Serve a Higher Calling in WTS's Dual Track MDiv and MSW program
Are you passionate about making a difference in this world? Do you feel called to ministry but don’t think you would fit well into the traditional role of pastor? Do you want to help lead the Church in doing justice and loving mercy?
The MDiv-MSW Dual track degree program can prepare you for professional ministry where Christian theology and faith meet the pain and struggle of human life. You will learn to integrate the theory, knowledge, and skills required of pastors and social workers as they seek to be instruments of grace and peace.
87
Credit Hours
4 - 7
Years to Finish
In Residence or Hybrid
What can I do with an MDiv and MSW?
Community development in youth development programs or children and family support and education.
Provide counseling to hurting people.
Social Justice research and advocacy.
PROGRAM DESIGN
The program is flexible enough to be completed in one of four ways.
OPTION 1
Students spend their first two years of the program in-residence at WTS, taking MDiv coursework. Years 3-4 are then spent in a Master of Social Work program at another accredited institution of the student’s preference.
OPTION 2
Students can also choose our 5-year part-time Distance Learning option to complete their MDiv coursework through WTS. When finished, they can pursue a MSW program at another accredited institution of the student’s preference.
OPTION 3
Students can start with the MSW degree elsewhere, followed by the MDiv at WTS. This path is best for undergrad students who have the option of earning the MSW at the same institution. They can stay in a familiar context in the transition into graduate school. After completing the MSW degree, the student moves to WTS for two years of MDiv course work.
OPTION 4
Finally, Students can also do Distance Learning starting with the MSW degree followed by the MDiv. Students who are just completing the MSW degree (or who have completed it within the last seven years) begin MDiv work at WTS in the distance learning format and attend part-time over five years.
FOR ALL PATHS
Typically 63 out of the 87 hours required for an MDiv are completed through WTS. The remaining 24 hours are transferred from the MSW program back to the seminary as electives. This allows the student to complete both masters degrees in four years instead of five if they choose.
For students who have a BSW degree, the MSW portion of the dual track program is typically shortened due to receiving advanced standing. These students can earn both masters degrees in three years.
COHORT LEARNING GROUPS
All four years, students meet in peer groups with a ministry professional who facilitates the integration of the two professional areas. Students will meet with their program-long cohort groups weekly. The purpose of this weekly class is to support dual-track students and help them integrate these two professional fields (ministry and social work) into their respective ministry callings.
Learning Course Sequence
87 Credits throughout a minimum of four years are required, with 24 credits transferring to WTS as electives from the MSW. Required coursework includes formation for ministry courses, an internship, and an intercultural immersion trip.
The course sequence outlined below represents the in-residence experience. Are you planning to attend as a distance learner? Contact Admissions to find out more about the distance learning experience.
Year 1
Fall
- BL300 Old Testament Foundations
- MN335 Foundations of the Christian Life
- PR401 Abbey 1
- PR341 Dual Track Cohort Group 1
- TH300 Church History 1
- TH310 Systematic Theology 1
- MN350 Worship Foundations (Option)
Spring
- BL301 New Testament Foundations
- MN336 Christian Interior Life
- MN351 Preaching Foundations (Option)
- PR402 Abbey 2
- PR342 Dual Track Cohort Group 2
- TH300 Church History 2
- TH311 Systematic Theology 2
Year 2
Fall
- Language 1 (BL310 or BL320)
- BL490 Biblical Capstone
- MN412 Christian Life & Mission
- MN415 Practice of Counsel & Care
- PR403 Abbey 3
- PR343 Dual Track Cohort Group 3
- PR411 Practice of Ministry: Internship 1
Spring
- Language 1 (BL311 or BL321)
- MN440 Pastoral Imagination
- PR343 Dual Track Cohort Group 4
- PR404 Abbey 4
- PR412 Practice of Ministry: Internship
- TH440 Christian Life & Ethics
- TH490 Credo
Summer
Intercultural Immersion experience
Year 3 - 4
Students participate in the Dual Track Cohort Group as they complete their MSW requirements.
WTS welcomes transfer students and transferred coursework. Contact Admissions to learn more about which of your courses will transfer.
Looking for another Path to Ministry?
The Master of Divinity is customizable to support your call. Learn more about your options by clicking one of the links below or view all of our programs.
Apply
APPLICATION PROCESS
Your application will be completed fully online. Once you complete your application be sure to watch your email. Some programs require additional interviews or follow up.
Have questions? Email us at [email protected].
1.
Create an Account
2.
Fill out an application
3.
Upload written Materials
4.
Request letters
5.
Submit Your Application
6.
Watch your email
Only the MA in Christian Studies and Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Ministry are available in Spanish.
Costs
AFFORDING sEMINARY
Tuition rates vary for different programs and degrees. At WTS, we understand that finances can be a major concern for prospective students. That’s why we offer a variety of scholarships and loan options.
Important Dates
For terms starting in 2024 - 2025
Fall Semester (starts late August)
Apply by:
January
Application fee waived for Fall semester MDiv and MA applications!
March
Deadline for international students
May
To ensure housing and best financial aid opportunities
August
Final application deadline for fall start
August
Call the admissions office for options!
Contact Admissions
spring Semester (starts Early January)
Apply By
December
For best financial aid opportunities
December
Call the admissions office for options!
Contact Admissions
Interested in Transferring to WTS?
At Western Theological Seminary, you can transfer your credits and join a community deeply committed to forming faithful Christian leaders. Let’s talk about how your journey can continue—and flourish—here.
