Graduates of theological schools of recognized standing who have obtained the B.D. or MDIV degree may be admitted to a program of studies leading to the Master of Sacred Theology (S.T.M.) degree. The work for this theological degree may be regarded as a fourth year of preparation for the Christian ministry. It may be used for advanced training for a specialized form of Christian service (such as college or university ministry; chaplaincy in industry, institutions, and the armed services; urban or inner-city ministry; ecumenical leadership; the directing of continuing education; home missions; foreign missions; or ministry to the elderly). The S.T.M. program may also be used as a year of specialized work in one of the theological disciplines or as preparation for doctoral studies. The schedule of courses may involve offerings in other schools or departments of the University.
A candidate for the S.T.M. degree must complete the equivalent of at least twenty-four credit hours of graduate study beyond the B.D., MDIV, or equivalent degree.
In addition, a candidate is required to submit an extended paper, an independent thesis, or a project in the candidate’s area of concentration. Applicants must indicate on their admissions application their proposed area of concentration and the faculty member with whom they would like to study.