Anderson University is launching a blended bachelor of arts and master of divinity program that will allow students to save one to two years off the normal time required to earn both degrees.

The school plans to begin offering the program in the fall of this year, pending accreditation approval.

The master of divinity is the standard theological degree offered by most seminaries and divinity schools in the U.S. It is typically a three-year program, which follows four years of undergraduate study.

Michael Duduit, dean of AU’s College of Christian Studies, said the new blended program will allow a “strong student” to apply 30 hours of his or her undergraduate biblical, theological and ministry courses toward the M.Div. program. “This will leave them with just 45 [additional] hours needed to complete the second degree, saving students time and money in preparing for ministry,” Duduit said.

The university’s board of trust approved the “advanced standing” M.Div. at its Feb. 21 meeting. The program awaits final approval from the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

In addition to the blended B.A./M.Div., the College of Christian Studies will also offer a traditional 75-hour M.Div. degree for persons who already have an undergraduate degree. AU will also continue to offer the 42-hour master of ministry degree, an accelerated program designed for persons who are already employed and need a streamlined graduate ministry degree.

AU’s College of Christian Studies offers traditional undergraduate degrees — including concentrations in youth ministry, pastoral ministry, missions, preaching and biblical studies — and a doctor of ministry degree.

For additional information, email ministry@auministry.com or call 864-328-1809.