Nov 19, 2024

ACADEMIC INNOVATION

Iliff’s New Curriculum Sets the Stage for Justice and Healing

As we look ahead to Fall 2025, Iliff School of Theology is excited to unveil a redesigned curriculum that builds on our commitment to justice, resilience, and advocating freedom. 

Our new Master of Arts (MA) and reenvisioned Master of Divinity (MDiv) programs are designed to meet the demands of today’s ever-changing world, equipping students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary for leadership and transformative action.

The red stone bricks of Iliff Hall peek from behind snow covered trees in this winter scene.

Iliff Hall

Photograph by Dr. Eric Smith

Why These Changes?

Theological education is constantly evolving, and Iliff has always been at the forefront of these transformations. Our redesigned curriculum responds to broader shifts in higher education, accreditation standards, and the pressing need for leaders capable of addressing social justice, trauma, and community healing in increasingly diverse contexts. By streamlining our MA and MDiv degrees and focusing on high-impact concentrations, we are setting a bold new direction for progressive theological education.

Key Features of the New Curriculum

Concentrations with Impact

The new curriculum is framed by concentrations that speak to contemporary challenges:

  • Social Justice and Ethics
  • Embodied Spirituality
  • Religion, Trauma, and Healing
  • Professional Ministries in Context (MDiv only)

These concentrations reflect Iliff’s commitment to educating leaders who can think critically, engage compassionately, and act effectively across a range of professions and communities.

Flexible and Streamlined

With fewer credit hours (36 for the MA, 72 for the MDiv), students can complete their degrees efficiently while still gaining deep, interdisciplinary knowledge.

Hands-On Learning:

Engage with vocational residencies, community-based projects, and real-world experiences that prepare you to act as a leader in today’s complex social landscape.

Doctoral Programs

In addition to our master’s programs, Iliff offers two dynamic doctoral degrees:

Doctor of Ministry

The DMin program equips experienced professionals to enhance their leadership skills and engage in transformative, justice-oriented research. It offers a flexible hybrid model combining online learning and on-campus intensives, culminating in a final project that applies new insights to real-world contexts.

Joint Doctoral Program (JDP)

Offered in partnership with the University of Denver, the JDP is an interdisciplinary PhD program preparing students for careers in academia, research, and leadership. It provides an immersive residential experience focusing on theory, pedagogy, and lived religion.

A wintery picture of DU Campus, with snow on the ground and a ray of light illuminating the brick building.

Mary Reed Tower on DU Campus

Photograph published on DU Alumni’s X

Why Now?

We recognize that the world is facing increasing challenges, and leaders must be prepared not only with knowledge but with the resilience and skills to enact change. This curriculum is designed to provide you with both the critical thinking and practical experience necessary to address injustice, support healing, and build inclusive communities.

Call to Action

As we approach Fall 2025, learn more about how Iliff’s new curriculum can help you become a leader for justice and healing. Contact Enrollment to learn more!

If your are an Iliff alum, consider whether you know someone who might connect with one of these programs.

Stay tuned for deeper dives into each of our innovative concentrations.

Upcoming Events

Connect With Us

Our enrollment team is eager to connect with you, whether you’re a prospective student or an alumni. Discover how you can engage through events and programs that inspire growth and purpose. Let’s embark on this journey together!

Contact Enrollment today!

Ways to Support

Your support can transform lives and uplift communities. Join us in our mission to create positive change and inspire hope. Together, we can make a lasting impact and build a brighter future for all. Your contributions matter and every effort counts.

Upcoming Events

Iliff’s Impactful Presence at AAR

Explore the dynamic contributions of Iliff community members at this year’s American Academy of Religion conference, where innovative ideas and groundbreaking research take center stage.

“We Advocate Freedom!” Teach-In: Session 6 | Dec. 4

Don’t miss the final session of the “We Advocate Freedom!” Teach-In Series, hosted by Iliff President Dr. Lee H. Butler, Jr., as we welcome Rabbi Joe Black for an insightful interview on Freedom is a Constant Struggle: Ferguson, Palestine, and the Foundations of a Movement by Angela Davis. This book bridges global struggles for justice, drawing us into an essential dialogue on freedom, solidarity, and resilience.

Holiday Hymn Sing | Dec. 13

Join us for a heartwarming evening of hymns, accompanied by the majestic sound of the Iliff Chapel organ. Gather with friends and family to experience the spirit of the season. This free event is open to all ages. Bring your loved ones and let the music fill your heart with joy.

Ways to Support Iliff

Every gift you make to Iliff makes a difference and creates opportunities for graduate students pursuing excellence in theological or religious studies, justice and peace, and social change – and supports the faculty who lead them.