What Degree Programs Does The Master's Seminary Offer?

Updated

The Master's Seminary (TMS) offers four graduate degree programs: the Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Theology (Th.M.), Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). Each is designed for a different stage and purpose—from initial pastoral preparation to advanced academic scholarship—so the right choice depends on whether you are entering ministry, deepening pastoral training, or pursuing research and teaching.

The Four Programs at a Glance

Program Primary Focus Best Suited For
Master of Divinity Well-rounded pastoral and preaching preparation Those entering pastoral ministry
Master of Theology Advanced biblical scholarship Pastoral leadership, pastoral training, academia
Doctor of Ministry Expository preaching (modular) Practicing pastors refining preaching and teaching
Doctor of Philosophy Biblical and theological studies Pastor-theologians pursuing faithful scholarship

Master of Divinity (M.Div.)

According to TMS, the M.Div. is "designed to produce a well-rounded pastor and preacher" and prepares students "to handle God's Word and shepherd His people." This is the foundational professional degree for those heading into pastoral ministry.

Master of Theology (Th.M.)

The Th.M. is described as "a focused opportunity in advanced biblical scholarship." It equips students for leadership in pastoral ministry, pastoral training, and academia—useful if you want deeper academic grounding beyond the M.Div. without committing to a doctoral research track.

Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)

The D.Min. in Expository Preaching is a modular program "designed to refine the faithful pastor's ability to teach and preach the Word of God." Its structure suits practicing pastors who want to sharpen preaching while remaining in ministry.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The Ph.D. "equips pastor-theologians for faithful scholarship in biblical and theological studies." This is the research-oriented track, oriented toward academic and scholarly work.

What Shapes the Training

TMS emphasizes that it is "strategically located on a local church campus," which it calls "the most practical, most effective place to train for pastoral ministry." Students train not only on a church campus but "sit under the men who lead it—a doctrinally united faculty of pastor-theologians." The seminary also houses the MacArthur Center for Expository Preaching, which supports preaching education, modeling, and mentorship.

How to Choose

  • Entering pastoral ministry: Start with the M.Div.
  • Already pastoring, want advanced study: Consider the Th.M. or the modular D.Min. in Expository Preaching.
  • Pursuing teaching or research: The Ph.D. in biblical and theological studies is the relevant track.

For program details, requirements, and how to apply, visit the programs section of tms.edu.