Program Overview
Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)
The Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) degree is tailored to fit the needs of students pursuing advanced doctoral studies or seeking careers in teaching or research. It also provides a strong foundation for students called to serve in lay ministry roles throughout the church, academy, and world.
Why This Program?
The M.T.S. degree program features two curricular tracks: M.T.S. Core and M.T.S. Focus. M.T.S. Core is for those considering a wide variety of applications for their degree, including lay ministry, deacon's orders, nonprofit work, and secondary teaching. M.T.S. Focus is for students who have already had extensive theological preparation in their undergraduate coursework and who intend to apply for further academic study after completion of the M.T.S.
Program Overview
The M.T.S. program features a two-year curriculum that covers foundational areas of history, theology, and Scripture with the flexibility to pursue electives in one's area of interest. Students also complete a thesis under faculty direction during their final year.
Curriculum
The M.T.S. Core curriculum requires the completion of 7 core courses and is appropriate for students seeking a wide variety of careers. The M.T.S. Focus curriculum allows students with extensive theological preparation in their undergraduate studies to focus their course work in a specific area that aligns with faculty divisions.
Graduation Requirements
The Master of Theological Studies program is normally completed in two years. Requirements for graduation include:
- Sixteen courses (M.T.S Core: 7 required courses and 9 electives; M.T.S Focus: 4 required courses and 12 electives) and four or more semesters of residency are required.
- Thesis: Each student is required to write a paper that addresses the learnings or major emphases of the individual's program.
- Student portfolio: All M.T.S. students are required to compile a portfolio consisting of certain papers with faculty feedback and student reflections.
Center for Academic Support and Theological Writing
The Divinity School is committed to developing students as writers. The Center for Writing and Academic Support provides services for writers of all abilities.
Theology, Medicine, and Culture Fellowship
M.T.S. students are eligible to apply for a two-year fellowship in Theology, Medicine, and Culture. Successful applicants will either currently be in a health care vocation or training for one.
Certificates
Duke Divinity School offers several certificates that give M.T.S. students the opportunity to focus on a particular area of study, including:
- Certificate in Anglican Studies
- Certificate in Black Church Studies
- Certificate in Catholic Studies
- Certificate in Chaplaincy
- Certificate in Faith, Food, and Environmental Justice
- Certificate in Faith-based Organizing, Advocacy, and Social Transformation
- Certificate in Gender, Sexuality, Theology, and Ministry
- Certificate in Latinx Studies
- Certificate in Methodist/Wesleyan Studies
- Certificate in Prison Studies
- Certificate in Theology and the Arts
- Certificate in Theology, Medicine, and Culture
- Certificate in Worship
Dual Degree Options
The M.T.S. can be earned as part of a dual degree program, including:
- Master of Theological Studies/Juris Doctorate (M.T.S./J.D.)
- Master of Theological Studies/Master of Public Policy (M.T.S./M.P.P)
Affording Duke
All M.T.S. students receive funding, with scholarships covering between 25% and 100% of tuition costs. Many other internal and external scholarships, as well as federal financial aid, make it possible for students to afford Duke Divinity.
Next Steps
Duke Divinity School accepts applications beginning in September and concluding with the third deadline on April 15. Admissions requirements include demonstrated program goals commensurate with the M.T.S. degree program, a commitment to some form of diaconal or lay ministry, and a minimum GPA of 3.25 in a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university prior to the intended date of enrollment.