Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)

Hybrid on-campus and online program for experienced ministry leaders

Lead with wisdom. Serve with impact. Fordham’s Doctor of Ministry program prepares reflective, competent leaders for religious ministry, combining rigorous theological inquiry with practical ministerial experience. Rooted in the Christian and Catholic traditions and open to diverse perspectives, you’ll engage in meaningful research while addressing issues such as ecology, feminism, multiculturalism, globalization, enculturation, peace and justice, and spirituality.This hybrid program includes on-campus and online coursework.

At a Glance

  • Format: Hybrid – online + on-campus
  • Credits: 36 (12 courses + doctoral project)
  • Concentrations: Spirituality or Generalist
  • Schedule: Full-time or part-time
  • On-Campus Intensives: Two January sessions (Years 1 & 2)
  • Application Deadlines: Nov 1 • Jan 15 • Apr 15

See the full program requirements in the Fordham GSE Bulletin

Why Choose Fordham’s D.Min.

  • Work one-on-one with a faculty mentor throughout your studies.
  • Learn alongside peers from 20+ countries, gaining a global perspective.
  • Access the New York Theological Consortium, taking courses across member schools.
  • Balance your studies with evening classes, intensive formats, and hybrid delivery.
  • Build practical skills grounded in theological understanding and ministerial expertise.

Fields of Concentration

  • Spirituality
  • Generalist

    • Applicants must hold a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or equivalent.

    • Minimum of three years pastoral practice after earning the M.Div.

    • Curriculum includes 12 courses (36 semester credits) + doctoral project.

    • Full-time or part-time study options.

    • Two January intensive on-campus sessions required during the first two years.

  • In addition to meeting basic eligibility, competitive applicants typically:

    • Earned a 3.0 GPA (undergraduate) and 3.5 GPA (graduate)

    • Demonstrate potential to make a strong contribution to the field of ministry

    • Have a clear career path after graduation

    • Show strong writing and research capabilities

  • All applicants must submit:

    • Online application

    • Personal statement

    • Current resume/CV

    • Three letters of recommendation

    • All academic transcripts

    • 15–30 page writing sample

    • International transcript evaluation (if applicable)

    • TOEFL score (if applicable)

    Applicants may also be contacted for a phone or in-person interview.

    • November 1 – Spring admission

    • January 15 – Late Spring/Summer admission

    • April 15 – Fall admission

    Decisions are typically released within four weeks of the deadline. If delays occur, applicants will be notified.

  • Graduates serve in roles such as:

    • Vice president for mission integration (university or healthcare)

    • Executive director of a faith-based or nonprofit initiative

    • Community organizer

    • Parish or congregational leader

    • Diocesan leader of evangelization or faith formation

  • By the end of the program, students will be able to:

    • Apply research methods in theological disciplines for post-graduate and doctoral studies.

    • Communicate the Christian story effectively through multiple channels.

    • Connect Christian tradition to professional practice and spiritual growth.

    • Demonstrate deep understanding of Jesuit Spirituality and the Catholic intellectual tradition.

    • Use literary, cultural, historical, and social analysis to interpret cultures in relation to Christianity.

    • Integrate theological understanding with practical ministerial skills in diverse settings.

Contact Us

Graduate School of Education – Office of Admissions
113 West 60th Street, Suite 1108
New York, NY 10023
212-636-6400
g[email protected]

To discuss curriculum, research interests, or program fit, contact the GSE Office of Admissions to arrange a meeting with the D.Min. program director.