Divinity School Launches First Doctoral Degree in AI and Moral Agency

Shaw University Divinity School, a historic HBCU institution, is launching the first doctoral degree in "AI and Moral Agency" accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. The program's first cohort begins in January 2025, preparing faith leaders to address the theological and ethical implications of artificial intelligence in ministry and society.

AI is no longer a future concern—it's reshaping how your congregation communicates, gives, makes decisions, and understands human purpose. Your members are already asking theological questions about AI: Does it have a soul? Can it be trusted with counseling? What does AI mean for human dignity? Having leaders trained to think theologically about these issues means your church can lead conversations instead of reacting to them. This program signals that seminaries are finally catching up to real-world pastoral needs.

Start hosting conversations with your team about how AI is already affecting your church operations and member discipleship, and consider learning resources that help your whole leadership think theologically about technology.