About Master’s Program,
Designed for individuals preparing for many forms of ministry, Candler’s MDiv integrates challenging academics and in-depth contextual learning. On campus or online/hybrid.
A one-year program of study beyond the first theological master’s degree, the ThM is for students who wish to deepen their knowledge in a particular area of study in order to enhance their vocation or ministry. On campus.
Master’s Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
Most Candler students were not religion majors in their undergraduate work, though we do recommend a strong liberal arts education as a foundation. Students applying to Candler should have a working knowledge of past and present culture from undergraduate studies in the humanities and the natural and social sciences.
If you have taken the GRE, you may submit your scores to us and we will include them with your application materials; however, they are not required. The Candler code is 5198.
Master’s Funding Coverage,
Candler’s scholarship program is among the most generous you’ll find because we’re committed to making a world-class theological education affordable—and it seems to be working! In fact, students say the financial support they receive from Candler is one of the top five reasons they decided to enroll. With the support of generous donors, we awarded $6.3 million in financial aid in 2023-2024, with 92% of all students and 100% of Master of Divinity students receiving scholarship assistance. And the scholarship program keeps on growing: we have $8 million in scholarship funding for 2025-2026!
Availability and Coverage
Candler scholarships are available to students in all degree programs—MDiv, MARL, MTS, MRPL, ThM, and DMin. While some scholarships are based on denomination, affiliation with a United Methodist annual conference, or vocational intent, many scholarships are open to all students in these programs. Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Religion and Leadership, and Master of Theological Studies scholarships begin at 50% of tuition and range to full tuition plus stipend. MDiv students who are certified candidates for ordination in The United Methodist Church and apply by the priority deadline receive scholarships covering 100% of tuition.
New for 2025-2026: applicants with interests in Latine or Pentecostal studies and those interested in an academic certificate in chaplaincy, Catholic studies or Episcopal/Anglican studies will also be considered for scholarships up to full tuition. Plus, we’ve made more funding available to MTS students, including more full-tuition scholarships, larger stipends, and an innovative new fellowship program.
Application Process
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to be considered for a Candler scholarship. Your application for admission doubles as your application for scholarships. Those who apply by their degree program’s priority deadline and complete the FAFSA will have the best chance of receiving support. Plus, if you apply by January 15, you’ll be considered for Leadership Candler, a unique, two-day campus visit event for prospective students in Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Religion and Leadership, and Master of Theological Scholarships—in January and February.
Early Action Option for MDivs
Apply to Candler’s MDiv program by November 1 and you’ll receive an admission decision and an initial scholarship offer by December 15. Plus, you will still be considered for Candler’s biggest scholarship awards—Woodruff Fellowships and Dean and Faculty Sch
Application Requirement,
- General application requirements(resume, writing sample, transcripts)
- An autobiographical statement
- A plan of study statement, based on your program
- Recommendations
- Additional application materialsfor transfer, dual degree or international applicants
Application Deadline,
Jan 15, 2025
Application Fee,
Application Fee, $ 50
