Field Education provides an opportunity for students to discern their vocational identity through contextual learning.
Two units of field education─either through full-time summer terms of 10 weeks or part-time academic terms (10-15 hours per week) of 30 weeks─are required for graduation in the Master of Divinity degree program.
Students may initiate placements themselves under the guidelines of the Divinity School Office of Field Education or seek placement by that office.
Notes from the Field
Read reflections from Baptist House students on their field education placements:
“Clearly, Rob serves not only as my supervisor, but as a mentor as well. He works with me in ministry practices such as preaching, hospital or home visitation, leading alongside lay leaders, and worship planning; however, Rob makes sure that he offers guidance on life as a pastor, and not just the office of pastor. He makes sure to share with me his life experiences (with much discretion) so that I can learn from his mistakes and wise decisions regarding balancing family, friends and ministry. He has helped me shape my ministry especially regarding time management so that I adequately attend to my reading and prayer life. I am thankful to have someone helping me form habits now that will strengthen my service to the church, as well as my personal commitments. It has been especially helpful to learn from a pastor in the denomination with which I am affiliated. I am truly thankful for this opportunity.”
—
Heather Folliard, M.Div. 2010
Hillsong Church, Chapel Hill, N.C.
“It has been marvelous, but these three weeks have also challenged me in ways I did not want to be challenged but am happy I have been. … One thing I can say and foresee for this summer is a change in confidence. I know that my confidence is being challenged and strengthened. I don't feel comfortable doing a lot of things, but this church is stretching me. My comfort level is being raised and my dependence on myself and my abilities is diminishing. God is helping me to function and operate in this church. He is pulling me through, and I cannot wait to see where He will take me by the end of my season at Mt. Level Baptist Church.”
—
Tomi Oredein , M.Div. 2010
Mt. Level Baptist Church Durham, N.C.
“My supervisors encourage me to think for myself and try new things, and they support and guide me in my questions and concerns that pertain to the tough work of ministry and theological thought. I am not a subordinate to either of them; they see me, I believe, as a partner in ministry, welcoming my perspective regularly.”
—
A.J. Walton , M.Div. 2011
Greystone Baptist Church, Raleigh, N.C.
“This summer I had the amazing experience of working with and under the leadership of Prince Rainey Rivers at United Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Rivers is wise beyond his years and yet not afraid to open up and answer questions that I might have. Pastor Rivers has shown me firsthand what being a young pastor with a young family is all about. He has given me the inspiration and leadership necessary for me to understand what is going to be required of me once I begin working full time as a minister.”
— Lyle Pointer , M.Div. 2009
United Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church, Winston-Salem, N.C.
