Northwest House of Theological Studies

Degree Programs

Master of Divinity
Other Masters Level Programs

Through the Oregon Extension Program of the Northwest Consortium, which is administered by the Northwest House of Theological Studies, persons are able to complete up to one-half of the course requirements for a variety of master’s degrees in theological studies. Each of these programs is designed for different purposes, so it is important to consult with the faculty of NHTS, as well as the partner school (“school of record”) to determine the appropriate program for your particular educational and/or professional goals.

Master of Divinity (M.Div.)

The goal of Master of Divinity programs is the formation of persons for ministry in church and community, whether lay or ordained. These programs combine engagement with our heritage and traditions, critical study in the various disciplines of theology and ministry, dialogue across cultures and religions, reflection on and practice of spiritual disciplines, and preparation in the arts and skills of ministry.

Though all these programs have a similar purpose, each theological school shapes its curriculum in a particular way. In selecting the “school of record” from among the partner schools, you may want to review each of the programs. You can find information about these programs by following the links to our partner schools. Those seeking ordained ministry will find that denominational requirements are typically a part of the M.Div. program. It will be important to be aware of these requirements in selecting a school and planning a schedule of courses. The M.Div. is the degree traditionally required by our affiliated denominations for ordination. It can also provide the combination of courses that will best equip persons for some forms of lay ministry or alternative ministries.

A particular feature of the program offered through NHTS is attention to the context of the Pacific Northwest. Students beginning their M.Div. program through this Oregon extension program will find opportunities to explore the distinctive culture of this region and the diversity of cultures within that setting, its spiritual and religious expressions, the range of issues shaped by that environment, and strategies for ministry within this context.

Other Masters Level Programs

Theological schools will often offer other Master’s programs. You will need to check our partner schools to determine those available to you through the member institutions of the Northwest Consortium.

Those schools that are part of the Graduate Theological Union (Berkeley) offer a Master of Arts (M.A.) in cooperation with the GTU. These programs are designed for the academic study of religion. Persons interested in pursuing doctoral studies, in teaching religion at the elementary, secondary, and junior college level, or in integrating a theological perspective into the practice of another profession may find such programs attractive.

Other Master’s programs may* include:

  • The Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.), which offers students a broad yet comprehensive education in theological studies across a range of disciplines, while allowing for focused work in a particular area of interest. The M.T.S. is not intended to prepare students for ordination. It does allow persons in a variety of vocations to deepen theological understandings and perspectives or to enhance ministry skills.
  • The Master of Arts in Specialized Ministry (M.A.S.M.), which is designed for students who desire to work in some form of specialized ministry in congregations and other settings. Schools will differ in the areas of specialized ministry offered, so you will need to check the offerings of particular schools.
  • Concurrent or Joint Degree Programs. It is also possible for persons to pursue concurrent degree programs, such as M.Div. /M.A. or M.Div./M.S.W. Check the individual partner schools to determine which concurrent programs may be available.

*NOTE: The degree programs offered will vary from school to school. Consult with individual partner schools for particular information.

Certificate Programs

In addition to these degree programs, some schools will offer certificate programs in specialized areas of study. These may be offered in conjunction with, or as a supplement to, the basic degree program. Find out more about certificate programs.