Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

Students who seek ordination are encouraged to contact the appropriate clergy credentialing committee in their denomination, preferably before beginning seminary. Students should learn their ordination requirements, academic and non-academic, in order to make best use of the seminary program.

Ordination as United Methodist Elder

United Methodist elders are ordained to a lifetime ministry of Word, Sacrament, Order, and Service.  A Garrett-Evangelical Master of Divinity degree which includes the prescribed basic graduate theological studies, satisfies the graduate education requirement of the denomination.  Garrett-Evangelical also offers the graduate level courses which satisfy the requirements for alternate routes toward ordination for persons over forty years of age or who meet other special qualifications.

All persons preparing for elder's orders should consult with district and conference boards of ordained ministry.

Students may also complete requirements for certification in Christian education, evangelism, music ministry, spiritual formation, and youth ministry as a part of the MDiv program.

Please consult the website of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry for further information.

Ordination as United Methodist Deacon

United Methodist deacons are ordained to a lifetime ministry of Word and Service to both the community and the congregation in a ministry that connects the two.  A Garrett-Evangelical Master of Divinity degree which includes the prescribed basic graduate theological studies, satisfies the graduate education requirement of the denomination.  Garrett-Evangelical also offers in-ministry and residence degrees, short-term and semester courses, supervised field education, advising and formation for all deacon candidates.  Deacon candidates are also encouraged to consider the MDiv program.

All persons preparing for deacon's orders should consult with district and conference boards of ordained ministry.

Please consult the website of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry for further information.