A research-centric, advanced degree offered nationally by seminaries, universities, and divinity schools, the typical Master of Theology (Th.M.) degree gives qualified entrants — on many occasions those already having earned a Master of Divinity or Master of Theological Studies — the opportunity to prepare for their religious-based, doctoral-level work. That research aspect is key to the Th.M. degree; while the typical Master of Divinity Degree educates students on the practices and themes necessary to properly lead a congregation as a minister, pastor or priest, the Master of Theology degree is for those interested in building their career through the academic study of religion.
Career Outlook & Salaries with This Degree
Despite at least one distinct difference, a Master of Theology degree is often confused for the Master of Divinity degree. While the two may have similar religious underpinnings, the major difference between these two graduate programs lies in the likely career path for its graduates. Students seeking Mater of Theology degrees, in many cases, have already earned completed a Master of Divinity program of study, and approach the degree with due to a need for continuing study and research experience.
Job Responsibilities with This Degree
While a Master of Divinity might be more applicable to pastors in the early stages of their career, senior pastors and those with the goal of full congregational leadership might benefit from obtaining a Th.M. degree. Graduates of such a program might also find themselves in position to serve as a college professor or missionary — expanding on the research component and educating future theological scholars in the process.
Course Requirements and Prerequisites for Earning This Degree
The general expectation for most Th.M. program is that candidates will already hold some sort of theological degree from an accredited theological institution. A Master or Bachelor of Divinity degree, Master of Theological Studies degree, or comparable degree, are among those widely accepted. A language component is also common — including the study of Greek, Hebrew, or other biblical languages — during the program of study. Other coursework often focuses on biblical studies, history of the church, and practical application of theology.
Online Master of Theology Degree Programs
The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree involves the study of Christian theology. This degree is the first professional degree of the pastoral profession in the United States. Holders of this degree are typically prepared for pastorship, priesthood, or professional ministry. Studies include Scripture studies, pastoral theology, Hebrew, liturgical studies, canon law, philosophy, and more. Below is a list of the most popular online colleges offering an M.Div. or related degree.
MDiv
MDiv: Biblical Studies
MDiv: Chaplaincy
MDiv: Church Ministries
MDiv: Leadership
MDiv: Missional Studies
MDiv: Pastoral Counseling
MDiv: Theology
Master of Sacred Theology
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Liberty University offers online theological Masters degrees in Christian Leadership, Discipleship Ministries, Evangelism & Church Planting, Intercultural Studies, Marketplace Chaplaincy, Pastoral Counseling, Worship Studies, and Theological Studies. There is also a Master of Arts in Religion (MAR), a Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Religious Education (MRE), and Master of Sacred Theology. Programs are well suited for pastors, Christian educators, small group leaders, evangelical leaders, and even Christian musicians. In fact, the M.Div. in Worship Studies has a faculty of top Christian leaders in worship music, song writing and arranging. Another unique MA is in Pastoral Counseling, in which students learn biblical counseling principles and strategies they can apply to help people in churches, rescue missions and shelters.
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MA: Christian Studies
MA: Christian Leadership
MA: Pastoral Ministry
MA: Urban Ministry
MA: Youth Ministry
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Grand Canyon University is among the top online education programs according to the Online Education Database. Students in the Masters of Arts in Christian Studies program can choose an emphasis in Christian Leadership, Pastoral Ministry, Urban Ministry, and Youth Ministry, all online. The Christian Leadership emphasis prepares religious, professional and secular leaders in biblical and theological knowledge and its application in leadership settings. Pastoral Ministry students has some of the same courses, like Old Testament Foundations, but specializes in mentoring, the work of the pastor, and sermon preparation. Urban Ministry includes a course titled "Issues in Urban Ministry," but is otherwise similar to Pastoral Ministry, and Youth Ministry includes courses on Youth Issues and Crisis, and Mentoring and Counseling Youth.
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MA: Spiritual Leadership
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Spring Arbor University's MA in spiritual formation and leadership combines the principles of "Christian spiritual formation and growth" with "evangelical perspective on discipleship." Students need not be pastors or ministers, but simply those looking to promote their own abilities to spiritually lead others in faith and practice. Students will strive to develop the communication, skills, and values needed to carry out duties of leadership positions.
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MA: Ministry
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The MA in ministry program from Hope International University prepares students looking for training in a second career by providing the means to be become more effective leaders in their local church or para-church organization. Students experience a combination of biblical development, professional development, and personal development courses that equip them with a solid foundation for Christian leadership. Classes are offered both on campus and online for convenience.
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MA: Pastoral Care
MA: Religious Education
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The MA in Pastoral Care at Fordham University combines the studies of theology and psychology to increase the effectiveness of pastoral ministry. This comprehensive program looks at philosophy, theology, history, sociology and culture to help inform future ministers of how best to serve their communities. The MA in Religious Education focuses on Youth and Young Adult Ministry and encourages strong values and improvement of human interaction and communication skills.
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MA: Religion
MA: Christian Ministry
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Graceland University's MA in Religion program is mostly online, but requires one three-week residential session. The Curriculum includes Christian Theology, Hebrew Scriptures, New Testament, Survey of the History of Christian Thought as well as three to four electives and is meant to give students a strong foundation for Christian ministry or doctoral study. The MA in Christian Ministry is more devoted towards teaching students practical ministerial skills in pastoral care, worship leadership and preaching.
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Liberty University: Master of Arts in Theological Studies