master thesis theology

Home > STUDENT > STUDENT_THESES > MTH_THESES

Master of Theology Theses

Theses/dissertations from 2021 2021.

Poverty Alleviation in the Rural Areas of Kunene Region in Namibia: The Role of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia (ELCIN) , Jeremia Ekandjo

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Missional Discipleship Within the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria , Innocent Webinumen Anthony

Empowering Laity to Engage in Pastoral Care Ministry: A Proposal for Capacity Building and Supervision for Larger Congregation with Special Reference to Kohima Ao Baptist Church, Nagaland, India. , Tsuwainla Jamir

The Social Role of Worship: A Reading of Micah 6:1-8 , Khin Win Kyi

Murmuring Met with Mercy and Grace: An Examination of the Pre-Sinai Wilderness Wanderings Traditions , Anna Rask

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

A Reinterpretation of Chin Christian Spirituality Beyond One Century in the Light Of Martin Luther's Freedom Of a Christian , Bawi Dua

New Every Morning: Epectasy as a Theology for Innovation , Joel Hinck

The Church’s Call to Minister to Refugees: A Case Study on Liberian Refugees in Minnesota , Rufus Kudee

Apostolicam Ecclesiam: Socio-Liturgical Interpretation of the Mission of the Church in the Perspective of Friedrich Nietzsche's "Antichrist" , Sebastian Ryszard Madejski

Developing Adaptive Leaders: An Initial Intervention for Transforming a Church Culture , Molly Schroeder

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

The Need for Older Adults’ Ministry in the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) , Bitrus Habu Bamai

Luther's Understanding of Grace and Its Implications for Administration of the Lord's Supper in the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN) , Yelerubi Birgamus

Living the American Dream: Faith Formation and the Missio Dei Dilemma among Seventh Day Adventist African American Immigrant Families , Enock Ariga Marindi

Lakota Cultural Fusion and Revitalization of Native Christian Identity , Kelly Sherman-Conroy

The Word-of-God Conflict in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod in the 20th Century , Donn Wilson

The Rupture That Remains: A Trauma-Informed Pastoral Theology , Eric Worringer

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

The Challenge of Being in the Minority: Palestinian Christian Theology in Light of Christian Zionism Post-1948 , Medhat S. Yoakiem

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Towards Beloved Community: Racial Reconciliation through Multiracial Missional Churches , Gray Amos Kawamba

Sanctification in Adolescence: How Karl Barth’s Two-Fold Critique of the Church Could Influence Youth Ministry Practices Today , Joel Vander Wal

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

The Absolving Word : Luther's Reformational Turn , Matthew W. McCormick

The Defiled Imago Dei and Forgiveness: The Tensions Between Ethnicity and Humanity in the Image of God in the Context of the Ethiopian Churches , Wondimu Legesse Sonessa

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Widowhood Care and Empowerment in 1 Timothy 1:3-16: A Case Study of the Evangelical Methodist Church of Christ as a Paradigm for African Instituted Churches , Millicent Yeboah Asuamah

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

Understanding the Nature and Impact of Alcoholism : Implications for Ministry in Kenya , Margaret Kemunto Obaga

Theses/Dissertations from 1963 1963

An Approach to the Interpretation of the Self-Designation of Jesus: The Son of Man , Marlin Eugene Ingebretson

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS
• Collections
• Disciplines

Author Corner

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

Home > Academic Departments > School of Theology and Seminary > Graduate Papers/Theses

School of Theology and Seminary Graduate Papers/Theses

Submissions from 2022 2022.

(Graduate Paper) The Role and Characteristic of Love in 1 Corinthians 13 , Ninh Van Nguyen

(Master's Thesis) Synodality as the Listening Church: Pope Francis Continues and Expands Vatican II's Teaching on Collegiality , Toan Van Phan O.Cist

Submissions from 2021 2021

(Graduate Paper) Pauline Theology: The Interdependently Called Body of Christ , Katryna Bertucci

(Master's Thesis) The Glory of the Lord Whose Likeness is as the Appearance of a Human Being/Adam: A Study of Ezekiel’s Son of Man/Adam Anthropology , Timothy R. Schmeling

(Graduate Paper) The Power, (Problem), and Potential of Prayer , Meghan E. Stretar

Submissions from 2020 2020

(Graduate Paper) How Can Catholic Youth Programs Improve the Youth’s Connection To the Mass? , Elizabeth Cook

(Graduate Paper) Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall: A Glimpse Into the Theme of Righteousness Through the Anthropology, Theology, and Spirituality of the Psalms , Elizabeth Cook

(Graduate Paper) Introducing Queer Theology , Cole Epping

(Graduate Paper) Taking Care of the Forgotten: A Pastoral Response to the Hospice Care Professional , Constance Friebohle

(Graduate Paper) A Global Church in the Local Parish: Fostering Intercultural Competency for Indonesian Catholic Ministry in the United States , Janice Kristanti

(Graduate Paper) The Indispensability of Inculturation For Effective Evangelization: Revisiting The Evangelization of Sub-Saharan Africa , Mark Obeten

(Graduate Paper) Seeking a New Paradigm for Youth Ministry of Waegwan Abbey, South Korea , Cyprian Ji-Eung Ryu

(Graduate Paper) The Catholic Church and the Turn of the 20th Century: An Anthropology of Human Flourishing and a Church for Peace , Maria Siebels

(Graduate Paper) The Wounded Body of Christ: Social Trauma in Pastoral Care , Kelsi Watters

Submissions from 2019 2019

(Graduate Paper) A Non-Dualistic Reading of Body and Soul in the Gospel of Matthew: Focusing on Matthew 10:39 in the Context of Discipleship , Alexander Blechle

Submissions from 2018 2018

(Graduate Paper) Catholic Social Teaching and the Christian Responsibility to the Poor , Rose Aspholm

(Master's Thesis) Not Quite Calvinist: Cyril Lucaris a Reconsideration of His Life and Beliefs , Stephanie Falkowski

(Graduate Paper) Life or Death and Other False Dichotomies: A Theology of Hospice , Kayla Stock

Submissions from 2017 2017

(Master's Thesis) On Dionysian Theological Methodology , Joseph Arrendale

(Graduate Paper) The Transcendence of the Apprehension of Beauty , Mary Abigail Coleman

(Graduate Paper) The Paradox of Remarkable/Unremarkable Julian of Norwich , John P. Fitzgibbons

(Book Chapter) Agape Unbound in Silence and Deep River , Elizabeth Cameron Galbraith

(Graduate Paper) Formed for Diverse Communion: Toward Developing An Ecumenical Formation Process for New Members of Holy Wisdom Monastery’s Sunday Assembly , Rosy Kandathil OSB

(Graduate Paper) A Garden Enclosed, A Fountain Sealed Up: Paradoxical and Generative Metaphors of Enclosure in Medieval Female Anchoritism , Cody Maynus Obl.S.B.

(Graduate Paper) The Gospel of Mark , Nancy McCabe

(Master's Thesis) A Theological Retrieval of Communal Parenting as a Moral Response to Baby Stealing and Childlessness in Nigeria , Henry U. Omeike

(Graduate Paper) Do This, in Memory of Me! , Joseph Qiu-Lin Zhang

Submissions from 2016 2016

(Master's Thesis) A Church Built on Charity: Augustine's Ecclesiology , Michael J. Clinger Jr

(Graduate Paper) A Story of Identity in the Christian East , Manya Gustafson

(Graduate Paper) Jude's Enochian Apocalypse , Lucian López OSB

(Graduate Paper) Matthew's Least Brothers and It's Application in the Catholic Church , Runbao Zhang

Submissions from 2015 2015

(Electronic Book) Illuminating Christ , Jessie Bazan

(Master's Thesis) Gifting Freedom to the Samaritan: Considerations on access to both the sacramental event and salvation for those who, for whatever reason, find themselves outside the Church, and the consequences of identity for the Church in gifting such access , C. A. Chase

(Graduate Paper) My Brother's a Jerk and Dad's Gonna Spank Him: Roles and Relations in Obadiah , Aletta Stumo

Submissions from 2014 2014

(Graduate Paper) Christology, Theology, & Evolution in Celia Deane-Drummond's Christ and Evolution , Trevor Beach SJ

(Graduate Paper) Joy as Illumination: Participation in God's Life-giving Trinitarian Love , Trevor Beach SJ

(Graduate Paper) Consideration of the Church's Identity and Mission, Predicated on the Church Be-ing 'Ligamen' (Bond) , C. A. Chase

(Graduate Paper) Observations on the Performative Force of the Qyama and the Ihidaye, and its Pertinancy Today , C. A. Chase

(Graduate Paper) Christ, the Meeting Point of Sacramental and Trinitarian Theology , Nathan Peter Chase

(Graduate Paper) The Christological Remnants within Eucharistic Prayers , Nathan Peter Chase

(Master's Thesis) With Eyes That See: The Role of Spiritual Vision in the Ascent of Nyssen Noetic Theology , Benjamin Rush

(Master's Thesis) St. John of the Cross and the Denudation of the Soul , Wesley Sutermeister

Submissions from 2013 2013

(Graduate Paper) A History and Analysis of the Missel Romain pour les Diocese du Zaire , Nathan Peter Chase

(Graduate Paper) The Development of the Epiclesis: Alexandrian or Syrian? , Nathan Peter Chase

Submissions from 2011 2011

(Graduate Paper) Short-Term Solution, Long-Term Problem: The Rite of Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest and its Use in the United States of America , Christopher Angel

(Graduate Paper) Welcome (Back): The Use of Initiatory Elements in the Reconciliation of Heretics to the Early Church , Christopher Angel

(Graduate Paper) The Gospel of Matthew: The Temple Cleansing in 21:12-17 , Kasey Devine

(Graduate Paper) The "Ladder" of the Lord's Plagues , Kasey DeVine

Submissions from 2010 2010

(Graduate Paper) St. John Chrysostom and His Message of Social Justice Today , Joel Cassady

(Graduate Paper) Trinitarian Christology: The Grammar of The Christian Faith and the Foundation for a Theology of Religious Pluralism , Eric Christensen

(Graduate Paper) Entering into the Profound Mystery: Yves Congar’s Via Media on the Salvation of People of Non-Christian Religions , Elizabeth M. Cunneen

Submissions from 2009 2009

(Graduate Paper) Ego Eimi Formula and a Sense of Continuity in John’s Gospel Chapter Sixth (Jn 6: v.20, vss.35-58) , John Changjin Bai

(Graduate Paper) Jesus the Christ as a Jun-Zi in Confucian Perspectives , John Changjin Bai

(Graduate Paper) An Exegesis of 1 Corinthians 12:31 - 13:1-3 , Gregory Congote OSB

(Graduate Paper) Gregory Palamas and Hesychasm , Gregory Congote OSB

(Graduate Paper) Modern Usury: The Moral Challenge of Credit Cards in Light of Catholic Teaching and Practice in the Past and the Present , David R. Smoker

Submissions from 2008 2008

(Graduate Paper) Community in the Theology of Søren Aabye Kierkegaard , Nicholas Coffman

(Graduate Paper) Jean-Luc Marion’s Theology of Eucharistic Presence , Nicholas Coffman

(Graduate Paper) Proclaiming the Truth of Beauty , Larry Fraher

(Graduate Paper) Augustine of Hippo and Elizabeth de la Trinite: A Conversation across the Centuries , Vernon W. Goodin

(Graduate Paper) "Who Do You Say That I Am?" The Role of Story in Christology , Vernon W. Goodin

(Graduate Paper) Sufficere, “It Is Enough”: Avarice vs. Simplicity and Detachment in the Rule of Saint Benedict , Arlen M. Hanson

(Graduate Paper) Stories in Stained Glass: An Analysis of the Stained-Glass Windows at Saint Norbert Abbey in De Pere, Wisconsin , Timothy A. Johnston

(Master's Thesis) Wittgenstein and Worship: Investigations of Liturgical Language-Games and Their Formative Role in Christian Identity , Michelle Kathleen Weber

Submissions from 2007 2007

(Graduate Paper) Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Prophet & Martyr , Fr. Michael Calhoun OSB

(Graduate Paper) Saint Basil: Monastic Reformer , Fr. Michael Calhoun OSB

(Graduate Paper) Looking at Conflict Diamonds Through the Lens of Catholic Social Teaching , Heather Cherpelis

(Graduate Paper) “Allegorical Typologies” of the Eucharist: An Analysis of Some Eastern Liturgical Commentaries , Nathaniel G. Costa

(Graduate Paper) “For All the Saints”: A Feast for All People and All Time , Nathaniel G. Costa

(Graduate Paper) Eternal Hope: The Story of Sr. Mary Luke Tobin and Other Women who Participated in Vatican Council II , Megan S. Enninga

(Graduate Paper) Vulgar and Ascetic Christians: the Myth of a Higher Spirituality The rhetoric of monastic profession as a second baptism , August L. Gothman

(Graduate Paper) Active Participation and the Song of the Assembly , William Griffiths

(Graduate Paper) Transforming both the gifts and the people: Eucharistic presence , William Griffiths

(Graduate Paper) “You Can Become All Flame”: Do the Desert Fathers Have Anything to Say to Us Today? , Arlen M. Hanson

(Graduate Paper) Toward a Domestic Ecclesiology: The "Domestic Church" Finds Articulation in Pope John Paul II's "Theology of the Body" , Craig James St. Clair

(Graduate Paper) Celebrating the Communion Rite , Jay Stimac

(Graduate Paper) Karl Rahner: On Grace and Salvation , Nicole Streit

(Graduate Paper) One Body, One Spirit, One Priesthood; Many Members, Many Charisms, Many Ministries: Reflections Anglican and Catholic , Cody C. Unterseher

(Graduate Paper) Arianism, Athanasius, and the Effect on Trinitarian Thought , Andy Witchger

(Graduate Paper) How the Parish and School of St. Agnes Creates Vocations , Andy Witchger

Submissions from 2006 2006

(Graduate Paper) How Paul and the Jerusalem Council Might Speak to Division in the Twenty-First Century Church , Mary Birmingham

(Master's Thesis) Becoming One Spirit: Origen and Evagrius Ponticus on Prayer , Hilary Case OSB

(Graduate Paper) Syncletica: Urban Ascetic and Desert Mother , Susan Dreyer OSB

(Graduate Paper) The Education of Heloise in Twelfth-Century France , Susan Dreyer OSB

(Graduate Paper) A Woman of the Reformation , Megan S. Enninga

(Graduate Paper) A Key and Classic Text: Ephesians 5:21-33 , Katinka Nadine Ellen Evers

(Graduate Paper) Concealing to Reveal: Modesty in Pope John Paul II’s Theology of the Body , Katinka Nadine Ellen Evers

(Graduate Paper) Sex in the City of God , Diana Macalintal

(Graduate Paper) The Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ecclesial Discipleship and Redemption , Diane Draxler Pederson

(Graduate Paper) The Spiritual Potential of Poetry , Carl Schlueter

(Graduate Paper) Complicating the Poor Widow’s Gift: Exegesis on Mk. 12:41-44 , Timothy Traynor

(Graduate Paper) "We Should Glory in the Cross:" The Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross and its Contemporary Liturgical Significance , Cody C. Unterseher

Submissions from 2005 2005

(Graduate Paper) Hermeneutics and Liturgical Space: Interpreting the Domus Ecclesiae - Domus Dei , Gregory Reed Beath

(Graduate Paper) Eros: Human and Divine , Denae M. Fielder

(Graduate Paper) And the Question Became Flesh: Jesus the Catechist in the Gospel of John , Diana Macalintal

(Graduate Paper) Hesychast Prayer: Attending the Cosmic Banquet of the Heart , Tamara Ann Moore

(Graduate Paper) A Study in Spiritual Lineage: The "Influence and Noninfluence" of Pseudo-Dionysius on The Cloud of Unknowing , David M. Odorisio

(Graduate Paper) The Cistercian Spirit in Stone , David M. Odorisio

(Graduate Paper) Architectural Reforms of Eucharistic Reservation , Diane Draxler Pederson

Page 1 of 20

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS
• Collections
• Disciplines

Author Corner

• Submit Research
• School of Theology and Seminary Website

Library Links

• CSB/SJU Libraries

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

e-Publications@Marquette

Home > ARTSSCI > Theology > dissertations and theses

Theology Dissertations and Theses

The Theology Dissertations Series is comprised of dissertations authored by Marquette University's Theology Department doctoral students.

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

The Universality of God in Amo’s Oracles and Creation: A Historical-Critical Approach within a Catholic Context , Alexandra Bochte

Trinitarian Theology as a Resource for the Theology of Education , Anne Bullock

Existential Thomism and the Ecstasy of the Sexed Body , Kathleen Cavender-McCoy

Ecumenical Traditions: Byzantine and Franciscan Theology in Dialogue , Gino G. Grivetti

Person and Society: The Trinitarian Anthropology of Henri de Lubac , Sara Hulse

Moved to Compassion: Envisioning Parables in the Gospel of Luke , Patrick J. O'Kernick

In the Power of the Spirit: Toward an Agapeic Ethic of Spirit-Baptism , Caroline Rose Redick

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

The Ethical Functions of Deuteronomic Laws in Early Second Temple Judaism , Paul Cizek

Finding Paul in the Fourth Gospel: John 8 and the Reception of the Apostle to the Gentiles , Jason Hitchcock

“Now I Will Recall the Works of God”: Allusion and Intertextuality in Sirach 42:15-43:33 , Gary Patrick Klump

The Human Person Fully Alive: The Transformation of the Body, Brain, Mind, and Soul of Humanity in the Encounter with the Divinity , Christopher Krall

Maximus the Confessor in Aquinas's Christology , Corey John Stephan

Rewriting the Ending: Malachi's Threat and the Destruction of the Temple in the Gospel of Mark , John Michael Strachan

Behold the Beasts Beside You: The Adaptation and Alteration of Animals in LXX-Job , James Wykes

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Biased in a World of Bias: A Cognitive and Spiritual Approach to Knowing Racial Justice , Stephen Calme

Where is Wisdom? Privileging Perspectives in the Book of Job , Israel McGrew

Being and Naming God: Essence and Energies in St. Gregory Palamas , Tikhon Alexander Pino

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Reception of the Economic Social Teaching of Gaudium et Spes in the United States from 1965-2005 , David Daniel Archdibald

Unity and Catholicity in Christ: The Ecclesiology of Francisco Suárez, S.J. , Eric DeMeuse

Filled with 'The Fullness of the Gifts of God': Towards a Pneumatic Theosis , Kirsten Guidero

Cathedrals of the Mind: Theological Method and Speculative Renewal in Trinitarian Theology , Ryan Hemmer

Fire in the Bread, Life in the Body: The Pneumatology of Ephrem the Syrian , David Kiger

Looks That Kill: White Power, Christianity, and the Occlusion of Justice , Wesley Sutermeister

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Beyond Slavery: Christian Theology and Rehabilitation from Human Trafficking , Christopher Michael Gooding

The Ambiguity of Being: Medieval and Modern Cooperation on the Problem of the Supernatural , Jonathan Robert Heaps

Widow As the Altar of God: Retrieving Ancient Sources for Contemporary Discussions on Christian Discipleship , Lisa Marin Moore

The New Day of Atonement: A Matthean Typology , Hans Moscicke

"The Present Evil Age": The Origin and Persistence of Evil in Galatians , Tyler Allen Stewart

A Sweet Influence: St. Bonaventure’s Franciscan Reception of Dionysian Hierarchy , Luke Vittorio Togni

Transforming the Foundation: Lonergan's Transposition of Aquinas' Notion of Wisdom , Juliana Vazquez Krivsky

Infideles Et Philosophi: Assent, Untruth, and Natural Knowledge of the Simple God , Jeffrey M. Walkey

Confessing Characters: Coming to Faith in the Gospel of John , Dominic Zappia

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Eighteenth-Century Forerunners of Vatican II: Early Modern Catholic Reform and the Synod of Pistoia , Shaun London Blanchard

The Media Matrix of Early Jewish and Christian Literature , Nicholas Andrew Elder

Imagining Demons in Post-Byzantine Jerusalem: John of Damascus and the Consolidation of Classical Christian Demonology , Nathaniel Ogden Kidd

Hoc Est Sacrificium Laudis: The Influence of Hebrews on the Origin, Structure, and Theology of the Roman Canon Missae , Matthew S. C. Olver

Reconciling Universal Salvation and Freedom of Choice in Origen of Alexandria , Lee W. Sytsma

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

The Doubt of the Apostles and the Resurrection Faith of the Early Church , J. D. Atkins

The Two Goats: A Christian Yom Kippur Soteriology , Richard Barry

Exodus as New Creation, Israel as Foundling: Stories in the History of an Idea , Christopher Evangelos John Brenna

Christus Exemplar: the Politics of Virtue in Lactantius , Jason Matthew Gehrke

Image and Virtue in Ambrose of Milan , Andrew Miles Harmon

A God Worth Worshiping: Toward a Critical Race Theology , Duane Terrence Loynes Sr.

The Cry of the Poor: Anthropology of Suffering and Justice in Health Care From a Latin American Liberation Approach , Alexandre Andrade Martins

The First Thing Andrew Did' [John 1:41]: Readers As Witnesses in the Fourth Gospel , Mark L. Trump

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Creator Spirit, Spirit of Grace: Trinitarian Dimensions of a Charitological Pneumatology , Wesley Scott Biddy

The Economic Trinity: Communion with the Triune God in a Market Economy , David Glenn Butner Jr.

Judgment, Justification, and the Faith Event in Romans , Raymond Foyer

Primeval History According to Paul: "In Adam" and "In Christ" in Romans , Timothy A. Gabrielson

Scripture in History: A Systematic Theology of the Christian Bible , Joseph K. Gordon

Gary Dorrien, Stanley Hauerwas, Rowan Williams, and the Theological Transformation of Sovereignties , David Wade Horstkoetter

The Mystical and Political Body: Christian Identity in the Theology of Karl Rahner , Erin Kidd

Love the Stranger for You were Strangers: The Development of a Biblical Literary Theme and Motif , Helga Kisler

Theo-Dramatic Ethics: A Balthasarian Approach to Moral Formation , Andrew John Kuzma

No Sympathy for the Devil: The Significance of Demons in John Chrysostom's Soteriology , Samantha Lynn Miller

Truly Human, Fully Divine: The Kenotic Christ of Thomas Aquinas , Gregorio Montejo

Didymus the Blind, Origen, and the Trinity , Kellen Plaxco

ITE, MISSA EST! A Missional Liturgical Ecclesiology , Eugene Richard Schlesinger

From Modes of Production to the Resurrection of the Body: A Labor Theory of Revolutionary Subjectivity & Religious Ideas , Benjamin Suriano

Blinded Eyes and Hardened Hearts: Intra-Jewish Critique in the Gospel of John , Nathan Thiel

Monarchianism and Origen's Early Trinitarian Theology , Stephen Edward Waers

Sanctification as Virtue and Mission: The Politics of Holiness , Nathan Willowby

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

The Word Became Flesh: An Exploratory Essay on Jesus’s Particularity and Nonhuman Animals , Andy Alexis-Baker

RENOVATIO: Martin Luther's Augustinian Theology of Holiness (1515/16 and 1535-46) , Phillip L. Anderas

Models of Conversion in American Evangelicalism: Jonathan Edwards, Charles Hodge and Old Princeton, and Charles Finney , Mark B. Chapman

The Kingdom of God and the Holy Spirit: Eschatology and Pneumatology in the Vineyard Movement , Douglas R. Erickson

The All-Embracing Frame: Distance in the Trinitarian Theology of Hans Urs von Balthasar , Christopher Hadley

"Make My Joy Complete": The Price of Partnership in the Letter of Paul to the Philippians , Mark Avery Jennings

The Unsettled Church: The Search for Identity and Relevance in the Ecclesiologies of Nicholas Healy, Ephraim Radner, and Darrell Guder , Emanuel D. Naydenov

Seeing Two Worlds: The Eschatological Anthropology of the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification , Jakob Karl Rinderknecht

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Palliative Care's Sacramental and Liturgical Foundations: Healthcare Formed by Faith, Hope, and Love , Darren M. Henson

"now These Things Happened As Examples For Us" (1 Cor. 10:6):the Biblical-Narrative Depiction Of Human Sinfulness , Stephen Frederick Jenks

Love For God And Earth: Ecospirituality In The Theologies Of Sallie Mcfague And Leonardo Boff , Rebecca A. Meier-Rao

Stabilitas In Congregatione: The Benedictine Evangelization Of America In The Life And Thought Of Martin Marty, O.s.b. , Paul Gregory Monson

The Word Is An Angel Of The Mind: Angelic And Temple Imagery In The Theology Of John Mansur, The Damascene. , Elijah Nicolas Mueller

"heavenly Theologians": The Place Of Angels In The Theology Of Martin Luther , Christopher J. Samuel

"a Spreading And Abiding Hope": A. J. Conyers And Evangelical Theopolitical Imagination , Jacob Shatzer

Receptive Ecumenism And Justification: Roman Catholic And Reformed Doctrine In Contemporary Context , Sarah Timmer

Mary's Fertility As The Model Of The Ascetical Life In Ephrem The Syrian's Hymns Of The Nativity , Michelle Weedman

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

The Church as Symbolic Mediation: Revelation Ecclesiology in the Theology of Avery Dulles, S.J. , Abraham B. Fisher

Christological Name Theology in three Second Century communities , Michael D. Harris

Transcending Subjects: Hegel After Augustine, an Essay on Political Theology , Geoffrey J.D. Holsclaw

Circumcision of the Spirit in the Soteriology of Cyril of Alexandria , Jonathan Stephen Morgan

Toward a Renewed Theological Framework of Catholic Racial Justice: A Vision Inspired by the Life and Writings of Dr. Arthur Grand Pré Falls , Lincoln Rice

Emerging in the Image of God: From Evolution to Ethics in a Second Naïveté Understanding of Christian Anthropology , Jason Paul Roberts

Isaac of Nineveh's Contribution to Syriac Theology: An Eschatological Reworking of Greek Anthropology , Jason Scully

Between Eden and Egypt: Echoes of the Garden Narrative in the Story of Joseph and His Brothers , Brian Osborne Sigmon

Rediscovering Sabbath: Hebrew Social Thought And Its Contribution To Black Theology's Vision For America , Christopher Taylor Spotts

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Opening First-World Catholic Theology to Third-World Ecofeminism: Aruna Gnanadason and Johann B. Metz in Dialogue , Gretchen Baumgardt

Love and Lonergan's Cognitional-Intentional Anthropology: An Inquiry on the Question of a "Fifth Level of Consciousness" , Jeremy Blackwood

Andrew G. Grutka, First Bishop of the Diocese of Gary, Indiana (1957 to 1984): "Where There is Charity, There is God." , Anthony Bonta

The Election Controversy Among Lutherans in the Twentieth Century: An Examination of the Underlying Problems , John M. Brenner

Yves Congar, O.P.: Ecumenist of the Twentieth Century , Paul Raymond Caldwell

Theo-Poetics: Figure and Metaphysics in the Thought of Hans Urs von Balthasar , Anne Carpenter

Sacrament and Eschatological Fulfillment in Henri de Lubac's Theology of History , Joseph Flipper

Spirit and Flesh: On the Significance of the Reformed Doctrine of the Lord's Supper for Pneumatology , Christopher Ganski

A Comparison of the Kenotic Trinitarian Theology of Hans Urs von Balthasar and Sergei Bulgakov , Katy Leamy

Ontological Subordination in Novatian of Rome's Theology of the Son , Daniel Lloyd

Dominus Mortis: Martin Luther on the Incorruptibility of God in Christ , David Luy

The Church and the Mediation of Grace: A Reformed Perspective on Ordained Ministry and the Threefold Office of Christ , Michael Joe Matossian

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS
• Collections
• Disciplines

Information about e-Pubs@MU

• General FAQ
• Theology Website

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

Theology Master's Thesis: Style & Format

• Getting Started
• Style & Format
• Thesis Defense

Normally, a thesis will be between 15,000 words (roughly 60 pages, assuming double-spacing and 12 pt. font for body text) and 30,000 words (roughly 120 pages), including notes and bibliography. 

Submitting Your Thesis to the Library

To submit a thesis or dissertation to Loyola Notre Dame Library for inclusion in the  Loyola Notre Dame Library Digital Collections :

• Consult your university or department’s guidelines for official requirements regarding formatting, font size, spacing, and citations.
• Format the document as either an MS Word, RTF, or PDF file. (Note: All documents will be converted to PDF for the library’s archive) 
• Include a completed Signatures Page,  Electronic Thesis/Dissertation Access Form , and an Abstract.
• Submit to the library using the  Electronic Thesis/Dissertation Submission Form . 

Questions? Please contact us at  [email protected] .

Style and Format

Theses must use standard Greek and Hebrew/Aramaic fonts for quotations in those languages; abbreviations, pagination, citation, and all formatting in the thesis should follow the guidelines in the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) Handbook of Style , available at PN147 .S26 in the Reference shelves of the Loyola Notre Dame Library. 

Careful attention to matters of style are crucial for citation, inclusion of foreign (especially ancient) language, and formatting. The latter will be especially consequential when submitting the post-defense, archival copy to the Loyola Notre Dame Library.

Further guidelines and standards for Loyola University Master's theses are available here .

NOTE: The Theology Department theses standards supersede those of the university. Please contact your advisor for details.

• << Previous: Timeline
• Next: Thesis Defense >>
• Last Updated: Nov 30, 2023 9:16 PM
• URL: https://guides.lndlibrary.org/theologymasters

• Master of Theology (Th.M.)

An advanced theological degree for specialized academic or ministerial preparation

Why This Program?

Program overview, affording duke.

The Master of Theology (Th.M.) degree is designed for graduates of accredited theological schools who desire to continue or resume their theological education to enhance their professional competence in specific areas of study.

Through this degree program, students can pursue advanced training—with opportunities to take doctoral seminars and engage closely with professors on a written thesis—to enhance their ministry or prepare for a doctoral program.

Th.M. graduates have been placed at Ph.D. and D.Min. programs at schools including Duke University, Princeton Theological Seminary, Baylor University, Asbury Theological Seminary, Boston University, and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

"The Th.M. at Duke equipped me for doctoral work and continues to inform my scholarship."

Distinguished Faculty

At Duke Divinity School, you'll be immersed in theological inquiry with world-renowned faculty members. Drawn from all over the globe and a broad spectrum of Christian traditions, these men and women share a commitment to teaching and to the church and ministry.

Training for Military Chaplaincy

Chaplains serving all branches of the U.S. military who are approved for a year of specialized training can meet that requirement through Duke Divinity School’s Th.M. program. We offer a Certificate in Chaplaincy that can be earned alongside your degree.

The curriculum for the Th.M. consists of eight elective courses taken over two semesters (four must be at 800-900 level). During the final semester, students often work directly with a faculty advisor towards completion of a substantial written thesis.

At least four of the eight courses must be taken in one of the basic theological disciplines and will be designated as the student's major. These disciplines are: Biblical Studies, Historical Studies, Theological Studies, and Ministerial Studies.

Graduation Requirements

The Master of Theology program is normally completed in two semesters. Requirements for graduation are:

• Eight advanced course units
• An average grade of B or higher
• Comprehensive exam or thesis: Each student is required to demonstrate superior performance on a comprehensive examination covering the major area of study. In lieu of the exam, a student may choose to write a thesis in one major area. This thesis research project is counted as one of the eight course credits required.

The Center for Academic Support and Theological Writing

The Divinity School is committed to developing you as a writer. The Center for Writing and Academic Support provides services for writers of all abilities. In addition, we offer the RISE pre-orientation workshop to introduce the fundamentals of theological thought and writing; ongoing academic support workshops throughout the year; and tutors who are available to work with students one-on-one.

Certificates

An education from Duke Divinity School is worth your investment, and you do not have to figure out the finances alone.

Some internal and external scholarships, as well as federal financial aid in the form of work study and loans, make it possible for students to afford Duke Divinity.  FAFSA  should be completed for external aid. More information can be found in our  Financial Aid section . We offer a 100% scholarship for one international Th.M. student each year.

Lifelong Dividends

In addition to earning a degree from Duke Divinity School, you also receive benefits that continue to impact your life long after you leave. You will have access to the best academic resources in theological education and will use those tools throughout your career. Theses that are crafted with Duke Divinity faculty members become seeds that may grow into future doctoral projects. By being able to fully participate in a top tier research university, your scholarship can create room for surprising and creative interdisciplinary connections. The overwhelming majority of our students say their investment is worth it.

Ready for the Next Step?

Duke Divinity School accepts applications for the Master of Theology program beginning in September and concluding with the application deadline in April. For admission, we require a GPA of 3.25 in a Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.), or comparable master’s degrees from an ATS-accredited school prior to the intended date of enrollment.

Request Info

Join our mailing list, and we'll send you more information.

Visit Campus

The best way to learn more about us is to visit. Schedule an in-person or online visit.

Learn more about how to apply and start your application

• Admissions & Aid Overview
• How to Apply
• Funding Your Education Overview
• Scholarships & Fellowships
• Black Church Studies and Latinx Studies Fellowships
• Thriving Communities Fellowship
• Lipe Leadership Fellowship
• External Scholarships
• Tuition and Estimated Expenses
• Which Degree Is Right for Me?
• Supporting Our Students
• Overview of Student Life
• Student Council & Organizations
• The Women’s Center
• Office of the Chaplain
• Office of Student Life
• Admissions Staff & Contact Info
• Overview of Resources for Admitted Students
• New Student Orientation & Checklist
• Paying Your Deposit
• Registering for Courses
• Housing and Local Resources
• RISE Academic Workshop
• Divinity Bulletin and Conduct Covenant
• Duke and Durham
• Statement of Diversity in Admissions
• Academics Overview
• Overview of Master's Degrees
• Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
• Hybrid Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
• Master of Arts in Christian Practice (M.A.)
• Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)
• Overview of Doctoral Degrees
• Doctor of Theology (Th.D.)
• Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
• Hybrid Online Degrees and Programs
• Overview of Dual Degrees & Programs
• Master of Divinity/Master of Public Policy (M.Div./M.P.P.)
• Master of Divinity/Master of Social Work (M.Div./M.S.W.)
• Master of Theological Studies/Juris Doctorate (M.T.S./J.D.)
• Master of Theological Studies/Master of Public Policy (M.T.S./M.P.P.)
• Overview of Standalone Certificates
• Certificate in Theology and Health Care
• Overview of Degree-Based Certificates
• Certificate in Anglican Studies
• Certificate in Baptist Studies
• Certificate in Black Church Studies
• Certificate in Catholic Studies
• Certificate in Chaplaincy
• Certificate in Christian Education
• Certificate in Faith, Food, and Environmental Justice
• Certificate in Faith-based Organizing, Advocacy, and Social Transformation
• Certificate in Gender, Sexuality, Theology, and Ministry
• Certificate in Latinx Studies
• Certificate in Methodist/Wesleyan Studies
• Certificate in Missional Innovation
• Certificate in Preaching
• Certificate in Prison Studies
• Certificate in Reflective and Faithful Teaching
• Certificate in Theology and the Arts
• Certificate in Theology, Medicine, and Culture
• Certificate in Worship
• Other Duke University Certificates
• Overview of Field Education
• Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)
• Communities of Learning
• International Field Education
• Supervisors
• Forms & Policies
• Office of Field Education
• Study Abroad
• Academic Calendar & Course Schedules
• Center for Writing and Academic Support
• Divinity Library
• Accreditation
• Educational Effectiveness
• Houses of Study Overview
• Anglican Episcopal House of Studies
• Asian House of Studies
• Baptist House of Studies
• Hispanic House of Studies
• Methodist House of Studies
• Office of Black Church Studies
• Presbyterian/Reformed House of Studies
• Initiatives Overview
• Center for Reconciliation
• Clergy Health Initiative
• Duke Initiatives in Theology and the Arts
• Fons Vitae Catholic Initiative
• Leadership Education at Duke Divinity
• Ormond Center
• Racial Justice and Cultural Competency
• Theology, Medicine, and Culture
• Thriving Rural Communities
• Traditioned Innovation Project
• Wesleyan Initiatives & Programs
• Faculty Overview
• Faculty Directory
• Faculty Books
• Faculty Experts
• Faculty in the Media
• About the School
• Dean's Welcome
• Directions & Parking
• Divinity School Jobs
• Department Directory
• Faculty & Staff Directory
• Continuing Education Overview
• All Guided Learning Programs
• All Self-Paced Learning Programs
• Formation Overview
• Spiritual Formation
• Vocational Formation
• Global and Intercultural Formation
• News Overview
• Divinity Magazine
• Divinity Medium Channel
• Faith & Leadership
• Video and Podcasts Archive
• News & Features Archive
• Sign up for Our Newsletter
• Events Overview
• All Upcoming Events
• Alumni Overview
• Update Contact Info & Class Notes
• Alumni Council & Board of Visitors
• Office of External Relations Staff
• The Shepherd's Fund for Alumni in Need
• Jobs and Internships
• Transcript Requests

Popular Searches

• PhD Program
• Master's Degrees
• Online & Professional Studies
• Events and Hospitality

• Program and Course Finder
• Master’s Degrees
• Our Curriculum
• Wright Library
• Departments
• Centers & Institutes
• Research Grants and Projects
• Office of the Registrar
• Academic Calendar
• Academic Support & Resources
• Accreditation

• How to Apply
• Cost & Financial Aid
• Visit & Connect with Princeton Seminary
• Admitted Students
• Visiting Scholars

• Chapel & Spiritual Life
• Health & Wellness
• Global Services
• Communities & Groups
• Accessibility & Disability Accommodations
• Community Practices & Policies

• Continuing Education
• Online Offerings

• Mission & Vision
• News & Events
• Office of the President
• Board of Trustees
• Visitor Information
• Giving to Princeton Seminary
• Slavery Report
• Nondiscrimination and Anti-Harassment

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.

Request Information

At a glance.

January 15 – Final deadline – merit scholarship applicants, international applicants

April 15 – Final deadline – US citizens and residents

Is the Master of Theology for Me?

• 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

Specializations.

Choose an area of study from five specializations:

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

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

Curriculum Components

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

Application Requirements

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

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

Ben Immanuel

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.

Home > Calvin Theological Seminary > Student Scholarship > Master of Theology (ThM) Theses

CTS Master of Theology (ThM) Theses

Cts thm theses from 2021 2021.

This study aims to set aside gender concerns related to Deborah and the interpretation of Judges 4–5 in order to determine if a clearer portrait emerges of Deborah as a prophet, a judge, or both without gender issues obscuring the picture. Chapter 1 provides a representative summary of Deborah’s interpretive history, which establishes how gender has been historically and incorrectly used as the primary interpretive key for understanding Deborah and other key parts of Judg 4–5. Chapter 2 discusses Deborah’s role as a judge and determines the text supports identifying her with this title, and chapter 3 does the same for Deborah’s role as a prophet. As a result of chapters 2–3, Deborah’s role as a prophet is seen solving many of the interpretive challenges of the text in Judges 4–5. In conclusion, this study claims while Deborah was certainly a woman, the preoccupation with her gender of...

CTS ThM Theses from 2016 2016

Bavinck completed his first psychology book, Principles of Psychology (Beginselen der Psychologie, 1897) in the middle of his theological writings from his interaction with the nineteenth century psychologies. In 1920, Bavinck published another psychology book entitled Biblical and Religious Psychology (Bijbelsche en Religieuze Psychologie) on the basis of solid exegesis and biblical principles. In Principles of Psychology, Bavinck intended that his psychological principles would be as worthy as the empirical psychology of his day. Kuyper also stressed the doctrinal value of faculty psychology to Bavinck’s first psychology book in his review. Yet, these two psychology books were virtually neglected both in the field of psychology and in Reformed anthropology. What is more, scholars like Hepp and Jaarsma demonstrated that in his later years Bavinck rejected the scholastic faculty psych...

This work contends that Abel should be considered as a possible referent for hebel in some contexts in the book of Ecclesiastes. The attempt to rightly understand the usage of hebel has employed several translation philosophies, but the theory of hebel in Ecclesiastes as a metaphor functioning with multiple referents best explains the variety and complexity of its usage in Ecclesiastes. This thesis contends that Abel should be considered an additional referent in cases where the usage of hebel is framed by the concepts of death and transience, a relationship which is made stronger in nearby allusions to Gen 1-4 in Ecclesiastes.

CTS ThM Theses from 2015 2015

Magic is an intriguing topic in the New Testament but compared to other topics of discussion in New Testament Studies, the significance of the theme of magic has been unjustly undermined as indicated by David E.Aune. From the all eight occurrences of magic in the New Testament, four are found in the Acts of the Apostles. Therefore, the Acts of the Apostles is the most significant source to understand magic. The purpose of this thesis is to figure out the understanding of magic and Christianity in the Acts of the Apostles. Since Christianity flourished in the Greco-Roman era, the understanding of magic with its practices in the Greco-Roman era is significant in order to enlighten the serious confrontation between magic and Christianity in the Acts of the Apostles. The discovery of the Greek Magical Papyri (PGM: Papyri Graecae Magicae) has evidenced the practices of magic which is evil ...

Six proverbs on surety for debt present unique difficulties for interpreters of the Hebrew Bible. Because surety for debt is only occasionally mentioned, the inner-biblical data is hard-pressed to resolve the many differences of opinion. There is a large body of primary texts from the ancient Near East that indicates that surety was a widespread practice in a vast historical period. There is also a large body of secondary literature focused on these texts. The primary and secondary literature is sufficiently robust as to warrant a closer look from biblical scholars. This thesis argues that the extra-biblical texts elucidate the proverbs and presents a methodological framework by which the two sets of evidence may be compared. The bodies of evidence are large and similar enough to warrant a contextual method that assumes a common historical background. Both the proverbs and the ancient...

This work defends the thesis that Psalm 75 is the result of the participation of cult prophets in the worship of Israel. We argue that Gunkel’s form critical method and Mowinckel’s cult functional approach provides the necessary features to satisfactory explain the switches in speakers and addressees in this psalm. Additionally, we conclude that cultic prophecy is a valid approach to interpret the so-called “prophetic psalms” in the Psalter and, consequently, to interpret Psalm 75. In search for more arguments in defense of our thesis we use 2 Chronicles 20 as an example of the participation of prophets in a cultic situation in ancient Israel as well as Harry P. Nasuti’s distinction between quoted and unquoted divine speech. After that we apply different exegetical methods in order to execute a close reading of Psalm 75 and thus we substantiate that the unquoted divine speeches in its...

CTS ThM Theses from 2014 2014

The use of spiritual gifts is a blessing to the Church today, especially when it functions within the liturgical forms in a worship service. Specifically, the liturgical use of spiritual gifts is a great benefit for the edification of both the mainline and the Pentecostal churches. In Nigeria, the use of spiritual gifts is significantly contextual to the African world view. Some Nigerian theologians suggest that the compatibility of spiritual gifts to the African world view is one of the main factors that contributes to the fast growth of Pentecostal and charismatic churches in Africa. Due to its compatibility with the African world view, charismata has gradually gained acceptance into the mainline churches in Nigeria. The problem is that while the mainline churches refrain from the practice of spiritual gifts in their gatherings and thereby face the consequence, the Pentecostals enga...

This thesis is a study of the doctrine of the covenant of grace as developed by the Protestant Reformed theologian Herman Hoeksema (1886-1965). In the thesis I will focus particularly on Hoeksema's teaching that the covenant of grace is unconditional, both in its establishment and its maintenance. I will demonstrate that already in the early 1920s, while yet a minister in the Christian Reformed Church, Hoeksema's understanding of the covenant was impacted by his convictions concerning election. Throughout his lifetime Hoeksema never wavered from his fundamental view of the covenant of grace in its relationship to God's sovereign, gracious decree of election. Hoeksema formulated his views already in the early years of his ministry, especially in connection with his writing for the rubric "Our Doctrine" in the periodical of the Christian Reformed Church, the Banner. Hoeksema served as e...

The interpretation of the Bible in Africa is a broad and rapidly developing field, and also one that has attracted relatively little attention in the academy. While Justin’s Ukpong’s theory and method of biblical interpretation has generated significant discussion in the field, this study offers the first broad, critical examination of the internal coherence of Ukpong’s inculturation hermeneutics and of its broader usefulness for the theory and practice of interpreting the Bible in Africa. I begin by describing the assumptions, method, and practice of Ukpong’s inculturation hermeneutics. I proceed by using Schreiter’s criteria for contextual theologies to evaluate the coherence of Ukpong’s theory, method, and practice of biblical interpretation, and to assess the usefulness of his method and practice. While Ukpong’s theory and practice are largely consistent, his model would benefit f...

New developments in the study of Western Christian mysticism demand that the mystics be interpreted theologically if we are to accept the mystics on their own terms and take them seriously. This study argues that the medieval mystics in Europe up to the 13th century understand their work to be eschatological in nature, interpreting the mystical experience of union with the Divine as an inbreaking or foretaste of the eschaton. Reading Hadewijch of Antwerp, a 13th century Dutch mystic, together with contributions from Augustine of Hippo, Bernard of Clarivaux, and Hildegard of Bingen, this study attempts to demonstrate that the medievals understand the eschatological promise of the visio dei to be a reality already accomplished through the work of Christ, a reality which is thus assured in the life to come and accessible in some limited sense to individuals in this life. The mystical exp...

CTS ThM Theses from 2013 2013

As early as his 1941 Bangalore Lectures, “The Kingdom of God and the Idea of Progress,” Newbigin took a hard look directly at history itself and its various interpreters. In those four lectures at the age of 32, Newbigin laid the foundation for all of his critical theological thinking for the next half century. While Newbigin scholarship is still relatively fresh, it appears that expositors of his work have neglected a, if not the, central motif in his immense corpus: his philosophy of history. I will attempt provide a systematic account of Newbigin’s incredibly consistent thoughts on the topic of history over the span of more than fifty years, and to show how his epistemology, anthropology, soteriology, ecclesiology, eschatology, and missiology find their coherence in this singular vision. Chapter 1 introduces the importance of the topic of history in Newbigin’s life and work as well...

Beginning with a discussion of face-based linguistic politeness, this thesis investigates the etymology of the particle נָא as well as its meaning in the Pentateuch and Former Prophets. Though always associated with requests, the function of נָא varies according to its syntactical usage. With the particles הִנָּה and נָא ,אִם indicates that a request is about to be made; the interjections נָא and אַל־נָא are found too rarely to draw certain conclusions, but even in the few attested occurrences, a request follows. With the third-person jussive, נָא indicates that the hearer is being asked to do something, either to engage in an action or to grant permission (redress is offered by the use of the third-person form). With the cohortative, נָא invites input from the hearer, sometimes in the form of permission and sometimes more generally (redress is offered by an appeal to the hearer’s con...

As indicated by Jeremiah’s title, “the weeping prophet,” the book of Jeremiah is full of a wide range of feelings. The agent of these feelings is not only Jeremiah, but also his community (the people of Judah) and the LORD. These feelings expressed in the book can be seen as part of the prophetic message. In fact, Jeremiah’s feelings are not only his own but are also representative of his community and the LORD. This representational nature of Jeremiah’s feelings is hinted at through the ambiguity of the emotional agent, is shown in the paralleled feelings and incitements thereof for different agents, is displayed through literary means, and is even stated explicitly in the text. These feelings are an integral part of Jeremiah’s prophetic task, in which he represents himself, his community, and the LORD. Responses are given to those who see Jeremiah’s feelings as solely his own or reg...

CTS ThM Theses from 2012 2012

A dangerous tendency plagues the scripturally mandated practice of confession within many mainline Christian churches. The danger is that the theological thrust of the practice has been ignored or compromised in such a way that the manner in which confession is practiced ignores fundamental elements which underlie the need for confession, specifically public confession performed before one's fellow believers. It is especially evident that the confession of one's sins, which once took place in pubic before the ecclesial body, has seen a significant amount of change within the Reformed context. The focus of this essay is to identify the theological reason behind the sinner publically seeking to be reconciled with God and one's faith community, as well as the reason behind public confession as a means through which one may embrace grace and overcome one's sinful behavior. In this work, I...

CTS ThM Theses from 2011 2011

If healing is possible, and Christian prayer is a means to achieve it, how do Christians 'make it happen'? The answer to this question has had renewed and increasing interest for Christians in Reformed circles (Chapter I). While different healing 'ministries' have claimed to unlock (some aspect) of healing, there has been limited assessment of these ministries in both their methodologies and their claims. This paper reviews four of these ministries, first looking at aspects of their teaching and methodology (Chapter 2). It then reflects on these from a behavioural-psychological perspective by asking a number of questions (Chapter 3) before moving to a behavioural-theological analysis that looks a little more deeply at the foundations, methods and claims of these ministries (Chapter 4). This includes critique of these ministries (weaknesses, lacunae, inconsistencies) but also an recogn...

The purpose of this essay is to demonstrate that Cornelius Van Til’s (1895–1987) presupposition of Reformed dogmatics is largely a presupposition of Herman Bavinck’s (1854–1921) Gereformeerde Dogmatiek. The argument proceeds in three steps. First, by situating Van Til’s life and work in the neo-Calvinist intellectual milieu within which he operated throughout his career, the prevailing Copernican interpretation of Van Til’s thought is challenged on the grounds of historical abstraction. Second, his formal, material, and polemical appropriations of Bavinck’s Dogmatiek are analyzed in order to show not only that Van Til appropriates Bavinck’s thought pervasively, but also that his apologetics cannot be properly understood apart from Bavinck’s dogmatics. Third, Van Til’s criticisms of the alleged scholasticism in Bavinck’s thought are analyzed in terms of their originality and their vali...

CTS ThM Theses from 2010 2010

Canonical readings of the biblical psalms have become increasingly popular of late and represent a positive trend away from fragmentation of the Psalter into its "original" and component parts and towards greater recognition of the value of the Psalter's final form and its theology. However, the methods and parameters of a canonical approach to the psalms require further definition. An exegetical methodology incorporating a wide variety of methodological tools alongside a canonical approach was thus proposed and subsequently tested on Psalm 86. The unique features of Psalm 86—its attribution to David (in a book of the Psalter with no other Davidic psalms), its use of language found in many other psalms, and its Exodus-Sinai background—make it a particularly fitting composition to be read in light of other canonical texts. Application of the proposed holistic methodology to the interpr...

CTS ThM Theses from 2009 2009

This thesis argues that the Pauline letter opening has an anticipatory function alongside its relational role. This anticipatory function is a development of the epistolary features found in the ancient Greek letter openings. After the introductory chapter, is provided an analysis of form and function of ancient (III BCE to III CE) Greek letter prescripts. Chapters 3 and 4 provide a formal and functional analysis of the Pauline letter prescripts. The conclusion is that the anticipatory function works in two ways in the Pauline letters. First, Paul encapsulates his theology in the expression ‘grace to you and peace’ and uses it in the beginning of his letters, as did Plato and Epicurus who also coined their own greetings to communicate their philosophies. Second, Paul changes elements in the prescripts of all his undisputed letters to anticipate specific themes developed in the letter ...

Can children participate in the Lord’s Supper? This practice was prohibited at the fourth Lateran Council; however, at the end of the 20th century, among Reformed churches in North America and some Europe Churches, debated the validity of infant communion or children’s communion. Is, then, infant communion or children’s communion biblical? What was the practice of the early New Testament church? Can infants or children have faith and enough cognitive ability to discern the body of Christ? Many biblical scholars, systematic theologians, church historians and local church pastors participate in this debate. Both the Christian Reformed Church and Reformed Church in America deal with this theme as their denominational agenda. While studying at Calvin, this theme gave me a great motivation to study worship theology more deeply. I especially came to feel that this study requires interdiscip...

CTS ThM Theses from 2008 2008

This thesis demonstrates that Elnathan Parr‟s (1577-1622) treatment of divine predestination in his homiletical commentary on Romans and in his catechism entitled Grounds of Divinity evidences a pastoral approach in which the scholastic precision characteristic of the era does not lead to speculative aridity but serves positive spiritual purposes. Parr was neither afraid of nor obsessed by this part of the “whole counsel of God.” While his popular teaching incorporated detailed theological argumentation, including an extended examination of the supralapsarian-infralapsarian issue, his concern was to apply this doctrine through multiple types of “uses” to his spiritually diverse readership with the desire they would be led to experience, be assured of, live out of, and glory in God's electing love. The thesis focuses on the early seventeenth-century teaching of predestination as it rel...

CTS ThM Theses from 1993 1993

The general purpose of the thesis is to reintroduce an ancient Jewish/Christian tradition of lamenting which taps the anger and inappropriateness of death, destruction, and injustice. This ancient tradition has been lacking and has not been readily encouraged in the Christian community, even though lamenting can easily be understood as a vital part of our relationship with a covenantal God.

More specifically the thesis describes ministry to bereaved parents, and the important place of lament in this ministry. Although the psalms of lament are set forth as the main model, other creative avenues of lamenting are explored. Some prayers and a baptismal form which incorporate the lament theme are included. Pastors and Christian caregivers have many opportunities to minister to people in crises: who struggle with physical, emotional or spiritual problems. What we say or do, as well a...

• Collections
• Disciplines

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS

Author Corner

• Seminary Academic Programs

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

Hello, you are using an old browser that's unsafe and no longer supported. Please consider updating your browser to a newer version, or downloading a modern browser.

Master of Theology

A focused opportunity in advanced biblical scholarship, the Master of Theology program equips you for leadership in pastoral ministry, pastoral training, and academia.

Reclaiming Advanced Biblical Scholarship Discernment. Precision. Conviction. These are the principles that matter when it comes to theological excellence and biblical fidelity. As challenges to the truth mount from outside and inside the church, the Master of Theology program provides the depth and clarity you need to hold fast the word of truth in challenging times, and equip others to do the same. The Master of Theology program builds upon the knowledge and skills developed in the Master of Divinity program. It is designed to take students deeper and farther—whether the goal is the proclamation of the Word in the pulpit, the training of ministers in the classroom, or the preparation for doctoral studies in the academy.

Specialize in one of four emphases of academic study, gaining competency in current trends, historical expression, and essential truths.

Improve your skills in the interpretation of God’s Word by refining your knowledge of hermeneutics and the biblical languages.

Grow in your ability to communicate effectively through seminars in pedagogy and opportunities to present papers for review.

Contributor

Cultivate excellence in writing by demonstrating critical thinking, in-depth interaction, and thorough research.

Core Classes and Schedule

The Master of Theology program offers four emphases: Old Testament, New Testament, Theology, and Bible Exposition, culminating in a thesis for 29-unit Ph.D. track students and a research portfolio for the 28-unit non-Ph.D. track students.

New Testament Non-Ph.D. Track

New testament ph.d. track, old testament non-ph.d. track, old testament ph.d. track, theological studies non-ph.d. track, theological studies ph.d. track, bible exposition non- ph.d. track, bible exposition ph.d. track, what it takes to complete, meet the faculty, compare master of theology to our other programs, degree requirements.

• Master of Divinity (or M.Div-equivalent M.A. of at least 72 credits)
• A consistent record of commendable Christian ministry experience

Career Outcomes

Qualification to fulfill a teaching position and pursue doctoral study, such as the PhD

Learning Outcomes

• As an advancing scholar, specialize in an area of biblical or theological studies, gaining facility in its literature and scholarship.
• As an advancing exegete, employ more refined skills in Hebrew and Greek translation, exegesis, and interpretation.
• As an advancing teacher, implement the skills of communication and effective teaching of course content.
• As an advancing researcher, demonstrate thoughtfulness, in-depth interaction, thorough research, and excellence in scholarly writing

To accommodate the pastor, teacher, or missionary already engaged in ministry, the Master of Theology program does not require residency at the Los Angeles campus. For each 15-week seminar, students can connect online from anywhere in the world for most of the weekly lectures and discussions. Students are required to meet in-person for one week, once each semester.

Doctor of Ministry

Prerequisites.

• 3+ years of commendable pastoral ministry experience

Enhanced skills in sermon preparation and public exposition of Scripture

• As an experienced biblical expositor, to add further understanding, quality, and depth to the exegetical skill needed in sermon preparation.
• As an experienced biblical expositor, to add further understanding, quality, and depth to the sermon content synthesis.
• As an experienced biblical expositor, to add further understanding, quality, and depth to the rhetorical eloquence.
• As an experienced biblical expositor, to demonstrate enhanced expository preaching skills in a culminating program project.

Master of Divinity

• Bachelor’s Degree
• A consistent record of commendable Christian ministry experience.

Qualification for pastoral, missionary, and Christian education ministries, as well as further graduate study.

• As a future elder, pastor, missionary, or educator, comprehend the significant areas of biblical interpretation, biblical languages, Christian theology and pastoral ministry.
• As a future elder/pastor, construct a personal, biblical philosophy of ministry with application to the desired vocational goals.
• As a future preacher/teacher of the Scripture, synthesize the input of biblical languages, Bible backgrounds and theological constructs to preach and teach the Bible to varied age levels and abilities within any ministry context.
• As a future spiritual leader, exhibit the disciplines of holiness, prayer, leadership, and compassion required for ministry.

Doctor of Philosophy

Qualification for professorship, writing, and research

• As a critical thinker, collect and analyze primary and secondary sources of information, critique interpretations of the evidence, synthesize the evidence for future scholarly contributions to the field of study, and draw and integrate implications for professional practice.
• As a theological exegete, apply exegetical skills to the biblical text, develop a theological critique of views related to the text, and connect the issue with its historical precedents.
• As a scholarly communicator, engage in quality written papers and oral presentations in colloquia for the purpose of disseminating personal scholarship to peer audiences as well as future readers and hearers of their work

Bachelor of Theology

• A minimum of 30 semester units of undergraduate general education credits, with at least 3 of those credits in math
• Over 25 years old

Qualification for pastoral, missionary, and Christian education ministries, as well as further graduate study

Diploma of Theology

• o previous degrees required

Frequent Questions

In the 28-unit (29-unit, Ph.D. Track), modular Th.M. program, students are given the opportunity to select an Old Testament, New Testament, Theology, or Bible Exposition emphasis.

There are four major exams pertinent to each discipline, embedded in corresponding courses. The exams serve as Ph.D. qualifying exams.

Thesis or Capstone Project

To demonstrate academic ability in the non-Ph.D. track, students are required to compile a scholarly research portfolio for the completion of their studies. In the Ph.D. track, the successful submission of a research thesis is required.

The 15-week fall and spring semesters are divided into three segments:

• The pre-module period involves 12 weeks of interactive learning facilitated through Canvas—our online learning platform.
• In-person courses at the Los Angeles campus are held for 1–3 weeks.
• After the in-person courses end, the term allows for an additional 2 weeks of supplemental learning facilitated through Canvas.

The Master of Theology is a preparation degree for the Ph.D. program. Qualifying exams for the Ph.D. are incorporated into the Th.M. curriculum so that students are qualified to enter the doctoral program upon successful completion of the Th.M.

The Th.M. program is ideally completed in two-to-three years, and the Ph.D. program is completed in an additional two-to-three years.

The programs are designed as two halves of a whole. The Th.M. is the coursework that prepares students to write their dissertations in the Ph.D. program. During their Ph.D. studies, students will present a series of colloquia and a defense to the faculty.

Students in the doctoral program will have three readers. The first is their advisor, who will be a member of the TMS faculty. The second reader is another faculty member, and the third is an outside reader from another like-minded seminary.

Advisors are assigned based on a student’s emphasis and the faculty’s availability. Upon application to the program, students may request an advisor. On occasion, a faculty member may also request to serve as advisor to a specific student.

You wouldn’t trust a doctor who didn’t train at a hospital, who had never cared for an actual patient. In the same way, you shouldn’t entrust the care of your soul, or your family’s, to a pastor with no local church experience. You want someone who was trained in the church and trained by pastors.

Request More Information

Master of theology request info form.

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Phone number *
• International Student
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Get Started Today

Get started.

Scholarly Resources from Concordia Seminary

Home > Concordia Seminary Scholarship > Master of Sacred Theology

Master of Sacred Theology Thesis

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

What God Has Joined Together: The One Threefold Purpose of Marriage , David Frayne Shudy

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Contemplative Vision: Visual Language in the Sermons of Johannes Tauler , Joshua P. Reifsteck

Straining Forward to What Lies Ahead: Models of Patristic Contemplation , Joshua Vanderhyde

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

The Source and Application of Thomas Müntzer's Theology of Divination in His Marginal Notes on Tertullian , Roger Drinnon

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Codex Boernerianus A Textual Analysis of 1 Timothy , Alexander Fisher

Metaphorical Imagery in Colossians: The Narrative of Christian Living , Paul Muther

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Body-and-Soul: Embodied Participation of the Laity in the Divine Service , Aaron Roggow

Falling Far from the Tree? God's Rejection of Cain outside the Garden of Eden (Genesis 4:1-16) , Mark Remington Squire

A Survey of Christian Missions in China and the Chinese Term Controversy , Christopher Vossler

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Extra Nos but not Extraneous: Augustine’s De Natura Et Gratia and Contemporary Receptions of Augustine , Thomas Pietsch

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Post-Holocaust Interpretations of ’ΙΕΡΑΉλ in Romans 9:6–9 and 11:25–27 , Joshua LaFeve

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Is the Christian in the Flesh? An Apocalyptic Reading of Galatians 5:16–26 , Michael Redeker

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Bonhoeffer and His Answer to the Enduring Problem , Joel Durrwachter

"It was he Who Gave Some to be": Toward an Understanding of the Role of the Female Prophet in the Lutheran Church , Ann Murphy

Shaped by the Spirit: Spirit Christology as a Framework for Preaching Sanctification , Jonathan Rusnak

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Rhetorical Rationale for the Compositional Integrity of Second Corinthians , Mark Erickson

Manuscript 2193 and its Text of the Gospel According to John , Timothy Koch

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

The Hour Has Come-A Narrative-Critical Analysis Of The Use Of ω̋ρα in the Gospel of John , Dennis Matyas

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Irenaeus and Scripture: Orthodox Corruptions or Reverential Alterations? , Benjamin Haupt

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

The Integration of the Volga Germans into American Lutheranism , Richard Allen Davenport

The Role of African Christians in Establishing a Self Consciously Zimbabwean Lutheran Church in the Western Region of Zimbabwe , Michael Dube

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

Luther's Genesis Lectures on the Hidden God Who Reveals Himself , Timothy E. Beck

The Development and Place of the Notae Ecclesiae in Luther and the Lutheran Confessions , John E. Hill

A Biblical Understanding of Women in Ministry: An Investigation of I Timothy 2:8-15 , Jerry L. Moan

Going to Make Disciples: An Examination of the Lives and Work of American Lutheran Women in Mission During The Early and Mid Twentieth Century , Laura E. Strietelmeier

An Analysis of the Anthropological Christology of Wolfhart Pannenberg , Anthony R. Watson

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

Theology of the Church as Ministry to Blind People , David Andrus

The Structure of the Gospel of Mark: Revisiting the Implications of Repetition and Characterization , Gregory Michael

"The Old Evil Foe Now Means Deadly Woe": The Works of the Devil in the Theology Of Martin Luther , Esko Murto

Biblical Hermeneutics in the Early Missouri Synod , Charles Schaum

Why Does Joseph Wash his Face? A Semantic, Historical, and Literary Analysis of Genesis 43:31a , Philip Young Yoo

Theses/Dissertations from 2004 2004

The Descent of Darwin—A Theological Understanding of Charles Darwin , David Kummer

A Lutheran Look at President Bush's Faith-Based Initatives , Darren Olson

Theses/Dissertations from 2003 2003

Bishop Bo Harald Giertz-Pietism and the Ordo Salutis-The Office of the Holy Ministry, the Word, and Soul Care , Eric Andrae

Fifty Years of Theological Education in the Gutnius Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea: 1948-1998 , John Eggert

Submit to Whom? An Exegetical Study of Romans 13:1-7 , Bradley Smith

Theses/Dissertations from 2000 2000

The Intercession of the Prophet , Warren Graff

Anthropology and the Doctrine of Sin in the Theology of Reinhold Niebuhr , Hiroyuki Kanamori

Theology of the Divine Call and Intentional Interim Ministry in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod , John Reek

Discerning the body - An Exegetical Examination of 1 Co. 11:17-34 , Mark Surburg

Isaiah's Oracle Against Philistia: An Exegetical and Historical Study of Isaiah 14:28-32 , Paul Wenz

Theses/Dissertations from 1999 1999

Aurelius Augustine's-Use or Discarding of the Classical Methodology of Education to Promote the Christian Faith , Gordon Beck

John 6 and the Lord's Supper , Jon Bischof

Liturgical Theology: Substance and Source , James Honig

Vanity in Human Life-A Comparative Study of the Role of Hebel in Qoheleth and Wu in the Philosophical Thought of Wang Bi , Samuel Hsiao-Yung Liu

Theses/Dissertations from 1998 1998

Feminism and the major female characters of Exodus , Scott Ashmon

Literary Approaches to the Book of Jonah , Thomas Engler

Feast and Yeast-A Study of Two Categories of Eucharistic Motifs of the Early Church Later Recovered by Luther and Chemnitz , David Groth

“Have You Never Read?” the Significance of Old Testament Citations in the Plot of Matthew’s Gospel , Carl M. Hanson

Mein Liebes Schones Confitemini-An Analysis of Dr. Martin Luther's Translation of Psalm 118 , Paul Landgraf

The Enemies of God's People-A Comparison of Pauline and Jewish Exegesis , Charles Schulz

The Liturgical Confession of the Lord's Supper in Five Representative Orders of 16th Century Lutheranism , William Weedon

Theses/Dissertations from 1997 1997

Hermeneutical Approaches to the Isaiah Apocalypse: An Examination of Form- and Redaction-Critical Interpretive Principles and Foundations for a New Study of Isaiah 24-27 , William Carr Jr

The Tearing of the Temple Veil and the Death of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke , Douglas Stowe

General Confession and Absolution in Luther's Reform of the Canon of the Mass , Daniel Torkelson

Theses/Dissertations from 1996 1996

The Life and Work of Paul Otto Manz as Church Musician within the Context of American Lutheranism in the Twentieth Century , Michael Henrichs

Use of Ek πι∑τεω∑ in Romans and Galatians: The Significance of Paul’s Choice of Prepositions with πι∑τει∑ as Object and Its Bearing upon Justification by Faith , Andrew John Spallek

Theses/Dissertations from 1995 1995

The Consensus of Pure Lutheran Liturgies: A Comparison and Analysis of the First German and First English Service Orders of Holy Communion in the Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod , Mark Kufahl

The Christology of Feminist Theology-Exploration and Critique , Michael Miller

From Invocation Through Creed: A Historical and Doctrinal Analysis of the Service of the Word in the Common Service , Timothy Roser

Theses/Dissertations from 1994 1994

Sanctification as Confessed by Luther in his Catechisms , Ernest Bernet

The Bursting of Old Wineskins: An Investigation into Luther's Withdrawal from Augustine and the Scholastics as Evidenced in his Treatment of Opus Operatum and Opus Operantis , Joel Brondos

Ordination Liturgies, the Call Process, and the Office of the Ministry in the Landeskirche of Braunschweig-Wolfenbuttel, 1569-1815 , Kent Burreson

The Eusebian Canons: An Early Catholic Approach to Gospel Harmony , Edward Engelbrecht

ΚΟΙΝO͂NIA: The Biblical Proclamation of ΚΟΙΝO͂NIA and its Relationship to the Proclamation and Celebration of the Lord's Supper , Gregory Seltz

Hebrew Narrative: Theory for Proclamation , Alan Toenjes

Theses/Dissertations from 1993 1993

He will Baptize You with the Holy Spirit and Fire , Luther Esala

New Measures: An Analysis of an Argument Among Lutherans in the United States During the Fourth and Fifth Decades of the Nineteenth Century , John Fuchs

Communication Principles in Pastoral Counseling , Dieter Joel Jagnow

Auctoritas in Ecclesia: Jean Gerson and Martin Luther on the Authority of the Papacy and General Councils , Paul Robinson

Luther and the Third Use of the Law, with Special Reference to His Great Galatians Commentary , Jeffrey G. Silcock

Theses/Dissertations from 1992 1992

Pastoral Care for the Family Affected by Chemical Dependency , Michael Eckelkamp

The Annals of Obadiah: A Record of the Wars and Peace Treaties in the History of its Interpretation , Joel Elowsky

A Paracletic Homiletic , Charles Keogh

The Priesthood of all the Baptized:An Exegetical and Theological Investigation , Thomas Winger

Theses/Dissertations from 1991 1991

James 1:25 and 2:12: The Perfect Law of Liberty and the Perfect Liberty of the Christian , Paul Alliet

Luther's Summaries of the Psalms (1531)--A Model for Contemporary Psalm Interpretation , Bruce Cameron

A Study of the Old Testament Quote in Matthew 27:9, 10 , Curtis Giese

The Relation of the Celebration of the Lord's Supper to the Office of the Holy Ministry: , Kent Heimbigner

An Analysis of Justification by Faith , Laverne Janssen

The Lord's Supper's Eschatology in the Blood of the Covenant , Joel Lehenbauer

The Relationship of Christ and Faith in Luther’s Great Galatians Commentary (1531/1535), Section 2:16-21 , Luisivan Veller Strelow

A Comparative Study of 'People' in the Old Testament and the Minjung Concept , Hyun Sup Um

Theses/Dissertations from 1990 1990

A Study of the Root HESYCH- In the New Testament , John Armstrong

Aspects of the Calendar of the Hebrew Bible and its Theological Significance , Charles Blanco

Leviticus 17:11 and the Theology of Sacrifice , Robert Clancy

The Chrisitian Day of Worship Gatherings- Its New Testament Practice and Theological Basis , David Fielding

The Promises of Prosperity in the Old Testament an Exegetical and Theological Examination , Paul Naumann

The Date and Author of the Gospel According to Matthew , Neil David Nelson

An Analysis of Gospel Elements in Selected Major Works of Charles Dickens , Steven Smith

The Doctrine of Baptism as Confessed by C. F. W. Walther's Gesangbuch of 1847 , Jon Vieker

Theses/Dissertations from 1989 1989

The Doctrine of Scripture in Fundamentalist Theology A Lutheran Appraisal , Terry Forke

Augustine’s Theology of the Sacrament of the Altar as Understood from His Theory of “Signum” and “Res” , Leo Fuhr

The Educational Needs of the Adult Layperson Concerning the Mission of God_Research Towards Writing an Introductory Adult Mission Education Course , Stephen Gaulke

The Holiness of Yahweh in Conflict with the Holiness of Baal Vis-À-Vis Mount Zion and Mount Zaphon , Reed Lessing

Paul's Portrayal of Judaism: St. Paul's Critique of Judaism in Romans 3:19-31 and Evidence from Judaism which Validates his Assessment , Michael Middendorf

Isaac as Preached by Luther , Ralph Rokke

The Three-Self Mission Approach in the Context of the Igreja Evangelica Luterana Do Brasil , Egon Martim Seibert

A Law-Gospel Comparison of the World Council of Churches' Document Baptism. Eucharist. and Ministry and the Book of Concord , Glen Thomas

Theses/Dissertations from 1988 1988

A Study of German Lutheran Communion Hymnody the Early Years , Paul Becker

• Collections
• Disciplines

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS

Author Corner

801 Seminary Place St. Louis, Missouri 63105 314.505.7000

• Facebook Link
• Twitter Link
• Instagram Link

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

• Inside Candler
• Welcome from the Dean
• At a Glance
• Mission, Vision & Values
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
• Candler History
• Educational Effectiveness
• Accreditation
• Connection Magazine
• Commencement
• Staff and Office Directory
• Institutes, Initiatives, & Affiliates
• Career Services
• The Candler Experience
• Affording Candler
• Scholarships and Aid
• Explore Atlanta
• For International Students
• Admissions Events
• Visit Candler
• Virtual Campus Tour
• Meet the Admissions Team
• Admissions Social Media
• How to Apply
• Application Requirements
• Application Deadlines
• Degree Program Overview

Master of Divinity

• Master of Theological Studies
• Master of Religious Leadership
• Master of Religion and Public Life
• Master of Theology
• Doctor of Ministry
• Dual Degrees

Contextual Education

• Denominational and Special Interest Programs
• U.S. Study & Travel
• International Study & Travel
• The Candler Foundry
• United Methodist Course of Study
• United Methodist Licensing School
• La Mesa Academy for Theological Studies
• Academic Calendar
• Catalog & Handbook
• Academic Development & Support
• Registrar’s Office
• Pitts Theology Library
• Faculty Directory
• Faculty Books
• Faculty News
• The McDonald Chair
• Biblical Studies
• Christianity & Culture
• Church & Ministry
• History & Interpretation of Christianity
• Faculty Emeriti
• Community Life
• Student Organizations
• International Student Resources
• Meet the Student Life Team
• Worship & Spiritual Formation
• Worship Livestream
• Formation Communities
• Housing, Transportation & Schools
• Health and Safety
• Resources and Services
• Ways to Get Involved
• Professional Development
• Volunteer Leadership
• Class Notes
• Monthly E*News
• Make a Gift
• Campaign 2O36
• Meet the AAE Team

Home — Academic Programs — Master of Divinity

Long considered the definitive degree for professional ministry, the Master of Divinity at Candler integrates challenging academics, in-depth contextual learning, and faculty-led mentoring like no other seminary. Available in residential or hybrid/online format.

Why the Master of Divinity?

I’m called to ministry

Is God calling you to help transform the world? Students motivated by a call to ministry are a great fit for the MDiv. The form your ministry might take will depend on your call and your unique gifts. It might be church ministry, chaplaincy, nonprofit work, social justice advocacy, teaching…or something just now on the horizon.

I’m seeking academic advancement

Do you plan to continue your education through a PhD program in theology or religion? Candler’s strong academics coupled with the MDiv’s emphasis on applied theology forms thoughtful scholars whose research and teaching has the potential to change hearts and minds.

I want to promote social change

Do you have a passion for social change? If you are looking to spark and lead societal change guided by Christian theology that calls for peace, justice, and love, the MDiv can give you the background and tools to pursue that work and the spiritual resources to sustain it.

On campus or hybrid/online

Choose the format that works best for you.

Candler’s Master of Divinity is available in two formats: a residential plan with in-person learning on campus or a hybrid plan with the majority of classes online and the remainder as short, in-person intensives.

Whether you take classes on campus or online, you’ll follow the same carefully designed curriculum taught by the same exceptional faculty, be supported by the world-class Pitts Theology Library, have access to resources for student success and spiritual formation, and be welcomed fully into the Candler community.

Have questions about our hybrid option? Check out our hybrid Master of Divinity FAQ

Curriculum Overview

For students beginning in Fall 2023 or after, Candler’s MDiv curriculum comprises 72 hours and is designed to be completed in three or four years. MDiv students take courses in biblical studies, historical studies, systematic theology, ethics, religion and society, world religions, and practical theology/arts of ministry.

Contextual Education at Candler

Classroom, context, critical reflection, complete preparation for ministry.

Candler’s approach to hands-on learning is distinctive, right down to its name. While others call it “field education,” we call it “contextual education,” and it’s much more than just learning by doing. Con Ed is an intentional integration of academic learning from the classroom, applied learning from ministry sites, and critical reflection on the interplay of the two. It’s the hallmark of Candler’s MDiv curriculum, giving students the experience and the space they need to more clearly discern their call and hone their gifts for ministry. First-year MDiv students serve in clinical or social ministry settings, and second-year students serve in ecclesial settings. Regular faculty-led reflection groups bring the learning full circle.

Master of Divinity Degree Requirements

To qualify for the MDiv degree, a candidate who begins the program in Fall 2023 or later must complete each of these requirements.

Requirements for Admission

To enter the MDiv program, a candidate must have:

• A bachelor’s or equivalent degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
• A well-balanced program of work in the liberal arts.

Credit Hours

In fulfilling the 72 credit hours required to complete the MDiv degree, students who enter the program in Fall 2023 and later may not exceed certain hours limits in certain course categories, such as Contextual Education, internships, Teaching Parish, summer courses, and directed study, among others. Learn more about credit hour limitations here.

GPA Requirements

In courses taken to fulfill requirements, students must earn a letter grade of at least C, i.e., 2.0 on a scale of 4.0. Students who earn less than a C in a course intended to meet a requirement may retake the course. However, the same course cannot be counted more than once toward the total credit hours for graduation and both instances of the course remain on the Emory official transcript and are part of the student’s GPA calculation.

Curricular Requirements

Students must complete the following courses and requirements in the MDiv curriculum.

First-Year Courses

• MDiv 500 Introduction to Theological Formation (3 hours)
• MDiv 600 First Year Spring Seminar (3 hours)

In the Fall semester of the first year, all students enroll in MDiv 500 Introduction to Theological Formation. This course is designed to form students in practices and methods of theological inquiry and discourse while keeping them in conversation with their deepest purposes for pursuing theological education. It will accompany them in the work of discernment around fundamental questions of identity, community and vocation.

In the Spring semester of the first year, students enroll in MDiv 600 Spring Seminar. Spring Seminars are integrative, theologically interdisciplinary, thematically focused first-year courses taught by faculty from different curricular areas. Each of these courses will be designed to foster interdisciplinary engagement and extended conversation around a particular theme that matters for theological education—themes such as discipleship, justice, mission, prayer, migration, story, and creation. This course serves as a curricular center of gravity, cultivating small learning communities that support and nurture theological formation while allowing students, including those who enter the MDiv program for the first time in a Spring semester, to explore their own motivating questions.

Biblical Studies Courses

• OT 500-Level Course (3 hours)
• OT 600-Level Course (3 hours)
• NT 500-Level Course (3 hours)
• NT 600-Level Course (3 hours)

History of Christianity

Students will take two courses in History of Christianity (HC), each from a different era and at least one of which must be taken at the 500-level. (6 hours)

• Era 1 HC 500-549 OR HC 600-649 (3 hours)
• Era 2 HC 550-596 OR HC 650-698 (3 hours)
• At least one 500-level from among the courses above

Systematic Theology

• ST 501 Systematic Theology (3 hours)
• ST Elective (3 hours)

Students who have already studied the material of ST501 at a previous institution may request to substitute an additional ST elective. Refer to the ST 501 Substitution Form available from the Candler Registrar for more information.

Christianity and Culture

• ES 500-Level Course (3 hours)

Religion and Society

Students choose from courses in Mission (M), Sociology of Religion (SR), or Church and Community (CC) to fulfill the Religion and Society requirement.

• Any M, SR, or CC course (3 hours)

World Religions

Students choose a WR course offered through Candler or a course from outside Candler that meets the criteria approved by the Candler faculty as determined by the Dean of Academic Affairs.

• Any WR course (3 hours)

Practical Theology/Arts of Ministry

Students will take three course in Practical Theology/Arts of Ministry, each from a different subjeect area (CHP, CC, CM, EV, LA, PT, P, RE, or W) and at least two of which must be taken at the 500-level. (9 hours)

• Two courses taken at the 500-level (6 hours)
• Two courses taken at the 600-level (6 hours)

The four semesters of required contextual education must be taken in sequence and may be fulfilled through one of the following options:

• Contextual Education I
• Remote Contextual Education I
• Teaching Parish Remote Teaching Parish
• Episcopal and Anglican Studies Contextual Education
• Contextual Education II
• Remote Contextual Education II
• Teaching Parish
• Remote Teaching Parish
• Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)

Please contact our Contextual Education office if you have questions about these requirements.

Four courses (12 hours) may be used to complete courses that fulfil denominational requirements, certificates, concentrations, or be used to take courses of interest that are not needed elsewhere in the plan of study.

Race, Ethnicity, Gender and/or Global Contexts (REGG)

Students must take at least one course among the required courses above that is designated as REGG. These courses are designed to address dynamics and challenges related to issues of race, ethnicity, gender, and/or global contexts in both readings and assignments thematically throughout the semester.

Advising and Assessment

In addition to the curricular requirements listed above, students in the MDiv program are required to complete advising each semester and to complete the Final Year Integrative Advising Conversation.

First-year students are required to participate in a first-year advising group composed of small groups of first-year students along with a faculty adviser. These groups will assist first-year students with ongoing orientation to Candler.

The faculty adviser will hold an advising conversation with every advisee at least once each semester during the advising period, where the student’s progress in the MDiv program and coursework for the coming term are discussed.

Students who do not have an advising conversation prior to preregistration will have a hold placed on their OPUS account and will be prevented from registering until advising is completed and the faculty adviser notifies the Candler registrar’s office.

Final Year Integrative Advising Conversation

In the final year of the MDiv program, the academic adviser conducts an Integrative Advising Conversation with their advisees. The purpose of this conversation is to discuss the student’s overall progress in theological studies, reflection on the Candler experience, state of vocational discernment, and post-MDiv plans (including continuing education). Completion of the Integrative Advising Conversation is a graduation requirement. In preparation, students will prepare a portfolio that will be submitted to the academic adviser at least one week prior to the interview. The portfolio shall include materials from courses taken across the curriculum, evaluations from each semester of contextual education, and a senior statement. For a detailed list of portfolio requirements, please see the  Candler Catalog and Handbook .

Thesis Option

The thesis option provides an opportunity for independent study and research geared to the individual student’s ability and interests. MDiv students with a minimum grade point average of 3.5 at the end of thirty-six hours of coursework, including Contextual Education I and the first semester of Contextual Education II are invited in the spring semester of the second year to write an MDiv thesis. A maximum of 12 students per year will be selected. All course, Contextual Education, and advising requirements of the MDiv program will apply to those selected to write a thesis.

Eligible students will be contacted in February of the eligible year and invited to apply. Interested students submit a one page, single-spaced letter of intent detailing their thesis interest, plus supporting letters from the faculty adviser and proposed thesis adviser, before the stated deadline to the academic dean. For most students, this will be at the beginning of the fourth semester (spring of the second year). Selection will be made before the end of the fall pre-registration advising period by the academic dean.

As the title suggests, the main feature of the thesis option is the writing of a thesis. Students selected for the thesis option are required to enroll in a directed study with their thesis adviser in the fall (typically the fifth) semester. This directed study (which may be free-standing or connected to a class that the thesis adviser is teaching that semester) will be awarded between one and three hours of credit, as determined by the academic dean in consultation with the thesis adviser. It will be focused on the thesis topic and will culminate in a 15–20 page paper to be read and assessed by the thesis adviser.

The thesis adviser determines if the paper is of sufficient quality, shows progress in research, and is leading to a clearer understanding of the thesis topic. If these conditions are not met, then the student will be given a grade for the directed study but will not be allowed to complete the MDiv thesis option. If the thesis adviser determines that the initial paper does meet these conditions, then a grade of IP (in progress) will be assigned to the directed study and the student will be permitted to enroll in three hours of MDIV650: MDiv Thesis in his or her final (typically the sixth) semester. At this stage, the thesis adviser and the student, in consultation with the academic dean, select a second reader for the thesis, who agrees to read and assess the thesis for a grade.

Students enrolled in MDIV650 will be assigned a grade for both semesters of work on the thesis on the basis of the final grade awarded for the thesis. The IP grade for the fall semester directed study will be changed to reflect the grade for the thesis once the thesis has been marked. The thesis and directed study must be taken for a letter grade, and the minimum passing grade is a B. Thesis credits do not fulfill MDiv common courses or common requirements, but may fulfill concentration requirements with the approval of the concentration coordinator. The completed thesis is normally 45–60 pages in length.

The final draft of the MDiv thesis is due to both readers by the first Monday in April of the semester before graduation. The two readers agree on a grade for the thesis, which is submitted to the registrar. In cases where the readers cannot agree on a grade, the thesis will be submitted to the academic dean for adjudication. After the graded copy is returned, the student must submit a corrected version, based on reader comments, to Emory Library’s ETD system by the senior grading deadline (etd.library.emory. edu). Students who do not complete the thesis by the deadline, but have completed all other courses needed for graduation, are required to register for MDIV999R: Master of Divinity Administrative Fee each semester until the thesis has been submitted successfully and the student graduates. For further information, contact the associate dean of faculty and academic affairs.

Here, “residence” pertains to the number of credit hours that must be completed through Candler and not via transfer or cross-registration. Residence policies for the MDiv (including maximum transfer credit, maximum cross-registration, and maximum summer school hours) can be found here.

Hybrid Option

The curricular and residence requirements for hybrid MDiv students are identical to the curricular and residence requirements for students in the on-campus MDiv.

Hybrid students take the majority of their classes in a remote/online format. Most of Candler’s remote/online classes have real-time synchronous components that require students to be able to log into Zoom or another internet-based platform to participate in live class meetings at specified times each week during the regular semester.

In addition to online coursework, hybrid students take a portion of their classes in person, usually through short on-campus intensives or travel seminars in August and May, with additional intensives options in January and in other parts of the summer term. Hybrid students who live in the Atlanta area may elect to take their in-person classes on campus during the regular semester rather than during an abbreviated intensive term.

The hybrid MDiv is designed to be completed in 3 or 4 years, with a 6-year maximum time to completion. Please note that denominational ordination requirements may require particular courses to be taken in person. Students are responsible for understanding and meeting their specific ordination requirements.

Read our hybrid Master of Divinity FAQ

Tailor your MDiv degree

MDiv students can customize their learning experience and deepen their engagement with a particular area of study by choosing from six dual degrees, seven certificates, and 12 concentrations.

MDiv students may choose to pursue a dual degree in the following areas:

• Business Administration
• Development Practice
• Public Health
• Social Work

MDiv students may choose to pursue an academic certificate in the following areas:

• Baptist Studies
• Black Church Studies
• Episcopal and Anglican Studies
• Religious Education Ministries
• Women’s Studies in Theology and Ministry
• Religion and Health
• Human Rights

MDiv students may choose to declare an academic concentration in the following areas:

• Catholic Studies
• Formation and Witness
• Justice, Peacebuilding, and Conflict Transformation
• Leadership in Church and Community
• Religion and Race
• Scripture and Interpretation
• Society and Personality
• Theology and the Arts
• Theology and Ethics
• Traditions of the Church
• World Christianity

Affording Seminary

100%—that’s right, 100%!—of MDivs receive scholarships starting at 50% tuition. All certified candidates for ordination in The UMC who apply by the priority deadline receive full tuition. And most scholarships last for the duration of your degree program.

Candler Firsthand

Here’s what a few Master of Divinity alumni had to say about their Candler experience.

“At Candler, I’ve been able to integrate my faith and my theological education in ways I had never imagined. It is life-giving to be in a place where real conversations to challenge and refine Christian theology are taking place, all within an understanding of God’s grace.”

Tiffania Willetts

MDiv '18, DMin '25

“I wanted to attend a program that equipped me to be not just a minister, but a scholar as well. Unlike other top seminaries, Candler still has strong ties to the university and there are a wealth of resources available that we as students can take advantage of.”

Jermaine Pearson

“Candler has truly been the incubator and apex of my growth and my theological and spiritual formation. My Candler experience has shaped, formed and prepared me for the world ahead. The current state of our world compels us to find our voice and become agents for social change and reform as our world calls us out of the shadows.”

Cerise Barton

Ready to take the next step in answering your call?

By clicking “Accept All Cookies,” you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.

Home > SEM > THEOLOGY-CHRISTIAN-PHILOSOPHY > Master's Theses

Master's Theses

Master's theses from 2016 2016.

The Relationship of the Old Covenant to the Everlasting Covenant , Kumar Ashwani

Master's Theses from 2015 2015

Rita Nakashima Brock, Rebecca Ann Parker, and Governmental Atonement Theology , Andrew John Blosser

Master's Theses from 2014 2014

The Ethical Viability of Church Support of Moral Legislation , Jason Alexander Hines

Master's Theses from 2013 2013

Toward a Biblical View of Collective Responsibility for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Twenty-first Century , Miroslav Danihel

Master's Theses from 2012 2012

Protology and Eschatology in the Writings of John C. Polkinghorne: a Study of Contrastive Roles of Scripture , H. Nicholas De Lima

Socially Constructing God: Gender, Culture, and a Stratified Trinity , Landon P. Schnabel

Master's Theses from 2009 2009

The Doctrine of Sin in the Thought of George R. Knight: Its Context and Implications , Jamie Kiley

Master's Theses from 2008 2008

Reason in Theology: a Comparison of Fernando Canale and Wolfhart Pannenberg , Sven Fockner

Master's Theses from 1993 1993

Quantum Reality: Some Implications for Christian Theology , Charles Chinyoung Choo

Master's Theses from 1990 1990

Inerrancy and Sovereignty: a Case Study on Carl F. H. Henry , Joseph Karanja

Master's Theses from 1989 1989

The Final Generation: a Descriptive Account of the Development of a Significant Aspect of M.l. Andreasen's Eschatology as Related to His Treatment of the Sanctuary Doctrine Between 1924-1937 , Dwight Eric Haynes

Master's Theses from 1958 1958

An Investigation of the Concept of Perfectionism as Target in the Writings of Ellen G. White , F. W. Bieber

Library Links

• James White Library

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS
• Collections
• Disciplines

Author Corner

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

College of Arts & Sciences

PhD Dissertations

For more details, including abstracts and PDFs, please see our institutional repository, Digital Georgetown .

Mohamed Lamallam, Society, Religion and Political Power: The Theory of ulfa jāmi’a (Social Harmony) in the Socio-Political Works of al-Māwardī (d.450/1058). Advisor: Paul Heck.

Arunjana Das, A Hindu-Christian Approach Towards Peace-Making: How do Theological Discourse and Agency Emerge in Religious Systems? Advisor: Ariel Glucklich.

James Shelton Nalley, Towards a Holy Friendship: Reflecting on Interreligious Friendship with Thomas Aquinas and Ibn al-ʿArabī. Advisor: Stephen Fields.

Susan O’Neill Hayward, Enduring War and Enduring Peace: Religion, Resilience, and Resistance. Advisor: Jose Casanova.

Jordan Denari Duffner, Muḥammad’s Character as “Fruit of the Spirit”: Toward a Catholic Pneumatology of the Prophet of Islam. Advisor: Leo Lefebure.

Nan Kathy Lin, Religious Change as Seen Through Buddhist Environmentalism; 2023. Advisor: Francisca Cho.

Halla Attallah, Gender and (In)fertility in the Qur’ān’s Annunciation Type-Scenes ; 2023. Advisor: Julia Watts Belser.

Danielle Lynn Clausnitzer, The Roots of Rootwork: Addressing Contemporary Concerns of Hoodoo Practitioners ; 2023. Advisor: Joseph Murphy.

Kirsty Jones, Barren, Blind, Berserk: (Un)Assuming Disability and Madness in Judges 13-16 ; 2023. Advisor: Julia Watts Belser.

Nathan Chapman Lean, Journey to the One: Jazz as an Expression of Islam, 1940-1970 ; 2023. Advisor: Dan Madigan.

Ray Kim, Halal in Korea: The Social Constructions of a Contested Category in a Globalized World ; 2022. Advisor: Jose Casanova.

Teng Kuan Ng, Wisdom Cinema: Buddhism and Film in Contemporary China ; 2022. Advisor: Francisca Cho.

Theodore Dedon, Conciliarity, Nationalism, and the Roman Social Imaginary: A History of Political and Ecclesiastical Ideas on the Separation and Integration of Powers ; 2022. Advisor: Drew Christiansen.

Tasi B. Perkins, The Thirst, And The Sun, And The Bleeding”: Husayn As A Passible Liminal Figure in Pro-ʿAlid Hagiography ; 2022. Advisor: William Werpehowski.

Steven Matthew Gertz, Inter-Religious Relations in a Sectarian Milieu: Fatimid Rulers in Relationship to Their Melkite Christian Subjects in Palestine and Egypt ; 2020. Advisor: Dan Madigan.

Easten G. Law, Discerning a Lived Chinese Protestant Theology: Everyday Life and Encounters with the Other in Contemporary China ; 2020. Advisor: Peter Phan.

Joel David Daniels, Does the Wind Bend or Break the Grass? A Comparative Study of Pentecostal Spirituality and Chinese Religious Thought ; 2020. Advisor: Erin Cline.

Michael David Friedman, Our Problems and Our Future: Jews and America ; 2019. Advisor: Jonathan Ray.

Joshua Clark Mugler, A Martyr with Too Many Causes: Christopher of Antioch (d. 967) and Local Collective Memory ; 2019. Advisor: Paul Heck.

Peter Charles Herman, Overcoming Whiteness: A Critical Comparison of James Cone’s Black Liberation Theology and Shinran’s Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism ; 2019. Advisor: Peter Phan.

Stephanie Marie Wong, From Subjects to Citizens of the State and of God’s People: Frédéric-Vincent Lebbe (1877-1940) and the Project to Indigenize the Chinese Catholic Church in Republican China ; 2018. Advisor: Peter Phan.

Matthew Mitchell Anderson, Prohibited Speech and the Sacred: Critically and Constructively Engaging Taqī al-Dīn al-Subkī’s (d.756/1355) al-Sayf al-maslūl ‘alā man sabba al-rasūl ; 2018. Advisor: Paul Heck.

Joshua Canzona, Pierre Teilhard de Chardin and Muhammad Iqbal on Human Consciousness and Sociality: A Critical Comparison ; 2018. Advisor: Leo Lefebure.

Nicholas John Boylston, Writing the Kaleidoscope of Reality: The Significance of Diversity in the 6th/12th Century Persian Metaphysical Literature of Sanā’ī, ‘Ayn al-Quḍāt and ‘Aṭṭār ; 2017. Advisor: Paul Heck.

Rahel Fischbach, Politics of Scripture. Discussions of the Historical-Critical Approach to the Qur’an ; 2017. Advisor: Dan Madigan.

Matthew D. Taylor, Commonsense Scripturalism: The Textual Identities of Salafi Muslims and Evangelical Christians in America ; 2017. Advisor: Paul Heck.

Taraneh Rosanna Wilkinson, Dialectics Not Dualities: Contemporary Turkish Muslim Thought in Dialogue ; 2017. Advisor: Dan Madigan.

Jason Welle, Clarifying Companionship: Al-Sulamī’s (D. 412/1021) Kitāb Ādāb Al-Ṣuḥba ; 2016. Advisor: Paul Heck.

Pietro Lorenzo Maggioni, Comparative Theology: Toward a Semiotic Theological Foundation ; 2016. Advisor: Dan Madigan.

Gurbet Sayilgan, The Ur-Migrants: The Qur’anic Narratives of Adam and Eve and Their Contribution to a Constructive Islamic Theology of Migration ; 2015. Advisor: Dan Madigan.

Fuad S. Naeem, Interreligious Debates, Rational Theology, and the ʿUlamaʾ in the Public Sphere: Muḥammad Qāsim Nānautvī and the Making of Modern Islam in South Asia ; 2015. Advisor: Dan Madigan.

George Archer, A Place Between Two Places: The Qur’an’s Intermediate State and the Early History of the Barzakh ; 2015. Advisor: Dan Madigan.

Sara Singha, Dalit Christians and Caste Consciousness in Pakistan ; 2015. Advisor: Ariel Glucklich.

Jason M. VonWachenfeldt, Knowing the Known Unknown: Comparing the Religious Epistemologies of Edward Schillebeeckx and Gendun Chopel in Response to Modernity ; 2014. Advisor: Leo Lefebure.

Laura Tomes, Reforming Religion: Sabbath Schools and the Negotiation of Modern American Jewish Education, 1873-1923 ; 2014. Advisor: Jonathan Ray.

Melanie Elizabeth Trexler, Evangelizing Arabs: Baptists and Muslims in Lebanon, 1895-2011 ; 2014. Advisor: Yvonne Haddad.

Diego Sarrio Cucarella, The Mirror of the Other: Shihab al-Din al-Qarafi’s Splendid Replies ; 2013. Advisor: Paul Heck.

Peter Leo Manseau, Untying the Holy Tongue: the Transformation of Sacred Language in American Yiddish Literature ; 2013. Advisor: Tod Linafelt.

Jerusha Tanner Lamptey, Toward a Muslima Theology of Religious Pluralism: the Qur’an, Feminist Theology and Religious Diversity ; 2011. Advisor: Dan Madigan.

Erika B. Seamon, The Shifting Boundaries of Religious Pluralism in America Through the Lens of Interfaith Marriage ; 2011. Advisor: Chester Gillis.

Maureen L. Walsh, ‘Because they are no more’: Memorializing Pregnancy Loss in Japanese Buddhism and American Catholicism ; Advisor: Vincent J. Miller.

Preparing students to serve Christ and His church through biblical, experiential, and practical ministry.

• Global Campuses
• Research Centers
• Alumni Association

Master of Theology (ThM)

Download or print this curriculum in:

Arabic | English | Chinese (Mandarin) | Portuguese

This course of study expands and deepens a student’s abilities in ministry. It is designed for students who possess a Master of Divinity degree (or its equivalent) to help them take their learning to a higher level.

It can be used as a terminal degree (especially the classes-only track), or as a transitional degree (especially the classes-plus-thesis track) for those wishing to pursue additional graduate studies, particularly a PhD program in religion or theology.

You will learn to:

• Exegete individual passages of Scripture accurately, employing understanding of the original languages, historical circumstances, and literary and theological relationships
• Articulate the major issues of faith and life that the church has confronted throughout its history
• Articulate confessional Reformed theology on exegetical, biblical, and theological grounds
• Systematize exegetical, historical and theological data into a consistent and coherent theology, and explain how theology applies to personal and church beliefs and actions.
• Demonstrate leadership abilities in ecclesiastical and academic environments, especially in relating these truths to the church today.
• Respond with biblical discernment to contemporary trends in biblical interpretation and apply a sound Christian worldview to contemporary cultural issues that impact the church today.
• Understand, analyze and respond to current trends and crises in specialized disciplines and contribute new vistas of thought to these issues.
• Demonstrate an ability to apply biblical and theological studies to ministry, whether pastoral or academic.
• Demonstrate academic competence in the chosen field of study, including proficiency in the methods and tools of theological research and writing by conducting graduate level research and evidencing skills of critical analysis.
• Admission Requirements

Applications for admission to the ThM degree program at PRTS are considered once every two months. Although there are no deadlines for the ThM application, it is recommended that applications be received by the Admission Office by May 1 for the fall semester and by September 1 for the spring semester. Applications received after either of these dates will be considered, but we cannot ensure that immigration forms for international students will be satisfactorily processed should the applicant be admitted.

Application requirements for the ThM program include:

• A completed online application form.
• Two letters of recommendation: an ecclesiastical letter of recommendation from the pastor or consistory (i.e., session or council) of the church of which the applicant is a member, and an academic letter of recommendation from a professor (preferably in the area specified as the major for the ThM degree), under whose guidance the applicant has pursued studies.
• Evidence of the possession of a Master of Divinity Degree or its equivalent (evidenced by official transcripts). If, at the time of application, the applicant has not completed his previous degree work, any admission to PRTS would be conditional on the completion of the degree. Evidence of this degree should be presented prior to enrolling in any ThM coursework. Official transcripts of all academic work beyond high school must be sent directly to the seminary; they are not to come from the applicant unless supplied in sealed envelopes. If more than one college or institution was attended, transcripts from each institution must be sent.
• Application essay. All applicants must submit a short essay (250–500 words) explaining why they are applying to PRTS.
• An academic writing sample, preferably a research paper previously submitted in a graduate-level course. This sample may be a previously written paper, article, or essay that demonstrates proper citation methods and ability to construct, in English, a graduate-level paper.
• TOEFL or IELTS results. All ESL (English as a Second Language) students are required to submit their TOEFL or IELTS score. PRTS requires a minimum of 85 on the internet-based TOEFL. The IELTS equivalent required is 6.5. The PRTS reporting code is 0368.
• Application fee of $50. The application fee is non-refundable.

Each applicant:

• is subject to all the admission and registration regulations of the institution;
• is responsible to determine whether a current institution will accept credit earned at PRTS, if desired;
• must understand that falsification of any part of an application may result in cancellation of admission and/or registration at the institution;
• if transferring from another seminary, must include with the application form an official transcript of their current seminary work, syllabi of courses requesting to be transferred, and an academic catalog from that institution.
• Residency Requirement

At least one-half of the coursework towards the ThM must be completed through on-campus classes offered at the Grand Rapids campus or any of the global campuses (modular or intensive-style courses offered at any campus qualify as on-campus courses). As many of the ThM courses are offered via modular format (usually intensive week-long courses), this means the accepted ThM student does not have to relocate to complete the ThM program. Completion of the program will require, however, a number of week-long trips back and forth to a campus where the ThM is offered (whether this is the Grand Rapids campus or another global campus ).

Up to one-half of the coursework may be completed through a combination of: 1) live-streamed courses (i.e., courses that virtually “meet” synchronously with on-campus classes); 2) directed studies (a maximum of one course can be taken as directed study); or 3) transfer of credit from another institution.

• Areas of Concentration

ThM students will choose a concentration in one of three areas:

• Biblical Studies
• Reformation and Post-Reformation Theology
• Systematic Theology.

Each of these concentrations is designed for either pastors desiring advanced training beyond the MDiv, or students desiring to pursue further graduate studies. Students choosing a ThM in Biblical Studies must demonstrate competency in Hebrew and Greek, having completed a minimum of one year of biblical Hebrew and one year of biblical Greek. It is particularly the purpose of this concentration to sharpen exegetical skills, to learn to employ effectively the discipline of Biblical Theology for scriptural study and exposition, and to be able to defend the integrity and authority of Scripture.

• Program Requirements and Time-frame of Completion

The ThM is composed of 30 credits, a final comprehensive examination (see below), and a spiritual formation summative exercise (see below). All credit hours, the comprehensive exam, and spiritual formation exercise must be completed within six (6) years of matriculation; any exception must be approved by the president and academic dean.

The ThM degree can be earned following one of two tracks: either the classes-only track, or the classes-plus-thesis track. The first is designed for those intending the degree to be terminal; the second for those intending the degree to be transitional to further graduate study (such as a PhD).

Both tracks of the ThM require a total of 30 credits; the requirements for each track are as follows:

Classes-only Track (30 Credits)

The classes-only track of the ThM requires the following for completion:

• Research Methodology course (either BS800 or CH800) – 3 credits
• At least 18 credits of coursework (six courses) selected from courses offered in chosen concentration
• Up to 9 credits of coursework (three courses) selected from courses offered outside of chosen concentration
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Successful completion and passing of comprehensive exam at end of program.
• Completion of program within six years of matriculation.

Classes-plus-thesis Track (30 Credits)

The classes-plus-thesis track of the ThM requires the following for completion:

• At least 15 credits of coursework (five courses) selected from courses offered in chosen concentration
• Up to 6 credits of coursework (two courses) selected from courses offered outside of chosen concentration
• Completion of six-credit thesis (enrolled in final semester of program)

NB: All accepted ThM students are first admitted to the classes-only track of the ThM. If the student desires during the program to pursue a ThM by the  thesis-plus-classes track, the student may apply to the faculty for permission to do so providing the successful completion of the Research Methodology course and at least one other three-credit ThM course. See the “Thesis Requirements” section below for more information.

• Qualifying Credits

ThM credits can be earned as follows:

• Completion of paired ThM and MA/MDiv courses. ThM students choosing paired courses will follow separate syllabus requirements than the MA/MDiv student. These courses are listed under the ThM courses section of the catalog.
• Completion of ThM-specific courses, or courses paired with the PhD program. ThM-level classes (or ThM/PhD classes) will be offered in the above-mentioned concentrations (see course descriptions below). Usually these classes will be administered as modular courses, and will typically meet for an intensive week of classes.
• The thesis: Students accepted by the faculty into the ThM by classes and thesis track will write a 100–200 page thesis on a topic related to the student’s concentration, and approved by the appropriate faculty supervisor. The thesis is valued at 6 credits.

In order to maximize benefit to resident ThM students attending PRTS on scholarships, all such students are expected to audit one MDiv course a semester, the course to be chosen in consultation with the registrar. They are also encouraged to attend at least one practice preaching session a week and participate in the subsequent discussion. There will be no charge for auditing these courses.

• Spiritual Formation

Read 2 books and submit 2 assignments: All ThM students will be required to complete two capstone projects and two short readings. The first project will be completed halfway through a student’s course of study. It will consist of two main questions:

• Define piety and spirituality from a Scriptural perspective (ca. 800 words).
• Define piety and spirituality from a Reformed theological perspective (ca. 800 words).

Prior to the completion of studies and second capstone project, students will be required to read: (1) Joel R. Beeke, Piety: The Heartbeat of Reformed Theology . Phillipsburg, NJ: P&R Publishing, 2015. (37 pages) and (2) Joel R. Beeke and Stephen G. Myers, Reformed Piety: Covenantal and Experiential . Darlington: Evangelical Press Books, 2019. (40 pages). Both books are available on Populi.

The second capstone project will be completed at the conclusion of the student’s study. This project will be “to describe your spiritual formation during your ThM studies, particularly highlighting growth/formation in experiential knowledge and godly character (1000 words).”

For any questions about the Spiritual Formation requirement, please contact Mr. Isaac Bronkema .

• Comprehensive Exam

Each ThM student, matriculating in the program as of the fall semester of the 2013–14 academic year, must take a comprehensive examination at the end of the program. This comprehensive exam will focus primarily on the student’s particular concentration. Deadlines for passing the comprehensive examination are stipulated in the academic calendar.

• Thesis Requirements

The fol­low­ing steps out­line the require­ments for those matric­u­lat­ing in the thesis-track pro­gram:

• What — a concise statement of the proposition. What does the thesis intend to accomplish? [approx. 250 words]
• Why — a statement of the problem/need. Why is the thesis necessary? [approx. 250 words]
• How — a synopsis of the methodology that will be employed. How will the proposition/arguments made in the thesis be developed? [approx. 150 words]
• Who — a working bibliography of relevant literature. Who will the thesis interact with? [Approx. 10 – 20 bibliographical references].
• The aca­d­e­mic dean will next bring this initial proposal to the entire fac­ulty for consideration. If the initial pro­posal is accepted by the faculty, the reg­is­trar will be informed and the stu­dent will then be enrolled in the 6-credit the­sis and be assigned a the­sis advi­sor; in most cases this enrollment in the 6-credit thesis will occur in the student’s final semester. Finan­cial oblig­a­tions for enroll­ment in the the­sis will be treated as enroll­ment in any other course.
• The stu­dent will next present to the thesis advisor a 10-page prospec­tus of the the­sis which must include: jus­ti­fi­ca­tion of the the­sis, delim­i­ta­tions, review of lit­er­a­ture rel­e­vant to topic, a syn­op­sis of chap­ter devel­op­ment detail­ing the over­all method­ol­ogy, and out­line of the­sis. Much of this can serve as intro­duc­tory mate­r­ial for the final draft.
• The stu­dent must present his or her thoughts and research in an accept­able style and for­mat. The for­mat­ting is accord­ing to Kate L. Tura­bian: A Man­ual for Writ­ers of Term Papers, The­ses, and Dis­ser­ta­tions (9 th ed.).
• The stu­dent should sub­mit chap­ters to his or her advi­sor as they are com­pleted for input and pos­si­ble revisions.
• The stu­dent must sub­mit the 100–200 page the­sis to his or her faculty advisor by the last Monday in September (for a December conferral of the degree) or by the first Mon­day in Feb­ru­ary (for a May graduation); at this time a sec­ond reader will be assigned.
• The final copy (in elec­tronic for­mat – MS Word) must be pre­sented to the reg­is­trar and head librar­ian no later than the last Monday in November (for a December conferral of the degree) or the first Mon­day in April (for a May grad­u­a­tion). This will allow time for the library staff to check for proper for­mat­ting (Turabian 9th ed.) and for any final cor­rec­tions to be made. Be sure to read the guidelines for submitting theses to the librarian .
• Fail­ure to reach either of the above two dead­lines will result in a delay of the student’s degree conferral or graduation.
• Thesis advisor submits final grade of thesis to the registrar.
• After the thesis is submitted to the librarian, it will be proofed according to Turabian 9 th edition requirements. Necessary corrections will be submitted back to the student.
• Once final edits / corrections are made, the librarian will have two bound copies made, one for the student (courtesy of the seminary) and one for the library collection. Additional copies may be purchased for $15.00 ea.
• Student may be asked to submit thesis to the Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN) depending on the quality of writing and research. However, final decision on TREN submission rests with the student.
• Tuition and Fees

The following applies to the Grand Rapids campus. For tuition and fee structures for other global campuses, please contact a representative from that campus.

• Application for admission (non-refundable): $50.00
• Enrollment deposit: $100.00 (applied to tuition)
• Tuition: $275.00 per credit
• Late registration fee: 5% of total semester tuition cost
• Distance Education fee: $75.00 per course that is taken from a distance
• Graduation fee: $75.00

Content Guide

Do you have more questions?

Master of Arts in Theology with Thesis

You are here

When you study the Master of Arts in Theology with Thesis at TMU, is a graduate program designed to provide advanced theological education to students who have already completed a Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

The thesis component of the program requires students to conduct original research in a specific area of theology under the supervision of a faculty member. The thesis must demonstrate a mastery of the subject matter, originality of thought, and an ability to conduct independent research.

Upon completion of the program, graduates are equipped with advanced knowledge and skills in theology and are prepared to serve in various leadership positions in churches, Christian organizations, and academic institutions. They may also choose to pursue further studies at the doctoral level. The program is offered online and on campus.

Common Areas of Study

•  History of the Free Church
•   Evangelism, Discipleship, & Church Planting  
•   Exposition Class  
•   Cross-Cultural Ministries Practicum  
•   New Testament I: The Gospels & Acts  
•   New Testament II: Romans to Revelation  

Possible Careers

• Military Chaplain
• Religious Teacher/Professor
• Religious Writer/Editor

Hours required for completion: 60

How to Apply

Degree Concentrations

The program includes courses in advanced biblical studies, theology, church history, ethics, and practical ministry. Students are also required to complete research methods and writing courses to prepare them for the master’s thesis component of the program.

Dr. Maël L. D. S. Disseau , Chair  of The Balthasar Hubmaier School of Theology and Missions  & Associate Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies 706-865-2134, ext. 6606 [email protected]

Request Information   |   Tuition and Fees   |   Financial Aid

Master thesis Catholic Theology

An important part of the master's programs at the School of Catholic Theology is the writing of a master's thesis. The procedure surrounding the writing and assessment of a master's thesis is laid down in a document for each program.

Education and Examination Regulations

More information about the rules, guidelines and procedures can be found on the webpage  Education and Examination Regulations (EER) Catholic Theology.

Thesis Confidential Advisor

Should problems arise between student and thesis supervisor, students can contact the thesis confidential advisor Prof. Monique van Dijk-Groeneboer.

Search our website

Other sources.

• Publications
• Library collection
• Study guide
• Univers Online

Find persons

• Experts & Expertise
• Press officers

Find organizations

• Research institutes

Tilburg University Warandelaan 2 5037 AB Tilburg

+31 (0)13 466 9111

Contact TST Education

• E-mail address   [email protected]  
• Phone number +31 (0)13 466 3800  
• Visiting address location Tilburg Tias building Warandelaan 2 5037 AB Tilburg  
• Postal address location Tilburg PO Box 90153 5000 LE Tilburg  
• Visiting address location Utrecht (secretary) Nieuwegracht 61 3512 LG Utrecht  
• Postal address location Utrecht  PO Box 80101 3508 TC Utrecht

Master’s in Theology Online Degree Exploring the Depths of Faith, Tradition, and Ethical Leadership

Degree Options

View Degree Options

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Pursue Your Passion for Theological Studies by Earning an Online Master’s in Theology Degree

If you have completed your Master of Divinity but are not yet ready to pursue your DMin, then consider Liberty University’s online Master of Theology (ThM). This postgraduate degree provides additional training beyond the Master of Divinity degree.

Through coursework, scholarly research, and logical, critical thinking, the ThM seeks to provide advanced preparation for those called to service in theological education. It is also great preparation for those planning to pursue degree programs at the doctoral level. The master’s in theology postgraduate degree requires a Master of Divinity (MDiv) or equivalent for admission.

At Liberty, you can become well-prepared for careers in various theological fields with your online theology degree. You will explore theological concepts as you dive into research methods and ministry. Our master’s in theology degree online format is designed to help you pursue your passion.

We know that students who choose degrees in religious education want more than a career – they want to make an impact on congregates, students, and their community for Christ. With our theology masters online, you can gain the knowledge and training you need to make a difference in the lives of people in your community or around the world.

Accreditation

Liberty Theological Seminary, as part of Liberty University’s John W. Rawlings School of Divinity, is accredited by the  Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools ( ATS ) . Your seminary degree is approved by ATS and has met rigorous accreditation standards, so you can feel confident that your degree is both academically excellent and well-respected among churches, ministries, and nonprofit organizations.

What Will You Study in Liberty’s Master in Theology Degree Program ?

If you are interested in an intense study of theology and apologetics, our master’s in theology is an excellent option! The core of our online master’s degree in theology features 3 foundational classes in theology. 

You will study the nature, history, and current trends in biblical theology in both the Old and New Testaments. You will also study the challenges Christianity has faced throughout history. Moreover, your Christian studies courses will explore the fundamental idea of how the Gospel is understood and presented by Christians in the modern era.

Our master of theology program allows you to customize your degree with a specialized study area. These specializations include biblical studies, Christian apologetics, church history, global studies, homiletics, and theology. With a master’s degree in theology online from Liberty, you can learn essential skills and gain the tools needed to succeed in your career and ministry!

Featured Courses

• THEO 603 – Modern and Contemporary Christian Thought
• THEO 610 – Biblical Theology

Theology Master’s Program Information

• A non-thesis track Master of Theology degree is suitable as a capstone degree for ministers seeking to focus on a particular subject area beyond what the Master of Divinity degree offers
• This program falls under the  John W. Rawlings School of Divinity
• View the  Graduate Divinity Course Guides   (login required)

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Theology Master’s Degree?

As a Christian university, we are committed to  Training Champions for Christ .  Our online master’s in theology degree is an industry leader in online theological programs taught by professionals with real-world experience in pastoral and ministry settings. Our Master of Theology degree is offered completely online. That way, you can remain active in your job, family, and community without worrying about taking courses on campus. 

Our courses offer intensive study in systematic theology and apologetics – and the opportunity to understand the deeper elements of the Christian faith and how it can be applied to today’s issues. This degree allows you to grow in your faith and knowledge of the Bible.

Liberty’s professors are chosen with you in mind. The faculty members at Liberty range from Gold Medallion award-winning authors to lead pastors. We also have faculty who are seminar presenters, missionaries, church planters, and nearly every specialty the field of theology touches in professional and administrative settings.

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Potential Career for Master of Theology Graduates

• Bible instructor
• Ministry worker
• Non-profit worker
• Senior pastor
• Social worker

Degree Options for Our Master in Theology Degree Online

Students pursuing our Master of Theology degree are required to choose a specialization. Please review additional information about each degree in the accordions below.

Biblical Studies

Liberty University’s online  Master of Theology in Biblical Studies  can help you become an influential leader in both local church and parachurch ministries by providing you with a strong biblical foundation. You will have the opportunity to dissect various books of the Bible while building on your foundation in theology.

View the  Degree Completion Plan .

Christian Apologetics

Liberty University’s online  Master of Theology in Christian Apologetics  offers an in-depth study of the Bible and an advanced study of apologetics and theology. This program will build upon the Master of Divinity and provide a well-rounded extension in your postgraduate career. This degree can help you rationally defend the truth of scripture in a ministry context and prepare for future doctoral study.

Church History

Liberty University’s  online Master of Theology in Church History  can help equip you for careers in both the local church and parachurch ministries. Our Christian education seeks to build on your foundation in the historical development of Christian theology, classical reformation, and global and American Christianity. This education can equip you with the skills needed to lead and address various situations within the Church. 

Global Studies

Liberty University’s online  Master of Theology in Global Studies  offers a thorough overview of Christian theology and its relationship to the global church. You can gain a firm foundation in contemporary applications of Christian principles and prepare for international evangelism.

Liberty University’s online  Master of Theology in Homiletics  is designed to equip you for a career in the pastorate. Our online ThM can provide you with the tools and skills essential to identify needs within the Church. You will also study how to prepare a sermon and provide biblical instruction through your communication as a pastor. You will study a variety of teaching styles and determine how you can be most effective in your position.

Liberty University’s  online Master of Theology in Theology  can help equip you to address many of the difficult issues facing our modern society from a biblical worldview. You will have the opportunity to dig deeper into theology and Christian thought by working to understand ecclesiology and eschatology. You can prepare for service in various Christian ministries by developing a strong foundation in orthodox Christian thought, religious studies, and theology.

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Electronic textbooks are provided for many divinity courses* all for one convenient fee. To continue our mission of providing affordable education, this fee is waived for students who enroll by Summer 2024 D-term.

*Electronic textbooks are not provided for courses that fall under departments outside the School of Divinity.

These rates also apply to the MA in Pastoral Counseling, which falls under the School of Behavioral Sciences.

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for Our Master’s in Theology Online (ThM) 

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited degrees at the bachelor’s and master’s levels with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Submit  Contact Information  for a Pastoral Recommendation
• Submit the  School of Divinity Questionnaire
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees
• Current Department of Defense Employees

Available Benefits:

• Tuition discounts – $275 per credit hour for part-time graduate and postgraduate divinity courses
• Discounted divinity block rate – $2,475 per semester *
• Additional discount for veterans who service in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 per course) **
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)

These benefits also apply to the MA in Pastoral Counseling, which falls under the School of Behavioral Sciences.

*Credits taken below 9 and above 15 credit hours per semester are charged at the part-time rate.

**Not applicable to certificates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with a master of theology online.

Most people assume that a Master of Theology (ThM) ties you to work as a church planter, a local church pastor, or a religious school teacher. However, there are many other jobs that utilize the same critical thinking, writing, and abstract reasoning skills that are necessary for this major. Our online master of theology degree can help prepare you for various careers in ministry.

How can I know I am receiving a quality education online?

• An accredited seminary school online is often hard to find. Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ).
• We are  recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the  top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online theology degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.

Inner Navigation

• What Will You Study?
• Potential Careers
• Specializations
• Tuition & Aid
• Admission Information

Have questions?

Are you ready to change your future?

Apply FREE This Week*

Request Information

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, non-degree-seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and certificate students.

Request Information About a Program

Request info about liberty university online, what program are you interested in, choose a program level.

Choose a program level

Bachelor’s

Master’s

Certificate

Select a Field of Study

Select a field of study

Select a Program

Select a program

Next: Contact Info

Legal full name.

Enter legal full name

Legal Last Name

Enter legal last name

Enter an email address

Enter a phone number

Full Address

Enter an address

Apt., P.O. Box, or can’t find your address? Enter it manually instead .

Select a Country

Street Address

Enter Street Address

Enter State

ZIP/Postal Code

Enter Zip Code

Back to automated address search

Start my application now for FREE

Writing - Thesis Guide for MA students: The Process

• Helpful Tips
• Comprehensive Exam
• Turabian Citation This link opens in a new window
• Zotero This link opens in a new window
• MS Word Tutorials
• Last Updated: Apr 5, 2024 4:01 PM
• URL: https://library.athenaeum.edu/thesis

• Bibliography
• More Referencing guides Blog Automated transliteration Relevant bibliographies by topics
• Automated transliteration
• Relevant bibliographies by topics
• Referencing guides

Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Moral theology'

Create a spot-on reference in apa, mla, chicago, harvard, and other styles.

Consult the top 50 dissertations / theses for your research on the topic 'Moral theology.'

Next to every source in the list of references, there is an 'Add to bibliography' button. Press on it, and we will generate automatically the bibliographic reference to the chosen work in the citation style you need: APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago, Vancouver, etc.

You can also download the full text of the academic publication as pdf and read online its abstract whenever available in the metadata.

Browse dissertations / theses on a wide variety of disciplines and organise your bibliography correctly.

Widdicombe, David William. "Theology and experience : methodological issues in the theology of P.T. Forsyth." Thesis, University of Oxford, 2000. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.365521.

Meacock, Heather. "An anthropological approach to theology : a study of John Hicks theology of religious pluralism, towards ethical criteria for a global theology of religions." Thesis, University of Bristol, 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/1983/b93f5f0c-ea33-4a7e-90a3-c230e0965220.

Abram, Anna. "Moral development : an interdisciplinary study." Thesis, Heythrop College (University of London), 2001. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.248350.

Harris, Ian Colin. "The development of John Locke's moral theology, 1660-95." Thesis, University of Cambridge, 1987. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.254059.

Magill, Gerard. "Moral judgement in the theology of John Henry Newman." Thesis, University of Edinburgh, 1986. http://hdl.handle.net/1842/12249.

Howard, David Crombie. "New England's answer to the moral dilemma of grace." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN), 1998. http://www.tren.com.

Leyden, Michael J. "Responsible before God : human responsibility in Karl Barth's moral theology." Thesis, University of Chester, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10034/621113.

Landau, Christopher. "A theology of disagreement." Thesis, University of Oxford, 2017. https://ora.ox.ac.uk/objects/uuid:41a1c20e-64ea-45af-8582-fff22c956b7c.

Podlesny, James F. "The place of sacred scripture in Bernard Häring's moral theology." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN), 1988. http://www.tren.com.

Vélez, Edgar A. "Revisionist moral theology : recovering the teleological character of Christian ethics /." The Ohio State University, 2000. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1488202678776398.

Harvie, Timothy. "Ethics of hope : the moral landscape of Jurgen Moltmann's theology." Thesis, University of Aberdeen, 2006. http://digitool.abdn.ac.uk/R?func=search-advanced-go&find_code1=WSN&request1=AAIU225983.

Kuzma, Andrew J. "Theo-dramatic ethics| A balthasarian approach to moral formation." Thesis, Marquette University, 2016. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10102835.

What role does beauty play in our moral formation? What difference does the perception of beauty make to the way we live our lives? In order to answer these questions, I look to the twentieth-century Catholic theologian, Hans Urs von Balthasar. Relatively little has been written about Balthasar’s ethics. He is, perhaps, best known for his retrieval of beauty as a transcendental property of being. Balthasar, though, never set down an extended account of his ethics or moral theology. While he had no explicit ethic, he certainly thought that his theology could be lived. The Theo-Drama, for instance, discusses the implications that the perception of beauty has for Christian life.

I do not intend to present “Balthasar’s ethics.” Instead I will offer a “Balthasarian ethic.” Drawing from his theological aesthetics and dramatics, I will outline the morality implicit in his theology: a Balthasarian theo-dramatic ethics. We can see this kind of ethic at work, I contend, in some of Balthasar’s lesser-known works on Christian life. I will then go beyond Balthasar to consider how we might put this moral formation into practice in the possibility of living out Christian pacifism in the nation-state and in our treatment of non-human animals.

This dissertation points to the convergence of method and performance. The method of theo-dramatic ethics can never be distilled to a set of abstract rules or terms. We can do so artificially in order to better express what makes performances of the good beautiful. But it is the performance, not the method, of theo-dramatic ethics that we find enrapturing. Being formed by performances of beauty better enables us to recognize and express new forms of beauty. My thesis is that recognizing beauty as the foundation of moral formation affirms the formational power of the Christian tradition as well as that of new experiences and practices because in both cases we are responding to beauty.

Cerny, Samuel. "A Theological and Moral Framework for Divine Violence." Thesis, Regent University, 2017. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10606304.

While ethical arguments for nonviolence have persisted for generations, theological arguments for an absolutely nonviolent God have recently emerged. Some theologians deem violence in every form to be immoral and punishment to be a form and cause of violence, so they contend that a moral God must be nonviolent and non-retributive. Also, this nonviolent God assertion undermines other doctrines including penal substitution in the atonement, eternal punishment in hell, and temporal judgments in biblical narratives. In response, I will argue that God’s justice has a retributive aspect, for He gives to people what they deserve including punishing sinners or a substitute in their place. His justice is a necessary divine attribute, for to be true to Himself, God highly values His image bearers by dignifying their free will and choices by assuring that they experience the results of their decisions. Thus God’s retributive justice provides a moral framework for His violent judgments.

Toppint, Ryan N. S. "The purposes of liberal education in St. Augustine's early moral theology." Thesis, University of Oxford, 2009. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.508704.

Jamieson, Christine. "The significance of the body in ethical discourse, Julia Kristeva's contribution to moral theology." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1999. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk1/tape10/PQDD_0009/NQ38786.pdf.

Peddicord, Richard A. "A studied ambiguity: Catholic moral teaching on the question of gay and lesbian rights legislation." Thesis, University of Ottawa (Canada), 1994. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/10125.

Adangba, Victor B. "A moral evaluation of African altruistic behaviour in the context of Christianity, path to an inculturation of moral theology." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1998. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk2/tape15/PQDD_0006/MQ35651.pdf.

Julius, Elize. "Moral formation in and through the christian family : a theological review." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/17450.

Kendall, Keith H. Pennington Kenneth. "Sermons of Pope Innocent III: the moral theology of a pastor and pope." Related Electronic Resource: Current Research at SU : database of SU dissertations, recent titles available full text, 2003. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/syr/main.

Bayliss, Grant D. "In search of an 'Alexandrian' theology : the moral vision of Didymus the Blind." Thesis, University of Oxford, 2005. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.418839.

Roberts, Christopher Chenault. "The significance of sexual difference in and for the moral theology of marriage." Thesis, King's College London (University of London), 2005. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.421911.

Pham, Hung. "The Beatitudes in moral theology the contribution of Servais-Th[eodore] Pinckaers, O.P. /." Online full text .pdf document, available to Fuller patrons only, 2004. http://www.tren.com.

Fannin, Jordan Rowan. "Beyond Engaging and Resisting: Reclaiming the City's Moral Vision and Reimagining the Church's Politics." University of Dayton / OhioLINK, 2010. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=dayton1292620694.

Joseph, Celucien. "Faith, hope, and the poor : the theological ideas and moral vision of Jean-Bertrand Aristide." Thesis, University of Pretoria, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/59321.

Warner, James Jonathan, and res cand@acu edu au. "Karl Rahner and the Option of Grace in Freedom: A critical examination of Rahner's understanding of both fundamental option and virtue ethics and the link between them in the light of their classical antecedents and contemporary developments in moral theology, moral philosophy and fundamental theology." Australian Catholic University. Sub-Faculty of Theology, 1998. http://dlibrary.acu.edu.au/digitaltheses/public/adt-acuvp221.15092009.

Müller, Patrick. "Latitudinarianism and didacticism in eighteenth century literature moral theology in Fielding, Sterne, and Goldsmith." Frankfurt, M. Berlin Bern Bruxelles New York, NY Oxford Wien Lang, 2007. http://d-nb.info/99168236X/04.

Salzman, Todd A. "Deontology and teleology : an investigation of the normative debate in Roman catholic moral theology /." Leuven : University press : Peeters, 1995. http://catalogue.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/cb361626195.

Cord, Neto Germano. "A Hermeneutic Approach to Natural Law: theological moral reasoning and the contribution of the natural sciences." Thesis, Boston College, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/2345/1850.

O'Neil, David Michael. "Forming moral community : Christian and ecclesial existence in the theology of Karl Barth 1915-1922 /." Access via Murdoch University Digital Theses Project, 2008. http://wwwlib.murdoch.edu.au/adt/browse/view/adt-MU20080908.105728.

Hamilton, Rex. "Ethics is theology, theology is ethics : atonement, moral formation, and the justification of Christian doctrine in the work of James Wm. McClendon, Jr." Thesis, University of Aberdeen, 2004. http://digitool.abdn.ac.uk/R?func=search-advanced-go&find_code1=WSN&request1=AAIU192141.

Yoder, Klaus C. "Adiaphora and the Apocalypse: Protestant Moral Rhetoric of Ritual at the End of History (1544 –1560)." Thesis, Harvard University, 2016. http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:27194246.

Walker, Breifne. "CATHOLIC TEACHING ON REVOLUTIONARY ARMED FORCE: IS THERE A BETTER WAY FORWARD FOR MORAL THEOLOGY?" Bulletin of Ecumenical Theology, 2002. http://digital.library.duq.edu/u?/bet,2362.

com, Mikeois@hotmail, and Michael David O'Neil. "Forming moral community: Christian and Ecclesial Existence in the Theology of Karl Barth, 1915-1922." Murdoch University, 2008. http://wwwlib.murdoch.edu.au/adt/browse/view/adt-MU20080908.105728.

Watson, Peter Anthony. "Anarchy, order, and the politics of moral theology : censuring the French confessional right, 1924-1934." Thesis, University of the West of England, Bristol, 2003. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.271054.

Moran, Sarah. "Scrutinizing the signs of times the Catholic Church, moral theology, and the HIV/AIDS crisis /." [Denver, Colo.] : Regis University, 2009. http://165.236.235.140/lib/SMoran2009.pdf.

O'Neil, Michael David. "Forming moral community: Christian and ecclesial existence in the theology of Karl Barth 1915-1922." Thesis, O'Neil, Michael David (2008) Forming moral community: Christian and ecclesial existence in the theology of Karl Barth 1915-1922. PhD thesis, Murdoch University, 2008. https://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/232/.

O'Neil, Michael David. "Forming moral community: Christian and ecclesial existence in the theology of Karl Barth 1915-1922." O'Neil, Michael David (2008) Forming moral community: Christian and ecclesial existence in the theology of Karl Barth 1915-1922. PhD thesis, Murdoch University, 2008. http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/232/.

Hansen, Christopher M. "A theological approach to healing and growth| For those affected by moral injury, operational stress, and trauma." Thesis, Graduate Theological Union, 2018. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10833434.

This study explores issues of internal moral conflict, moral injury, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PDST), from the lens of a developed theological anthropology which finds its foundation in Paul Tillich, Wolfhart Pannenberg, and Karl Rahner. This dissertation tests the theory that operational and combat stress experienced by military service members strains the imago Dei by numbing the human ability for connection and transcendence and, thus, necessitates a "rehumanizing" journey of healing through reconnection with God and others.

In order to better care for military service members, a new framework for sin is created which addresses issues of generalized estrangement and personal sin from the context of combat operations. This includes examining military training, killing, and issues of justice to clearly present the current psychological and spiritual challenges within the realm of morality, as experienced by service members.

From this foundation, a theology of growth is constructed based on a synthesis of theological anthropologys from various traditions which better resonate with service member's experiences, and then draws connections with current psychological work in posttraumatic growth. These connections are then used to evaluate support intervention techniques for effectiveness in the process of rehumanizing, which heals and grows a person from moral injury and allows them to once again experience the transcendent connection unique to being created in the image of God. The journey of rehumanization is part of the quest for sanctification, deification, and New Being. This is fostered in non judgmental accepting relationships that find their foundation in God's love for humanity and are experienced as sacred glimmers of the infinite.

Kessler, Samuel Robert. "Theological grace in Spenser's poetry." Thesis, University of Oxford, 2001. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.365504.

McCabe, Benjamin. "Sir Gawain and Scholasticism." Thesis, The University of Sydney, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/2123/19599.

Bernardes, Cláudio Teles de Tolêdo. "Ética da alteridade e moral cristã: o diálogo entre a filosofia de Emmanuel Levinas e a teologia moral." Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo, 2013. https://tede2.pucsp.br/handle/handle/18334.

Mescher, Marcus. "Doing Likewise: A Theology of Neighbor and Pedagogy for Neighbor-Formation." Thesis, Boston College, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/2345/bc-ir:104081.

Dimokpala, Chrisopher Chukwudi. "Catholic reflections on abortion and euthanasia - towards a theology of sacredness of human life." Thesis, University of the Western Cape, 2009. http://etd.uwc.ac.za/index.php?module=etd&action=viewtitle&id=gen8Srv25Nme4_3945_1310979257.

It is not possible in this paper to deal with all the moral problems revolving at the &ldquo beginning&rdquo and &ldquo end&rdquo of human life in the modern world. However, something must be said about the question regarding respect for human life vis-à -vis abortion and euthanasia, since they are widely discussed today and since they strike at the very heart of traditional morality. The dignity and worth of individual life cannot be derived from analysis of individual life itself. Humanity is not the measure of all things. Whatever value human beings have is strictly transitory unless it is in our relationship to some ultimate source of value outside us. Christian faith understands human value as being established by our relationship with God - a relationship created and given by God himself. It is because we have our being from God and are sustained by God that we can meaningfully affirm the value of individual human life.

Yaksic, Miguel. "Religious convictions in political discourse: moral and theological grounds for a public theology in a plural world." Thesis, Boston College, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/2345/1862.

Pojol, Peter. "The Moral Theologian as Pastor: A Study of the Method of Kevin T. Kelly." Thesis, Boston College, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/2345/3718.

Carvalho, Zilmara de Jesus Viana de. "Teleologia e moral na Ideia de uma história universal de um ponto de vista cosmopolita." Universidade de São Paulo, 2013. http://www.teses.usp.br/teses/disponiveis/8/8133/tde-12032014-124100/.

Thomas, Linda Sue. "The moral and academic tacit curriculum in higher education." Scholarly Commons, 2008. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/2363.

Pelser, Adam C. "Made in the image of man the value of Christian theology for public moral discourse on human cloning /." Electronic thesis, 2007. http://dspace.zsr.wfu.edu/jspui/handle/10339/187.

Jack, Hendrik Cornelius. "Dissipline as modus van morele vorming : 'n sistematies-teologiese ondersoek." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/19444.

Philander, N. C. "Sosialisering as modus van morele vorming in die kerk." Thesis, Link to the online version, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/1210.

• CSTM En EspañOl
• Current Students

BC.EDU LINKS

• Boston College
• Campus Life
• Jesuit, Catholic
• Academic Calendar
• BC Magazine
• Directories
• Offices, Services, Resources
• Agora Portal
• Maps & Directions

• Degrees & Certificates
• Master's Programs

Dual Degrees

• Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
• Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)
• M.A. in Theology and Ministry
• M.A. in Theology and Ministry (Hybrid)
• Master of Theology (Th.M.)

Our dual degree programs pair the M.A. in Theology and Ministry with one of four master's programs across Boston College: social work, counseling, business, or curriculum & instruction.

M.A. in Theology & Ministry Dual Degree Options

Applicants must apply separately to each school. Full dual degree status is granted when students are accepted to both.

Want to learn more?

Connect with us., interdisciplinary excellence at bc.

BC School of Social Work

#8 Nationally

Lynch School of Education & Human Development

#21 Nationally #1 Catholic School of Education

Carroll School of Management

#26 Faculty Research, Worldwide

Dual Degree Students and Alumni

At a glance, how to apply.

Applicants must apply separately to both schools. Full dual degree status is granted when accepted to both.

Dual Advising

Each student is supported by a faculty advisor from both schools throughout their time in the program.

Formation Plan

Design your own personal formation plan in the first year and complete it during your time in the program. 

Integrated Thesis

Complete a thesis on a topic that spans both fields, creating a pastoral program of your own design.

Theological Reflection

Develop the skills to integrate life experience and service with theology, theory, and knowledge of scripture.

Retreats & Spiritual Direction

We offer funding for all students to pursue spiritual direction and attend the guided retreat of their choice.

Explore M.A. in Theology and Ministry Program

Frequently Asked Questions

How does funding work for dual degree students.

Dual degree students receive separate financial aid packages from both schools as part of their admission decisions. Each term, dual degree students will have a "home school" in which they are enrolled. During that term, the student will pay tuition to the school in which they are enrolled and the financial aid package that they receive from that school will apply to all credits being taken during that term, regardless of if you are taking classes at both schools during that term. For example, if a M.A./M.S.W. student is enrolled at the CSTM and taking classes at both schools, their CSTM financial aid package would apply to credits from both schools for that term.

For the M.A./M.S.W. and M.A./M.A. programs, the CSTM's financial aid package will apply to Academic Year I and both summers of the dual degree program, while the other school's financial aid package will apply to Academic Year II and Academic Year III of the dual degree program. 

For the M.A./M.B.A. program, the CSTM's financial aid package will apply to Academic Year I, Summer I, and the Fall semester of Academic Year III. The Carroll School of Management's financial aid package will apply to Academic Year II, Summer II, and the Spring semester of Academic Year III. 

For students in the MA/M.Ed. program in partnership with BC's Urban Catholic Teacher Corps, the CSTM's financial aid package will apply to Academic Year II and onwards, and the Lynch School's financial aid package will apply to Summer I, Academic Year I, and Summer II.

If a student starts at Boston College in one graduate program and then later adds the second, the funding schedule may need to be altered. The admissions office will discuss specific details with each applicant. Never hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!

Do I complete a supervised ministry placement as part of the dual degree?

All dual degree students complete placements as part of their program, providing students with the chance to apply their studies and build their ministerial toolbox through rich field experience.

M.A./M.S.W. and M.A./M.A. students do not complete a supervised ministry placement through the CSTM, but instead complete a field placement through their partner school. M.A./M.S.W. students complete two social work field placements in Academic Year II and Academic Year III, while M.A./M.A. students complete a full-year counseling practicum in the final year of their program. M.A./M.S.W. and M.A./M.A. students can speak with their field advisors through the School of Social Work and Lynch School of Education and Human Development to identify field placement sites that are a good fit for their unique hopes and goals as dual degree students.

M.A./M.Ed. students do not complete a supervised ministry placement through the CSTM; their teaching position through the Urban Catholic Teacher Corps takes the place of the CSTM placement.

M.A./M.B.A. students do complete a supervised ministry placement through the CSTM and will complete this contextual education during the final year of their program. More information on contextual education for the M.A./M.B.A. program can be found in the program handbook.

What's the value in doing two degrees at the same time?

The dual degree program is a great fit for students with a wide variety of interests who hope to incorporate faith and spirituality into their professional and personal lives, and who also view their current and future work in related fields as their call to ministry. On a personal level, the dual degree has been valuable to students by providing them with academic and faith communities, classes, and practical experiences that are rooted in their values and align with their professional, personal, spiritual, and social interests. On a professional level, dual degree students are equipped with a unique interdisciplinary skill set that opens up professional possibilities, with graduates living out their call to ministry through a wide variety of fields, or applying the lens of the partner field to more explicitly ministerial settings.

Clough School of Theology and Ministry stmadm@bc.edu 617–552–6506

Carroll School of Management bcmba@bc.edu 617–552–3920

School of Social Work swadmit@bc.edu 617–552–4024

Lynch School of Education and Human Development gsoe@bc.edu 617–552–4214

Quick Links

What is jesuit education, admission faq, why choose cstm, belonging at cstm, facts & figures.

Skip to Content

• Subdisciplines
• Undergraduate
• News & Events

Other ways to search:

• Events Calendar

Camden Palliot Successfully Defends His Masters Thesis

Camden Palliot (Cultural Anthropology, Masters Candidate) successfully defended his MA thesis titled, "Chalakuy and Neoliberalism: The Contested Politics of Exchange in Andean Peru." His committee members were Professors Jerry Jacka (advisor), Donna Goldstein, and Carla Jones.

Honors and Laurels Earned by the Class of 2024

National, university and departmental awards presented to members of the Class of 2024

The following is a partial list of national, university, school and departmental awards presented to the members of the Class of 2024. In some awards where there are multiple winners, only members of the Class of 2024 are included.

Nationally Competitive Scholarships

Mitchell Scholarship : Chloe Nguyen will do graduate work in Ireland specializing in technology, privacy and internet law. (Read more in Duke Today. )

G oldwater Scholarship : Sofia Guerrero received the scholarship that encourages students to pursue careers in the fields of mathematics, the natural sciences and engineering. (Awarded in 2023. Read more in Duke Today .)

Udall Scholarship : Ariella Chukwuma received the award for students who have demonstrated a commitment to careers in the environment, health care or Native American tribal public policy or health care. (Awarded in 2023. Read more in Duke Today .)

Knight-Hennessy Scholarship : Daniel Collins will do graduate work in ocean studies at Stanford. University. (Read more in Duke Today. )

Schwarzman Scholarship : Sejal Mayer-Patel will do graduate study on global affairs in China (Read more in Duke Today .)

Gaither Fellowship : Kristin Zhu will work with the American Statecraft program, where she hopes to contribute to the Pivotal States series and research gaps in American foreign policy. (Read more on the OUSF website .)

Departmental Awards

African and African American Studies

John Hope Franklin Award for Academic Excellence: Tashia Ayanna Ethridge

Mary McLeod Bethune Writing Award: Sanceray Sanai Smith

Walter C. Burford Award for Community Service: Khilan Jamaar Walker, Moorea Rose Mitchell

Art, Art History & Visual Studies

Mary Duke Biddle Foundation Visual Art Award: Gabriella Caroleena Underwood

Nancy Kaneb Art History Award: Ruth Sarah Player

Sue and Lee Noel Prize in Visual Arts: Elayna Yilan Lei

Visual Studies & Media Studies Award: Malynda Ellen Wollert, Willa Fabian Gilbert-Goldstein

Rodger Frey Film Essay Award: Annie Zhang

ACC Plaque for Excellence, Scholarship and Athletics:  CJake Anthony Naso and Brianna Danielle Smith

Bass Connections

Excellence in Collaborative Leadership Award: Rachael Ellen Lau

Student Research Award:  Thanh-Nhu Tran Bui, Erika Lili Berlik, Zixin Zhang, Shuaichen Liao ,Micaela Elanor Simeone, Kashyap Sreeram, Chloe Williams, Keena Gao, Emily Rose Hallock, Sunggun Lee, Darienne Rae Rogers, Rohan Gupta and Sujay Alluri

Edward C. Horn Memorial Prize for Excellence in Biology:  Zachary Mathias Pracher

Excellence in Plant Science Prize: Mira Isabel Polishook

James B. Rast Memorial Award in Comparative Organismal Biology:  Brennan David McDonald

Maggie Schneider Award in Marine Biology:  Catalina Rose Lopez

Biology Faculty Award:  Anna Clare Sparling

Biostatistics and Bioinformatics

Overall Academic Excellence Award: Ryan Butcher, Molly Ehrig, Hui Huang, Alexander Joseph Thomson, and Danielle Jayne Vaithilingam

Student Leadership Award: Alexandra Sarai Da Silva, Catherine Gervais

Most Outstanding Master's Project Award for Clinical & Translational Research: Hui Huang. Honorable Mention: Catherine Gervais

Most Outstanding Master's Project Award for Methodology: Qin Wang. Honorable Mention: Caroline Anne Falvey

Most Outstanding Master's Project Award for Biomedical Data Science: Alexander Joseph Thomson, Yilong Qu

Office of Health Professions Advising             

Raymond Lublin, M.D. Award: Anna Clare Sparling

Classical Studies         

Classical Association of the Middle West and South Award for Outstanding Accomplishment in Classical Studies: Stephanie Allison Morgan, Jacob Alexander Rosenzweig

David Taggart Clark Prize in Classical Studies: Stephanie Allison Morgan, Jacob Alexander Rosenzweig

Anthony Fauci Award in STEM and Classics: Stephanie Allison Morgan

Computer Science     

Alex Vasilos Memorial Award: Yuxi Long, Muhang Tian, Shiyou Wu, Chloe Qinyu Zhu

Rebecca DeNardis Memorial Award: Andrew John Fate-Bolognone, Brandon Derick Lopez, Joshua Oshotse, Alyssa Wang Zhao

Cultural Anthropology               

Judith McDade Prize in Cultural Anthropology: Sebastian-San Miguel, Malynda Ellen Wollert

Paul Farmer Award for Justice and Social Responsibility: Corali Salomé Francisco-Zelkin, Huiyin Zhou

Doctor of Physical Therapy   

ACAPT National Student Honor Society: Alyssa Marie Bush, Madison Rose Catalano, Brielle Rose Ciccio, Miles Scott Moore, Shannan Leigh Mueller and Hope Wendy Reynolds

Helen Kaiser Alumni Award: Kimberlyn Michelle Hayes

Jan Gwyer Student Recognition Award for Academic, Clinical, and Scholarly Excellence: Hope Wendy Reynolds, Miles Scott Moore

Robert Bartlett Student Recognition Award for Service and Leadership Excellence: Wesley Joseph Bell-Pritzlaff

DPT Inclusive Excellence Award: Razan Mazin Fayyad

Documentary Studies               

Julia Harper Day Award for Documentary Studies: Staci Grimes

Duke Arts          

Benenson Award in the Arts: Huiyin Zhou, Staci Grimes, Keena Gao, Ruby Wang, Yixuan Sun, Foxx Hart, Catherine Suzanne Grafe Knothe

Duke Divinity School

Award for Excellence in Bible- Old Testament: William Paul Vines Sharkey

Award for Excellence in Bible-New Testament: Katherine Jane Bracy Limkeman

Award for Outstanding Student in Theology: Joseph Neil Reigle

Award for Excellence in Worship and Liturgical Leadership: Leah Benn Miller

Jameson Jones Preaching Award: Beth Regena Glenn, Katherine Christine Mangum

Hoyt Hickman Award for Excellence in Liturgics: Patrice Elizabeth Turner

McMurry Richey Award in Field Education: Emily Lynn Stambaugh

McMurry Richey Award in Missions: Britt Anliza Taylor

McMurry Richey Award in Student Pastor: Evan A. Smith

Seminarian Award of the Fellowship of United Methodist in Music and Worship Arts: Leah Benn Miller

Frederick Buechner Writing Award: Jaime Steiert McGlothlin, Vivian Grace Saxon

Duke Global Health Institute                 

Madeline Boccuzzi Outstanding Master of Science in Global Health Student Award: Pamela Maria Espinoza Gonzalez

Earth and Climate Sciences

Thomas V. Laska Award: Emily Marie Nagamoto

Economics      

Master's Program Award for Leadership: Timothy Chiu Ching-Lih Kusuma, Yuhao Zheng, Uyanga Gansukh

Master's Program Award for Academic Excellence: Yangfan Wang

Edward Tower Best Thesis Award: Marcos Hirai Catao

Craufurd Goodwin Distinction in Research Award : Lilia Yimin Qian

Best Thesis Finalist: Jakobe Zamir Bussey, Zixin Zhao

Outstanding Honors Poster – Faculty Choice: Heera Rajavel

Outstanding Honors Poster – Student Choice: Lucas Michael Johnson

English                 

Award for Most Original Honors Thesis: Heidi Ann Smith

Victor Strandberg Award for Excellence in the Literary Arts: Marina Jinghang Chen, Sita Conde

Barbara Hernnstein Smith Award for Outstanding Work in Literary Criticism or Theory: Skijler John Hutson

Stanley E. Fish Award for Outstanding Work in British & Anglophone Literature: Eliana Alex Genatt

Louis J. Budd Award for Outstanding Work in American Literature: Madeline Rubin, Milla Surjadi

George P. Lucaci Award for Creative Nonfiction: Ruby Wang . Second Prize: Rowan Huang

Anne Flexner Memorial Award for Poetry: Jocelyn Andrea Chin

Anne Flexner Memorial Award for Fiction: Makee Gonzalez Anderson

Reynolds Price Award for Fiction: Tomas Elias Esber

Academy of American Poets Prize: Nima Babajani-Feremi

Evolutionary Anthropology    

Mossé Award for Excellence in Research in Evolutionary Anthropology: Elizabeth Anne Siebeneck, Rachel Lorraine Poutre

Fuqua School of Business     

Alan D. Schwartz Award for Mentorship: Bhavna Tripathy

Asa T. Spaulding, Sr. Award for Leadership: Louis Wu

Deans' Recognition Awards: Hilary Shea Badger, Keerthana Rao Balusu, Alyssa Diane Barnea, Lauren Camille Boone, Kunj Chheda, Vasileia Christaki, Louis A. Fierro III, Kandasi Kalyse Griffiths, Felipe Guevara Aguero, Jenna Kathleen Houchins, Ashley Marie Pech and Gabrielle Mercedes Rogers

Fuqua EMBA HSM Leadership Award: Dhruv Choudhry

Keohane Leadership Award: Arya Diwase, Stephen Chinedu Ezekoye

Team Fuqua Award (MMS): Kenneth Beau Allen, Piper Lorraine Hampsch, Olivia Louise Kohan, Aakash Nankani, Adèle Clarissa Swanson

Team Fuqua Award (MQM): Alexia Berenice Torres Calderón

The Breeden Award in Finance: David Chioma, Hannah Lillian Deichman

Distinguished Service Award (MBA): Annie Moore Forrest

International Comparative Studies Program              

Capstone Research Prize: Grace Marguerite Endrud

Distinguished Thesis Award: Maya Ghanem

Journalism and Media Studies            

Melcher Family Award for Excellence in Journalism: Charlotte Kramon

Fischer-Zernin Award for Local Journalism: Chloe Mai Nguyen

Patterson Prize for Excellence, Leadership and Integrity in Journalism: Milla Surjadi

Mathematics 

Julia Dale Prize in Mathematics: Aram Tabrizi Lindroth

Mathematics  Julia Dale Prize in Mathematics: Nguyen Nguyen, Jiaxi Zhang

Mathematics  Excellence In Research Award: Aram Tabrizi Lindroth, Luke Finley Triplett, Jiaxi Zhang

Karl Menger Award: Nguyen Nguyen

Excellence In Community Service Prize: Elaijah Roger Lapay

School of Medicine    

Brenda Armstrong Living the Dream Award: Braylee Nicole Grisel

Dean's Merit Scholarship: Mariam Mina Ardehali, Tamar Chukrun, Vikram Freedman Gupta, Ryan Joseph Kramer, Margaret S. Min, Charles Phifer Nicholson Jr., Sophie Evelyn Nick, Katherine Nancy Penvose, Albert Jacob Rechenmacher, Roshini Srinivasan, Troy Q'mars Tabarestani, Vishal Venkatraman, Eric Scott Warren Jr .

Dean’s Tuition Scholarship: John Lewis Atwater, Alexandria Mullikin, Ernest Neil Barral, and Prince Jeffrey Boadi, Alejandro J. Carruyo, Amanda Christina Del Risco, Julia Marie Denniss, Nicole Marie Diaz, Romel Joseph Holmes, Jr., Nia Michaela Mitchell, Mary Elizabeth Moya-Mendez, Jennifer I. Okunbor, Edwin Simeon Jusi Owolo, Camille Noelle Pierre, Chidyaonga Shalita, David Alexander Webb Sykes, Kenyon Wright and Marilyn Melelani Fryar Yamamoto

Humanism in Medicine Award: Prince Jeffrey Boadi

Palmer/GSK Award: Alexander Daniel Cherches, Sophie Evelyn Nick

Rauch Future Leaders Merit Scholars: Kristina Moriah Stenstedt Dunworth, Bronwen Emily Foreman

Unsung Hero: Stacy Meredith Goins

Music  

Henry Schuman Music Prize: Andrew John Fate-Bolognone , Julia Michelle Leeman, Joseph Cristofori Scarpa

Julia Wilkinson Mueller Prize for Excellence in Music: Julia Michelle Leeman , Aram Tabrizi Lindroth

Paul R. Bryan Award: Nina Zhang , Satya Yalamanchi

Ciompi Quartet Award in Chamber Music: Aram Tabrizi Lindroth , Jaewon Jung, Alexander Zhaokun Du, Allen Yiyang Zhang, Jean-Luc Pereira Rabodeau, Claire Yijun Li, Kenneth Kaishi Gong

Duke Symphony Orchestra Conductor's Award: Andrew S. Kelbley , Amira Axelle Arellano Miel, Spencer Samuel Schutz, Zachary Mathias Pracher

Office of the Provost 

Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award: Elaijah Roger Lapay

Global Health

Michael Merson Undergraduate Student Leadership Award in Global Health: Shanzeh Mishal Sheikh

Physics               

Daphne Chang Memorial Award: Alexander Dun Yin Tong

Rodney I. McCormick Award: Alexander Christian Migala

Political Science          

Alona E. Evans Prize in International Law: Sanjit Beriwal

Elizabeth G. Verville Award: Koby Samuel Cohen

The Jerry B. and Callie Irene Stone Award: Frank J. Cejas Rodriguez

Ole R. Holsti Award in American Foreign Policy and International Relations: Robert Stefan Miron

The Robert S. Rankin Award for Leadership and Academic Achievement: Ruthie Ann Kesri

The Robert S. Rankin Award in American Government and Constitutional Law: Nicole Sara Rosenzweig

The Robert S. Rankin Award in American, National, State, and Local Governments: Kay Yanily Maldonado

Pratt School of Engineering  

American Society of Civil Engineers Outstanding Senior Prize: Sarah Ann Bailey, Grace Eunhae Lee

Aubrey E. Palmer Award: Sarah Ann Bailey

Marie Foote Reel Undergraduate Research Award: Arya Kishan Tschand

Charles Rowe Vail Memorial Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Award: Claire Yijun Li

da Vinci Award: Alexandra Leigh Hoffman, Benjamin Alfred Johns, Jonathan Caswell Piland

David Randall Fuller Prize : Ian Marcos Morales

Eric I. Pas Award: Sarah Ann Bailey, Annie Wollmuth

Edward D. "Ned" Light Memorial Award: Jacklyn Leah Herzberg

George Sherrerd III Memorial Award in Electrical and Computer Engineering: Andy Summers He, Sophia Marie Williams

Helmholtz Award: Joanna Rui Peng

Howard G. Clark Award for Excellence in Research: Anand Manohar Chundi, Dahlia Halabi, Selena Halabi, Jack R Kovach, Claire Yijun Li, Benjamin Charles Perry, Rajiv Sundar Raman, Bowie Nathan Shreiber, Mia Ellen Woodruff, Sophie Ru Wu

Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science Faculty Award: Benjamin Alfred Johns, Isabelle Warger Sanz

Otto Meier, Jr. Tau Beta Pi Award: Keith Alexander Cressman

Pi Tau Sigma Scholarship Award: Miranda Liu, William Joshua Guanzon King

Pratt School of Engineering Student Service Award: Kishen Mitra, Jack Stuart Rhodes

Raymond C. Gaugler Award in Materials Science and Engineering, Spencer Samuel Schutz, Raymond Kelly Lennon

Theo C. Pilkington Memorial Award: Jacklyn Leah Herzberg

Walter J. Seeley Scholastic Award: Brandon Kunjun Bae, Andy Summers He, Alexandra Leigh Hoffman, Benjamin Alfred Johns, Minjun Kwak, Jonathan Caswell Piland, Cathylin Wen Wang, Chengyang Zhou

William Brewster Snow Environmental Engineering Award: Sarah Ann Bailey

Karl E. Zener Award for Academic Excellence in Psychology: Priscilla La

Jerome S. Bruner Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Research: Caimiao Liu

Public Policy  

Terry Sanford Leadership Award: Grace Marguerite Endrud, Chloe Mai Nguyen

Joel Fleishman Distinguished Scholar Award: Grace Marguerite Endrud, Hannah Kate Galdes, Katherine Elizabeth Heath, Anisha Reddy

Best Honors Thesis: Christina Zemong Wang

Religious Studies         

Best Paper Award: Mariami Shanshashvili, Ruthie Ann Kesri, Christina Stewart Lewis

Romance Studies        

Guido Mazzoni Prize in Italian: Jacob Campbell Carnes

Richard L. Predmore Award in Spanish: Brooke Lauren Sevchik

Robert J. Niess / Alexander Hull Award in French: Rebecca Valerie Boss

The Paol Keineg Prize for an Honors Thesis Written in a Language other than English: Brianna Rose Cellini

School of Nursing        

Annie Beery Bieber Award for Outstanding Leadership Award: Sandra Okeke Bates

Ruby L. Wilson Excellence in Clinical Practice Award: Katherine Alexandra Sundt

Thelma Ingles Excellence in Clinical Expertise and Scholarly Activities Award: Iris Mayoral

Distinguished PhD Dissertation: Melissa Ann Powell

Outstanding DNP Scholarly Project Award: Chantal Howard

Ida Harper Simpson Award: Mackenzie Elizabeth Culp

Linda K. George Award: Amber Claire Smith

Highest Academic Achievement Award: Caimiao Liu

Statistical Science     

Outstanding Mentor of Undergraduate Researchers: Edric Cheuk Yin Tam

Statistical Science MS TA of the Year Award: Yicheng Shen. Honorable Mention: William Tirone

Statistical Science PhD TA of the Year Award : Yi Ji . Honorable Mention: Shariar Vaez-Ghaemi, Emmanuel Kene Mokel

Student Affairs               

Distinguished Leadership Award: Expanding the Boundaries of Learning: Robert Addison Sprung

Distinguished Leadership Award: Building Alliances Through Collective Engagement: Christopher Zollino Lloyd, Amber Claire Smith

William J. Griffith University Service Award: Outstanding Contribution to the Duke Community: Essence Renee Hughes

William J. Griffith University Service Award: Outstanding Contribution to the Durham and Local Community: Dedriek Jalisa Whitaker

William J. Griffith University Service Award: Outstanding Contribution to the Global Community: Chanté Davis

Duke Cornerstone Award, Undergraduate: Catherine Xia

Duke Cornerstone Award, Graduate: Trevor Sytsma

Theater Studies             

Award for Excellence in Acting: Emi Marie Hegarty (Read on D

Award for Excellence in Acting: Benjamin David Taylor Davies

Harold Brody Award for Excellence in Musical Theater: Sam Carpenter

John M. Clum Distinguished Theater Studies Graduate Award: Emi Marie Hegarty, Isabella Perle Mellody

Feldman Collaborator's Award in Memory of Kenneth J. Reardon: Yixuan Sun

Reynolds Price Award for Best Original Script for Stage, Screen, or Television:   Isabella Perle Mellody

Forlines Family Theater Studies Grant: Elise Mignonne Gutierrez

Award for Excellence in Design or Theater Technology: Yixuan Sun

Trinity College of Arts and Sciences                 

Bascom Headen Palmer Literary Prize: Shourya Agarwal

Louis B. Sudler Prize in the Creative Arts and Performing Arts: Emi Marie Hegarty (Read more in Duke Arts)

Undergraduate Research Support Office    

Student Team Grant: Angela Nana-Akua Darkowaa Addae, Brendan Simmons Kelleher, Jeehye Rose Lee, Taylor Corbin Parker, Dedriek Jalisa Whitaker