For pastors and ministry leaders, finding time to pursue advanced education can feel like a tall order. The idea of earning a doctoral degree often feels hard to attain between the demands of ministry, family, personal life, and everything in between. That’s why we are excited to announce that the Doctor of Ministry degree (DMin) is now available fully online. This new offering creates a flexible and accessible pathway for ministry leaders who are ready to take the next step in their calling in a more accessible format.
What Makes SEU’s Doctor of Ministry Unique?
The DMin is the highest degree for those in vocational ministry. This program is designed to strengthen academic knowledge, and in turn, transform both the leader and their ministry. Students gain advanced training in Spirit-empowered leadership, practical ministry strategies, and spiritual formation — all while still remaining actively engaged in the ministry God has called them to.
Steve Gambill, a current DMin student and serves as part of the Association of Related Churches team equipping the global church and his passion to see the generations empowered, shared, “When I began exploring doctoral programs, what set SEU apart was the ability to study remotely. I didn’t have to step away from the position God called me to. Instead, I could continue serving my church while being equipped with new skills. That balance has been incredibly beneficial.” Steve Gambill and his wife Charlotte have been pastors for more than 30 years in the United Kingdom and now reside in the United States with their two children. They have served as guest speakers at SEU, as well as countless ministry events, churches, and conferences across the United States and around the world.
Benefits of an Online Doctor of Ministry Program
The new fully online format was created with today’s ministry leaders in mind. It combines deep learning with real-world flexibility, so you don’t have to step away from your congregation, community, or mission field to earn your doctorate.
Key features of the online format include:
- Flexible Learning: Complete coursework at your own pace while balancing ministry and family responsibilities.
- Peer & Faculty Engagement: Stay connected through virtual group meetings, mentorship, and collaboration with other ministry leaders.
- Spiritual Formation Retreat: Choose to participate in a fully virtual retreat led by certified spiritual directors — or join the in-person retreat alongside hybrid cohort students.
- Start Anytime: Unlike the cohort model, online students can begin in spring, summer, or fall, making it easier to start when the timing is right.
This 30-credit-hour program can be completed in as little as three years — or longer if your ministry schedule requires more time. Either way, you’ll be working on your doctoral project throughout the program with faculty mentorship and peer support, ensuring your research directly impacts your current ministry.
Flexible Paths: Fully Online or Hybrid Cohort
For leaders who thrive in face-to-face community, SEU will continue offering the hybrid cohort model. Students in this pathway progress through the program together, meeting twice a year for in-person residencies that include learning experiences, lectures by SEU Faculty, spiritual formation, and mentorship. Many alumni say the cohort bonds they formed were one of the most meaningful aspects of their DMin journey.
Program at a Glance
Program: Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Tracks: Leadership, Missiology
Delivery: Fully Online or Hybrid
College: Barnett College of Ministry & Theology
Degree: Doctor of Ministry
Credit Hours: 30
A Note on Missiology
Students with a calling to global missions will be glad to know there is a Missiology track within the DMin program. While previously offered as a standalone degree, this emphasis is now integrated into the DMin, offering students focused training in missions while still benefiting from the broader community and resources of the program. This track also continues SEU’s strong partnership with OneHope, a ministry dedicated to reaching the next generation worldwide.
Take Your Next Step
Whether through the new fully online option or the traditional hybrid cohort, our Doctor of Ministry program offers ministry leaders the chance to deepen their walk with Christ, sharpen their leadership, and take their ministry to the next level.
Learn more about the DMin and find the format that fits your life and calling at SEU.edu/dmin.
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