Doctor of Ministry

Talbot's Doctor of Ministry program is currently being revitalized!

We will launch this exciting new Doctor of Ministry program beginning January 2007!

Additional details will be posted on Talbot's website in the coming months. Applicants are encouraged to apply six months in advance of the January residency through Biola's Graduate Admissions Office.

Please contact the Doctor of Ministry Administrative Assistant, Jennifer Fuller, for detailed program information. You may reach our Doctor of Ministry office by calling (562) 903-4822.

• Mission
• Goals
• Objectives
• Admission Requirements

Mission

The mission of the Doctor of Ministry program is to equip ministry leaders for a high level of excellence in the practice of ministry.

Goals

1. Guide the student to develop a deeper level of spiritual, emotional, and intellectual self-understanding.
2. Help the student acquire new, and hone old, ministry skills.
3. Train the student in the process of diagnosing, analyzing, and applying new methods in their particular ministry context.

Objectives

The Doctor of Ministry degree is the highest professional degree for pastoral and ministry leaders. "The purpose of the professional doctorate is to equip one for a high level of excellence in the practice of Ministry" (Association of Theological Schools, Standards for Accrediting). This program of study at Talbot School of Theology gives you the opportunity to achieve high levels of excellence and competence in ministry. The 21st century offers many unique challenges and opportunities. Visionary, dynamic and skillful leaders are needed to guide the Church. The Talbot Doctor of Ministry program can help equip, train and empower you for more effective pastoral and ministry leadership.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the Doctor of Ministry program will be granted on a very selective and individual basis. The degree is built upon an accredited Master of Divinity degree (or its educational equivalent), high academic achievement and professional competence, and substantial professional experience in ministry.

M.Div Equivalency

Students not possessing a Master of Divinity degree may still be accepted into the Doctor of Ministry program if they qualify for M.Div Equivalency. Equivalency may be given when a student has met all of the following: 1) Completed their Master’s degree from an ATS accredited school with a minimum of 70 semester hours; 2) received a minimum GPA of 3.0; and 3) obtained a minimum of 21 semester hours in the following three categories: Biblical Studies, Christian Thought and Ministry of the Church. You may request a preliminary M.Div Equivalency evaluation from the Doctor of Ministry office at any time. Please contact the Doctor of Ministry office at (562) 903-4822 for more information.

Application

Call our office at 562-903-4822 or contact us to request an application online. Complete and send in the application to the Office of Admissions-Talbot along with the application fee: $45. Then, complete the following admission requirements as soon as possible.

Autobiographical Essay

Complete a typed, 10-page essay that includes your educational history, ministerial experience, a critical incident report, and your reasons for seeking the D.Min. degree. The critical incident report should discuss a critical incident that occurred in one of your ministry contexts. You should explain what happened, your responses as a leader, and the outcomes. Please also reflect on the biblical, spiritual and relational issues involved.

Letters of Recommendation

Submit letters of recommendation sent from three sources: One from your denominational supervisor or other ministry supervisor or leader, another from a clergy colleague outside of your current ministry assignment, and a third from a lay person in your congregation.

Statement of Support

Submit a letter sent from a leader of your church board or local ministry assignment indicating their support of your studies in the Doctor of Ministry program. This is not to be an indication of financial support. Rather, it is a statement by your ministry employer that indicates their support of your proposed studies and approval for travel and study time.

International Students

If English is your second language you must have a TOEFL score of 600 paper / 250 computer, a score of 4 on the Test for English Writing (TWE) or complete an educational course sequence at Talbot before beginning any Doctor of Ministry studies.

Interview

Appear for a formal interview with the director of the Doctor of Ministry program. Fulfillment of the above basic requirements does not necessarily guarantee admission into the program. In general, a high standard of overall performance, especially in the practice of ministry, will be the governing criterion. Admission is limited to 20 new students each year.

Withdrawal

Formal withdrawal from the program consists of completion of the Departure form, and a notice of withdrawal sent to the D.Min. director through the Doctor of Ministry office.

Note: Official documents presented for admission or evaluation become part of the student's academic file and normally cannot be returned or copied for distribution.