The rich ecumenical setting of the Master of Divinity program at Yale Divinity School cultivates the skills necessary for professional ministry in a post-denominational world. As a member of the Association of Theological Schools, YDS meets most denominations’ criteria for Seminary training. However, this does not mean that YDS meets all the requirements specific to ordination in each denomination.
Students interested in exploring the possibility of ordination within any Christian tradition will need to work closely with leaders from that tradition, as they learn about the requirements and possibilities for ministry, and the ways in which their own gifts will be celebrated. Ongoing conversations about most of the denominational traditions below can be found with the YDS community. Students should talk with their academic advisors, and with the staff in the Office of Vocation and Ministry, to learn more.
The links below connect with some information about each of these traditions.
Any person seeking ordination should contact their denomination, both at the local and organizational level, for a full understanding of specific requirements. In addition, YDS offers certificate programs that coincide and/or enrich some of these denominational programs.
Denominational Support at YDS
Significant formation support is offered by denominational programs for those considering ordained or non-ordained ministry. Among those resources are:
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Andover Newton at Yale – Dean Sarah Drummond; for those in the UU, UCC and Baptist traditions
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Berkeley Divinity School – Dean Andrew McGowan; for those in the Episocpal and Anglican traditions
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Black Church Studies Program – Rev. Joanne Jennings; for those in historically Black Church traditions
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Catholic Lay Ministerial Studies - Fr. Ryan Lerner
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Lutheran Studies Certificate Program – Rev. Tim Keyl; for those in the Lutheran ELCA tradition
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Reformed Studies Certificate Program – Rev. Maria LaSala; for those in the Presbyterian and Reformed traditions
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United Methodist Certificate Program – Rev. Vicki Flippin; for those in the United Methodist tradition
Additionally, the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship has created a resource guide that those interested in ordination requirements by denomination might wish to consult.
YDS students may contact Bill Goettler, Associate Dean for Ministerial and Social Leadership, for more assistance.
William Goettler
Associate Dean for Ministerial and Social Leadership, Lecturer in Parish Leadership and Church Administration
(203) 432-9896