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A Perkins Degree is Closer than you Think. 

Perkins provides financial aid to 100% of master's degree-seeking students with a demonstrated need. 

 

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Affording Graduate Studies at SMU Perkins

Financing a seminary education can be a challenge, but not impossible. In fact, a Perkins education is a valuable investment in developing your call to ministry. We offer a range of financial aid options that can help you pursue your vocation without being burdened by a large debt. 

When you apply for admission, you are automatically considered for scholarship assistance. 

We suggest that you also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine your qualifications for assistance from other sources and loan programs. 

Perkins Scholarship Stats

graduate-cap

100%

of master’s degree-seeking students with a demonstrated need for financial aid receive it

money

$12,200

is the average annual award granted to full-time students

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2 weeks

is the time it takes to receive notification of your financial aid package once your application is submitted

 

More About Funding Options at SMU Perkins

Perkins attracts high-achieving students who are called to ministry – and we offer financial resources to help answer that call. 

Scholarship funds are allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis, so we advise you to submit your completed application as early as possible.

In addition to scholarships, we also provide resources for outside scholarships and grants. Set up a conversation with a member of our team to discuss tuition and explore scholarships, grants, loans and payment plans.

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Degree Program at SMU Perkins

Education at Perkins is about discerning who you are and who God is calling you to become. If you are interested in getting a degree from Perkins, but are not yet sure which the best program would be, please take a look at our various offerings below. 

Master's Degree Programs

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Master of Divinity
(M.Div.)

If you are longing to become an elder or an ordained minister in The United Methodist Church or a church of a different Christian denomination, and want to lead, teach, serve in Word and sacrament, preach and administer communion and guide your congregation, the M.Div. at Perkins is the pathway for you.
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Master of Arts in Ministry (M.A.M.)

Similar to the M.Div., the Master of Arts in Ministry degree is an ideal pathway for those who want to become an ordained Deacon in The United Methodist Church or another Christian denomination, but do not necessarily want to be the lead minister of their church.
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Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)

If you aren’t necessarily being called to vocational ministry, and desire to strengthen your theological education for personal enrichment, leadership in the church as a lay minister, or to lay the groundwork for an academic doctorate in religious studies, the M.T.S. degree may be a great option for you.
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Master of Theology
(Th.M.)

The Master of Theology degree is uniquely created for those who want to enhance the practice of ministry through advanced study of a particular theological or pastoral discipline. In addition, Th.M. students examine specific aspects of Christian traditions and prepare for doctoral level study.
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Master of Sacred Music
(M.S.M.)

With a Master of Sacred Music degree, you can go on to be ordained as a Deacon in The United Methodist Church, as well as pursue a vocation in music ministry in any setting. The academic tracks of the M.S.M. degree also prepare students interested in pursuing doctoral studies.

Doctoral Degree Programs

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Doctor of Ministry
(D.Min.)

The Doctor of Ministry degree can help you to seek vocational depth and direction; gain theological knowledge and understanding of vocational and leadership identity in tandem with developing skills for relevant practices of ministry that build communities in context; and acquire knowledge, critical insights and skills to exercise leadership grounded in Christian vocation in contexts of transition and change within the Church and the community.
 
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Doctor of Pastoral Music
(D.P.M.)

Few programs exist for church musicians that allow them to re-tune their vocation in the context of the changing demands of the music ministry. The D.P.M. Program is designed for experienced church musicians who have achieved a Master of Sacred Music degree or its equivalent and who are devoted to increasing their effectiveness in broadening their vision of the pastoral dimensions of music ministry into the larger community.
 

Still unsure about how to navigate the admissions process and fund your education? If you want to learn more about any of our programs or how Perkins can help you answer your calling, just fill out the form to connect with a representative.

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