Theology, Th.M.

Purpose

The Master of Theology program is designed for students to fulfill one or more of three goals: enhancing the practice of ministry through advanced study of a particular theological or pastoral discipline, examining a specific aspect of the Christian religion/traditions or function of Christian ministry, and preparing for more advanced study at the doctoral level. Students may choose to focus within one of the following broad divisions:

1. The Biblical Witness.
2. The Heritage and Context of Christianity.
3. The Interpretation of the Christian Witness.
4. The Theology and Practice of Ministry.

Learning Outcomes

1. Students will be able to demonstrate advanced understanding of their stated area of focus.
2. Students will be able to identify and evaluate the primary methods of research in the stated area of focus.
3. Students will be able to formulate useful research questions and develop research strategies in the stated area of focus.

Requirements for Admission

1. The successful completion of an Association of Theological Schools-accredited degree at the master’s level requiring at least two years of full-time study or the equivalent credential from an institution outside the U.S. or Canada.
2. Academic ability, as shown by a minimum GPA of 3.000 (on a 4.000 scale) in a previous master’s-level program.

Requirements for Graduation

The Th.M. program requires 24 credit hours. As part of the program students must complete either a thesis or a portfolio as described under Course Requirements.

Th.M. candidates must maintain a B (3.000) GPA in order to continue in the program and graduate.

All requirements for the Th.M. degree must be completed within five calendar years from the time of initial registration.

Course Requirements

The Th.M. program requires 24 credit hours. Given the open nature of the inquiry that students in the Th.M. program will pursue, there are no explicitly required courses. The student will prepare a plan for study establishing the parameters of study for the degree program, including a specific area of focus and courses to be taken, to be approved before final enrollment. These courses will meet the following guidelines:

• All courses will be at the 7000 level or above.
• At least two courses will be at the 8000 level.
• One course may be a directed reading course. This course will require a minimum of one research paper of at least 5,000 words.

Th.M. candidates must maintain a B (3.000) GPA in order to continue in the program and graduate. Students may choose one of two options to fulfill the requirements of the program:

1. A thesis of 12,500 to 18,750 words (50–75 pages) on a topic related to the student’s plan of study. If the thesis option is chosen, an approved thesis proposal is required to proceed after the completion of 12 credit hours of coursework. Preparation of the thesis will count for three hours toward the completion of the degree.
2. A portfolio that includes written and other material submitted in fulfillment of the student’s course requirements. The material chosen must represent all the courses taken and cover all aspects of the approved plan for study. The portfolio must include at least two research papers of not less than 5,000 words (20 pages) each.