Advanced Master of Theology Degree - Princeton Theological Seminary

Master of Theology

Build on your MDiv, MTS, or other approved theological degrees and engage deeply with your faith. The Master of Theology (ThM) is an advanced degree that gives you insights into a focused area of study and lays a strong foundation for future doctoral studies or a lifetime of spiritual learning and practice.

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At a Glance

Application Deadlines

January 15 – Final deadline – All Masters-level international and exchange applicants (excluding MAT program)

Priority deadline for top scholarship consideration for MDiv, MACEF, MTS, and Dual MDiv/MACEF applicants who are U.S. citizens, DACA students, or permanent residents of the U.S.

April 15 – Final deadline – US citizens and residents

Length

1 Year
Format

On Campus

Is the Master of Theology for Me?

Do you:

  • Already have an MDiv, MTS, or other theological graduate degree?
  • Want to immerse yourself in a focused area of study?
  • Feel called to prepare for advanced research and scholarship?

Building on the foundation of your previous theological graduate work, the ThM degree program deepens your intellectual engagement with your chosen area of interest and sharpens your research and scholarship skills. Whether you plan to pursue a career in research, ministry, or another field, you develop advanced competency to support a lifetime of learning and service.

What You’ll Study

As a ThM student, focus your coursework on one of five specializations, creating a program of study in consultation with your faculty advisor. A faculty advisor may approve you to take classes in other areas, but your primary focus is on your chosen specialization. In general, introductory-level courses do not count toward the ThM degree.

What You’ll Do

Choosing a specialization to match your specific career goals, you may dive into topics such as Biblical theology and history of religion to pastoral care and traditions of Christian worship. In addition to your coursework, you have the option of completing a thesis with the approval and support of an advisor.

Throughout your experience, you encounter a variety of theological voices and perspectives on campus and in the community. Coursework emphasizes the development of your own individual spiritual life and goals while preparing you with the leadership skills and academic preparation you need to thrive.

ThM Program Details

Choose an area of study from five specializations:

  • Biblical Studies
  • Theology
  • History and Ecumenics
  • Practical Theology*
  • Religion and Society

*To specialize in Practical Theology, you must have an MDiv degree.

The ThM degree program requires you to complete 24 credits of courses in your chosen specialization, although you may be able to take courses in other topics with your advisor’s approval. You may also fulfill three or six credits with an optional thesis.

Sample Courses

  • Reformed Theologies and Public Life
  • Pastoral Care and the Life Cycle
  • Holy Scripture and Modern Criticism
  • Philosophies of Practical Reason

To qualify for admission, you need to have:

  • An undergraduate degree (typically a BA or BS) from a school accredited by one of the accrediting agencies recognized by our faculty
  • A Master of Divinity degree or first graduate theological degree providing equivalent theological background, such as the MTS from an approved institution, and evidence of aptitude for advanced theological study (the MDiv degree is required for admission to the specialization in Practical Theology)

To apply, please submit the following:

  • A completed admissions application
  • Unofficial transcripts from all postsecondary institutions previously attended
  • Three letters of recommendation: one pastoral endorsement, one academic, and one additional
  • Academic writing sample
  • Application fee of $50

Interviews are not required but are strongly encouraged as they play a significant role in scholarship consideration. For U.S. citizens and permanent residents, interviews are available once the application is submitted. International student interviews are by invitation only. Instructions and a link to schedule an interview will be provided to eligible candidates after application submission.

Outcomes with a Master of Theology Degree

The Master of Theology degree program provides opportunities to specialize a professional pathway, shape advanced research skills, deepen spiritual practices, and engage the theological disciplines with uncommon depth through a rigorous curriculum. Complete the ThM program poised to pursue PhD studies or advance your career.

Many of our graduates go on to lead traditional congregations, while others lead new forms of ministry in the nonprofit sector, entrepreneurial space, and other vocations, such as education and government. Still others influence and inspire the next generation of church leaders by teaching and serving at institutions around the world.

In Their Own Words

Next Steps

Take the next step beyond your first graduate theological degree and pursue advanced research in your chosen area of specialization. Request more information about the Master of Theology degree, schedule a visit, or apply today.