Master's Divinity School: Updated Information

When the Master's Divinity School ( www.mdivs.org ) was first implemented, it was offering programs of study leading to a diploma. One could obtain, for example, a Doctor of Practical Ministry "DIPLOMA" for taking six courses. Diplomas were offered at all levels of study, B,M,D, as well as chaplaincy, etc. The MDS website stated that these were not degree programs, but diploma programs. I wondered at that time how many people would complete the six courses, obtain a Doctor of Practical Ministry diploma, and even though it was not called a degree, would still use the title "Dr."

Not to worry! A recent perusal of the website revealed that the programs of study are now called "DEGREE" programs. One may now obtain a Doctor of Practical Ministry "DEGREE" by taking six courses (if enough transfer credits, life experience, etc., is available the requirement is reduced to three courses), for only $2400.

I wonder if MDS is also "accredited" by the University of Liverpool?

Russell

 

But Russell,
Don't you remember that Trinity has claimed no connection with the Master's Divinity School? Even though when you call the MDS phone number it is answer "Trinity College and Seminary"; even though when they use the exact same print and web advertisments; even though they are located at the same physical address; even though they have the same "professors"; etc....

On another note: another school is following the Master's Divinity School patter in offering diplomas instead of degrees -- It is the Wagner Leadership Institute. I'm really disappointed in this as Peter Wagner was a very respected Professor at Fuller Seminary for many years. Their faculty looks like a Who's Who? of the Word Faith movement. http://www.wagnerleadership.org/

Barry

 

This is correct, Barry! However, didn't our former president claim "I did not have sex with that woman." It seems his definition of sex was quite different than the other 6 billion inhabitants of earth. So I guess the key word here is "connection." Perhaps the two entities (MDS & Trinity) have separate checking accounts, which would technically be having no connection--even though the other 97% is closely connected.

As for Wagner Institute, I had perused their website several months ago and noticed the "diploma" programs. I too was surprised.

However, MDS has evolved into a full degree granting institution.

Russell

 

I don't agree about what you are saying about Master's Divinity School. The address is different from Trinity Seminary. They are not in the same city. The phone number is different. Seem's like an above board opportunity for those, like me, who want to study the Bible and do not have the requirements to be accepted into a seminary level program.

 

Yes, MDS and TTS are in different cities, however, Evansville and Newburgh are only about 15 miles apart, so naturally the addresses will not be the same. And one can have two different phone numbers in the same room.

A quick perusal of both websites will reveal that some of the same individuals serve as faculty/administration at both institutions. The courses are written and taught by some of the same faculty persons.

There are many legitimately accredited options to study the Bible/theology/ministry, both in a degree and non-degree format. A good place to begin your search is www.bakersguide.com .

For one to take six courses at MDS and obtain the MDS "Doctor of Practical Ministry degree," then begin to use the title Dr. in one's professional life, constitutes more than wanting to study the Bible. And my hunch is that this is what most of those who will obtain this specific credential will do.

Russell

 

Perhaps a look at the domain registrations will help clarify the relationship:

Domain Name: TRINITYSEM.EDU

Administrative Contact, Billing Contact:
Frey, Dennis (DF685) [email protected]
Trinity College & Seminary
4144 Hwy. 261
Newburgh, IN 47630
812-858-6415 (FAX) 812-858-6419

Domain Name: MDIVS.ORG

Administrative Contact, Billing Contact:
Frey, Dennis (DF685) [email protected]
Trinity College & Seminary
4144 Hwy. 261
Newburgh, IN 47630
812-858-6415 (FAX) 812-858-6419

------------------
Bill Gossett

 

Thank you, Bill! It appears that the two domain registrations are IDENTICAL, One-in-the-Same, Just alike, Siamese twins, etc.--what a coincidence!

Russell