Perkins offers a range of degree programs, allowing the student to follow a path best suited to his or her vocational direction. Many of these programs are structured so as to allow a concentration in a particular area of interest.
The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree is designed primarily for students who plan to be ordained clergy and serve in Word, sacrament, service and order. It may also equip a person for other specialized ministries.
The Master of Arts in Ministry (M.A.M.) degree program is intended to prepare students for faith-based ministry. The goal of the program is to increase students’ knowledge about the heritage of the Christian faith, the church, and its ministries.
The Master of Sacred Music (M.S.M.) degree program is jointly sponsored by Perkins School of Theology and the Division of Music of Meadows School of the Arts as preparation for professional music leadership in the church and, if one chooses, ordination as deacon.
The Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) degree program is designed to provide a basic understanding of the theological disciplines as a foundation for further graduate study, for enhancement of lay leadership roles or for personal enrichment.
The Master of Theology (Th.M.) degree program is designed for students to enhance the practice of ministry through advanced study of a particular theological or pastoral discipline; to scholarly examine a specific aspect of the Christian religion/traditions or function of Christian ministry; or to prepare for more advanced study at the doctoral level.
The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree provides the opportunity for advanced study that integrates theological reflection and ministerial practice with a contextual focus for people in professional ministry within the church.
The Doctor of Pastoral Music (D.P.M.) degree program is designed for experienced church musicians who have achieved a Master of Sacred Music degree or its equivalent and who are devoted to increasing their effectiveness in and broadening their vision of the pastoral dimensions of music ministry.
The degrees of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and Master of Arts (M.A.) in Religious Studies are offered by the Graduate Program in Religious Studies in SMU's Dedman College.The primary goal of both degree programs is to prepare persons for professional careers as teacher-scholars in colleges, universities, and schools of theology. The MA degree program also aims to accommodate the qualified nonprofessional student interested in advanced work in religious studies within the context of the liberal arts and sciences.
More detailed information on degree programs is available from the Perkins School of Theology.
