The Experiential Education & Field Studies program, led by director Julian DeShazier integrates critical academic instruction with meaningful experiences in public ministry. We offer these experiences in partnership with churches and agencies across Chicagoland - and sometimes much farther away - in order to facilitate the most robust learning environment possible. 

Serving as a junction point between academics, ministry experience, and life in the city, our office offers a wide range of opportunities for learning beyond the classroom. Let’s say a student takes a course in the Hebrew Bible and now wants to learn more from a rabbi, or is discerning a call to work with the homeless and wants to experience organizations doing that work: we are here to help make those connections throughout their seminary journey, and students can engage with us at anytime. We also host regular events that bring together students and ministry field experts to share wisdom and build relationships. 

FIELD STUDIES (AT A GLANCE)

The Field Studies program is how most students will engage in experiential education while at McCormick. Students in the Master of Divinity (MDIV) and Master of Arts in Ministry (MAM) are required to complete one (1) academic year (Fall and Spring semesters, consecutively) of ministry practice under supervision at an approved church or agency, in conjunction with classes MIN-404/405 Reflection on the Practice of Ministry. Transfer or equivalency credit from another accredited academic institution will also be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Persons currently engaged in full-time Christian ministry will enroll in MIN-404/405 Reflection on the Practice of Ministry and be assigned a mentoring pastor for reflection, guidance, and evaluation. 

A meaningful Field Studies experience will combine spiritual, academic, personal, and professional formation while simultaneously developing and refining the art of public ministry. 

For a more detailed look at the field studies program and a timeline for students, click here.

APPLYING FOR FIELD STUDIES

Students who are in good standing begin field studies upon the completion of seven (7) courses and completion of the Healthy Boundaries requirement (although we can begin the placement process at anytime!). Contact Rev. DeShazier via email to begin the field studies process. We begin with a meeting to discuss vocation and placement needs, and we hope to complete placements for the upcoming Fall by the end of April.

BECOMING A FIELD SITE

We welcome the chance to partner with churches and agencies that are ready and willing to go alongside students for an entire year. We especially encourage MTS alum to consider partnering with our office. Some of our expectations of potential field sites are as follows:

• have a commitment to theological education and the formation of leaders.

• offer a context that engages students in diverse experiences of ministry.

• offer 12-15 hours/week of meaningful site experience.

• commit to weekly supervisory meetings with students (preference for supervisors with theological training)

• provide a site mentor who will journey with the student and can commit to weekly opportunities for theological reflection with the student.

• offer members/staff available to the student to provide multiple perspectives on the organization.

• be flexible, dependable, and passionate about teaching and learning!

If this sounds like an opportunity for your organization, please reach out directly to Rev. DeShazier. We look forward to hearing from you!

CONTACT:

Julian DeShazier
Director of Experiential Education
jdeshazier@mccormick.edu