Experiential Integration (EI) is a non-credit component required for all Master’s level programs at Briercrest College and Seminary. EI is designed to take the knowledge, attitudes, and skills acquired in curricular studies and incorporate what students have learned into a practical ministry or work context. Each M.A. degree has a unique Experiential Integration component and separate syllabi are offered for each. Typically, the EI requirement involves 150-250 hours of some kind of supervised ministry or program-related work. Though EI is non-credit, there is a one-time fee of $150 for processing, registration, and supervision.
Prerequisite(s): Completion of a minimum of 30 credit hours of the program and permission of the program coordinator. Each program may have additional prerequisites, so students should consult the specific EI syllabus for their program.
RD 701 Research Methods and Design (3)
This course provides intermediate instruction in doing biblical/theological, ministry, and professional research as a life-long learner. Students will learn to select and narrow a research topic, identify and review the relevant literature, design a research methodology, more effectively utilize library resources, collect and organize data, and sharpen their writing, while preparing a proposal for a Specialty Research Project (SRP), thesis, or independent research project under the guidance of a degree related faculty member. The course is required by all degree students and must be completed in the first half of their program.
RD 704 MDiv Experiential Integration (0)
MDiv students are required to complete four months of full-time mentored Experiential Integration (EI). Students should carefully plan for their Experiential Integration requirements with the faculty supervisor. EI is generally four to twelve months in duration, depending upon the number of hours per week students are able to devote to the ministry. The minimum requirement is four months (17 weeks) full-time and a minimum of 680 hours. Some students choose to complete EI over a longer period while working or studying part-time. Though EI is non-credit, there is a one-time fee of $150 for processing, registration, and supervision.
Prerequisite(s): Completion of a minimum of 60 credit hours of the program, including CM 600 Spiritual Formation for Ministry and CM 601 Philosophy and Foundation of Ministry. Individual MDiv tracks may also have additional specific prerequisites.
RD 808 Thesis (9)
In this course, students produce a scholarly work on an approved subject, which gives evidence of their ability to do independent research and think creatively. The thesis must meet the expectations of a faculty thesis committee. Students must obtain a 3.5 GPA in previous course work in order to receive approval to write a thesis.
RD 809 Specialty Research Project (SRP) (3)
This course consists of an advanced study of an issue or topic that is significant in light of the student’s anticipated ministry/vocation and his/her major of study.
