Certificate Programs
The Divinity School and Vanderbilt University offer certificate programs in several different programs of interest. All degree-seeking students at the Divinity School are eligible to apply for certificate programs during the spring semester of their first year of study, or at any point prior to graduation, provided that the required courses have been completed.
To receive a certificate, one must take 15 credit hours of courses in the designated area. Most certificates also require a final project. Specific requirements are determined by program; more information is available by following the program links below.
Certificates Offered Within the Divinity School:
- Religion in the Arts and Contemporary Culture - For future leaders of ministry to understand and harness the creativity of the arts for theological reflection and contemporary worship.
- Kelly Miller Smith Institute on Black Church Studies (KMSI) - Research and praxis on issues of theology and ministry in the African American church tradition focusing on education, dialogue and development.
- Carpenter Program in Religion, Gender and Sexuality - Explores the complex set of issues dealing with religion, gender and sexuality. It seeks to provide education and encourage communication within and across religious affiliations, ideological bases, and cultural contexts.
- David G. Buttrick Certificate Program in Homiletic Peer Coaching (offered by application only; not intended for current M.Div. and M.T.S. students) - Aimed at forming preachers and improving the quality of preaching. The program will train and certify peer-group coaches to initiate and successfully lead peer-groups for preachers.
Certificates Offered by Vanderbilt University (and available to Divinity students):
- African American and Diaspora Studies - Interdisciplinary scholarship in African Diaspora studies.
- Jewish Studies- Interdisciplinary scholarship in Jewish studies.
- Latin American Studies - Interdisciplinary scholarship in a Latin American language and in a regional specialization.
- Global Health- Interdisciplinary scholarship in modern-day medical, public health, and nursing practices.