MASTER OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES
The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) degree is a fully accredited 42-hour program providing graduates with an advanced understanding of the Bible and theology. It is designed for those who desire growth in their own personal discipleship as well as preparation for life and ministry. The MTS also provides an excellent foundation for further studies in the Master of Divinity degree.
The MTS is the only degree that Shepherds offers in two formats. The first is a one-year intensive format, with 1-week modular courses spanning a twelve-month stretch. This one-year format is available through Shepherds’ one-year programs. The second is a traditional format, with semester-long courses available to take online, through our main campus, or through our teaching site in Bryan, TX.
Core Curriculum
| RS 500 | Research and Writing | 1 |
| BE 501 | Old Testament Studies I: Pentateuch and Former Prophets | 3 |
| BE 502 | Old Testament Studies II: Latter Prophets and Writings | 3 |
| BE 504 | Introduction to Biblical Hermeneutics | 3 |
| BE 511 | New Testament Studies I: Matthew to Acts | 3 |
| BE 512 | New Testament Studies II: Romans to Revelation | 3 |
| BE 513 | History and Geography of Israel* | 3 |
| BE 613 | Life of Christ | 3 |
| HT 500 | Historical Theology | 3 |
| PT 581 | Ministry Preparation** | 2 |
| TH 501 | Systematic Theology I | 3 |
| TH 502 | Systematic Theology II | 3 |
| TH 503 | Systematic Theology III | 3 |
| TH 601 | Systematic Theology IV | 3 |
| Elec | Open Elective (typically 1 course)** | 3 |
| Total MTS Credits | 42 |
* Those unable to attend the trip to Israel can take open electives in place of this requirement.
** In the one-year programs, students will complete PT 502 in place of the open elective and PT 583/584 in place of PT 581.
One-Year Program Delivery & Format
In the one-year programs, the curriculum of the MTS degree is delivered to students via multiple educational avenues:
1. On-Site: Each site offers local courses, taught by an STS professor or adjunct who flies out for the course (done in a 1-week intensive format).
2. Live Stream: Some of the courses in the MTS are taught via Zoom, our live-streaming video platform. Zoom allows students at the teaching sites to see, hear, and participate in courses as if they were physically there.
3. Online: From time to time, certain MTS courses will be offered in a fully online format and delivered via our LMS. Students will still meet at the teaching site for a “flipped classroom” experience where they will discuss the online course with the teaching site director or mentor.
No matter the delivery method, MTS students are guaranteed a regular and substantive interaction with Shepherds professors and staff!