(Philadelphia only. For details on the Th.M. in Historical Theology in London, please visit the London Program page.)

The purpose of the Th.M. is to:
     • increase the student’s knowledge of a major field of theological learning, particularly through training and practice in
       the use of the methods and tools of theological research, and thus,
     • to further his preparation for a pastoral ministry, or for his or her teaching ministry, or for more advanced graduate
        study.

The Th.M. degree is offered in two fields: Biblical Studies and Theological Studies. Each candidate must select a major area of concentration within his or her chosen field. The following majors are offered: Biblical Studies: Old Testament and New Testament; Theological Studies: Church History, Systematic Theology and Apologetics.

A student who holds a baccalaureate degree and the M.Div. degree, or first graduate theological degree providing equivalent theological background, or its educational equivalent (see 4 under Credentials) from approved institutions, receives the degree of Master of Theology (Th.M.) on the completion of the prescribed program of study. To satisfy the biblical language requirement for the Th.M. program, the applicant must have the equivalent of what is required for Westminster’s M.Div. or M.A.R. programs.

The Th.M. program is designed to be completed in one academic year of full-time study. It is not unusual for a student to require an additional year to complete the thesis and comprehensive examination.

Each candidate must indicate continuation in the program by registering at the beginning of each semester. In each semester in which no new course work is taken, candidacy is maintained by payment of a continuation fee. This fee is due September 1 for the fall semester and February 1 for the spring semester.

Th.M. Learning Goals

Upon graduation, the student will:

1. Demonstrate a breadth of knowledge in their chosen field of study and cognate fields;
2. Demonstrate the ability to engage in original research and produce a piece of original work which contributes to the student’s chosen discipline;
3. Demonstrate further preparation for pastoral ministry, teaching ministry, or for more advanced graduate study;
4. Demonstrate, in addition to the Greek and Hebrew prerequisites, a working knowledge of one modern language to assist the student in scholarly competence and research.

For detailed information on the following topics please see the catalog links below:
• Admissions
• Registration
• Requirements for the Degree
• Time Limit
• Th.M. – Biblical Studies Deadline Checklist
• Th.M. – Theological Studies Deadline Checklist
• Format Guidelines for Th.M. Theses