Doctor of Ministry Admissions
Regular Admission
A person applying for admission to the D.Min. program should be regularly employed in
some form of professional ministry. Applicants who consider themselves to be in tent making ministries
must show that their work is a form of ministry and is so understood by the church, para-church
organization, or community of faith to which they belong.
In addition, applicants are expected to show evidence of:
- The B.D., M.Div., or equivalent theological degree from an accredited theological school.
- Ordination (when possible).
- At least three years' experience in ministry after graduation from theological school.
- Academic competence or potential (ordinarily through a sufficient grade point average in
previous academic work, but other evidence may be considered, including the judgment of peers).
- Capacity for achievement of excellence in the practice of ministry.
- English language skills, as follows:
All applicants for whom English is a second language must pass ELS level 109 or the TOEFL exam
with a score of 550 or above or the MELAB with a score of 80 or above, prior to admission
into the program.
Biblical
Languages
The D.Min. program does not have a formal biblical language requirement. However, students
find that acquaintance with these languages is helpful in their biblical seminars. Students should
be proficient in a biblical language or any other language necessary to their dissertation/project
research.
Admission Deadlines
Intensive Option: March 15
Extended Option: June 1
Late Admission: This is possible in some cases; contact the office.
Special Admission
Applicants who do not meet all the formal requirements but who show definite promise
for making a significant contribution to the work of ministry may apply with whatever evidence
they deem supportive. The Advanced
Pastoral Studies committee considers each case individually and may arrange for an interview
with a representative of the Seminary.
Application Materials
Application materials include a two-page application form and six reference forms. All
applications must be submitted in English and will become part of the Seminary's permanent record.
Please review the application form for a list of materials required for application. You may
download the application materials or contact Pat Perry at pperry@sfts.edu.
Tuition and Fees
Regular tuition consists of three yearly payments of $3,835 each. If a student requires more than three years, an $800 continuation fee is charged annually, beginning with the fourth year. All students must complete the program within six years. A $75 diploma and binding fee is due before graduation.
Transfer of Credit
Because of the unique nature of the program, no transfer of credits from other SFTS programs
or any other seminary or college is permitted.
Special Summer Term Attendance
Special students who do not wish admission to the D.Min. program but meet the admission
requirements may request permission to attend the summer term seminars. This opportunity is available
only to a limited number. Interested persons should request a copy of the policies governing
such participation from the Advanced
Pastoral Studies office.
Financial
Aid and Veterans' Benefits
Financial assistance may be available from a number of sources, including:
- the budget of the student's congregation or employing agency;
- scholarships, fellowships, and grants-in-aid by church agencies and foundations;
- private gifts given directly to the student or through SFTS.
We regret that there are no scholarship or loan funds from SFTS. The program is, however, approved
for veterans' benefits.
Debt Balance
Any student who falls in arrears in payments to the Seminary is barred from proceeding
to the next learning experience in the program. All financial obligations to SFTS must be paid
before a candidate may participate in the commencement exercises or receive a diploma.
