The student who holds a baccalaureate degree from an approved institution receives the degree of Master of Divinity (M.Div.) on the completion of the prescribed program of study. The curriculum is designed to offer training for the pastoral or professional ministry. Concentrated study in three basic areas – Bible, theology, and practical theology – characterizes the four to five-year program. Bible courses include the basic structure and content of each book of the Bible along with such details concerning major characters, dates, and places as are necessary. Principles of hermeneutics and exegesis, using the original languages as well as the English Bible, are also included. Students learn to apply Scripture to contemporary circumstances. The purpose of this study is to provide the theological and historical foundations necessary to understand the nature of the Christian faith and life. The practical theology courses are designed to enable students to develop competency in ministry. Students are expected to attain the required levels of competency in order to accomplish the goal of each course. A variety of experiences and instructors enable students to develop methods and styles of ministry sited to their individual gifts. The degree is designed for men who have been called to the Gospel Ministry.