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Masters In Divinity Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Masters In Divinity information

See Kentucky salary details

$25.2K

$55.2K

$85.1K

How much do masters in divinity jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for masters in divinity in Kentucky is $55,227.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree?

A Master of Divinity (MDiv) is a professional graduate degree designed to prepare students for ordained ministry, chaplaincy, or other leadership roles within religious organizations. The program typically covers theology, biblical studies, pastoral care, ethics, and practical ministry skills. It is often required for those seeking ordination in many Christian denominations and usually takes three to four years to complete. Graduates may pursue careers as pastors, chaplains, counselors, educators, or nonprofit leaders.

What are common career paths for individuals with a Master of Divinity degree after graduation?

Graduates with a Master of Divinity (MDiv) often pursue careers such as pastoral leadership, chaplaincy in hospitals or the military, nonprofit or community outreach, and academic or teaching roles. Many MDiv holders serve as ministers or pastors within faith communities, while others work in counseling, spiritual care, or social justice advocacy. The degree also provides a strong foundation for those considering further study, such as doctoral programs or specialized certifications. Career advancement typically involves gaining experience, additional training, and developing leadership skills within one's chosen context.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Master of Divinity graduate?

To thrive as a Master of Divinity graduate, you need a solid grounding in theology, biblical studies, and pastoral care, usually evidenced by completion of an accredited M.Div. degree. Familiarity with tools such as biblical languages software, church management systems, and curriculum development resources is often required. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, and leadership skills help build community and provide effective spiritual guidance. These skills are essential for serving diverse congregations, fostering spiritual growth, and managing the practical aspects of ministry roles.

What is the difference between Masters In Divinity vs Pastoral Counselor?

AspectMasters In DivinityPastoral Counselor
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Divinity or TheologyMaster's degree in Counseling, Psychology, or Theology; often licensed
Work EnvironmentReligious institutions, seminaries, churchesHospitals, clinics, religious organizations, private practice
Industry UsageClergy, religious leadershipSpiritual guidance, mental health support

Masters In Divinity prepares individuals for religious leadership roles, focusing on theology and ministry. Pastoral Counselors combine spiritual guidance with mental health counseling, often requiring additional licensing. While both roles serve spiritual needs, Masters In Divinity graduates typically become clergy, whereas Pastoral Counselors focus on counseling within religious contexts.

Is a Masters in Divinity considered a professional degree?

A Masters in Divinity is generally regarded as a professional degree within religious and theological fields, preparing individuals for roles such as clergy or pastoral work. It is often required for ordination and may involve practical training and supervised ministry experience.

Is a master's in divinity worth it?

A master's in divinity prepares individuals for roles such as clergy, religious educators, or chaplains, often requiring strong communication and counseling skills. The degree can lead to employment in churches, religious organizations, or community services, but job prospects depend on location, experience, and specific denominational needs.

What do you do with a Masters In Divinity degree?

A Masters in Divinity prepares individuals for roles in religious leadership, such as pastors, ministers, or chaplains. Graduates often work in churches, faith-based organizations, or community service settings, utilizing skills in counseling, theology, and public speaking.

What jobs can I get with a master's in divinity?

A master's in divinity prepares individuals for roles such as clergy, pastoral counselor, chaplain, religious educator, or faith-based community organizer. These positions often require strong communication, counseling skills, and knowledge of religious texts, and may involve working in churches, hospitals, military settings, or educational institutions.

What are popular job titles related to Masters In Divinity jobs in Kentucky?

For Masters In Divinity jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Masters In Divinity jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Masters In Divinity jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Masters In Divinity jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Masters In Divinity job openings:

Infographic showing various Masters In Divinity job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,227 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Hospital Chaplain/On-Call/UKHC

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY

$23.25 - $39.10/hr

Full-time, Temporary

Posted 3 days ago

New


University Of Kentucky rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Job Title Hospital Chaplain/On-Call/UKHC Requisition Number DU10557 Department Name H4005:Office of Patient Experience Work Location Lexington, KY Salary Range $23.25 - 39.10 Type of Position Temporary Position Time Status On Call Required Education
Masters in Divinity or Masters in Theology
Required Related Experience
1 year
Required License/Registration/Certification
Board Certified or Eligible
Physical Requirements
This position requires the following: be indoors; stand walk or sit for extended periods of time; handle light-weight objects up to 20 pounds; communicate effectively through written, verbal and non-verbal mediums with individuals from various backgrounds; provide excellent patient care and customer service; maintain high levels of concentration and mental attention; and have strong critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making skills.
Shift
Days, evenings, nights, weekends and some holidays.
Job Summary
Provide direct patient care, make spiritual assessments, prioritize pastoral care needs, provide sacraments or make provisions for such and address interfaith needs. Prepare and provide services of worship, sensitive to the interfaith community. Utilize area religious leaders to meet spiritual needs of patients, families and staff.
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
General understanding of basic skills; knowledge and skills in maintaining records, general office work, interpersonal skills, and professional area within health care typically obtained through experience or a four year college degree. A minimum of one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) from an accredited center of the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education and association with a denominational body.
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No Preferred Education/Experience
Master's of Divinity and a minimum of one year experience in a clinical setting; one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education from an ACPE accredited training center; endorsement by a religious body as a chaplain and Board Certified or eligible for certification through the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC), National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC), or National Association of Jewish Chaplains (NAJC).
Deadline to Apply 08/18/2026 Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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About University of Kentucky

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The University of Kentucky (UK), the state's flagship university, was founded in 1865 and its beautiful, sprawling campus, nestled in downtown Lexington, now covers over 900 acres and is home to more than 30,000 students and approximately 13,500 employees. The trees and beautifully manicured greenspaces are a source of pride for the university and combine to create an impressive oasis amidst the busy cityscape that surrounds it.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, KY, US

Year founded

1865