What is a Master of Theology (Th.M.)?

In the US, the Th.M. is usually an advanced, one-year research degree taken after an MDiv. It deepens study in one area — such as Old Testament, New Testament, or systematic theology — and often prepares students for doctoral work.

Do I need an MDiv before a Th.M.?

At most US seminaries, yes — the Th.M. typically requires an MDiv or equivalent. Some schools structure it differently, so check each program's admission requirements.

What's the difference between an MA in Theology and an MDiv?

An MA in Theology (or MTS) is an academic degree, usually two years, focused on study. The MDiv is a three-year professional degree for pastors and chaplains, with preaching, counseling, and field education built in.

Which master's degree do I need to be a pastor or chaplain?

Many denominations and most chaplaincy endorsers require an MDiv from an ATS-accredited seminary. Confirm the requirement with your denomination or endorsing body.

Can I earn a master's in theology online?

Yes. Many ATS-accredited seminaries offer online MA, MTS, and MDiv programs. See our online seminaries and cheapest online MDiv guides.

How long does a master's degree in theology take?

Typically one year for a Th.M., about two years for an MA or MTS, and about three years for an MDiv at full-time pace.

Master's Degree in Theology: Th.M. vs. MA vs. MTS vs. MDiv (2026 Guide)

"Master's degree in theology" covers four main degrees: the Master of Theology (Th.M.), the Master of Arts in Theology (MA), the Master of Theological Studies (MTS), and the Master of Divinity (MDiv). They serve different goals — research, ministry, or personal study — so picking the right one matters more than the name.

The four degrees compared

MA in Theology / MTS (about 2 years): academic study of Scripture, doctrine, and history. Good for teaching, writing, lay leadership, or a step toward a PhD.
MDiv (about 3 years): the professional degree for pastors and chaplains, with field education. Usually required for ordination in many denominations.
Th.M. (about 1 year, after an MDiv): advanced specialization and research, often a bridge to a ThD or PhD.
Doctoral next steps: a DMin for ministry leaders, or a PhD/ThD for academic careers. See online Doctor of Ministry programs.

Admission requirements

MA, MTS, and MDiv programs generally require an accredited bachelor's degree in any field. The Th.M. usually requires an MDiv. Some programs ask for biblical language prerequisites. If you're coming from an unaccredited school, ask about admission before applying — see is my Bible college accredited?

Cost

Seminary tuition varies widely, and many denominations subsidize their own students. Compare in how much is seminary?, cheapest ATS-accredited seminaries, and cheapest online MDiv programs. Graduate students can file the FAFSA for federal loans at participating schools.

Choosing an accredited seminary

For graduate theology, the key accreditor is the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). Start with our accredited seminaries list, online seminaries, or seminaries by denomination.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Master of Theology (Th.M.)?: In the US, the Th.M. is usually an advanced, one-year research degree taken after an MDiv. It deepens study in one area — such as Old Testament, New Testament, or systematic theology — and often prepares students for doctoral work.
Do I need an MDiv before a Th.M.?: At most US seminaries, yes — the Th.M. typically requires an MDiv or equivalent. Some schools structure it differently, so check each program's admission requirements.
What's the difference between an MA in Theology and an MDiv?: An MA in Theology (or MTS) is an academic degree, usually two years, focused on study. The MDiv is a three-year professional degree for pastors and chaplains, with preaching, counseling, and field education built in.
Which master's degree do I need to be a pastor or chaplain?: Many denominations and most chaplaincy endorsers require an MDiv from an ATS-accredited seminary. Confirm the requirement with your denomination or endorsing body.
Can I earn a master's in theology online?: Yes. Many ATS-accredited seminaries offer online MA, MTS, and MDiv programs. See our online seminaries and cheapest online MDiv guides.
How long does a master's degree in theology take?: Typically one year for a Th.M., about two years for an MA or MTS, and about three years for an MDiv at full-time pace.

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