Master of Theology – ThM

The Master of Theology degree program or ThM is designed for persons already holding an MDiv degree or its equivalent who wish to deepen their mastery in one area or discipline of theological study through reflection, research, and writing for the service of the Church.

Columbia Theological Seminary’s ThM program provides the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors in a common area of research interest. Full-time students pursue one year of study that includes coursework in relevant curricular areas; a seminar in research methods; work with a faculty mentor; a publishable research thesis project; and the opportunity to apply and serve as a research or teaching assistant.

Students pursue a one-year course of full-time study that includes:

Coursework in relevant areas
A seminar in research methods
Close work with faculty
Production of a publishable research project
By application to the faculty, the opportunity to serve as a research or teaching assistant

Thesis Preparation

5 COURSES · 15 CREDITS

SUMMER INTENSIVE

One-week Research Seminar (3 credits)

FALL TERM

Thesis research (3 credits)
Literature Review (3 credits)

SPRING TERM

Thesis writing (3 credits)
ThM colloquium (3 credits)

Area of Specialization

15 CREDITS

Columbia’s ThM program allows students to work closely with faculty mentors in research of mutual interest.

FALL TERM

2 electives (6 credits)

JANUARY TERM

1 elective (3 credits)

SPRING TERM

2 elective (6 credits)

TOTAL: 30 CREDITS

Our Master of Theology degree program empowers each student to focus on an independent research project with the close mentorship of a faculty advisor.  It is exciting to welcome motivated students from around the world, and to walk with them as they sharpen their questions, pursue research with the support of our excellent library staff, and discover new insights to offer the church.

Admission to the Master of Theology Program

Persons seeking admission to the Master of Theology program may obtain an application from the CTS web site. To be considered for admission, prospective students are required to:

• Have completed the MDiv degree, or its academic equivalent, at an accredited seminary or divinity school. In certain cases, a Master of Arts or a Master of Theological Studies degree in the appropriate area may be accepted as a substitute, but additional preparatory work may be required; ordinarily, a B average in an applicant’s college and seminary program is considered a minimum standard for admission. Applicants shall have official transcripts of all work since high school sent directly from the institution;
• Have a knowledge of both the Hebrew and Greek languages if they seek to do their ThM in biblical studies;
• Submit three references (on reference forms provided by Columbia): two academic references from seminary or other graduate school professors and one character reference from a person who is familiar with the applicant’s ministry or professional ministry;
• A scholarly writing sample may be requested in addition to the application;
• Submit the application for the ThM degree by February 15 for the following academic year;
• Indicate to the admission office within two weeks after receiving notification of admission whether or not they will accept admission; and
• Begin their course of study only in the fall semester.

All ThM applicants for whom English is not their first language must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the TOEFL score must be from a test date that is two years or less from the date of application to Columbia Theological Seminary. A minimum score of 575 (paper-based test) or 86 (internet-based test) is required, with the following minimum scores required in these areas: Reading 22; Listening 20; Speaking 20; and Writing 24.  All test fees are the responsibility of the applicant.

You may also contact the Director of the ThM degree program, Dr. Mark Douglas by email DouglasM@CTSnet.edu or by phone 404-687-4650.