MASTER OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES (MTS)

The Master of Theological Studies degree requires a total of 14 courses (42 units). Up to 21 units may be transferred from other appropriately accredited schools, and nine units may come from documented experiential learning.

The requirements for the degree are:

1. BI501 Biblical Interpretation
2. Two additional courses in biblical studies
3. Two church history courses
4. CM501 Foundations of Christian Ministry (formally Pastoral Leadership)
5. TH501 Nature of God and Jesus Christ
6. TH502 Jesus Christ, the Nature of Humans and Salvation
7. TH503 The Holy Spirit, the Church, and Last Things
8. Two additional theology courses
9. Two additional courses in any subject area
10. TH519 Theological Thesis, which requires a summative exam as a prerequisite and requires a capstone project.
11. Grade point average of 2.7 or higher.

Program Goal:

In the Master of Theological Studies degree, we seek to help students attain a solid theological foundation for personal reflection, to clarify the underpinnings of work within the church, or to be an entry point for further study in the academy.

Program Outcomes:

1. Students who complete the MTS requirements will be able to interpret the biblical text, and will be able to describe the biblical text as a historical document and an inspired and authoritative guide for Christian life and ministry.
2. Students will be able to think theologically, to analyze differences between various Christian traditions, and to synthesize central themes of the nature of God and Christian proclamation of the word of God.
3. Students will gain a broad perspective on acts of the Holy Spirit in the developing church since the first century to the modern era.
4. Students will be able to conduct theological research and develop an argument in favor of a theological position, using generally accepted academic conventions.
5. Students will develop the capacity for critical reflection on the implications of incarnational faith for Christian character, ministry, and social responsibility.

See our Academic Catalog for more details.