Master of Sacred Theology

For many seminary graduates, the first theological degree is just the beginning. Students in the S.T.M. program may continue formal theological study at an advanced level and concentrate on an area of special interest, such as pastoral leadership or Christian spirituality.

• 19 hours earned in S.T.M. seminars, senior level M.Div. courses, independent study, and advanced research
• 6 hours in thesis research and writing
• Candidacy exam based on the student’s S.T.M. course work

Language Requirements

• Biblical Studies – Greek and Hebrew
• Theological Studies – one modern language
• Mission – one modern language

Areas of Concentration

1. Biblical Studies
2. Theological Studies
3. Mission and Evangelism
4. Pastoral Leadership and Practice
5. Christian Spirituality

Interest in Christian spirituality has burgeoned in the last two decades. The popularity of books, retreats, and workshops on spirituality attests to this. Trinity introduced the S.T.M. concentration in Christian Spirituality during the 2008-09 academic year.

A special focus on church leadership and administration is possible under the Pastoral Leadership and Practice concentration by combining Trinity course work with selected courses in the Capital University School of Management’s Master of Business Administration program. Trinity students need to meet all Capital University prerequisites before taking such courses.

Trinity S.T.M. students may receive preferential standing in the Ph.D. program of the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. This program is available to students with concentrations in Theological Studies, Biblical Studies, or Mission and Evangelism Studies. Trinity students in these fields who are admitted to the Ph.D. program at LSTC may be able to transfer all or most of the Trinity S.T.M. credits to LSTC.

Further details may be obtained from the Director of Graduate Studies