Spiritual Formation (D.Min.)

Program Overview

The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min) in Spiritual Formation at Abide University is an advanced professional doctorate designed for experienced ministry leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of spiritual theology and cultivate expertise in guiding others toward spiritual maturity. Our RCSAI-accredited curriculum integrates classical spiritual traditions with contemporary formation practices, covering spiritual theology, contemplative prayer, spiritual disciplines, and spiritual direction. Students engage in rigorous study of Christian spirituality across historical traditions while developing skills to facilitate transformative spiritual formation in individuals and communities through reflective practice and ministry application. The program emphasizes the integration of theological depth with experiential spirituality, equipping ministers to become wise spiritual guides who can nurture authentic Christian discipleship. Graduates emerge prepared to lead spiritual formation ministries in local churches, retreat centers, seminaries, and spiritual direction practices with both theological sophistication and pastoral sensitivity.

Core Courses

• DMIN 801 — Foundations of Spiritual Theology (4 credits)
• DMIN 810 — History of Christian Spirituality (4 credits)
• DMIN 820 — Spiritual Disciplines and Contemplative Practices (4 credits)
• DMIN 830 — Spiritual Direction and Soul Care (4 credits)
• DMIN 840 — Psychology and Theology of Spiritual Growth (4 credits)
• DMIN 850 — Designing Spiritual Formation Ministries (3 credits)
• DMIN 860 — Spiritual Formation Research Methods (3 credits)
• DMIN 890 — Ministry Project in Spiritual Formation (6 credits)
• DMIN 870 — Formation Practices and Reflective Evaluation (4 credits)

Credit requirements

• Core courses: 36 credits
• Required elective credits: 24 credits

Total required: 60 credits

Elective Courses

Complete 24 credits from the options below (24 credits offered).

• DMIN 910 — Ignatian Spirituality and the Spiritual Exercises (3 credits)
• DMIN 920 — Contemplative Prayer and Mystical Theology (3 credits)
• DMIN 930 — Spiritual Formation and Leadership Development (3 credits)
• DMIN 940 — Spiritual Formation in Cultural Context (3 credits)
• DMIN 950 — Retreat Ministry and Spiritual Guidance (3 credits)
• DMIN 960 — Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Care (3 credits)
• DMIN 970 — Spiritual Discernment and Decision-Making (3 credits)
• DMIN 980 — Monasticism and Contemplative Community (3 credits)

Admission Requirements

• Master of Divinity or equivalent theological master's degree
• Minimum of 3-5 years of significant ministry experience
• Current position in ministry with spiritual formation responsibilities or interests
• Demonstrated commitment to personal spiritual formation and contemplative practice
• Two professional references from ministry colleagues or spiritual mentors
• Personal statement outlining spiritual formation journey and ministry project interests
• Evidence of spiritual maturity and capacity for reflective practice