Master of Theology (ThM)

This full-time research masters program provides you with the analytical skills, methodological rigour and knowledge base to prepare you for doctoral work and leading edge research. This degree is awarded conjointly with the University of Toronto. 

A degree in Arts or its equivalent from an accredited college or university. 

A Master of Divinity degree or an academic master’s degree in theological studies providing equivalent theological background (e.g., Master of Theological Studies, Master of Religion, Master of Arts in Theology of at least two years’ duration), with at least a high second-class standing (i.e., 3.3/4.0 CGPA or B+) from a recognized institution. 

Expect to work in a collegial and collaborative context, while developing skills and resources for independent study. 

Although general program requirements and a few specific requirements of program areas are defined, you have considerable latitude to design your own program in consultation with your faculty advisor. 

You can study part-time. You can take between one and six years from the date of your original registration to complete the program.  

Students are admitted into one of two options: 

Option 1: Six courses, of which four are in an area of major interest and two in other areas, plus a thesis in the area of major interest. This option may serve to qualify a student for doctoral studies within the Toronto School of Theology. See language requirements below. 

Option 2: Eight courses, of which six are in an area of major interest and two in other areas, up to half of which may be at the 3000 level if there is no 6000 level version, plus an extended essay from one of the courses. This option will not qualify a student for doctoral studies within the Toronto School of Theology. See language requirements below. 

Option 1: For admission into the Historical, Pastoral and Theological departments, you must be “competent” (normally proven through transcript evidence of successful completion of a one-year university course or its equivalent within the previous four years, or by passing a written examination) in at least one language selected from among ancient or modern languages necessary for their research.  

Alternatively, you may be admitted on the condition that you will be able to demonstrate competence in at least one of these languages before entering the first year of studies. The ADC Admissions Committee determines the entrance language based on your statement of purpose and previous language study. You must demonstrate competence in a second language before beginning the second year in your program, with the provision that at least one language is a language of modern scholarship. 

N.B. For admission, the Biblical Department requires proficiency (two years of study) in biblical Hebrew for those specializing in Old Testament studies, together with competence in biblical Greek. Proficiency in biblical Greek is required for those specializing in New Testament studies, together with competence in biblical Hebrew. Competence in one modern language (German, French, Spanish, or Italian) is also required before beginning the second year in the program. 

Option 2: For option 2, you require language competence as appropriate to your area of study.