Garrett-Evangelical News

Master of Theological Studies

The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) is a two-year degree program that focuses on research and study in an area of theological scholarship and provides preparation for doctoral study in religion. Students specialize in an area of academic research. Graduates are prepared for PhD study, scholarship in theological disciplines, service to the church, and careers of service.

Admission

Admission Requirements:

  • Graduation from an accredited college or university;
  • A grade point average of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
  • Proficiency in the English language. Applicants for whom English is not their first language will be required to give evidence of such competence (demonstrated by a TOEFL score).

 

A completed application consists of:

  • Application Form
  • Personal Statement
  • 3 letters of reference
  • Transcripts from all institutions attended
  • $75 application fee
  • Interview with program director
  • Background check (conducted by the seminary, may take up to two weeks to complete)
  • Additional financial and church documents are required of international students in order to satisfy internal and federal requirements.


Applications will be reviewed upon completion.  The admissions committee reserves the right to determine, in its sole judgment, whether an applicant is a suitable candidate for a specific degree program or for the vocation that the program represents.  Applications are accepted on an ongoing, rolling-admission basis and are due six weeks before date of entry for domestic students. International applications are due March 1st.

Graduation

Master Theological Studies Degree - 56 semester hours
MTS Degree Grid

Designated Field Courses -  Semester 26 Hrs                                 

Bible                                                                                     
8 Hrs
Church History                                                                                     
6 Hrs
Theology & Ethics 6 Hrs
Theory & Practice of Ministry                                                               
6 Hrs

 

Specialization Courses - Semester 15 Hrs
Specialization Courses                                                                         
15 Hrs

 
Colloquium and Thesis - 9 Semester Hrs
A thesis or project is required which reflects the academic specialization and the vocational goals of the student. The topic for the project is approved by the faculty advisor in the field of specialization at the time of the evaluation conference. Six semester hours of credit are granted for the thesis and three semester hours for the MTS colloquium.

Open Electives - 6 Semester Hrs

Continuing Evaluations
In consultation with advisors, students develop, update, and review a portfolio that cumulatively expresses student development through the curriculum. It includes a variety of materials (e.g., written course materials, external evaluations, field education reports, interviews, examinations) appropriate to expected degree learning outcomes.

Dual Program

MDiv and MTS
Use your MTS as a specialization within the larger MDiv program.

To learn more about the MDiv degree, click here.

Concentrations

MTS Concentrations
Every MTS must declare a concentration. Currently the MTS offers six areas for study.

  • Old Testament
  • New Testament
  • History of Christianity
  • Theology and Ethics
  • Liturgy
  • Religion and Personality

 

Plus Program

Plus Program
Continue professional development by taking part of the plus program.  This program partners with Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management to provide a wholistic approach to leadership education.

To learn more about the opportunities for the Plus Program, click here.



UMC Logo Garrett-Evangelical, a seminary related to
The United Methodist Church, welcomes
students from a wide range of faith traditions.