Fast-Track
Bachelor of Arts to Master of Divinity
Explore distinctive options at Samford University for undergraduate students looking to further their education in theology, with programs designed for future leaders in ministry.
Samford University’s Accelerated Bachelor of Arts to Master of Divinity (BA–MDiv) program allows highly motivated students to fast track their preparation for vocational Christian ministry.
Qualified undergraduates can complete both degrees in as few as six years instead of seven, saving time while gaining early access to graduate-level theological training at Beeson Divinity School.
Is This Program for Me?
Samford University’s Accelerated Bachelor of Arts to Master of Divinity (BA–MDiv) program allows highly motivated students to fast track their preparation for vocational Christian ministry.
Qualified undergraduates can complete both degrees in as few as six years instead of seven, saving time while gaining early access to graduate-level theological training at Beeson Divinity School.
Because this pathway requires careful planning, students should consult with their academic advisors as early as possible in their undergraduate studies.
This program is a great fit for students who are:
- Majoring in biblical studies, Christian and religious studies (including ministry leadership), Christian ministry, or human development and family science
- Academically strong and able to complete your undergraduate core, general education, and major requirements in three years.
- Committed to spiritual formation, vocational discernment and ministry leadership
- Interested in accelerating your path to seminary and long-term ministry service
What Will I Learn?
Students in the accelerated BA–MDiv program complete all undergraduate core, general education and major requirements while beginning graduate-level theological coursework during their senior year.
Academic Highlights Include
- Up to 27 credit hours of Beeson Divinity School coursework taken during the final undergraduate year
- Graduate courses that count toward both the bachelor’s degree and the Master of Divinity
- Participation in a co-curricular program of spiritual and vocational mentoring
- A strong foundation in biblical studies, theology, ministry leadership and spiritual formation
Students must apply for admission to Beeson Divinity School by December 1 of the year prior to beginning divinity coursework. At the time they begin divinity courses, students may have no more than 27 credit hours remaining in their undergraduate program.
What Makes Us Different?
Samford’s BA–MDiv fast-track program intentionally integrates undergraduate education with graduate theological formation within a Christ-centered academic community. Students may participate in undergraduate commencement ceremonies upon completing their bachelor’s degree.
Distinctive Features Include
- Early immersion in Beeson Divinity School’s rigorous and formative theological education
- Continued payment of the undergraduate tuition rate and receipt of undergraduate scholarships while completing bachelor’s degree requirements
- A cohort-based experience that emphasizes spiritual maturity, mentoring and vocational clarity
- A seamless transition from undergraduate studies into full-time seminary enrollment
Career Preparation
Graduates of the accelerated BA–MDiv program are well prepared for vocational Christian ministry, including pastoral leadership, missions, church ministry, chaplaincy and further theological study.
After Earning the Bachelor’s Degree
- Students transition to graduate status and pay Beeson Divinity School tuition
- Students receive scholarships from Beeson Divinity School
- With one year of Master of Divinity coursework already completed, most students finish the degree in approximately two additional years
