At Duke Divinity School, we're dedicated to ensuring you can succeed here. From academic support that includes one-on-one coaching and pre-orientation workshops, to spiritual and vocational guidance that help you discern your call, to houses of study that can serve as your spiritual home, to an array of student interest groups, you're not alone on your journey. We're here with you and for you.
RISE Pre-Orientation Workshop
RISE (Refresher and Intensive for Scholarly Enrichment) is an optional pre-orientation academic workshop that helps incoming students develop the skills needed to critically engage religious texts and write theologically. If you have been out of school for some time, lack a background in humanities and/or religious studies, or simply believe you would benefit from some initial preparation for the courses you will be taking in your first year, we encourage you to participate.
The Center for Writing and Academic Support
In addition to running the RISE workshop, the Center for Writing and Academic Support provides ongoing academic support workshops throughout the year and tutors who are available to work with you one-on-one.
Formation
Most of us don't come to divinity school sure of exactly what God has in store for us. Our approach to formation is holistic, seeking to nurture the spiritual, physical, emotional, professional, and community life of our students. We walk alongside you as you discern your calling, seek vocational clarity, ask spiritual questions, and understand your denominational identity.
Office of Student Life
When you need a listening ear, the Office of Student Life is here for you to unwind; speak freely; discuss academic, spiritual, and personal concerns; and explore possibilities for future vocation and ministry.
Office of the Chaplain
The journey of faith is not always a straight line, and knowing that there are caring partners along the way can be a great comfort. Chaplain Meghan Benson meets with students informally and by appointment to offer encouragement and spiritual direction as students seek to clarify their calling, struggle with questions of faith, and balance the rigorous and sometimes conflicting demands of seminary life.
