Master of Divinity

The Master of Divinity is a three-year (143 credits) graduate degree programme for bachelor degree holders. It is designed to develop and equip evangelists, missionaries, teachers, pastors and Christian leaders for ministry especially in the Asian context. The programme may serve as a foundation for further graduate study.

Specific objectives

  1. To foster growth in Christian character and commitment to the Great Commission.
  2. To provide a working knowledge and understanding of the essential content of each book of the Bible including the key themes, issues and theological contributions.
  3. To equip the student with the skills (including basic Greek & Hebrew language skills), tools and methods needed for a lifelong study of the Word of God.
  4. To develop an understanding of the essential doctrines of the Bible and God’s working through the history of Christianity.
  5. To develop skills for effective ministry in evangelism, discipleship, teaching, preaching, writing, counselling, cross-cultural ministry and Christian leadership.

Programme emphasis

The Master of Divinity programme allows students to select an emphasis based on their specific vocational needs. Each student will choose one of the following areas of emphasis:

1. Teaching and Exposition Emphasis

The objective is to equip students with skills in biblical exegesis, expository preaching, and teaching in the local church, parachurch organizations or Bible schools.

2. Intercultural Studies Emphasis

The objective is to prepare students for ministry in cross-cultural settings, including urban and multicultural settings or ministry with other people groups.

3. General Studies Emphasis

The objective is to allow students to select a variety of classes for a wider exposure and develop their special concentration by taking classes that will meet their ministry needs.

Admissions requirements

EAST considers each applicant’s qualifications in these five areas:

  1. Maturity (personal, social, and spiritual)
  2. Ministry experience
  3. Leadership ability
  4. Academic ability
  5. Academic entry requirement: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited or recognized university or college

Note: EAST reserves the right to make exceptions to the above policy.

Graduation requirements

  1. Completion of the 143 credits as listed under distribution requirements with a minimum grade point average (G.P.A.) of 2.5.
  2. Completion of the cross-cultural internship.
  3. File application for graduation with the Registrar at the beginning of the last year of the programme.
  4. Approval of the candidate for the degree by an EAST faculty evaluation committee.
  5. All tuition and fees paid in full.
  6. Attendance at commencement exercises (unless special permission for absence is obtained).