Applications open for Perkins Spanish M.Div. program 

DALLAS (SMU) – Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University (SMU) is accepting applications for the next cohort of its Spanish-language Master of Divinity (M.Div.) program. The priority deadline to apply is July 1.

Launched in fall 2024, the Spanish M.Div. is a cohort-based program designed to equip Spanish-speaking Christian leaders with rigorous theological education delivered fully in students’ preferred language. The curriculum mirrors Perkins’ Master of Divinity degree and is structured to support pastors and church leaders who are actively serving in ministry.

 “Perkins is committed to making theological education accessible financially, vocationally and, in this case, linguistically,” said Bryan P. Stone, Leighton K. Farrell Endowed Dean of Perkins School of Theology. “The Spanish M.Div. strengthens our mission by expanding access to theological education while equipping and supporting the flourishing of Spanish-speaking congregations.”

The Spanish M.Div. builds on Perkins’ longstanding investment in Hispanic theological education, including the historical Mexican American Program and the publication of Apuntes, one of the oldest Hispanic theological journals in the United States. The program utilizes a cohort model designed to foster strong community. 

“This program reflects Perkins’ deep relationships within Hispanic and Latino ministry contexts,” said associate dean for academic affairs and the Centro de Acompañamiento, Solidaridad y Adiestramiento (CASA) director, Hugo Magallanes, who helped lead the program’s development. “Our students are already serving their communities, and this degree provides theological depth while honoring their language, culture and calling.”

Students in the Spanish M.Div. program complete two courses per semester along with January and summer intensives in a four-year format tailored for full-time ministry leaders and lay persons. The upcoming cohort will mark the second group of students in the program, with a goal of enrolling 12–14 students to ensure meaningful peer learning and formation.

Prospective students who are currently serving in ministry, discerning a call to pastoral leadership or seeking advanced theological education in Spanish are encouraged to apply.

Find more information about the Spanish M.Div. and application details here.

Priority application deadline: July 1

Perkins School of Theology, founded in 1911, is one of five official University-related schools of theology of The United Methodist Church. Degree programs include the Master of Divinity, Master of Sacred Music, Master of Theological Studies, Master of Arts in Ministry, Master of Theology, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Pastoral Music as well as the Ph.D., in cooperation with The Graduate Program in Religious Studies at SMU's Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences.