Master of Divinity

The Master of Divinity program at SIBBCS Online is a graduate-level degree offered to those currently serving in church ministry and seeking to grow in biblical and theological understanding, as well as in ministerial effectiveness, while remaining in their place of ministry.

The program equips the individuals to grow in their understanding and to serve effectively in areas such as preaching, teaching, evangelism, church planting, pastoral care, counselling, mentoring, missions, leadership, and the management of church and para-church organizations.

Begin your academic journey today and achieve a Master of Divinity in Christian Ministry!

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Review Eligibility Requirements

Before applying for the program, please ensure you meet our admission criteria. If you have any questions and you would like to speak to us, feel free to call our Admissions Office by dialling +916380873580.

Born-Again Commitment: Candidates must demonstrate a born-again commitment and a fervent dedication to effectively serve in Christian ministry. A sincere desire to deepen understanding of God's Word is essential.
Educational Qualification: Candidates should be at least 23 years old and hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized institution, either in secular or theological education. Individuals with a minimum of 5 years of ministry experience and aged over 30 may be considered, even if they do not possess a bachelor's degree, on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for confirmation.
Technological Requirements: Candidates are required to have access to a personal computer with stable internet connectivity to facilitate seamless online learning.
Spiritual Mentorship: Candidates should have a local pastor or a trusted spiritual leader who can serve as a mentor throughout their studies for ministerial skill development.
Minimum Fluency in English: Candidates are expected to have a basic proficiency in English to effectively express themselves. Depending on their initial assessment, candidates may need to undergo a qualifying exam or an interview to evaluate their capability to succeed in our programs.

Document Submission Required for Admission

Before you begin your application, please make sure you have the following documents ready for submission. Having these prepared in advance will help you complete the application smoothly.

Educational certificates (PDF): Scanned copies of your 10th, 12th, and degree certificates along with mark sheets. All files must be clear and legible. Photographs of documents will not be accepted.
Personal testimony letter (PDF): A typed document (1–2 pages) describing your faith journey, your reasons for pursuing theological studies, and how your chosen program aligns with your spiritual and academic goals.
Two references: One from your pastor or spiritual mentor, and another from a professor or employer, or someone who knows you personally. These will be submitted directly by your references. Once you provide their email addresses and submit your application, the forms will be automatically sent to them. Please keep their email addresses ready. After submitting your application, you may follow up with your references to ensure timely completion of their forms.
Mentor details: You will need to have a spiritual mentor who is willing to guide you during the program. Your mentor is also required to complete a mentor consent form. Once you provide your mentor’s email address and submit your application, the form will be automatically sent to them. More details about this requirement are provided here. Please review the details carefully, choose an appropriate mentor, and keep their email address ready for submission.
Formal profile image: A recent passport-style photograph with a plain background (JPEG or PNG).
Identification document: A valid ID such as Aadhaar card, passport, or any national identity card (PDF or JPEG).
Ministry experience document (only if you do not have a Bachelor’s degree): Proof of at least five years of ministry experience, usually in the form of a letter from your church or ministry leader.
Scholarship form: Required only if you are seeking financial assistance. Scholarship support is available up to ₹24,000 for the Master of Divinity, ₹16,000 for the Master of Arts in Christian Studies, and ₹8,000 for the Graduate Diploma in Christian Studies. After your application submission, you can click here to submit your scholarship form.
If you are unable to gather everything immediately, you may still submit your application and request an extension by contacting the Admissions Office. All required documents must be submitted within three months after enrollment.
CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE APPLICATION FORM
Ensure that you pay the application fee and enter the transaction details in the designated field within the application form. Applications will not be processed if the application fee is not received.

Our program is designed to meet the diverse needs of our students, offering a flexible journey to complete your degree in as little as 3 years or up to 8 years, depending on your personal schedule. Structured in a modular format, the program consists of 30 modules, each lasting 8 weeks.

For those eager to progress quickly, you can take two modules simultaneously, while those who prefer a steadier pace can complete one module at a time. Each course generally requires about 12–15 hours of learning each week. If your goal is to finish within 3 years, you can increase your weekly learning hours to move through the program at an accelerated rate.

The program is equipped with 96-credit curriculum and carefully structured into 4 levels to provide an in-depth theological education. The program is designed to equip students with a profound understanding of Christian doctrine, biblical studies, pastoral care, and ministerial leadership. This curriculum is ideal for those seeking to deepen their theological knowledge and enhance their ministerial skills in a variety of church and mission contexts.

Level 1

Orientation - Theological Research & Writing (GEST O501 - 1 Cr.)
Introduction to Old Testament (BIST O502 - 3 Cr. )
Introduction to New Testament (BIST O503 - 3 Cr. )
Introduction to Christian ministry (CHMI O504 - 3 Cr.)
Biblical Hermeneutics (BIST O505 - 3 Cr. )
World Religions (REMI O506 - 3 Cr. )
History of Christianity (HIST O507 - 3 Cr. )
Introduction to Missions (REMI O508 - 3 Cr. )

Level 2

Pentateuch (BIST O601 - 3 Cr.)
Evangelism & Church Planting (CHMI O602 - 3 Cr.)
Major Prophetical Books (BIST O603 - 3 Cr.)
Gospels (BIST O604 - 3 Cr.)
Pauline Epistles (BIST O605 - 3 Cr.)
Dispensations (THST O606 - 3 Cr.)
Christian Ministry to Children & Youth (CHMI O607 - 3 Cr.)
Preliminary Greek (BIST O608 - 3 Cr. )

Level 3

Biblical Theology (THST O701 - 3 Cr.)
Christian Ministry to Men & Women (CHMI O702 - 3 Cr.)
History of Indian Christianity (HIST O703 - 3 Cr.)
Constitutional Rights & Responsibilities (GEST O704 - 1 Cr.)
Christian Ethics (THST O705 - 3 Cr.)
Homiletics (THST O706 - 3 Cr. )
Christian Apologetics (REMI O707 - 3 Cr.)
Preliminary Hebrew (BIST O708 - 3 Cr.)

Level 4

Systematic Theology 1 (THST O801 - 3 Cr.)
Indian Christian Theology (THST O802 - 3 Cr.)
Mentoring in Ministry (CHMI O803 - 3 Cr.)
Pastoralia (CHMI O804 - 3 Cr.)
Systematic Theology 2 (THST O805 - 3 Cr.)
Christian Leadership (CHMI O806 - 3 Cr.)
Christian Organizational Development (CHMI O807 - 3 Cr.)
Administration & Management of Church & Church Based Organizations (CHMI O808 - 3 Cr.)

Practicum

Spiritual Formation (CHMI O509 - 3 Cr.)
Ministerial Formation & Internship (CHMI O709 - 3 Cr.)

Optional Electives

Wisdom Literature (BIST O609 - 3 Cr.)
Writings & Theology of John ( BIST O610 - 3 Cr.)
Expository Preaching (THST O710 - 3 Cr.)
Modern Theological Trends (THST O711 - 3 Cr.)
Cultural Anthropology (REMI O712 - 3 Cr.)
Trends in Modern Mission (REMI O713 - 3 Cr.)
Principles of Church Growth (CHMI O611 - 3 Cr.)
Church Music & Theology (CHMI O714 - 3 Cr.)

The M.Div program equips students for effective Christian ministry through a holistic approach that integrates spiritual growth, character formation, and practical ministry experience. Below framework is designed to nurture students in every aspect of their spiritual and ministerial journey.

Spiritual Mentorship Program
Students engage in one-on-one mentorship with experienced ministry leaders for personal guidance and spiritual growth. Monthly meetings foster accountability and development, with mentors submitting progress reports to ensure continuous support. Personal mentor has to be chosen by the student himself/herself.

Virtual Chapels
Online students gather for interactive worship, prayer, and fellowship through virtual chapels. These sessions cultivate a sense of community and encourage spiritual engagement.

Ministry Internships
Practical ministry experience is an integral part of the program, with students completing a 360-hour internship after completing at least 50% of their coursework. Internships allow students to apply their theological training in real-world contexts, guided by mentors and a formation coordinator. Student can choose the place and context of the internship.

Annual Campus Visits
Students are required to visit the campus annually for a 5-day immersive experience, strengthening connections with the community through workshops, prayer services, and events.

The program received in-principle approval from the Asia Theological Association (ATA) in June 2023 for its launch. In September 2024, it underwent an initial review by ATA and received positive feedback. We now look forward to the upcoming accreditation visit from ATA. We are committed to maintaining high standards, and upon successful program completion, students will be awarded ATA-certified degree.

Below are the details of the fee structure for the Master of Divinity program, encompassing tuition fees, additional charges, and any applicable financial aid options.

Application fee: ₹350 (One-Time Payment)
Admission fee: ₹2000. (One-Time Payment)
Total Course Registration fee (350 per registration x 32 Courses): ₹11,200 (This amount is paid gradually over the duration of the program. You will pay ₹350 per course during course registrations, each term students take one or two courses).
Total Tuition fee (1500x36 months): ₹54,000 (The full tuition for the program is ₹78,000, but scholarships of up to ₹24,000 are made available. To receive this support, please submit the scholarship application. Once the scholarship is applied, the tuition fee you pay will be ₹54,000 in total. You may pay your tuition fees in monthly instalments or in bulk).
ATA Registration fee: ₹2000 (One-Time Payment)
Graduation & Transcript Fee: ₹2000 (One-Time Payment)

The Master of Divinity Online Degree program combines three distinct course formats, offering students a well-rounded and flexible learning experience. Students will participate in each of these formats throughout their studies:

1. Fully Pre-Recorded Courses: These courses are entirely accessible on the Canvas Learning Management System. With all lectures and assignments pre-recorded, students have 24/7 access to materials for the full 8-week duration, allowing them to learn at their own pace. A facilitator will be available throughout the course for ongoing support.

2. Zoom-Based Live Virtual Courses: Some courses are conducted live on Zoom, typically in the evenings, featuring real-time lectures, interactive discussions, and Q&A sessions. This format fosters an engaging and collaborative environment with instructors and fellow students.

3. Residential Courses (Annually, One Course): Each summer, students are invited to campus for a five-day intensive course, providing a traditional classroom setting and a hands-on seminary experience in a focused period.

Together, these formats create a comprehensive educational experience, allowing students to fulfill their program requirements through a balanced combination of flexible, interactive, and immersive learning.

The program aims to accomplish the following in the lives of the students:

To cultivate a profound understanding of Scripture and the rich theological heritage of the Church. Through rigorous study, students will dive into the depths of God's Word and the historical context.
To equip students with practical skills essential for effective pastoral care, leadership, and ethical decision-making. We believe in nurturing leaders who not only understand the theory but can apply their knowledge with wisdom and compassion in real-world situations.
To foster personal transformation and spiritual development in student. The program provides a nurturing environment for individuals to deepen their faith, cultivating a spirit of continuous growth and reflection.
To enhance students' communication skills, empowering them to deliver impactful sermons that resonate with the hearts of their congregations.
To prepare students for the evolving challenges and opportunities they may encounter. We aim to equip students with the adaptability and resilience needed to thrive in today's diverse ministry contexts.
To instil a deep sense of commitment to ministry and social engagement. We believe that Christian service extends beyond the church walls, and our goal is to nurture individuals who actively engage with and impact their communities.
To inspire a lifelong commitment in students to grow in the likeness of Christ. This commitment forms the bedrock of their ministry, guiding them in their service to God and humanity.

Educational
Methodology

Our online programs are designed with care and purpose, offering learning that is both engaging and academically serious. All our online programs follow an integrated model that brings together pre-recorded lectures, live Zoom sessions, and an annual residential component. All learning is organized through our Learning Management System, allowing flexibility while maintaining structure and regular interaction. Live sessions and discussion forums create space for dialogue, reflection, and shared learning.

Students engage with carefully selected theological readings and complete writing assignments such as essays and research papers that develop clarity of thought and responsible theological expression. Regular assessments support learning throughout each course, while virtual office hours provide opportunities for personal academic guidance. Students are also given access to a digital library to support study and research.

Spiritual mentorship and ministry involvement are intentionally woven into the learning process. Through this blended approach, students are equipped with knowledge, conviction, and wisdom for faithful and effective service in the church and beyond.

Join us on a journey of faith, knowledge, and personal growth as we work together to empower and strengthen the global body of believers.

Master of Divinity

Educational Methodology

Educational
Methodology