Asbury Theological Seminary’s 30-hour Master of Theology in Theological Studies is designed to help students develop the knowledge and skills of academic research in the area of theological studies at a master’s level, that could then be applied to further research degrees or teaching in the appropriate setting.
What to Expect from the Degree
The following is an overview of the degree requirements:
- Completion of 30 credit hours, as outlined in the Academic Catalog with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00/4.00
- Active attendance of the weekly school seminars and the annual interdisciplinary colloquium of Advanced Research Programs.
*Refer to the Academic Catalog for a detailed and full list of graduation requirements.
Admissions Requirements
- Application Form
- Accredited baccalaureate degree
- Official transcripts from all postsecondary schools where at least 12 hours of coursework was completed
- Personal History Essay – 1050-1500 words (350-500 words per question)
- Share your testimony starting with how you met Jesus Christ. Talk about your growth since that time and what brings you to apply to seminary at this season in your life. Include your thoughts on how you would like to see your faith grow during your time in seminary.
- What draws you to your desired major/area of study? What is your intended outcome upon degree completion? Why is that career or ministry choice meaningful to you?
- Discuss a local, national, and/or international issue and why you are passionate about it.
- Optional: If your GPA is not a good indication of your academic ability, please explain.
- Four references (references cannot be related to applicant)
- Four references, including a pastoral reference (required) and a professor or academic administrator reference (recommended). Laity or personal acquaintances are accepted.
- $50 Nonrefundable Application Fee
- For applicants whose primary language is not English, a TOEFL score of 550 (79 internet-based) or an IELTS score of 6.5
- Background check (completed by the Admissions Office)
- A personal interview may be required upon request by the Admissions Committee
Learn more about what other graduates of Asbury Seminary are doing.
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Stephanie M. RaglinDirector of Programs at the Hope Center.
Pastor, Embry Chapel AME Church in Elizabethtown, Ky. -
Christopher GossDirector of Worship Arts, Youth & Young Adults Ministries, Mosaic UMC, Georgia.
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Deb AdamsFounder, Gracie's Place.
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Aaron ReynoldsLeadership Development Program, Chick-fil-A.
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Michael HammondPresident and Chief Servant, Faith Covenant Ministries, Missouri.
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Rob MehnerDirector of Pastoral Care and Training Education, New Life Children's Home, Guatemala.
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Dr. Randy JessenExecutive Director, Global Hope.
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Connor ReavyStudent and Marathon Runner.
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George WassonLead Pastor, Faith Point Church, Floyds Knobs, Ind.
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Kaylea Hutson MillerAward-winning journalist and Managing Editor at The Grove Sun and the Delaware County Journal, Okla.
| Hrs | Course ID | Course Name |
| Theological Studies Required Courses (21 credit hours) | ||
| 3 | Choose one: CH660, CH661, TH660, or CH/SF710 | Please see course catalog for course titles and details. |
| 3 | Choose one: CH701/TH711, CH702/TH712, CH751, CH753, CH755, or CH756 | Please see course catalog for course titles and details. |
| 3 | Choose one: CS/TH631, CS652, CS653, CS654, CS645/TH625, or PH705 | Please see course catalog for course titles and details. |
| 3 | Choose one: CD920*, MD915, or CS/MS743
*Permission required from Dean of School of Theology & Formation (STF) |
Instructional Theory and Development, Leading in a Multicultural World, or Ethics and Social Analysis |
| 3 | TH780 | Research Methods |
| 6 | TH790 | Master of Arts Thesis |
| 0 | TH745 | Seminar in Theology
Registration required each fall and spring term |
| Theological Studies Elective Courses (9 credit hours) | ||
| 9 | Choose from the following list:
*One independent study may be selected with the permission of the Dean of STF ** One course from another ATS school may be used with permission of the Dean of STF |
Please see course catalog for course titles and details. |
Additional Requirements
- Attend required, non-credit Advanced Research Programs Interdisciplinary Colloquium as scheduled until coursework is completed.
- Cumulative GPA of at least 3.30/4.00.
- Completion of a written thesis appropriate for publication.
- Fulfillment of all degree requirements in not more than three calendar years from the first term of enrollment.
Asbury Seminary is committed to providing you with a quality theological education and practical skills for a lifetime. We offer more than 400 scholarships annually and our Ministry Partners Program helps you graduate with minimal debt.
Cost of Attendance: 2023-2024
| Degree | Total Credits | Cost |
| Th.M. | 30 credits | $736/credit hour |
| Coursework Total | $22,080 |
| Academic Year 2021-2022 | All Campuses Fall/Spring | All Campuses Summer |
| Technology Fee | $225 per semester | $110 per semester |
| Graduation Fee | $200 one-time fee | $200 one-time fee |
| Student Services Fee | $160 per semester | $80 per semester |
Scholarships
Postgraduate Support Scholarships are available to Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Theology students based on criteria of merit and need.
To apply
- Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Complete the Asbury Financial Aid Application
- Complete a Postgraduate Support Scholarship Application, including a 1000-word essay describing your passion for research and how it will equip you for the future.
Save Time! Save Money!
Combine your Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, Master of Arts in Theological Studies, or Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies with a Master of Theology degree, and you’ll save up to 15 credit hours! This option is designed for those planning to pursue a Ph.D. or for those seeking a deeper educational background to serve in the church or marketplace.
This dual track option allows you to:
- Share up to 15 hours between degrees, reducing your overall time and cost to complete the degrees.
- Prepare for the rigor of the Ph.D. program and strengthen your CV. Classes are taught at a Ph.D. level.
- Gain a more extensive knowledge-base for marketplace or church ministry.
- Shorten the admissions process if you’re already a current student.