The degree is conferred when the following conditions are met:
1. Completion of 63 semester hours with a minimum 2.5 cumulative grade point average. The program includes a 48-hour core consisting of 15 hours of Bible, 17 hours of theology, and a 16-hour ministry leadership emphasis. An additional 15 hours are given to elective credits.
2. A minimum of 32 semester hours must be achieved at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary by transfer students.
3. Advanced standing credit is limited to 1/6 of the degree program requirements (10 hours).
4. Credits achieved by distance education are limited to a maximum of 1/6 of the degree program requirements (10 hours).
5. Evidence of personal commitment to Jesus Christ and a life pattern of moral character and conduct.
6. Completion of all assessments.
7. Participation in entrance, mid-point, and exit interviews.
8. Submission of all student learning portfolio requirements.
9. The meeting of all financial obligations.
10. Five years from matriculation are permitted to complete all degree requirements.
11. Participation in commencement.