Overview

The Divinity and Social Work programme at Columbia University offers a unique dual-degree pathway that integrates spiritual and social contexts to address community well-being. This partnership between Union Theological Seminary and the Columbia University School of Social Work allows students to earn both an M.Div. and an M.S.S.W. through a streamlined curriculum. By exploring the entwined histories of community empowerment and social justice, the programme equips graduates to serve as effective leaders in complex social systems.

Why Divinity and Social Work at Columbia University?

This programme stands out for its focus on interlocking structures of oppression and the role of spirituality as a significant resource for health and recovery. Students benefit from the combined resources of two world-class institutions, gaining access to extensive libraries and a diverse network of practitioners. The curriculum is designed to foster a deep understanding of how religion and social work intersect in the lives of individuals and communities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 24500 per year
National fee: USD 24500 per year
Local fee: USD 24500 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires 105 credits and spans four to five years of intensive study. It combines foundational theological fields with rigorous social work methodologies and practical field education. Modules may include:

Bible and Sacred Text
Church History
Theology and Ethics
Practical Theology
Interreligious Engagement
Social Work Practice Lab
Integrative Field Education

Careers with Divinity and Social Work

Graduates are highly prepared for professional practice that merges clinical social work with spiritual care. The dual qualification opens diverse career paths in both religious and secular sectors.

The programme provides the necessary competencies for those seeking ordination or professional licensure in social work, ensuring graduates can serve in higher education, prisons, and healthcare facilities.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Foundational coursework in five fields of study: Bible/Sacred Text, Church History, Theology/ Ethics, Practical Theology, and Interreligious Engagement

Methodologies in social work frameworks and anti-oppressive approaches through a year-long Practice Lab

Integrative social work focused field education program

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-15 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

135

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IELTS

7.5

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Credits

105 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Social Work Theology and Religious Studies View 748 other Masters in Theology and Religious Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

135

Take A Free Practice Test!

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants are required to hold a four-year bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university and a record of high achievement. Prior study in the field of religion is not required, but strong preparation in liberal arts studies is expected.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

24500 USD / year

≈ 24500 USD / year
Out-of-State

24500 USD / year

≈ 24500 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

24500 USD / year

≈ 24500 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Divinity and Social Work.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Manhattan

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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