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Bachelor of Divinity
Bachelor of Divinity
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In Western universities, a Bachelor of Divinity or Baccalaureate in Divinity (BD, DB, or BDiv; Latin: Baccalaureus Divinitatis) is an academic degree awarded for a course taken in the study of divinity or related disciplines, such as theology or, rarely, religious studies.

At the University of Cambridge, the Bachelor of Divinity degree is considered senior to the university's PhD degree.[1]

In the Catholic universities the Bachelor of Sacred Theology (STB) is often called the Baccalaureate in Divinity (BD) and is treated as a postgraduate qualification.

In America, the BD was largely replaced by the Master of Divinity.

United Kingdom

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Current examples of where the BD degree is taught in the United Kingdom are:[2] the University of St Andrews (where entrants must hold a degree in another discipline); Queen's University Belfast; the University of Aberdeen; the University of Edinburgh; and the University of Glasgow.

At the University of Cambridge and previously at the University of Oxford, the BD is a postgraduate qualification, and applicants must have already completed an undergraduate degree before becoming a candidate for the degree.[3] The same principle applied at Oxford where the degree was closed to new registrations in 2005; BDs continue to be awarded to those registered before 2005.[4] Registration for Cambridge's BD is only open to senior graduates of that university.[5] The BD at Cambridge is the highest ranking bachelor's degree, and it is so senior that it outranks the PhD.[6] It requires a significant contribution to knowledge in the area of Christian theology, and is awarded based on published work, dissertation, or a combination of both.[7]

The University of Durham BD was of a similar nature, and available to graduates of seven years' standing. It was awarded on the basis of published work of a similar extent to a PhD – the usual basis for the award was a book. It is no longer awarded. St Mary's College at the University of St Andrews – where the main undergraduate award is the MTheol (Master of Theology) – offers the BD following a three-year course of study for graduates in other disciplines.

Heythrop College, a constituent college of the University of London, offered a BD course through the University of London International Programmes, which was not restricted to only members of the university.[8] Due to the closure of Heythrop College January 2019 the University of London itself provides academic direction for the Divinity programme as it continues to be offered through the International Programme.[9] The current (since 2021) London BD is a standard undergraduate degree in religious studies, unlike the more theologically Christian-orientated BDs of the others, where there are options for specialising in Christian theology or religious studies in general depending on module selection.

Ireland

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In Ireland, St. Patrick's College, Maynooth (Pontifical University) offer the Baccalaureate in Divinity (BD) degree to students who already have completed studies in theology or philosophy.[10] The Milltown Institute of Theology and Philosophy and most other Roman Catholic seminaries (Clonliffe College, Thurles, Carlow, Dominican House of Studies(Studium), etc.), would also have awarded the BD degree.

Trinity College, Dublin, as it traditionally did for Church of Ireland clergy, offers a Bachelor in Divinity (BD) as a postgraduate degree; it is the highest ranking bachelor's degree and is so senior that it outranks all degrees but doctorates. It requires a significant contribution to knowledge in the area of Christian theology, and is awarded based on the completion of eight examination papers and a 40,000 word thesis within five years.[11]

The Presbyterian Union Theological College previously awarded the Bachelor of Divinity as an undergraduate qualification as part of Queen's University, Belfast.[12]

India

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In India, the seminaries affiliated to Senate of Serampore College (University) offer Bachelor of Divinity as a postgraduate degree. In order to be eligible for Bachelor of Divinity program one must already possess an undergraduate degree. Those with Bachelor of Theology (B.Th) degree are allowed to have a lateral entry into Bachelor of Divinity courses. It is mandatory to have a BD degree or its equivalent to enter into Master of Theology (M.Th) program at SSC Seminaries.

Other countries

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The Bachelor of Divinity degree offered in the region of South Asia by the affiliated colleges under the Senate of Serampore College is a graduate degree with post-graduate requirement for admission, in the sense that only graduates can register for BD. The university is going through change to adopt a three-year BD course with field-work and expand its accessibility through distance education, this will be considered as the essential degree for ordination in the diasporic Christian churches. Meanwhile, the university have implemented a five-year integrated and research oriented MDiv program with specializations.

The same used to apply in New Zealand, where the undergraduate degree is Bachelor of Theology (BTheol). Until recently both were offered at the University of Otago. The BD was the older, postgraduate degree and was usually attained by people training for ministry in the Presbyterian Church. BD is no longer offered by the University of Otago.

At Moore Theological College in Sydney, Australia, the BD is classified as a post-graduate bachelor's degree in the sense that the normal entry requirement is completion of another bachelor's degree. The BD consists of four years of coursework in theology with an emphasis on biblical studies including original languages. The degree may be awarded with honours depending on grades and successful completion of a research component.[13] The BD is the basic qualification for ordination in the Anglican Diocese of Sydney. Similar courses of study (often only three years in duration) at comparable institutions in Australia have been reclassified as a Master's in Divinity.

The Master of Divinity has replaced the Bachelor of Divinity in most American seminaries as the first professional degree, since the latter title implies in the American academic system that it is on a par with a Bachelor of Arts or other basic undergraduate education.

See also

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References

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from Grokipedia
The Bachelor of Divinity (BD or BDiv) is an academic degree focused on the study of , encompassing biblical interpretation, , doctrinal development, ethical issues, and practical aspects of religious practice. Offered by universities and theological seminaries, it equips students with , , and interpretive skills applied to sacred texts and traditions, often serving as preparation for ordained ministry, leadership, or advanced scholarly work in religion. The structure and level of the degree vary by region and institution. In the , it is frequently an undergraduate honors program lasting three to four years, requiring 360 to 480 credits and including core areas such as , historical , and , with a dissertation in advanced programs. At select institutions like the , it functions as a postgraduate-level qualification for those holding a prior , emphasizing specialist modules in theological ethics, , and over three years. In the United States, the BD historically served as an undergraduate or professional degree, with awarding its first in 1867 as a three-year program before redesignating it the in 1971 to align with graduate standards. Key features of the program include training in biblical languages like Hebrew and Greek, analysis of historical theological texts, and exploration of contemporary ethical dilemmas within Christian contexts. Graduates often pursue roles in , , nonprofit organizations, or doctoral studies, reflecting the degree's emphasis on both intellectual rigor and vocational application in faith communities.

Overview

Definition and Purpose

The Bachelor of Divinity (BD or BDiv) is an , typically undergraduate but postgraduate in some institutions, awarded for advanced study in , , or , with a primary emphasis on Christian scriptures, doctrines, historical developments, and practices. This degree typically integrates rigorous academic inquiry into the Christian faith, fostering a deep understanding of its theological foundations and contemporary relevance. While rooted in , the program can be adapted to explore broader religious traditions through elective modules that address scriptural, spiritual, and intellectual dimensions across faiths. The primary purpose of the Bachelor of Divinity is to prepare students for ordained ministry, , or scholarly pursuits in , equipping them with the intellectual and practical tools to engage faith in professional and communal contexts. Historically designed as a pathway to roles, it emphasizes the holistic formation of individuals for service in religious institutions, promoting critical reflection on doctrine and its application to modern ethical and social issues. By blending theoretical knowledge with vocational training, the degree aims to cultivate leaders who can navigate the complexities of religious life and contribute to . Central to the degree are key concepts such as the integration of for scriptural interpretation, church history for contextualizing doctrinal evolution, and for addressing moral dilemmas in faith practice, all of which support a comprehensive grasp of religious thought. This interdisciplinary approach develops skills in critical analysis, research, and ethical reasoning, enabling graduates to apply theological insights beyond ecclesiastical settings. Career outcomes for Bachelor of Divinity holders often include roles in clergy and pastoral ministry, where graduates lead worship and community programs; chaplaincy in hospitals, schools, or the military, providing spiritual support; and teaching or academic research in religious studies at educational institutions. These paths leverage the degree's focus on practical ministry and scholarly depth, with many alumni pursuing further postgraduate training for specialized leadership.

Duration and Entry Requirements

The Bachelor of Divinity (BD) is typically offered as a three- to four-year full-time undergraduate program in many institutions, though postgraduate variants exist with differing durations, such as three years. The three-year structure corresponds to an ordinary degree and the four-year honors variant includes advanced coursework and a dissertation. In Scottish universities, the four-year honors program is standard, comprising 480 credits (120 per year), while the ordinary degree requires 360 credits over three years. Part-time equivalents extend the duration, such as five-year distance learning options to accommodate working students or those in ministry. Accelerated formats are less common for the BD but may align with full-time study loads exceeding 120 credits annually in some institutions. Entry requirements vary by institution and level; for undergraduate programs, they generally mirror standard admissions, requiring high school qualifications equivalent to A-levels at grades ABB–BBB or Scottish Highers at AABB, often with subjects in humanities or English preferred. International equivalents, such as the International Baccalaureate with 32–34 points, are accepted, alongside proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.0 overall). Postgraduate programs typically require a prior bachelor's degree. Prior religious education is not mandatory for general admission but is beneficial for applicants, particularly those on ministerial tracks preparing for ordination, where additional assessments or personal statements demonstrating vocational calling are evaluated. For advanced or specialized tracks emphasizing , prerequisites may include introductory proficiency in ancient languages such as Greek, Hebrew, or Latin, though these are often developed during the program rather than required at entry. Interviews are frequently conducted for ministerial pathways to assess suitability for church leadership roles.

History

Origins in Medieval Europe

The Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) degree emerged in the 13th century as part of the theological faculties at early European universities, particularly the and the , where it served as an advanced qualification for ecclesiastical scholars beyond the initial arts curriculum. At Paris, recognized as a leading center for theological study by the early 1200s, the degree involved rigorous preparation in scriptural and doctrinal analysis, often requiring candidates to hold a prior . Oxford, modeled after Paris and formalized by the mid-13th century, similarly integrated the B.D. into its structure, with statutes by 1255 regulating theology studies and emphasizing the degree's role in advanced clerical formation. These institutions, influenced by the Fourth Lateran Council's 1215 mandate for enhanced clerical education, positioned the B.D. as a bridge between liberal arts and full mastery in theology. Medieval profoundly shaped the B.D. , emphasizing dialectical reasoning to reconcile and reason through key texts like Peter Lombard's . Prominent figures such as exemplified this approach; as a at from 1252, Aquinas lectured on the and the for four years, developing his synthesis of Aristotelian and Christian that influenced subsequent theological training across Europe. His work, including the Scriptum super Sententiis, highlighted the degree's focus on , where bachelors engaged in disputations and biblical commentaries to prepare for and academic roles. This scholastic framework, prevalent at both and by the late , ensured the B.D. produced scholars capable of addressing doctrinal controversies within the Church. During the Reformation era in the 16th century, the B.D. played a central role in training clergy amid theological upheavals, with universities like Oxford and the University of Cambridge reinforcing their divinity faculties to educate reformers and counter-reformers. At Cambridge, established in 1209 and expanded under royal patronage, the degree was formalized within its theology program by the early 16th century, emphasizing scriptural studies in original languages to align with Protestant emphases on sola scriptura; endowments like the Lady Margaret's divinity chair in 1503 further supported B.D. candidates in preaching and doctrinal defense. Oxford similarly adapted its B.D. requirements, requiring advanced lectures and disputations to equip graduates for clerical duties in a divided Church, contributing to the production of key Reformation figures. This period marked the degree's evolution toward practical ministry amid England's religious shifts. A pivotal transatlantic milestone occurred in 1867 when awarded its first B.D., signifying the degree's adoption in American higher education and extending medieval European traditions to the . This event reflected broader 19th-century global dissemination of the B.D. model to non-European contexts.

Modern Development and Global Adoption

In the , the Bachelor of Divinity (BDiv) degree underwent significant reforms in British universities, particularly in , as part of broader efforts to modernize higher education. The Universities (Scotland) Act introduced structured and improvements, enabling the integration of studies into emerging honors systems. At the , the BD degree was formally instituted in 1864, allowing for advanced theological training that aligned with the new emphasis on rigorous academic standards and honors classifications. The 20th century saw adaptations of the BDiv influenced by missionary activities, extending the degree to colonial and post-colonial contexts. In , , founded in 1818 by Baptist missionaries William Carey, Joshua Marshman, and William Ward, became a pivotal center for theological education; it received university status in 1827 from the Danish government, enabling it to confer BD degrees and train indigenous clergy for South Asian churches. These programs emphasized , blending Western traditions with local languages and cultures to support evangelistic work. Secularization trends in the mid-to-late prompted shifts in the BDiv's role, particularly in , where it was often replaced by the (MDiv) to better reflect professional ministerial training amid declining denominational ties. For instance, renamed its BD degree to MDiv in 1971, aligning with broader reforms that responded to cultural changes and the need for graduate-level credentials. Global adoption of the BDiv accelerated in the post-World War II era through missionary and ecclesiastical networks, establishing programs in and . In Hong Kong, institutions like Evangel Seminary introduced a four-year BD program in 1965 to meet growing demands for local church leadership, while the Divinity School of Chung Chi College integrated into the in 1963, formalizing advanced theological degrees. In , Anglican networks facilitated the creation of BD programs at colleges such as Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology in , founded in the early and offering the degree to train across East African dioceses. These developments underscored the degree's adaptability to diverse cultural and denominational contexts.

Curriculum

Core Components

The core components of Bachelor of Divinity programs emphasize a foundational education in and ministry preparation, typically encompassing , doctrinal , historical contexts, and practical skills. These elements are designed to equip students with both scholarly depth and vocational competence, drawing from scriptural analysis to contemporary ethical applications. In the , programs typically require around 120 credits per year across three to four years, balancing theoretical knowledge with interpretive and communicative abilities. Biblical studies form the bedrock of the curriculum, focusing on the Old and New Testaments through surveys of their content, historical contexts, literary forms, and theological themes. Students engage in , , and interpretation of key texts, such as or the Gospels, to understand the Bible's role in Christian doctrine and practice. This includes courses such as the Bible's message (compulsory in some programs), , and theology, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of scriptural foundations. Systematic theology and church history constitute central doctrinal pillars, exploring core Christian beliefs like the person and work of Christ, the , and . Systematic theology courses cover introductions to Christian doctrine, philosophical underpinnings of faith, and ethical implications, while church history traces from its apostolic origins through ecumenical movements to modern developments. These subjects foster critical engagement with theological traditions and historical events, such as the or early church councils. Language training is a key practical component, with mandatory instruction in like Hebrew and Greek to enable direct engagement with original texts. Introductory and advanced courses in Hebrew grammar, vocabulary, and readings, alongside Greek, allow students to analyze scriptures in their source languages. Some programs also incorporate Latin or other languages as electives, enhancing interpretive accuracy and historical scholarship. Pastoral theology and practical elements address ministry skills, including homiletics for preaching and effective sermon preparation, as well as liturgics covering worship practices, sacraments, and sacramental theology. Courses in pastoral care, worship principles, and crisis counseling develop abilities in congregational leadership and spiritual guidance. These components integrate theory with application, preparing students for roles in ordained ministry or church service. Interdisciplinary aspects broaden the curriculum to include , , and , examining intersections with science, culture, and society. Theological ethics courses address moral theology, , and eco-justice, while explores faith-reason dialogues and contemporary challenges. In regions like , programs may emphasize and contextual ethics to reflect diverse religious landscapes.

Assessment and Thesis Requirements

Assessment in the Bachelor of Divinity (BD) degree typically involves a combination of written examinations, coursework such as essays and reports, practical assessments, and oral components to evaluate students' understanding of and their application to ministry. Written examinations often last two to three hours and test knowledge across core subjects, while essays allow for in-depth analysis of specific topics, contributing significantly to overall grades through continuous evaluation. Practical placements, including internships in , , or ministry settings, assess skills in real-world ministry contexts, such as and contextual application of , often evaluated through supervisor reports and reflective assignments. The or dissertation forms a key component, usually undertaken in the final year of honours programs as a 10,000- to 20,000-word project on a theological topic selected in consultation with faculty. This independent work demonstrates advanced abilities, critical engagement with sources, and original contributions to studies. In some programs, the dissertation carries substantial , such as 40 credits in four-year structures, emphasizing its role in achieving honours . Grading systems for the BD generally follow the honours classification, awarding First-Class Honours for 70% or above, Upper Second-Class (2:1) for 60-69%, Lower Second-Class (2:2) for 50-59%, and Third-Class for 40-49%, based on cumulative performance across assessments. Some institutions use grade point averages, requiring a minimum of 9.0 for progression to honours levels, ensuring rigorous evaluation of academic and practical competencies. Accreditation standards for theological education emphasize in assessment practices, mandating clear learning outcomes, diverse evaluation methods, and ongoing improvement to support student formation in ministry. These standards ensure that programs maintain high benchmarks for supervision, practical placements, and overall grading integrity, fostering credible preparation for roles.

Regional Variations

United Kingdom and Ireland

In the , the Bachelor of Divinity (BD) is primarily offered as an by select institutions, with a focus on preparing students for within established denominations. The provides a four-year BD (Honours) programme, comprising 480 credits, that emphasizes , Christian history, and and , culminating in a 40-credit dissertation in the final year. Similarly, the offers a three-year BD (Honours) for those holding a prior , concentrating on theological and to equip graduates for in Christian denominations. These programmes maintain strong ties to specific ecclesiastical bodies, particularly in . At the , the BD is tailored for candidates pursuing ordained ministry in the , incorporating required courses in ecclesiastical history and to meet denominational standards for licensure and . Graduates from such programmes often proceed directly to presbytery examinations and internships within the , underscoring the degree's role in sustaining Presbyterian traditions. In Ireland, the BD holds a postgraduate orientation and is closely aligned with Anglican heritage. awards the BD as a higher degree through a five-year part-time programme, requiring candidates to complete examinations in eight theological papers and a 40,000-word , often pursued independently with optional tutorials. Historically linked to the , the degree serves as the highest academic qualification for its clergy, facilitating ordination pathways within that denomination. Following the UK's participation in the since 1999, the BD aligns with the European Higher Education Area's framework as a first-cycle qualification, typically at Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework Level 9 (equivalent to honours bachelor's at Level 6 in , , and ), though its advanced theological content can parallel aspects of Level 7 master's programmes in non-ecclesiastical contexts. In Ireland, the BD functions as a Level 9 qualification under the National Framework of Qualifications, bridging undergraduate and advanced ministerial training post-Bologna harmonization. Entry requirements in Ireland emphasize prior theological preparation and denominational alignment. Applicants to Trinity College Dublin's BD must hold a degree, a Testimonium, or a Professional Diploma in from the institution, or pass a qualifying examination if from another discipline; additionally, endorsements from sponsoring denominations, such as the , are often required for those seeking . proficiency at Band B level is mandatory for non-native speakers.

India and South Asia

In and , the Bachelor of Divinity (BD) degree has been shaped by the region's diverse religious landscape and postcolonial contexts, serving primarily to prepare for indigenous and churches. The was established in 1818 by Baptist missionaries William Carey, Joshua Marshman, and William Ward; its , functioning as the central affiliating and examining body for BD programs across the region and overseeing curricula and standards for numerous theological colleges, was established in 1918. This body ensures that the degree aligns with the needs of churches in multicultural societies, emphasizing practical ministry amid , , and social challenges. The BD program typically spans four years for candidates holding a , or five years in an integrated format for those with higher secondary qualifications, integrating , , and pastoral training. A key feature is its focus on , which incorporates courses on Indian Christian theologies, , and responses to societal issues like discrimination and , enabling graduates to address local realities such as and communal tensions. Prominent institutions offering the BD include the United Theological College (UTC) in Bangalore, founded in 1910 as an ecumenical , which affiliates with the and equips students for and roles through a blend of academic rigor and community engagement. UTC maintains partnerships with global ecumenical bodies, such as the , facilitating international exchanges and resources for South Asian theological education. Cultural adaptations in BD programs highlight responses to regional identities, notably through dedicated studies in , which examines Christian doctrines from the perspective of marginalized castes, covering topics like theological anthropology, , and to promote liberation. Ecumenical emphases are prominent, fostering inter-denominational collaboration and dialogue with other faiths, as seen in UTC's curriculum that integrates tribal, , and feminist theological perspectives to address South Asia's imperatives.

Other Regions

In , the Bachelor of Divinity is rarely offered as an undergraduate degree today, having largely been supplanted by graduate-level programs such as the . Historically, awarded its first Bachelor of Divinity degree in 1867, marking an early milestone in formal theological education in the United States, though the degree was redesignated as the in 1971 to align with evolving professional standards. In , institutions like Acadia Divinity College approved the Bachelor of Divinity in 1892 as part of its foundational offerings for Baptist ministerial training, though 20th-century developments saw a shift toward other programs like the in undergraduate theological studies. In Asia beyond South Asia, the degree persists in targeted ministerial contexts. The Chinese University of Hong Kong offers a four-year Bachelor of Divinity program designed to equip students with theological knowledge and practical skills for leadership in congregations and church institutions, emphasizing , Christian , and . In Australia, variants of the degree are available through several theological colleges affiliated with universities, such as the Bachelor of Divinity at the University of Notre Dame Australia, which provides comprehensive training in , , and ministry for Catholic pathways, and similar programs at Reformed Theological College and Morling College that integrate evangelical perspectives with practical preparation. The Bachelor of Divinity has been adopted in Africa through historical Anglican missionary influences, particularly in , where it serves as a professional qualification for ordained ministry. For instance, the University of Pretoria's four-year BDiv program addresses theological questions of faith and life, preparing graduates for roles in ministry, social work, or counseling within diverse Christian denominations. The University of the Free State offers a similar Bachelor of Divinity developed in consultation with churches, focusing on comprehensive and denominational needs. In , the degree's legacy traces to Anglican missions, though contemporary offerings often align with the ; at the University of Otago in , the three-year BTheol program builds on this tradition by endorsing studies in biblical, historical, or for ecumenical ministry preparation. Across these regions, particularly in evangelical settings, the Bachelor of Divinity is increasingly hybridized with the , blending academic rigor with practical ministry training to meet diverse vocational demands. This evolution coincides with a broader decline in standalone undergraduate divinity degrees in favor of professional graduate options like the , driven by shifting enrollment patterns and ecclesiastical preferences for advanced specialization.

Bachelor of Theology

The (BTh) is generally a three-year program that offers a broad introduction to , encompassing biblical analysis, historical contexts, ethical considerations, and foundational , with a primary aim of fostering general understanding of faith traditions rather than intensive . This structure contrasts with the Bachelor of Divinity (BD), which typically spans four years in honors formats and delves deeper into specialized theological disciplines. A core distinction between the two degrees lies in their orientations: the BD emphasizes rigorous preparation for ordained ministry, integrating advanced scriptural , , and practical skills to equip graduates for leadership roles in religious institutions. In comparison, the BTh prioritizes academic or general faith-based exploration, making it suitable for careers in , , or personal spiritual development, with less focus on vocational ministry demands. The BTh is particularly prevalent in Catholic educational settings, such as institutions in including the Australian Catholic University and the , where it supports a holistic study of Christian doctrine within a faith-oriented framework. Conversely, the BD remains prominent in Protestant honors systems, exemplified by programs at the and the , which align closely with reformed traditions and ministerial pathways. Despite these differences, overlaps exist in curriculum elements like scriptural and historical studies.

Master of Divinity

The (MDiv) is a three-year graduate intended to equip students for ordained ministry and leadership roles in religious settings, requiring completion of a prior for admission. This program typically involves 72 to 96 credit hours, encompassing theological, biblical, historical, and practical studies to foster comprehensive ministerial preparation. In contrast to the Bachelor of Divinity (BD), an focused on academic rigor in theological scholarship, the MDiv prioritizes through seminary-based instruction and hands-on field , where students apply classroom learning in supervised ministry contexts such as churches or organizations. This practical orientation distinguishes the MDiv as a vocational pathway, emphasizing skills for , preaching, and congregational leadership over purely scholarly pursuits. During the 1970s, numerous seminary programs in the United States and United Kingdom shifted from the BD to the MDiv to align with emerging standards for graduate-level professional training, as promoted by accrediting bodies like the Association of Theological Schools. For example, Yale Divinity School renamed its degree from Bachelor of Divinity to Master of Divinity in 1971 to reflect this evolution. In certain denominations, a BD earned with honors is regarded as equivalent to the MDiv for ordination eligibility, bridging historical and contemporary credentialing practices.

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