Master of Theology (ThM)

(Specific locations vary by concentration)

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Master of Theology (ThM)

The Master of Theology (ThM) is a one-year capstone degree designed for students who have completed a Master of Divinity or some academic MAs. The ThM provides advanced, specialized preparation for Christian ministry or doctoral work. Seven areas of concentration are available through the three academic divisions.

Concentrations

Biblical Studies

Ancient Languages & Cultures

New Testament

Old Testament

Christian Thought

Church History

Theology

Missiology

Practical Theology

Ministry
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Program Goals

To gain greater competence in an academic discipline by employing the most valuable research methods and resources for that area of concentration.
To sharpen skills in interpretation and understanding of God’s inerrant Word, as it applies to the area of concentration.
To carry out the specialized studies within the highest tradition of Christian scholarship with rigor and excellence.
To engage with contemporary issues in the area of concentration from the framework of a biblical worldview.
To formulate productive questions for further investigation in an academic discipline, so as to prepare for Ph.D. studies.

Courses

24 Credit Hours (8 Courses)

Foundational Courses (Core Requirements)^*

Academic Research & Writing Course

This requirement can be fulfilled by writing a thesis, taking a directed study that culminates in a major paper, or in consultation with your advisor, designating one of the concentration courses as the “writing course.” In this last case, the student must produce a research paper.

Concentration Course

Thesis/Capstone Course (6 credits)

6-credit thesis OR 1 concentration + 1 capstone course.

Requirements

Academic Requirements

Required Degree:

The Practical Theology focused ThM (ThM in Ministry) requires an MDiv degree.

The Biblical Studies and Christian Thought ThMs require either an MDiv or Academic MA. The MA should be at least 60 credits and include preparatory coursework for the concentration selected.

Minimum GPA: 3.0

English Language Requirements (International Students)

Gordon-Conwell requires a TOEFL score of 100 or better (IBT). We also accept IELTS scores of 7.0 or higher and Duolingo scores of 115 or higher. Students who have completed an undergraduate degree through an English-language university may request a TOEFL waiver.

Biblical Language Requirements

There are three concentration options within the Master of Theology (ThM) – Biblical Studies program:

Old Testament
New Testament
Ancient Languages & Cultures

Applicants to the ThM – Biblical Studies must demonstrate competency in Hebrew and/or Greek. Incoming ThM applicants must pass one or both competency exams in order to be considered for admission to the program:

Old Testament concentration: Hebrew competency required
New Testament concentration: Greek competency required
Ancient Languages & Cultures concentration: Hebrew and Greek competency required

These exams will be taken online after a preliminary review of the applicant’s file.

Application Requirements

A Completed Online Application Includes:

Application Form
Application Fee
Two Uploaded Essays
- A 1-2 page statement of purpose addressing questions about your vocational goals, church involvement, encouragement from others, reasons for applying to Gordon-Conwell, and an assessment of your own strengths and weaknesses
- A 1-2 page autobiographical statement
Three Recommendations
- Pastor or Church Official
- Friend or Associate;
- Former Professor or Professional Colleague (references should be individuals whom you have known for at least one year, and who are not related to you.)
Official Transcripts
- The seminary requires a bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.
- Official transcripts must be sent directly to Gordon-Conwell, or hand-delivered in a sealed envelope. Copies and opened transcripts are not considered official.
- Transcripts may be sent by any means your college(s) uses for transmitting official transcripts; official electronic transcripts are accepted.
- Gordon-Conwell is a partner school of Parchment. If your college uses this service for transmitting electronic transcripts, search for and have the transcripts sent to “Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.”
- We do need transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, even if the classes were transferred to another school and are reflected on their transcripts.