 What degree programs are available at Brite?
For those with an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university and who meet the requirements for admission, Brite offers the Master of Divinity degree, the Master of Theological Studies degree, and the Master of Arts in Christian Service degree as well as the Certificate in Theological Studies.
For those who have earned at least a first graduate degree in theology, Brite offers the Master of Theology degree, the Doctor of Ministry degree, and the Doctor of Philosophy degree.
In addition to the six degree programs, Brite offers opportunity for non-degree students to take courses that may be required for ordination in their denomination or to explore an area of intellectual or professional interest.
What are the requirements for admission to Brite?
Admission requirements for each of the six degree programs are described in detail in the current Brite catalog. Those applying for admission to the M.Div., M.T.S., and M.A.C.S. programs must give evidence of completing an undergraduate degree from a fully accredited college or university and have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 and a GPA of at least 3.0 in courses taken at the junior, senior, and graduate level.
What is the denominational affiliation of Brite?
Brite is a recognized seminary of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). In addition, Brite is an approved by the University Senate of the United Methodist Church, is in relationship with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, and through the Presbyterian Studies Program offers courses and provides support for those seeking ordination in that tradition.
During any given semester, between twenty-five and thirty different denominations are represented in the Brite student body. The Brite faculty is composed of scholars from a variety of Protestant denominations as well as from the Roman Catholic Church and the Jewish tradition. Visiting scholars further enhance this commitment to religious diversity.
What is Brite's policy regarding admission of gay and lesbian students?
Brite welcomes applications from all those who meet the admission requirements as set forth in the Brite Catalog and does not discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation. If admitted, Brite seeks to extend to gay and lesbian students the same climate of hospitality that it offers to all who are a part of the seminary community.
How do I apply for admission to Brite?
An application for admission may be obtained by contacting the Office of Admissions or by going to the electronic application for a specific degree program that is available on the Brite web site . Please note that in addition to the application, applicants are required to submit official transcripts of all college, university, graduate, and professional courses, reference forms, and an essay. There is a $50.00 charge for applying for admission to Brite Masters' programs and a $75 application for doctoral programs.
D.Min application deadline is July 15th for the Fall term and October 1 for the Spring.
Ph.D. applications are due January 15th.
Th.M applications are due October 1st for Spring Term consideration and January 15th for the Fall.
What about the criminal background check?
For those granted provisional admission to Brite, the next step is for the applicant to grant permission for the Divinity School to conduct a criminal background check and to pay the required $20.00 fee. If the background check reveals no information that would compromise the applicant's participation in the life of the seminary, the provisional status is removed and the applicant receives an offer of admission and financial aid. Should the background check raise questions, however, the applicant will be contacted by the Dean who will arrange for a private meeting with a screening committee composed of Brite faculty and staff. In every instance, this process follows the highest standards of confidentiality.
Are there deadlines for applying for admission to Brite?
Yes. The deadlines are established in order to give the members of the admissions committee sufficient time to read carefully each application before the committee meets as a whole. In order for an applicant to be given every opportunity for financial aid and student housing, we recommend that an application be completed at least five months in advance of the anticipated date of matriculation. If this is not possible, however, please do not hesitate to apply at a later date.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. All of those admitted in good standing to one of the first Masters program at Brite and who can demonstrate financial need are considered for a tuition grant. Those applicants with strong academic records and who show exceptional promise for ministry may be considered for awards that include full-tuition and, in some cases, an annual stipend.
What about student loans?
Students enrolled on a full-time basis are eligible for Stafford Loans. These are administered through the TCU Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid at (817) 257-7858).
What about student employment?
Most students enrolled at Brite work on at least a part-time basis. Some work in churches or other religious institutions; others have secular positions. Information about church-related employment may be secured from Brite's Office of Field Education and Supervised Ministry.
Is student housing available?
Yes. Leibrock Village, which opened in January 2001, provides fifty-six one and two bedroom apartments and is located less than a ten-minute walk from campus. The apartments are unfurnished, but all come equipped with major appliances, cable television service, and a T-1 internet connection. For more information about Leibrock Village, please click here (link). |
