Master of Arts vs. Master of Divinity: What’s The Difference?
You feel called to serve God and your community through ministry, religious education, or some form of active service — or perhaps you feel compelled to deepen your understanding of your faith for personal growth. So what now?
Many people who feel the same as you decide to pursue an advanced degree in theology or ministry. There are multiple types of degrees to choose from, but the choice depends on your ultimate goals. Do you see yourself entering the clergy? Participating in lay ministry? Writing books about your own theological research and conclusions — or something else? Your aspirations will help you determine whether to pursue a Master of Arts in Theology, a Master of Divinity, or another type of degree.
What Is a Master of Arts in Theology?
Who Should Pursue a Master of Arts in Theology?
Who Should Pursue a Master of Divinity?
Master of Arts vs. Master of Divinity: What’s The Difference?
How to Choose an MA or MDiv Program [4 Tips]
What Is a Master of Arts in Theology?
A Master of Arts in Theology (MA) is a graduate-level degree focused on the academic study of theological concepts, religious traditions, and the impact of religion on society and culture. This type of program typically involves an in-depth exploration of religious traditions, doctrines, ethics, and morality, and allows for specialization in certain areas of theological studies.
MA students take courses covering foundational theological principles, including systematic theology and key religious texts such as the Bible, Quran, or other sacred writings. Historical context is a significant component: Students study the development of religious traditions, major theological figures, ancient languages, and significant events that have shaped religious thought and practice over time. Many programs also include comparative studies and interfaith dialogue to foster understanding of different religious traditions and promote inter-religious communication.
The curriculum helps students build their skills in critical analysis, communication, research, and advanced ethical reasoning. Graduates with an MA in Theology can pursue careers in academic roles, religious leadership, nonprofit and social services, or continue their education with a PhD in theology or related fields.
What Is a Master of Divinity?
A Master of Divinity (MDiv) is a professional graduate degree that prepares students for ordained ministry and various leadership roles within religious communities. The program integrates academic study with practical training, helping students develop both theological knowledge and applied ministerial skills.
Just as in an MA program, MDiv courses cover foundational theological subjects such as biblical studies, systematic theology, church history, and ethics. These studies provide a deep understanding of religious texts, doctrines, and the development of religious thought, as well as advanced understanding of ethical principles and their application in ministry and community contexts. Students are also expected to engage in activities aimed at personal spiritual growth and development to cultivate their own spiritual lives.
MDiv programs include hands-on training in preaching, pastoral care, counseling, and liturgy, all of which prepare students for the day-to-day responsibilities of ministry, such as delivering sermons (homiletics), providing spiritual guidance, and conducting religious services. To fulfill this practical component, many MDiv programs require students to complete internships or field placements in churches, hospitals, prisons, or other organizations that employ spiritual professionals.
Graduates with an MDiv can pursue a variety of career paths, including:
- Ordained pastors, ministers, priests, or other clergy positions within religious organizations
- Chaplaincy in hospitals, military, prisons, and educational institutions
- Teaching roles in religious schools or seminaries
- Nonprofit and community leadership roles in faith-based and secular organizations, specifically those focused on social justice, outreach, and advocacy
In addition to the MA and MDiv, there is also the Master of Theological Studies — another academic degree that prepares students to become religious educators, researchers, speakers, parish support providers, spiritual counselors, and even legal professionals.
Who Should Pursue a Master of Arts in Theology?
A Master of Arts in Theology is ideal for those with a keen intellectual interest in religious history, spirituality, and languages, as well as those considering further advanced or terminal degrees. With the appropriate additional education and credentials, potential career paths in academia include university lecturer, theological researcher, historian, or author.
An MA degree is also suitable for those who wish to engage in theological studies, but are uncertain about committing to ministry as a vocation, as well as for those who want to learn from faculty recognized as leaders in their field.
While the MA does not typically lead to ordination in most Christian denominations, it is highly beneficial for individuals pursuing roles in lay (non-ordained) ministry and other vocational spaces. This includes para-church ministry, multi-site church ministry, and denominations or movements that provide structured leadership training and basic biblical and theological education.
For those seeking a calling to ministry beyond the church, an MA can be suitable preparation for:
- Primary or secondary Christian educators
- Campus or youth camp ministers
- Missionaries and faith-based service workers
- Anyone seeking deeper knowledge of faith for personal, professional, or intellectual growth
An MA in Theology may also fulfill the requirements for some chaplaincy roles, but many Christian denominations require chaplains to be ordained, and therefore earn a Master of Divinity.
Who Should Pursue a Master of Divinity?
The MDiv combines academic rigor with practical ministry skills, preparing students for the multifaceted responsibilities of religious leadership in the church and beyond.
A Master of Divinity is recommended for individuals who feel a strong calling to ordained ministry and wish to serve as leaders within religious communities. This degree is often a requirement for those who wish to become pastors, ministers, priests, or chaplains, as it provides comprehensive training in theological studies, pastoral care, preaching, and liturgical practices.
This type of program also appeals to those interested in integrating their faith with community service and social justice initiatives, whether or not they wish to formally join the clergy. Regardless of one’s professional goals, an MDiv is an excellent fit for those who desire to engage in theological education at an advanced level while also gaining hands-on experience through internships and field placements.
Master of Arts vs. Master of Divinity: What’s The Difference?
While the information in the following chart may not apply to every graduate program, it provides a general comparison of the two degrees to help potential students choose their ideal program.
Comparing Master of Arts vs. Master of Divinity
| Factor | Master of Arts in Theology (MA) | Master of Divinity (MDiv) |
|---|---|---|
| Timeline | 2–3 years | 3–4 years |
| Program Focus | Academic study of theology, religious texts, and traditions | Comprehensive training for ordained ministry and religious leadership |
| Practical Components | Limited; primarily academic with some optional fieldwork or internships | Extensive; includes internships, field education, pastoral care, and ministry practice |
| Academic Components | Strong focus on theology, biblical studies, history, ethics | Balanced focus on theology, pastoral care, homiletics, liturgy, and practical ministry |
| Curriculum | Biblical studies, systematic theology, church history, ethics, spirituality | Biblical studies, systematic theology, church history, pastoral care, preaching, liturgical studies |
| Potential Career Paths | Academic roles, non-ordained ministry roles, Christian education, support roles within church, para-church ministry | Ordained ministry roles (pastors, ministers, priests), chaplaincy, church leadership positions |
| Preparation for Ordination | Generally does not lead to ordination in many denominations | Designed to meet the requirements for ordination in many denominations |
| Further Studies | Prepares for advanced degrees such as a PhD in theology or religious studies | Can also prepare for advanced degrees but more focused on practical ministry |
| Suitable for | Individuals interested in history, spirituality, and academic study of theology; those considering further academic research | Individuals called to ordained ministry and leadership within religious communities; those seeking comprehensive pastoral training |
| Spiritual Formation | Encourages personal spiritual growth and theological reflection | Spiritual growth and reflection are integral parts of the program |
| Flexibility | Can be tailored to either academic or professional focus | Primarily professional with a balanced integration of academic study |
As for the cost of the program, that is largely dependent on the school; graduate program tuition can range from $10,000 to over $100,000 per year. Since an MDiv typically takes longer to complete than an MA, it will likely cost more.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Choosing between an MA and an MDiv depends upon one’s personal and vocational goals. The common misconception is that the MA is more academic and intellectual, while the MDiv is more spiritual and personal. Truthfully, each type of program is what the student makes of it, and each can be transformational and life-changing in its own way.
That said, there are a number of important questions to ask yourself if you are considering pursuing an MA or an MDiv, and to determine which is most tailored to your goals.
- What are my career goals?
- Does my ideal career require ordination?
- Does my ideal career require any professional credentials?
- How important is practical ministry experience to me?
- Do I plan to pursue further advanced degrees?
- What type of curriculum interests me the most? Am I more interested in deepening my knowledge of theology, biblical studies, and religious history, or do I want a balanced curriculum that includes practical ministry training?
- If my goal is religious leadership, what are the requirements in my faith tradition or denomination?
- What is my desired timeline for completing the degree?
- How important is the integration of spiritual formation in my education?
- What is my budget for a graduate program?
Careful consideration of your answers — plus an honest dialogue with your family, loved ones, and God — will help you discern the right path.
How to Choose an MA or MDiv Program [4 Tips]
There are many practical considerations to weigh when deciding on a master’s program, including cost, location, timeline, and school amenities and services. Online research, however, only takes you so far — there’s no replacement for actually speaking with the people who are intimately familiar with your preferred program or career path.
- Consider graduates’ career or vocational placements.
Research the success rate of program graduates in securing positions in vocational ministry settings, such as churches, chaplaincy, non-profit organizations, or academic institutions. High placement rates indicate strong industry connections, a good reputation, and effective career support services available through the graduate program or school. If you plan to pursue further academic study, look for programs whose graduates are accepted into top doctoral programs. This can signal the quality of the academic preparation and the program’s recognition within the academic community. Check the school’s alumni network and job placement statistics to gauge this success. - Speak to academic advisors.
Academic advisors are a valuable resource, as they can provide detailed information about the curriculum, faculty expertise, program requirements, and available student services. Arrange meetings or calls with advisors from the programs that interest you to discuss how the program aligns with your career aspirations and academic interests. Advisors can also offer insights into the program’s strengths and potential challenges, helping you make a more informed decision. Inquire about opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and other practical experiences that can enhance your education and career prospects. - Speak with professionals in careers or vocations that interest you.
Talking with professionals currently working in roles you aspire to can provide practical insights into the real-world applications of the degrees. Reach out to pastors, theologians, chaplains, religious educators, avowed men and women, or any other relevant professionals. Ask them about their educational background, how their degree has influenced their career or vocation, and what they wish they had known before choosing their program. Their experiences can help you understand the practical benefits and limitations of each degree, guiding you toward the program that best suits your goals. - Talk with alumni who have earned each degree.
Connecting with alumni can offer firsthand perspectives on the strengths and weaknesses of the programs you are considering. Alumni can share their personal experiences, including the quality of education, faculty support, campus resources, and how well the program prepared them for their careers. They can also provide insights into the program’s culture and community, which are important factors for your overall graduate school experience. Many universities have alumni networks or can connect you with recent graduates. Attend alumni events, join relevant social media groups, or request contact information through the admissions office to facilitate these conversations.
If there is a theological graduate degree in your future, careful research, prayer, and discernment — and God’s will — will lead you down the right path.
If you seek a welcoming and inclusive learning experience alongside like-minded theological explorers, consider starting your journey at the Franciscan School of Theology (FST). Grounded in the service-minded, joy-filled tradition of St. Francis of Assisi, FST is the only Franciscan theological school in the U.S. to offer a Master of Divinity degree. Classes are led by renowned scholars and passionate individuals who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit and celebration of theological discovery.
For more information, visit the Franciscan School of Theology and start your transformative journey today.
