The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is designed for women and men called to comprehensive preparation for pastoral, congregational, and missional leadership. Offered primarily online with optional on‑campus integrative seminars, the MDiv combines Palmer’s Openseminary practices framework with focused study in Scripture, theology, and ministry. Students complete a 54‑credit core and then choose an 18‑credit concentration, remaining rooted in their local ministry and professional contexts while engaging in serious theological reflection.
Graduates will be grounded in Scripture, formed through the historic practices of the Church, and equipped to lead congregations and ministries with wisdom, creativity, and courage in diverse contexts.
Program Details
- Delivery: Online, with optional seminars on-campus in St. Davids, PA
- Length: 72 credits
- Cost: View the cost per unit and our financial aid options. Plus, if you already have a degree from Palmer or Eastern University, check out our Alumni Discount!
- Start Terms: March and August (View application deadlines)
- Prefer to study on campus? Palmer offers a Master of Divinity either Online (this program) or on campus in St. Davids, Pennsylvania.
Distinctives
Integrating Faith and Practice: Begin with six core courses that frame ministry through the historic practices of the Church—doing theology in context, forming community, proclaiming the gospel, worship, service, and spiritual formation.
Deepen biblical and theological foundations: Build strong competence in Scripture, theology, and church history through integrated cores in Reading the Text and Constructing Theology.
Learn in context: Connect coursework directly to your congregation, workplace, or ministry setting so that classroom learning and ministry practice constantly inform one another.
Focus your calling: Choose a Concentration in Church Ministry, Innovation in Ministry, or Bi‑vocational Ministry to tailor the degree to your vocation. View the curriculum.
Explore dual‑degree options: Shared‑credit pathways with programs like the MBA and the MA in Theological and Cultural Anthropology allow bi‑vocational leaders to integrate theological formation with professional preparation, in line with ATS shared‑credit standards.
Accreditation: ATS‑accredited, aligned with Eastern University’s institutional learning goals.
Learn More
- United Methodist students should contact Rev. Johnson Dodla (jdodla@eastern.edu) or their Committee on Ministry before enrolling in an online Master of Divinity program, in case the online version of the degree may not be counted toward ordination.
Ranked Among Top Master of Divinity Online Programs
Palmer Theological Seminary's Master of Divinity (MDiv) Online Openseminary program has been ranked among the top Master of Divinity Online Programs by Online Master's Colleges!
“Something I treasure most about my experience as a student at Palmer Seminary is the community of students and faculty. The instructors care about the students and are invested in our academic success and personal and spiritual well-being. I am deeply grateful to learn from and alongside a diverse faculty and student body, representing different perspectives and experiences than mine, because it pushes me to grow and explore my faith in new and fresh ways.”