The Doctor of Ministry at Freed-Hardeman University is for ministers who’ve already walked long paths in service, but still feel called to grow. It’s not about earning another credential – it’s about refining your craft, gaining deeper insight into the challenges you face, and renewing your passion for ministry. This program creates space to reflect, learn from experienced faculty and peers, and return to your congregation with sharper tools and a refreshed spirit.
Graduate Studies:
College of Biblical Studies
Director of Graduate Theology:
Dr. Richard A. Brumback
Ph.D.
Program Coordinator:
Dr. Matt Cook
Ph.D.
Pursuing a D.Min. at Freed-Hardeman University means learning from seasoned faculty who are both scholars and ministers, with a deep respect for Scripture and the realities of ministry. You’ll grow alongside fellow ministers who understand your challenges and can offer meaningful support and insight. With a practical, Scripture-centered curriculum and a community that values both academic depth and spiritual renewal, FHU offers more than a degree – it offers lasting encouragement for the road ahead.
The Doctor of Ministry program at Freed-Hardeman offers the flexibility seasoned ministers need, with live online classes that fit within the rhythm of full-time ministry. You can engage with faculty and classmates in real time – without uprooting your family or leaving your congregation. It’s a format designed to support your calling, not compete with it.
At Freed-Hardeman University, students enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program will gain the skills and advanced knowledge to enhance their ministry. Topics covered will include spiritual formation, intercultural engagement, leadership development, and much more!
In order to be eligible for this program, applicants must possess a Master of Divinity degree or the equivalent.
| BIB 700 | Methodology of Doctoral Research and Writing | 3 |
| BIB 705 | Spiritual Formation for Ministry | 3 |
| BIB 710 | Theological Foundations of Ministry | 3 |
| BIB 715 | Intercultural Engagement | 3 |
| BIB 720 | Ministerial Ethics | 3 |
| BIB 725 | Contextual Homiletics | 3 |
| BIB 730 | Multigenerational Ministry | 3 |
| BIB 735 | Leadership Development | 3 |
| BIB 740 | Theories and Practices of Church Growth | 3 |
| BIB 790A | Dissertation Seminar I | 3 |
| BIB 790B | Dissertation Seminar II | 3 |
See the director for a pattern of course offerings for the year.
| Next Start Dates: | January 21
(Apply by January 7) |
To be considered for admission into the Doctor of Ministry program at FHU, please submit the following:
Simply put, you will be better equipped to serve in your role as a minister. The advanced knowledge you will receive combined with the mentorship provided by the faculty will transform you in ways you never thought possible!
Additionally, you will be eligible to participate in our annual guided archeological dig in the Holy Lands at a subsidized cost. It’s great to study Scripture, but it’s even better to see where it all happened with your own eyes!
A doctorate degree in ministry can certainly make you more attractive to churches seeking to hire. However, the true impact is in the difference you can make with the knowledge you receive from the program. The D.Min. program will make you a more effective minister, enabling you to lead others along their spiritual journeys and help them gain a better understanding of Scripture.
The 36 credit hour program can be completed in 2 years. However, you can pace yourself as you choose. You can finish quicker as a full-time student (9+ credit hours per semester) or you can slow it down and take 6 or less credit hours per semester. How you pace yourself during the dissertation phase of the program will also affect the timeline of completion.
We know pursuing a graduate degree can come with a significant cost investment. So, in an attempt to help you further your education without breaking the bank, we offer competitive scholarships to many of our students. If you’re interested, complete the online application as well as the scholarship application. Afterwards, the Director of the Graduate School of Theology will be in touch regarding your potential for a scholarship award.
