Overview
The Master of Theology (Th.M.) degree program provides for continuing study through the discipline of academic excellence. It aims to develop in the student an informed, critical approach to a chosen field of study through post-graduate courses, mastery of a research language and a thesis.
The Th.M. degree is administered by the Advanced Theological Education Office (ATE).
Program Learning Outcomes
Luther Seminary and its faculty aspire through its Th.M. program to assist students in achieving the following learning outcomes:
- Advanced Understanding: Graduates will demonstrate an advanced understanding of their chosen area of study.
- Scholarship: Graduates will demonstrate the ability to critically engage an area of biblical, historical, or theological scholarship using appropriate research practices and methods of written and oral communication.
Concentrations
The current areas of degree concentration are:
- Bible (Old or New Testament)
- Congregational and Community Care (Clinical Pastoral Theology)
- Congregational Mission and Leadership
- History of Christianity
- Mission and World Religions
- Pastoral Theology and Ministry (Composite degree concentration involving courses in congregational and community care, congregational leadership, children and youth ministry, educational leadership, preaching, and worship)
- Systematic Theology/Ethics
Degree Requirements
The Th.M. program is normally completed in two years. Students must complete a total of six courses, one language examination, a thesis proposal, and a thesis. Of the six courses, at least four must be taken in the area of concentration; two courses may be taken as electives. Students in the Th.M. program are required to complete degree requirements within five years. For a complete overview of degree requirements, please see the course catalog.