The Department of Congregational and Ministry Studies (CMS) serves as the home of the pre-ministry advising program. A team of advisors connected to this department is committed to guiding students through the process of discerning a call to ministry by means of one-on-one conversations, as well as occasional events and programs held throughout the year. Students interested in ministry should direct any questions to pre-ministry advisors: T. Cioffi (Jubilee Fellows Program), M. Hulst (university chaplain) and J. Witvliet (Congregational and Ministry Studies; Calvin Institute of Christian Worship).
The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) recommends that pre-seminary students develop the ability to think carefully, communicate clearly, and do independent research. Due to differing expectations from different seminaries, the university has no formal program of pre-seminary study, but rather presents a series of suggested courses that students can consider in consultation with the university’s pre-seminary advisors. Pre-seminary students should consult the catalogs of the particular seminaries that they are considering attending for the specific admissions expectations of those schools.
Many Calvin University students choose to attend Calvin Theological Seminary because of the close relationship between the two institutions. For admission to the master of divinity (MDiv), master of arts (MA) or the master of theological studies (MTS) programs at Calvin Seminary, applicants should have taken at least one course in philosophy and one course in history. In addition, students are encouraged to take a course in literature and a course in natural science. The minimum GPA for admission to Calvin Seminary is 2.67.
Calvin University students who are considering an MDiv or MTS degree at Calvin Seminary or elsewhere, may want to have a discussion with their adviser about the possibility of taking courses in Greek or Hebrew language study at Calvin Seminary. Depending on one’s program at the university, you may be able to use those language courses toward your BA degree.