McMurry and SMU Perkins Launch New Master of Divinity Pathway
For McMurry University students called to ministry, the journey to serving the church just became clearer and shorter.
Through a new partnership with Southern Methodist University’s Perkins School of Theology, qualifying McMurry students can now begin work on a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree during their senior year. Graduate coursework completed at Perkins may simultaneously count toward McMurry bachelor’s degree requirements, creating a streamlined pathway grounded in shared Methodist tradition and academic excellence.
Under the agreement, students may transfer up to 15 credit hours of Perkins graduate coursework back to McMurry. In many cases, this allows students to complete both degrees up to one year sooner than through the traditional route.
Students admitted to the program will also receive at least a 50% reduction in Perkins graduate tuition, provided they maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in their graduate coursework, significantly lowering the financial barrier to theological education.
“This partnership opens doors for our students to pursue a respected and rigorous graduate theological education while completing their undergraduate degrees,” said Dr. Cindy Martin, vice president of academic affairs at McMurry University. “We are grateful to collaborate with an institution whose mission aligns so closely with our own commitment to preparing students for lives of leadership, service, and ministry.”
Dr. Cindy Martin Vice President of Academic Affairs, McMurry UniversityMcMurry and SMU share longstanding roots in the Methodist tradition, with a common commitment to preparing leaders who serve with integrity, compassion, and faith. The new pathway strengthens that relationship while expanding opportunities for students discerning a call to ministry.
The agreement will remain in effect for three years, with opportunities for renewal as both institutions continue to expand access to high-quality theological education.
“This extension and expansion of our relationship with McMurry University is an exciting and forward-thinking venture that will enable students to complete a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in a shorter period of time with tremendous financial savings,” said Dr. Bryan Stone, dean of Perkins School of Theology. “This agreement embodies our shared United Methodist heritage and our dedication to educating the next generation of Christian ministers who will serve the church and the world in new ways that we can scarcely begin to imagine.”
The agreement will remain in effect for three years, with opportunities for renewal as both institutions continue to expand access to high-quality theological education.
Dr. Bryan Stone Dean of Perkins School of TheologyStreamlined Pathway
- Begin M.Div. coursework during senior year
- Graduate coursework may count toward McMurry bachelor’s requirements
- Complete both degrees up to one year sooner in many cases
Shared Mission
- Grounded in shared Methodist tradition
- Designed for students discerning a call to ministry
- Supports leadership, service, and faith formation