The Certificate in Baptist Studies can be earned within the residential M.Div. degree and is designed to serve the academic and formational requirements of those preparing for ministry—ordained and lay—in the Baptist tradition.

Students who declare their interest in the certificate are assigned a Baptist advisor. To receive the certificate, they must complete courses in Baptist Studies, and they have the opportunity to participate in a spiritual formation group that focuses on Baptist identity and formation.

Allan Smith
Given the continued changing landscape of theological education, the opportunity to participate in the ecumenical community at Duke Divinity School while still focusing on Baptist theology and polity by completing the Certificate of Baptist Studies is greatly significant. The certificate allows students to reflect on how the Baptist tradition is a part of the church Catholic while also appreciating the distinct beliefs and practices of the tradition.
Allan Smith, M.Div.
Requirements

The requirements for the certificate are:

  • Completion of two courses in Baptist studies as described in the detailed requirements information and a third component that may include a third course (either a special topic course in Free Church Studies or another elective approved by the director of the Baptist House) or participation in a 2nd or 3rd year spiritual formation group on topics of Baptist identity and formation
  • Satisfactory fulfillment of the review of the student portfolio with a Baptist faculty member
  • It is also preferable that at least one field education placement be in a Baptist setting.

Find detailed information about requirements and courses for current students (NetID required) »

For more information, contact:
Curtis Freeman
Research Professor of Theology and Baptist Studies
Director, Baptist House of Studies
(919) 660-3401