Master of Sacred Theology

Studies leading to the Master of Sacred Theology Degree are designed to provide an opportunity for continued academic work beyond the Master of Divinity Degree. The degree has a twofold purpose: continuing or returning students may specialize in a particular area of interest, or develop a more informed and relevant approach to Christian service. Admission to the Master of Sacred Theology degree program is predicated on holding a Master of Divinity degree or its equivalent.

A candidate for the Master of Sacred Theology degree must complete the equivalent of at least 36 credit hours of graduate studies beyond the Master of Divinity degree. A thesis of at least 100 pages in the selected field of study is required. The format will follow the standards set in Kate Turabian, A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations. In some cases a project may be substituted for the thesis. International students for whom English is a foreign language may request permission to write the thesis in their native tongue. Nine hours of course work must be taken in advanced seminars designed for post-Master of Divinity students. Nine hours will be devoted to the completion of the thesis or project. The remaining 18 hours are elective courses and should be concentrated in the selected field of study. Not more than 12 hours of the elective courses may be taken at other accredited institutions with the adviser's approval.

It is the responsibility of the candidate, with the assistance of the director of the Master of Sacred Theology degree program, to select an appropriate thesis adviser from the members of the faculty who shall agree to work closely with the candidate. A candidate may request a second reader, normally from the members of the faculty. In case of dispute concerning standards the director will adjudicate.

For more information, please contact our Director of Admissions.

Applications for the Master of Sacred Theology degree program are submitted to the director of Admissions. Applicants are required to have completed the Master of Divinity degree before enrollment in this program. All correspondence concerning admission to the Seminary should be addressed to the

Director of Admissions

616 N. Highland Ave.

Pittsburgh, PA 15206

412-441-3304, ext. 2116

1-800-451-4194

The Admissions Process

Applications are considered by the Admissions and Standings Committee upon submission of the following materials:

  1. A formal application including names and addresses of references.
  2. Official transcripts of all college and university work attempted.
  3. A 500-1,000 word statement describing the applicant's religious background, sense of call, and reasons for seeking theological education.
  4. A personal interview with the Director of Admissions or person designated by the director.
  5. A letter of reference from the applicant's local church.
  6. A non-refundable $35 application fee.
  7. At the discretion of the Committee, an applicant may be required to undergo a battery of psychological and/or mental capacity tests. Such testing is utilized only when it is believed that the results will clarify ambiguities in the student's academic record or in the applicant's fitness for ministry.

After admission is granted, a student is required to submit an Intent to Enroll Form and $50 fee within 30 days. This assures a student's place in the next entering class. This fee is non-refundable but is credited to the student's account upon enrollment.

Request an application packet.