Covenant Seminary’s recently restructured Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program is helping pastors learn and grow together through topically-themed groups.

Students move through the program with a group of 12 to 24 other seasoned ministry practitioners facilitated by faculty mentors and other guest instructors, using a group “cohort” model.

“The cohort model is a wonderful opportunity for pastors to benefit from and contribute to the experience of others who have known the ups and downs of life in ministry,” said Dr. Bob Burns, dean of lifelong learning and director of the Center for Ministry Leadership at Covenant Seminary. “In the process, many strong and supportive friendships are forged that will, hopefully, last a lifetime. And the intensive format allows busy ministry practitioners to participate fully in the program without the need for lengthy absences from their ministries.”

The students meet in a series of three two-week residencies that take place over the course of three years, culminating in a DMin dissertation that addresses a significant pastoral concern through biblical exegesis, theological insight, and understanding of contemporary social contexts.

Cohorts are formed around ministry themes or topics based on the interests of participants and the expertise of particular faculty mentors. Popular group themes feature preaching, worship, counseling, educational ministry, and missions. Additional groups may gather to study city mission and ministry, youth ministry, leadership, and apologetics. 

Though designed primarily for pastors active in ministry and holding a Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree, Burns notes, “The DMin can also benefit others who serve in a variety of ordained or non-ordained ministry roles, such as worship leaders, leaders of men’s or women’s ministries, leaders of youth or children’s ministries, executive pastors/directors, and others."

Learn more about Covenant Seminary’s DMin program at www.covenantseminary.edu/learn/degreecourseinformation or call (800) 264-8064.