Related Information
Master of Theological Studies
The Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) is an academic program that is designed either for those who intend to go on for further academic studies or for those who desire a strong theological education for various vocational goals. Possible vocations include teaching, theological research, and editing.
A full-time student can typically complete the M.T.S. program in two years. The program includes core courses in Bible and Theology. In addition, each student will choose an area of concentration, ordinarily in biblical or theological studies.
Admission Requirements
The following admission requirements reflect CTS's goal to train capable stewards of the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ. Please note that if you have not had the following pre-seminary courses, many of your admission requirements can be met through courses offered at CTS. However, you should be aware that your M.T.S. program will be enhanced by more elective choices if all admission requirements are completed prior to beginning your program.
To apply to the M.T.S. program you need to have a B.A. degree or its equivalent from an accredited college and have a grade-point average of 2.67 (B-) or higher. Your pre-seminary education should include one course each in English and literature, and two each in history, philosophy, natural science, and social science. In addition, you are encouraged to take four semesters of Greek. If you have not had Greek courses, you may take the courses (Greek Fundamentals I and II) at CTS but it will be more challenging to complete your program in two years.
M.T.S. Program Curriculum
Below is a sample course sequence in the M.T.S. program for those with no prior study in Bible or theology. The course numbers link to the course descriptions on our full course listing.
Two-Year Course Sequence
Year One
Fall
J-Term
- Learning to Use Bible Software (1)
- Elective (2)
Spring
Summer
- Elective (in concentration) (2)
Year Two
Fall
- Systematic Theology I (3)
- OT Narrative Literature (3)
- NT Narratives (3)
- Apologetics (2)
- Elective: in concentration (2)
J-Term
- Elective: Hist/Theo/Phil (2)
Spring
Summer
Advanced Placement
You may be able to gain advanced placement for prior study or knowledge of Bible and Theology. Advanced placement means that you have gained competence equivalent to one or more of the courses listed below.
The following courses are available for Advanced Placement. Study Guides for the Advanced Placement test may be obtained from the Admissions Office.
- Bible Survey
- Reformed Confessions and Worldview
- Hebrew Fundamentals
- World Religions and Global Christianity
- Church in Historical Context 1 or 2 (not both)
If granted, advanced placement reduces the number of CTS credit hours needed to complete one's degree. Students can obtain Advanced Placement for a maximum of 9 credits.