Ordination

In its Master of Divinity (M.Div.) curriculum, VDS provides students seeking ordination in most major denominations access to required courses. Through its wide network of congregations in the area, our Theological Field Education program provides such students with excellent denominationally appropriate placements under the guidance of highly qualified mentors.  

Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

VDS contracts with Rev. Dr. Christal L. Williams, Regional Minister of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Tennessee to biannually offer DIV5355 History and Theology of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). 

Episcopal Church

 Students seeking ordination in the Episcopal Church access required courses through our partnership with Sewanee's School of Theology. 

Stephanie Budwey also regularly offers DIV5356 Episcopal Liturgy: The Book of Common Prayer and Its Resources. 

Presbyterian Church U.S.A.

United Methodist Church

As an approved seminary of the University Senate of The United Methodist Church, VDS offers the following denominational requirements offered annually by VDS: 

 In addition, these courses are offered biannually: 

  • DIV5218 Mission of the Church in the World (Soren Hessler) 
  • DIV5351 Evangelism in the Wesleyan Tradition (Soren Hessler) 

United Church of Christ

VDS contracts with VDS alumna and UCC minister Rev. Dr. Lillian Lammers (MDiv, DMin) to offer DIV5354 The Polity of the United Church of Christ on an as needed basis.  

Unitarian Universalist Church

  • DIV5069 Readings in Unitarian Universalist History 
  • DIV5070 Readings in Unitarian Universalist Theology 

Students seeking ordination in other denominations can reach out to the staff of the Office of Admissions, Vocation, and Student Life at divinity-admissions@vanderbilt.edu or to the Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs at victor.judge@vanderbilt.edu.