Degree Programs
Candler School of Theology offers four degrees
- the Master of Divinity (MDiv) is a professional degree for persons preparing for service in the parish or for other forms of ministry
- the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) curriculum serves persons who wish to explore disciplines within theology and religion, without the objective of preparing for the ordained ministry
- the Master of Theology Degree (ThM) is a one-year program of study beyond the master of divinity. The ThM is designed for students who wish to specialize in one of the curricular disciplines of the school of theology. The ThM is intended primarily for international students who wish to study at Candler School of Theology
- the Doctor of Theology in Pastoral Counseling (ThD) prepares persons for the ministry of pastoral counseling at the doctoral level by combining rigorous academic and theological work with supervised clinical practice. The degree is an equivalent of the PhD, designed for those whose interest in pastoral counseling is primarily professional
Ministers in active service, missionaries on furlough, persons seeking Basic Graduate Theological Studies (BGTS), and other qualified persons who desire to enroll in a nondegree program may be admitted as special students.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the programs vary, but most require a bachelor of arts, bachelor of science, or equivalent degree from a regionally accredited college or university; a well-balanced program of work in the liberal arts; and, an overall grade point average of at least 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. Other strong candidates, including those who have been out of college for a number of years, are encouraged to apply. All completed applications, regardless of the GPA of the applicant, will be fully reviewed by the admissions committee.
Liberal Arts education a good start
A broad liberal arts education is recommended to prepare students for the Christian ministry. Students applying to Candler should have a working knowledge of past and present culture from undergraduate studies in the humanities and the natural and social sciences.
Students enrolled as MTS or as special students may transfer to the MDiv program upon acceptance by the admissions committee. Course work completed satisfactorily by a special or MTS student will be considered for transfer to the MDiv program. The registrar will determine which credits may be transferred from one program to another.
Coming from another seminary or school of divinity
Students in good standing at other seminaries accredited by the Association of Theological Schools may be admitted as transfer students.