Autobiographical essay – tell us your story!
In an autobiographical essay (3-5 pages, double-spaced), reflect on your spiritual journey and/or call to ministry. Address your personal, educational, and religious background, your work history, your gifts and abilities for ministry and service, and your current vocational goals.
Analytical essay – Show off your writing by tackling a theological topic/concern!
i. In an analytical essay (4-5 pages, double-spaced), craft a cogent argument on a specific topic of theological interest or concern. This essay should demonstrate your capacity to think critically, write coherently, reflect theologically, and engage scholarly sources.
Complete a third essay, specific to the program to which you are applying!
MDiv Applicants - The MDiv degree is designed to nurture leaders who will give strong, loving, and imaginative leadership to worshiping, learning, and serving communities. In a brief essay (1-2 pages, double-spaced), reflect on your hopes and concerns for the church and your call to ministry.
MDiv/MSSW Applicants - The dual degree (MDiv/MSSW) is designed for students who have a particular interest in non-traditional ministries, including agency-based social service, social justice advocacy, policy-oriented ministries, and clinical counseling, as well as more traditional ministry roles such as pastor or chaplain. In a brief essay (1-2 pages, double-spaced), reflect on your particular ministry interest and how the dual degree will prepare you to serve in that capacity.
