Southern Methodist University Perkins School of Theology
Master of Theology (Th.M.)
University Park, USA
Master degree
DURATION
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2026
STUDY FORMAT
Key Summary
About: The Master of Theology (Th.M.) at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, supports advanced theological or pastoral study, scholarly analysis of Christian traditions, or preparation for doctoral work. Students choose one of four divisions: Biblical Witness, Heritage & Context of Christianity, Interpretation of the Christian Witness, or Theology & Practice of Ministry. Graduates show advanced knowledge in their focus, assess primary research methods, and design research questions and strategies. Keywords: theology, biblical studies, hermeneutics, pastoral care.
Career Outcomes: Graduates can enter doctoral study, academic research, teaching, congregational leadership, chaplaincy, denominational leadership, specialized ministry, or nonprofit and community roles.
The Master of Theology program is designed for students to fulfill one or more of three goals:
• Enhancing the practice of ministry through advanced study of a particular theological or pastoral discipline.
• Scholarly examination of a specific aspect of the Christian religion/traditions or function of Christian ministry.
• Preparation for more advanced study at the doctoral level.
Students may choose to focus within one of the following broad divisions:
1. The Biblical Witness.
2. The Heritage & Context of Christianity.
3. The Interpretation of the Christian Witness.
4. The Theology & Practice of Ministry.
Students who successfully complete this program will be able to:
1. Demonstrate advanced understanding of their stated area of focus.
2. Identify and evaluate the primary methods of research in the stated area of focus.
3. Formulate useful research questions and develop research strategies in the stated area of focus.
