College of Bible and Ministry

Programs of Study

Doctor of Ministry

• Ministry, Doctor of Ministry, (D.Min)

Master of Arts in Christian Ministry

• Christian Ministry, Master of Arts, (M.A.)

Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies

• Pastoral Studies, Master of Arts, (M.A.)

Master of Divinity

• Divinity, Master of Divinity, (MDiv)

Master of Theological Studies

• Theological Studies, Master of Theological Studies, (M.T.S.)

Certificate

• New Testament Studies, Certificate
• Old Testament Studies, Certificate
• Pastoral Leadership, Certificate
• Theological Studies, Certificate

College Leadership and Faculty

C. Leonard Allen, Dean, College of Bible and Ministry
Frank Guertin, Assistant Dean and Director, Hazelip School of Theology
Carlus Gupton, Assistant Dean and Director, Doctor of Ministry

The Mission of the Hazelip School of Theology

The mission of the Hazelip School of Theology is to support learning that integrates intellectual formation, pastoral leadership, and character development. We believe these three areas must interact richly in the seminary experience so that our students are well prepared to live out their calling in whatever context they serve.

In light of this vision, the seminary experience at Hazelip focuses on these student-centered outcomes:

• A robust theological imagination rooted deeply in Scripture and shaped by the broad Christian tradition
• Formational habits that support a life of ministry
• Organization building skills sustained by Christian understandings of leadership
• Relationship building skills that nurture forms of authentic community
• Reflective habits which illuminate the complexities of people-centered ministry

No matter what degree program students pursue at Hazelip, they can expect to grow in these abilities. The integrity of our academic offerings is measured by how prepared our students are for the challenges of today’s ministry.

Hazelip instructors take advantage of multiple venues for learning. Students engage in traditional classroom settings, online platforms, and on-site contexts so that they can practically and creatively engage the complex realities of Christian ministry. Students at Hazelip also benefit from formative conversations with spiritual directors, coaches, and ministry mentors alongside teaching faculty.

The first graduate Bible degree at Lipscomb was offered in 1983. In 2005, the university named the graduate theology department in honor of former Lipscomb President Harold Hazelip. In 2010, the school was admitted into the Association of Theological Schools as a full member.  

The Churches of Christ continue to be a primary constituency for the Hazelip School of Theology. Over half of our students come from this heritage. The students at Hazelip also represent a broader range of Christian traditions which reflects the Christian diversity in Middle Tennessee. Thus our key theological commitments reflect an awareness of our own history as well as other voices within our learning community.

Six core commitments shape all we do:

We are centered on the mission of God.

The Bible reveals the mission of God to bring all things in heaven and earth into unity under Christ, reconciling them through his incarnation, earthly ministry, death on the cross, and resurrection. God is transforming the creation broken by sin and evil into the new creation in which there is no more sin or curse. The Father is the great initiator, sender, and goal of the mission. The Son is the redemptive embodiment of God’s mission. And the Holy Spirit is the empowering presence of God as this mission unfolds in the world. The church’s mission on earth is to serve the mission of God; and the mission of theological education is to equip men and women for the mission of the church.

We are focused on formation in Christ.

We understand the Christian life to entail following the risen Christ, in the power of the Spirit, to the praise and glory of God the Father. Spiritual formation is our steady response to God’s grace shaping us into the likeness of Jesus Christ, through the work of the Holy Spirit, in the community of faith, for the sake of the world. We seek to integrate this formation throughout our curriculum.

We are grounded in Scripture.

We affirm the divine inspiration, truthfulness, and authority of Old and New Testament Scriptures as the Word of God, spoken and composed through human authors in their own cultural settings. We believe that the Holy Spirit works through and quickens these words, making Scripture a living and powerful word.

We are committed to the broad and deep center of the Christian faith.

We declare our belief in and commitment to the unifying core of beliefs insisted upon by the majority of the early church fathers and reaffirmed by the central tradition of the faith over the centuries. We affirm this common consensus as it is found in the Apostles Creed.

We are passionate about the gospel.

The core of our identity is our passion for the good news of the saving work of God through Jesus Christ. The gospel is the announcement that God, through Jesus’ birth, ministry, death, resurrection, and enthronement, is overcoming all the powers of this world in order to establish fully God’s rule of justice and peace “on earth as in heaven.”

We support those called to ministry.

We believe that the community of faith-the church-is the central means of carrying out God’s mission in the world. In these communities all are called to be ministers. As we follow Jesus into the water of baptism, so we take up the ministry of Jesus as communities of faith. Within these communities some are gifted as equipping ministers, empowering the church to live out the “fullness of Christ.” We are committed to equipping such leaders for God’s mission.

We are engaged with culture.

Wherever the gospel is proclaimed and people experience conversion, the way of Christ gets “translated” into new cultures. The North American culture in which we live is postmodern, post-denominational, and increasingly post-Christian. It presents new and sharp challenges, and we seek to engage it with cross-cultural sensitivity as we learn to think and act like missionaries.

Ministry, Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)

The purpose of the Doctor of Ministry in Leadership for Thriving Mission is to equip exemplary Christian leaders with deep formation and advanced competencies for thriving, biblically framed mission in their contexts, with respect for the central role of congregations in God’s mission. It provides strong exposure to missional theology, advanced missional strategies, spiritual formation, emotional and relational intelligence, leadership development, navigating change and conflict, and social justice. The program is applicable to a variety of ministry contexts, with a proactive orientation to congregations and mindful integration with missional professions such as chaplaincy, education, domestic and foreign missions, spiritual direction, missional entrepreneurship, and others. Theologically, the program contextualizes in the Statement of Faith and Heritage expressed in Lipscomb University’s Centering Core, and is reflective of the Stone-Campbell heritage with high respect for the authority of Scripture and devotion to the mission of God. The three-year program is built around a cohort structure that allows collaboration with faculty, a doctoral journey with like-minded Christian leaders, and many opportunities for charitable conversations with people from diverse backgrounds that will bless and stretch one’s experience of God’s work in the world.

For specific program requirements, go to Ministry, Doctor of Ministry, (D.Min) .

Admission Process (D.Min.)

Hazelip School of Theology’s Doctor of Ministry program follows A.T.S. admission standards. Entrance to the DMin program normally requires a bachelor’s degree in theology and an accredited Master of Divinity degree. However, many DMin participants have different academic backgrounds and qualify with an accredited master’s degree related to one’s ministry and calling, provided the following criteria are discernible: a) significant ministry experience allowing one to engage as a peer with fellow cohort participants, b) ability to interpret and apply scripture on a scholarly level, c) capacity to reflect theologically on the practice of ministry, d) competence to understand and adapt one’s ministry to the cultural context, and e) awareness of one’s ministerial identity and vocational calling with a desire to become more spiritually formed and self-aware. For those with a master’s degree other than the M.Div., the admissions committee evaluates an applicant’s graduate transcripts to determine preparedness for doctoral-level theological studies. This assessment is in addition to the submission of the standard application requirements.

Applicants to the Hazelip School’s Doctor of Ministry program must submit the following:

1. Application Form. Each applicant must complete an application form. The application form is available at lipscomb.edu/admissions/graduate then click on “Apply by Program” to complete the online application.
2. Application Fee. Each application should be accompanied by a $50 nonrefundable application fee. Pay the fee online or mail a check to Hazelip School of Theology, Doctor of Ministry program, One University Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37204-3951.
3. References. Three letters of reference are required as follows: one from a university professor or administrator, one from a church leader or minister and one from professional supervisor/employer.
4. Documentation of full-time participation in ministry. A minimum of three years’ experience is required after completion of the M.Div. degree. This documentation includes a written endorsement of the applicant’s admission to the D.Min. program from his or her church or parachurch organization.
5. Official Transcript(s). Each applicant must submit an official transcript, showing degree conferral when appropriate, from all schools attended. If you need a transcript from Lipscomb University, go to the Office of the Registrar’s site in order to request one. They can send your transcript through campus mail, but we cannot request it for you.
6. Possession of appropriate writing skills. Applicants must submit a writing sample (e.g., an academic paper or a recently published article) to be evaluated by the D.Min. program director or member of the program’s faculty. Writing samples are evaluated on the basis of form (demonstrating a basic grasp of the mechanics of good writing) and content (demonstrating the ability to engage in critical biblical and theological thinking).
7. Health Form. Each applicant must submit a completed health form signed by a health care provider. (To print a copy of the health form, visit www.lipscomb.edu/healthcenter/forms.) This form must be submitted directly to Lipscomb’s Health Center.
8. FERPA. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act affords students certain rights of access to educational records; even those who are independent of parents must submit this form to the registrar’s office prior to enrollment.
9. TOEFL. The Test of English as a Foreign Language, with a score or at least 550, is required for international students. (See section titled International Students  for more information.)
10. Formal Interview. Once all application materials have been reviewed, applicants will be contacted for an interview.

The application process is completed online. All application items should be submitted online (no later than 30 days before the beginning of the cohort in which the student plans to enroll). Transcripts can be mailed to: Graduate Admissions, 1 University Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37204-3951 or emailed to gradadmissions@lipscomb.edu.

All requirements detailed for the D.Min. program are in addition to existing requirements for Graduate Studies in Theology. Any instances of substitution for existing requirements are noted.

Student Classifications

See Graduate Admissions Information  section.

Transfer of Courses Toward the D.Min.

Due to the nature of the D.Min. program, all students are encouraged to take all of the course work within the program. There may be rare exceptions based on the similarity of content and competencies learned, for up to six hours of transfer credit from another accredited doctoral level program.

Academic Standing for D.Min. Program

See the Graduate Academic Standing Policy in the Academic Information & Policies  section.

Course Load for D.Min. Program

A student enrolled for six hours is considered a full-time student. A student enrolled for less than six hours is considered a part-time student. Students will not be permitted to enroll for more than 12 hours per semester during the fall or spring semesters, or nine hours during the summer semester, without first obtaining special permission from the program director.

Graduation

See ‘Graduation’ in the Academic Information & Policies  section.

Statute of Limitations for the D.Min.

All requirements for the D.Min. degree must be completed within a five-year period from the time of initial matriculation.

Tuition and Fees (D.Min.)

Christian Ministry, Master of Arts (M.A.)

The Master of Arts in Christian Ministry equips students with foundational instruction in the theological disciplines to order to enhance various capacities useful in ministerial leadership.  Students are also trained in spiritual formation practices and are able to develop other pastoral skills connected to their callings.

Students may take classes on campus or online. The M.A.C.M. includes a comprehensive examination based on a case-study approach.

For specific program requirements, go to Christian Ministry, Master of Arts, (M.A.)  

Divinity, Master of Divinity (MDiv)

The Master of Divinity emphasizes the integration of theological learning with the skills needed to address the complex issues encountered in the practice of ministry.  The goals of the program are:  a deeper faith in Jesus Christ and the development of a spirituality that will sustain a life in ministry; competence in the interpretation of the Bible; a critical knowledge of the Christian tradition and abilities to help the church shape its future in light of that tradition; skills to lead the church in mission within a rapidly changing and diverse cultural context; competence to practice day-to-day ministry with integrity.   The traditional model provides greater customization through electives, allowing students to pursue a variety of interests according to their callings.

Students may take classes on campus or online. Fifteen hours of electives or concentration allow students to specialize in a particular area. For those students who have prior graduate training, many of the foundational courses may be waived to allow for more elective hours.

For specific program requirements, go to Divinity, Master of Divinity, (MDiv) .

Pastoral Studies, Master of Arts (M.A.)

The Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies degree program serves students interested in advanced pastoral development in the areas of pastoral leadership, congregational care, and mission activation. The purpose of the degree is to enhance practical ministry skills that are contextualized for the issues congregations face today. The graduate program is restricted to recent graduates of Lipscomb’s undergraduate program in Pastoral Leadership.  This collaboration with the College of Bible and Ministry’s undergraduate curriculum provides a uniquely sequenced training regimen over a five year period.  The goals of the M.A.P.S. include: the ability to interpret Scripture; the skills to provide pastoral care; the ability to lead theologically within a context of ministry.

Students may take classes on campus or online.  The M.A.P.S. includes a comprehensive examination based upon a case-study approach.

For specific program requirements, go to Pastoral Studies, Master of Arts, (M.A.) .

Theological Studies, Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)

The Master of Theological Studies degree program serves students interested in theological education for a variety of educational and personal goals. The purpose of the degree is to provide meaningful grounding in the theological disciplines. The structure of course work provides students with grounding in basic methodologies of scriptural exegesis as well as a broad overview of Christian history and theological trajectories. The goals of the M.T.S. include: the ability to interpret Scripture; acquisition of a broad knowledge of major theological and historical developments within the Christian tradition; and the ability to reason theologically, in conversation with the biblical canon and Christian tradition.

Students may take classes on campus or online.  The M.T.S. includes a comprehensive examination based on a case-study approach.

For specific program requirements, go to Theological Studies, Master of Theological Studies, (M.T.S.) .

Certificates

There are five 15-hour certificates focused on various theological disciplines. Credits earned in these programs may transfer into longer degree programs at Hazelip School of Theology.

For specific program requirements, go to New Testament Studies, Certificate , Old Testament Studies, Certificate , Pastoral Leadership, Certificate , Theological Studies, Certificate  

The Campus Ministry Certificate has paused enrollment. Current students should go to the graduate catalog that they enrolled under for program information.

Admission Process (M.Div., M.T.S., M.A., and Certificates)

Applicants to Hazelip School of Theology must submit the following:

1. Application Form. Each applicant must complete an application form. The application form is available at lipscomb.edu/admissions/graduate then click on “Apply by Program” to complete the online application.
2. Application Fee. Each application should be accompanied by a $50 nonrefundable application fee.
3. References. Letters of reference are required as follows: one from a college or university administrator or professor, one from a professional supervisor/employer and one from a church leader or minister.
4. Official Transcript(s). Each applicant must submit an official transcript, showing degree conferral when appropriate, from every school attended.
5. Degree. Each applicant must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
6. Minimum GPA. Each applicant must have earned at least a 2.75 GPA in an undergraduate degree or graduate degree.
7. Health Form. Each applicant must submit a completed health form signed by a health care provider. To print a copy of the health form, visit www.lipscomb.edu/healthcenter/forms. This form must be submitted directly to Lipscomb’s Health Center.
8. FERPA. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act affords students certain rights of access to educational records. Even those who are independent of parents must submit this form prior to enrollment.
9. Self-Evaluation Essay. A 750-1000-word essay is required which discusses the applicant’s religious heritage, career goals and how Hazelip School of Theology might contribute to the achievement of those pursuits.
10. TOEFL. The Test of English as a Foreign Language is required for international students. (See section titled International Students  for more information.)

The application process is completed online. All application materials should be submitted online at least three weeks prior to the first day of class in which the student plans to enroll. Transcripts can be mailed to: Graduate Admissions, 1 University Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37204-3951 or emailed to gradadmissions@lipscomb.edu.

Student Classifications

See Graduate Admissions Information  section. Additionally, to be admitted as a Graduate Student to the M.Div., M.T.S., M.A., or Certificates, the applicant must have earned at least a 2.75 GPA in an undergraduate degree or graduate degree. A transfer student may be Conditionally Admitted with a graduate GPA between 2.50 and 2.74. The transfer student must be in good standing at the previous institution attended.

Transfer of Courses (M.Div., M.T.S., M.A., and Certificates)

Graduate credit hours may be transferred from another ATS-accredited institution. A maximum of 12 hours will be counted toward the M.A. in Christian Ministry, a maximum of 15 hours towards the M.T.S., and a maximum of 36 hours for the M.Div. degree. The director or appropriate faculty member of the graduate program will evaluate the course(s) being proposed for transfer and make a determination of suitability. No course with a grade below a “B” will be considered for transfer. No more than two-thirds of a student’s hours from a completed degree may be transferred.

Students may also transfer credits between programs at the Hazelip School of Theology if a change of program is desired.  Differences in the curriculum may affect how many credits are applicable to a new program of study.  Students should consult with the director of the school for more information on the process. 

Advanced Standing (credit by exam)

Advanced standing or credit by exam may be granted for as many as one-third of the total hours required for the M.Div. degree and one-quarter of the M.A. in Pastoral Studies. degree. Only those who have prior theological education from outstanding regionally-accredited colleges and universities will qualify. Any course for which advanced standing is granted must be a reasonable substitute for the course required by the Hazelip School of Theology, and the student must have gained an “A” or a “B.” The granting of such credit is subject to the decision of the HST director and faculty assessor.

The examination process is oral.  Graduate faculty will assess the student’s competency in each subject area.  An oral examination may last up to two hours, depending upon how many courses are being assessed.  The student will be informed at the end of the examination if they have demonstrated a satisfactory comprehension of the content areas.  Graduate credit will then be granted on the student’s transcript accordingly. 

Graduate courses below are eligible for granted credit in the advanced standing process:

GB 5603 - Introduction to Ministry
GB 5933 - The Christian Canon: Torah and the Former Prophets
GB 5943 - The Christian Canon: The Writings
GB 5953 - The Christian Canon: The Latter Prophets
GB 5963 - The Christian Canon: The Gospels and Acts
GB 5973 - The Christian Canon: The Letters of Paul
GB 5983 - The Christian Canon: Hebrews, Revelation, and the General Epistles
GB 51A3 - Foundations of Christian Theology: God’s Being and Action
GB 52A3 - Salvation in Christ: Human Nature and Divine Grace
GB 53A3 - The Spirit’s Work: From Sanctification to Glory
GB 5493 - Global Christianity
GB 5043 - Biblical Hebrew I
GB 5033 - Biblical Greek I
GB 5063 - Biblical Hebrew II
GB 5073 - Biblical Greek II

Faculty at the Hazelip School of Theology will assess which undergraduate coursework is suitable for potential credit.  The student will be notified before the examination which undergraduate courses are being considered and how they correspond with the graduate courses listed above.

Academic Standing (M.Div., M.T.S., M.A., and Certificates)

See the Graduate Academic Standing Policy in the Academic Information & Policies  section. There is a variance for the M.Div., M.T.S., M.A., and Certificate programs in the College of Bible and Ministry, which require a GPA of 2.75 to be maintained.

Comprehensive Examination (M.Div., M.T.S., M.A.)

A written comprehensive examination is required for candidates of the M.Div., M.T.S., M.A. in Pastoral Studies, and M.A. in Christian Ministry degrees. The comprehensive exam is administered through the zero-credit hour course GB 6900.  Students register in their final semester of study. The examination must be completed at least one month before the anticipated graduation date. The examination will be graded on a pass-fail basis.

Course Load (M.Div., M.T.S., M.A., and Certificates)

A student enrolled for six hours is considered a full-time student. A student enrolled for less than six hours is considered a part-time student. Students will not be permitted to enroll for more than 12 hours per semester during the fall or spring semesters, or nine hours during the summer semester, without first obtaining special permission from the program director.

Statute of Limitations (M.Div., M.T.S., M.A., and Certificates)

All requirements for the M.Div., M.T.S., M.A. in Pastoral Studies, and M.A. in Christian Ministry degrees should be completed within a 10-year period from the time of initial matriculation.

Financial Information (M.Div., M.T.S., M.A. in Pastoral Studies, M.A. in Christian Ministry, and 15-hour Certificates)

Scholarships

Additional Information (9-hour Certificate in Campus Ministry)

Certificate students are not eligible for additional scholarship support from the Hazelip School of Theology.