specialist

📚 Advanced Study Preparation

Doctoral Studies (Ph.D./D.Min.)
International Scholarship
Research Leadership
Academic Publication

⭐ Why Choose M.Div at LBCS?

Graduate Excellence – Advanced theological education with international standards

Research Focus – Substantial thesis project developing original theological insights

Contextual Relevance – Deep engagement with Asian Christianity and Sri Lankan context

Leadership Development – Preparation for senior ministry and organizational leadership

Academic Credibility – Qualification for teaching at undergraduate theological level

Diverse Specialization – Multiple pathways for ministry and academic specialization

Mentorship Model – Close faculty guidance throughout the program

International Recognition – ATA accredited program with global credibility

Ready to Advance Your Ministry?

The M.Div program at LBCS represents the pinnacle of theological education in Sri Lanka. This advanced program prepares you not just for ministry leadership, but for scholarly contribution to the global theological conversation. Join our community of graduate scholars who are equipped to lead churches, teach future ministers, and advance the Kingdom of God through excellence in theological education.

Apply Now – Contact Graduate Admissions