Theology School Programs: The Difference Between Hybrid and In-Person at Perkins

At Perkins School of Theology, we offer an array of theology degree programs. These programs are differentiated by their courses, degree timelines and their learning outcomes, allowing prospective students to follow a path best suited for them and their chosen vocation. Many of our theology degree programs are structured to allow a concentration in a particular area of interest.

All of our programs are offered in-person. We also offer two ministry degrees in our hybrid program; the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) and the Master of Arts in Ministry (M.A.M.). Continue reading to learn more about the differences in our program’s modality options.

The Benefits of Hybrid Degree Programs at Perkins

In keeping with its mission to equip persons for faithful leadership and Christian ministry in a changing church and society, Perkins School of Theology meets you where you are, both spiritually and geographically, through our flexible hybrid program.

Hybrid courses and one-week intensives provide an opportunity for you to continue your journey in ministry on-site in Houston-Galveston: attending seminary while still employed reduces the cost to students—both financially and in travel time—and creates a smoother transition for you and your family. This unique hybrid program allows students to take advantage of an extraordinary range of opportunities for Christian ministry, both as clergy and laity.

• Our hybrid courses provide an opportunity for you to continue your journey in ministry on-site in Houston attending seminary, while learning from home. Read about the other benefits of our hybrid program below.
  
  
• You can learn while still being employed. There are no strict schedules (except for when meeting in person) which allow students to still focus on other outside responsibilities.
  
  
• Perkins hybrid classes meet in Houston; one of the most socially, culturally and economically diverse cities in the United States. The program allows students to take advantage of an extraordinary range of opportunities for Christian ministry, both as clergy and laity.
  
  
• Part of the learning is done from your location of choice. This reduces the cost to students (both financially in tuition, fees and travel time) and creates a smoother transition for families.
  
  
• The Hybrid Program offers three courses per semester in the fall and spring and three courses during the summer.
  
  
• Students who complete each of these courses in the regular sequence will earn the M.Div. degree in three years and the M.A.M. degree in two years.
  
  
• You will form life-long connections with your classmates, even while working remotely. Our alumni have a tight-knit bond that lasts even after they graduate from Perkins. Some classmates even share housing when they return to Houston for their in-person intensive week.
  
  
  

The Benefits of In-Person Theology Degree Programs at Perkins

The in-person Perkins experience is unlike any other, and enables students from a variety of backgrounds, denominations, theological perspectives, life experiences, socioeconomic roots and geographic origins to learn from one another; to disagree with one another sometimes, but to experience each other as beloved children of God. Read about the benefits of our in-person programs below.

• Experience the highest, in-person form of engagement from faculty. Perkins has one of the nation’s top faculties, covering the range of theological and pastoral scholarship and preparation.
  
  
• Enjoy Perkins' beautiful campus, and experience an in-person university experience. Perkins’ campus has much to offer, such as The Bridwell Library, which includes a full range of theological, biblical, and historical materials relating to the development of Christianity and is among the best theological libraries in the nation.
  
  
• Easily make connections to classmates and others on campus. Through in-person sessions, worship, lunch, and more, you’ll easily be able to create friendships that last a lifetime.
  
  
• Create a set schedule to keep you on track. When meeting in person, you are tied to a class schedule, which is excellent for students who enjoy structure.
  
  
• You can pursue all degrees offered at Perkins. The hybrid program only offers two degree programs, whereas Perkins in-person offers all of our degree programs.
  
  
• Perkins is located in the heart of Dallas. Dallas offers great food, culture and experiences for all ages, and is a great city to relocate to or live in for school.

The Structure: Hybrid Versus In-Person

At this time, the hybrid program only offers our M.Div. and M.A.M. degrees, whereas studying in person, you’ll be able to earn any of our ministry degrees. They are Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Arts in Ministry (M.A.M.), Master of Sacred Music (M.S.M.), Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) and Master of Theology (Th.M.).

All courses for the hybrid program are offered in either remote or one-week intensive formats. For on-campus learning, all of our courses meet multiple times per week in person with a small student-to-faculty ratio, with dedicated and world-renowned faculty. Each hybrid course only meets for 10 hours face-to-face (student-professor) at the beginning of the semester and an additional 10 hours at the end of the semester, with the remainder of the class taught online.

In the hybrid program, you will take three courses per semester in the fall, spring and summer, making it possible to earn your M.Div. degree in three years and the M.A.M. degree in two years. Students enrolled on campus will typically take 5 courses a semester, and students who complete their courses in regular sequence can earn their graduate degree in one to three years.

Answer Your Call to Ministry and Earn Your Degree in Theology Today

Both our hybrid degrees and in-person degrees will allow you to play an increasingly meaningful role in a community of lively dialogue that encourages deep thought and honest reflection. No matter if you are with us on campus or remotely, we expect that you will graduate not only with a clearer understanding of yourself but also with a broader and more sympathetic understanding of the beliefs of others.

Would you like to learn more about our hybrid program? Download our guide, Explore Perkins’ Flexible Hybrid Program: A Program That Meets Students Where They Are.

Do you have questions for us about our programs and our modality options?

We invite you to join us virtually or in person for an event!