Studying for a master’s degree in theology at SMU Perkins prepares you for religious leadership.

Graduate programs

Master of Theology

Move fully into the life of service to which God has called you.

Program format

In-person

Commitment

Full time or part time; thesis or summative project required

Duration

One year minimum

Overview

The Master of Theology degree is uniquely created for those who want to enhance the practice of ministry through advanced study of a particular theological or pastoral discipline. In addition, Th.M. students examine specific aspects of Christian traditions and prepare for more advanced study at the doctoral level.

The Th.M. degree is also a great opportunity for pastors who are looking for sabbatical and taking a year to revisit or restudy religious teachings.

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Envisioning a brighter future? Think grad school at SMU, where you join a lifelong family network and see immediate returns on your educational investment. Take your new big step at SMU.

Student success

For Academic Year 2023-2024, 97% of reporting graduates were employed, in the military, enrolled in continuing education, or engaged in volunteer service.

This program prepares you to excel in the following areas and professions:

  • Higher education
  • Religious leadership
  • Nonprofit and social services
  • Faith-based media/ publishing
  • Law and ethics
  • Policy development

Top 20%

Best National Universities

U.S. News & World Report (2026)

55%

of Perkins students are enrolled in the M.Div. program

98%

of Perkins graduate students receive scholarships

Student stories

Rosedanny Ortiz found her calling with Perkins School of Theology at SMU.

Rosedanny Ortiz

A proud native of Puerto Rico discovered her calling to ministry after an unexpected shift toward theology.

Master of Divinity student Calyn Donaldson found purpose in her work in the best theology school in Texas.

Calyn Donaldson

Calyn believes that if anyone has the opportunity to work in the office of student engagement, they should take it.

Requirements

  1. Application
  2. Application fee
  3. Official transcripts
  4. English language proficiency documentation (if applicable)
  5. Applicants for the Th.M. degree program must have successfully completed an Association of Theological Schools-accredited degree at the master's level, requiring at least two years of full-time study or the equivalent credential from an institution outside the U.S. and Canada. Academic ability, as shown by a minimum GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) in a previous master’s-level program, is required.

View all requirements

Ready to apply?

Get started here.

Tuition & financial aid

Tuition and costs

Explore the cost breakdown of tuition for graduate programs.

Financial aid

Find information on scholarships and financial support available at SMU.

Curriculum & learning

Featured courses

ST 8339

Studies in Bonhoeffer

An examination of some major issues and themes in the work of Dietrich Bonhoeffer.

HX 8334

The Theology of Augustine

A study of major issues in Augustine’s theology, including the historical context and influence of his ideas.

MT 8385

Malcolm and Martin and Theological Ethics

A theological, ethical study of selected works by and about Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X.

Outside of the classroom

Faculty

Perkins professors will help you clarify your own understanding of the Christian faith, challenge you to examine ideas new to you and prepare you for faithful leadership in the church of the 21st century. See Perkins’ faculty’s latest publications, speaking engagements, awards and more here

Facilities

Perkins’ facilities offer sacred spaces for instruction in preaching and teaching.

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Frequently asked questions