Lindsay Kuhl
208.467.8854
ministryinfo@nnu.edu
Master of Divinity with Master of Social Work
If you’re looking to combine your passion for ministry with a desire to make a difference through social work, our Master of Divinity with Master of Social Work (M.Div./MSW) dual-degree program might be the perfect path for you. This program uniquely blends theological education with advanced social work training, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in both church and community service settings. Expand your impact and prepare for a meaningful career at the intersection of faith and social justice.
- DUAL DEGREE combined Master of Divinity (M.Div.) and Master of Social Work
- Fully ONLINE
- MSW offers HYPER-FLEX EDUCATIONAL MODALITY options: face-to-face, live virtual classroom and asynchronous online. Face-to-face and live virtual classrooms are designed for working professionals with courses offered evenings and on weekends
- ACCREDITED by the Association of Theological Schools and Council on Social Work Education
About NNU’s M.Div./MSW Program
In the M.Div./MSW program, you’ll experience an integrated approach to theological and social work education. You’ll start by completing a 36-credit pastoral ministry core curriculum, covering most of the educational requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene. During this foundational phase, you’ll receive essential training in pastoral care, theology and biblical studies, alongside a 4-credit supervised ministry to gain practical experience.
Once you complete the initial pastoral ministry requirements, you’ll move into the MSW portion of the program. Here, you’ll deepen your knowledge in social work, developing critical skills in counseling, social services and community engagement. After meeting all MSW requirements, you’ll return to the M.Div. curriculum to complete a 3-credit biblical exegesis course. Throughout the program, you’ll be considered an M.Div. student, ensuring a seamless integration of both theological and social work studies.
Tuition Costs
$575 per credit, with discounts available
$150 technology fee per semester
The Benefits of an M.DIV./MSW Degree at NNU
- Dual-degree program providing a rich theological foundation and social work training
- Completes most educational requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene
- Prepares students for successful passing of the national social work licensure exam
- Assists students towards vocations in local church ministry, counseling, social work fields, parachurch engagement and public policy advocacy
- Small and engaged classes with experienced faculty
- MSW courses focus on Social Work in a rural setting, equipping you for professional care and advocacy
Goals & Outcomes
M.Div.
- Gain a deep understanding of Wesleyan-Holiness theology and learn how to apply it effectively in your ministry
- Learn to assess and engage with diverse cultural contexts from a theological perspective
- Cultivate spiritual disciplines that enhance your emotional and spiritual well-being
- Develop expertise in social work and counseling to effectively support individuals, families and groups
- Build a comprehensive understanding of servant leadership and become an advocate for those in need
MSW
- Excel in both classroom learning and real-world application across the 10 core competencies of the social work profession
- Benefit from a high job placement rate in social work positions after graduation
Meet the Team
Tomás Alvarez, D.MIN.
Associate Professor of Theology; Special Assistant to the President
Audra Butkus
Program Coordinator Philosophy and Religion and Course of Study
Vicki Funk, BA
Program Coordinator, Christian Ministries Online (CMO) & Theology (GST)
Joe Gorman, D.MIN.
Professor of Practical Theology; Director of Undergraduate Online Education; Director of Course of Study
Marty Michelson, PH.D.
Professor of Biblical Studies & Pastoral Counseling
Brent Peterson, PH.D.
Dean, College of Theology & Christian Ministries; Professor of Theology
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying M.DIV./MSW
What kind of careers are possible with this program?
Graduates of this program have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. You could pursue a career in local church ministry, church planting, military chaplaincy, or healthcare ministry, among other areas. Additionally, you will be well-prepared for various social work positions, such as working in counseling centers, schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, hospice care, addiction treatment centers, military support services, and even primary care clinics. This program equips you with the versatility to make a meaningful impact across numerous fields and communities.
How does the program faculty support its students throughout their academic journey?
Because of the small faculty-to-student ratio, you’re ensured personalized attention and a strong focus on your success. With their expertise in theological education, pastoral ministry and various fields of social work, your professors are well-equipped to guide you academically and professionally. They are readily available to provide the support and mentorship you need to excel in your studies and prepare you for your future career.
How can I prepare myself for a career because of this program at NNU?
NNU’s dual degrees in Master of Divinity (M.Div.) and Master of Social Work (MSW) prepares you for your career by giving you a holistic approach to caring for people’s spiritual, emotional and physical needs. You’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to serve individuals, families and communities comprehensively, equipping you to make a meaningful impact in a wide range of professional settings.
How does this program from NNU empower me to make a difference in my community?
This program will empower you to make a difference in your community by equipping you with the training, licensure and potential ordination needed to serve a wide range of individuals, couples and families. You’ll gain the skills to enhance the well-being of those around you while also learning how to advocate for positive change at the local, state and national levels. You’ll be prepared to impact your community directly and influence policies that promote human flourishing.
Related Programs & Degrees
Master of Divinity/Business Administration
Master of Divinity
Master of Divinity: Chaplaincy
Master of Divinity
Certificate in Chaplaincy
Graduate Certificate
