Master of Sacred Theology (S.T.M.)

Purpose

The program leading to the Master of Sacred Theology degree is open to those who have graduated from a standard three-year seminary program and hold the degree of Master of Divinity or its equivalent. The S.T.M. is designed to provide opportunity for additional and advanced studies in the theological disciplines in preparation for Christian service.

Goals

Educational Goals

To enable students to:

• verbalize a general knowledge of the Bible, including a synthetic understanding of the major books
• evidence an understanding of the historical development of theology, a knowledge of premillennial theology, and an ability to support their theological views and apply them to contemporary issues
• exegete the Hebrew and Greek texts of the Bible
• evidence a commitment to a biblically based philosophy of Christian education, and a commitment to the worldwide mission of the church.

Spiritual Goal

To enable students to evidence an increasing likeness to Christ as manifested in love for God, love for others, and the fruit of the Spirit.

Ministry Goals

To enable students to:

• communicate the Bible effectively
• demonstrate skills in various ministries
• lead a local church or other group by means of biblical exposition, leadership skills, evangelism, and service.
  

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements and application procedures for the S.T.M. program are the same as for all programs of study at the Seminary with two exceptions: (1) students who desire to pursue studies toward this degree must present at the time of application approved college and seminary degrees or their respective academic and theological equivalents; (2) transcripts of this work must show a grade point average of at least 2.5 on a scale of 4.0. 

Course Requirements

Thirty-two semester hours of course work are normally required for the S.T.M. degree. The requirements listed in the catalog allow the S.T.M. program to be customized to the individual, to compensate for deficiencies in the Master of Divinity degree and to prepare students for their intended ministry goals.

Transfer Credits

Transfer of up to six credit hours is allowed towards the S.T.M. degree from accredited graduate theological schools.  Only courses completed after the conferral of the M.Div. degree, and in which a grade of C or better is earned, will be eligible for transfer.  Transferability of credits earned at this institution and transferred to another school is at the discretion of the receiving institution.  Consult the Registrar’s Office for further information.