Note: D.Min. online application is not available at this time
Applicants Must Meet the Following Prerequisites in Order to Apply:
-
An earned M.Div. degree from an accredited program, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). In cases where the applicant's GPA is less than 3.0, the applicant may submit a letter making a case for special consideration, accompanied by any corroborating documentation. If an applicant has earned a non-M.Div.-master’s level theological degree (e.g., M.A., M.R.E., M.T.S.), transcripts of that degree and any other master’s level work can be evaluated by the NTS Registrar to determine what extra coursework would be required to achieve M.Div. equivalency. In such a case, it is possible to be accepted into the D.Min. program on condition that the M.Div.-equivalency coursework be completed before Doctoral Seminars begin.
- A minimum of three years full-time ministerial experience following the awarding of the first graduate theological degree. Exceptions may be made in cases where an M.Div. was earned while in a full-time ministerial role.
- Currently in a full-time (or equivalent) ministry situation that can serve as the context for the D.Min. experience throughout the program.
Applicants Must Submit the Following to the Admissions Office
(all forms available at the NTS D.Min. website or by contacting the Admissions Office
dmin@nts.edu 816-268-5452):
A completed
Application Form (online application is not available at this time) with a non-refundable application processing fee (check the NTS website for fee schedule). Official transcripts detailing previous academic study from all universities or colleges attended, embossed with the school seal, and sent directly from the issuing institution. International students who have transcripts in a language other than English must provide official transcripts accompanied by certified English translations.
An informal educational curriculum vitae listing continuing educational credits, professional workshops and seminars, and reading programs representative of learning practices following the completion of a graduate theological degree.
Three completed Reference Forms from:
-
The applicant's ecclesial employer/supervisor, i.e., the person to who the applicant is most directly accountable in the current ministry context.
-
An academic professor/mentor from the applicant's graduate theological degree program.
-
A layperson (non-relative) from the applicant's current ministry context.
Recommenders should know the applicant well and be able to provide an honest assessment of character and professional competencies. The applicant must list them on the Application Form and provide each with the specific corresponding Reference Form (available for downloading at the D.Min. website) in a timely fashion. The recommender must use the designated Form but is welcome to supplement it with a letter. The applicant is welcome to solicit other Letters of reference in addition to the three required.
-
A 1500 word (approximate) typed, double-spaced Essay of thoughtful and clear theological reflection on a current theological issue or practice of ministry. The essay should demonstrate capacity for dialetical and critical thinking and evidence skills appropriate for pursuing an advanced professional degree such as correct spelling and grammar, and full bibliographic documentation.
NOTE: Army Chaplains who apply for admission to the program can take advantage of the following provisions to streamline the standard process:
- The applicant's last two Officer Efficiency Reports (OERs) can be submitted in lieu of the standard references
- The applicant can submit a written sample from the Chaplain Captain Career Course (C4) work in lieu of the standard essay
The Calendar at the NTS D.Min. website lists the rolling deadlines for admission to the program, based on the schedule of the Residential Seminars. A late application may jeopardize admission in time for the candidate's desired first Residential Seminar.