Master of Theology Degree (ThM)
The master of theology degree (ThM) is a one-year program of study beyond the master of divinity.
Aims of the Program
The ThM is designed for students who wish to deepen their knowledge in a particular area of study in order to enhance their vocation or ministry. The program is an intensive one-year course of study that focuses on one area of interest. It is not designed as a pre-PhD program. Typically ThM students focus on one of the following courses of study: Bible, preaching and worship, pastoral care, theology and ethics, or religious education. The ThM is intended both for international students who wish to broaden their education through the experience of studying abroad and for domestic students who wish to gain greater expertise in an area of ministry or study.
Degree Requirements
Each candidate's program of study is arranged in consultation with the director of advanced studies who serves as the academic adviser for ThM students. Two regular semesters of study (twenty-four credit hours) are required. Up to six hours may be earned for clinical or internship work. A minimum of twelve credit hours should be taken at the post-MDiv level, including the required ThM seminar. Credit hours may be earned from regular courses or directed study. Students must earn a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0. Normally a one-year program, the degree must be completed within a two-year period.
Credit HoursIn fulfilling the twenty-four credit hours required to complete the ThM degree, students may not exceed the following limits: six credit hours for clinicals and internships, four credit hours for academic courses taken on an S/U basis, three hours for transfer credit (including A.T.A. cross-registration), and nine hours for directed study.
ThM Seminar and Major Research PaperIn consultation with the director and one other faculty member, the student must write a major research paper on work done in the student's area of concentration. This paper is part of the work of the ThM seminar and must be completed before the deadline in the academic calendar for the semester in which the student expects to graduate. The student will receive four credit hours at the post-MDiv level for the ThM seminar and paper.
Oral ExaminationA final oral examination, administered by the director of advanced studies and a faculty member from the student's area of concentration, is based on the major research paper.
Application for the DegreeDuring the semester before graduation, the candidate must make formal application for the ThM degree by the deadline stated in the academic calendar. Application for Degree forms are available from the Candler registrar.
AdmissionAdmission to the ThM program requires a bachelor of arts, bachelor of science, or an equivalent degree, and a master of divinity from a theology school accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (or an equivalent accrediting body outside the United States and Canada).
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