Still not sure which degree?

This is such an important question! I chose to pursue the Master of Divinity from Liberty University (Rawlings School of Divinity). While most churches and denominations still consider the M.Div. the gold standard, it’s a long—and therefore costly—degree.

So… is it the right one for you?

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It Depends

The standard timeline for an M.Div. is three years. If you go straight from undergrad into an M.Div., you may finish around age 25 and be sitting on significant student debt.

This reality is one of the reasons more schools offer the Master of Theological Studies (MTS or MATS).

Think of the MTS as the “steak and potatoes” of the M.Div. — you get the essentials without the full load. Typically 30–36 credit hours, the MTS/MATS covers:

• Church History
• Apologetics
• Old Testament
• New Testament
• Hermeneutics
• Missions
• Theology
• Electives (varies by school)

Whether biblical languages are required depends on the seminary. Many enjoy this degree specifically because it often does not require Hebrew or Greek. For many ministers who teach or preach, it is an excellent and manageable option.

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So Then, Why Do More?

While the MTS/MATS is valuable, it doesn’t go as deep as the M.Div. You will not receive:

• Advanced theological courses
• Biblical languages (in most cases)
• Broad practical ministry training (evangelism, discipleship, leadership, etc.)

If you are already serving in ministry and have gained practical skills through experience, the MTS/MATS may be exactly what you need.

However, consider whether your credits will transfer to an M.Div. or Th.M. in case you decide to continue later.

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What About the M.A.?

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Religion is similar to the MTS but usually includes a thesis project. This makes it a strong option for:

• Students considering academic or scholarly work
• Those wanting to prepare for a Ph.D.

Ph.D. programs differ in their requirements—some accept an M.A., while others prefer an M.Div., especially for ministry-focused students.

If you desire to serve both in the church and the classroom, you may want to skip the M.A. and head straight for the M.Div.

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What About the M.A.C.E. or M.A.R.?

Think of these as two-thirds of the M.Div.

They cover most of the major subjects the MTS covers but add substantial practical ministry courses as well.

These degrees are ideal for:

• Staff pastors
• Ministry leaders not pursuing senior leadership roles
• Churches that do not require an M.Div.

They’re excellent options for those who want a strong foundation without committing to the full M.Div.

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Why the M.Div.?

The Master of Divinity remains the gold standard of seminary degrees.

I once defended my pastor’s education when someone dismissed his training, saying, “Isn’t seminary like cosmetology school or any other 9-month program?”

It is not.

The M.Div. is a three-year graduate degree requiring a bachelor’s degree as a prerequisite. It includes:

• Robust theological study
• Biblical languages (at many schools)
• Substantial practical ministry training
• Heavy reading and writing requirements

Though long, it is worth completing early. Twenty-five feels old when you’re young, but it’s not. You’ll have decades of ministry ahead, and you’ll be grateful to have the M.Div. finished before life becomes more complex with children, mortgages, and responsibilities.

If you can afford it and are willing to put in the work, the M.Div. forms a powerful foundation for ministry.

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What About the Th.M.?

I love this degree—especially in the right context. I may pursue one after completing my Doctor of Ministry to go deeper in specific areas.

Even the strongest M.Div. cannot cover everything in depth. Many M.Div. courses are intentionally introductory or survey-level.

The Th.M. offers a “fourth year” of graduate-level study. Seminaries use it differently:

• Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS) uses the Th.M. as their primary graduate theology degree (they do not offer an M.Div.).
• Liberty University treats it as a separate degree to deepen specialization.

It is especially beneficial for:

• Pastors wanting deeper theological study
• Those considering a future Ph.D.
• Ministry leaders refining their skills beyond the M.Div.

The additional coursework is well worth it for those who want to sharpen their academic or pastoral abilities.

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Why a Degree at All?

After 25 years in ministry, I’ve met brilliant believers who never had formal theological education. Formal study is not the only way to grow in biblical understanding.

However, structured study under experienced professors ensures:

• Accountability
• Depth
• Breadth
• Exposure to perspectives you won’t encounter on your own

Each degree serves a different purpose. Ultimately, you must decide which aligns with your calling and ministry context.

Follow the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and you won’t go wrong.