The ThM in Exegetical Theology requires satisfactory completion of the following.

At least 15 units in the area of exegetical theology, specifically at the ThM level, including:

• OT710 Graduate Seminar in Old Testament
• NT710 Graduate Seminar in New Testament
• OT715 Advanced Studies in Biblical Theology
• ST700 Advanced Studies in Hermeneutics
• Proficiency in a second modern language, such as French, German, Spanish, Korean, or English if English is not the primary native language. (“Proficiency” is the equivalent of one recently-completed college-level language course.) Language proficiency should be demonstrated by the time a student has completed 12 units of graduate work at Covenant Seminary. Students are not permitted to register for additional units until this requirement has been met.
• Three units in philosophy. A thesis (6 units) or comprehensive exam (non-credit). The thesis or comprehensive exam must address one of the following specialized areas of exegetical theology: exegesis, biblical languages, isagogics, hermeneutics, or biblical theology.
• Six Units of Elective Credit

The ThM in Biblical and Pastoral Theology requires satisfactory completion of the following.

• At least nine units in biblical studies, including courses emphasizing significant amounts of direct Bible study such as biblical theology, exegesis, and systematic theology.
• At least nine units in practical theology including courses in church planting, growth, and renewal; counseling; preaching; educational ministries; and other areas.
• Three units in philosophy.
• Three units of practicum through actual ministry service in an area of pastoral ministry (such as educational ministries, world missions, preaching, or diaconal services). Students with one or more years of practical Christian ministry experience may request permission from the ThM director to substitute three units of coursework for the practicum.
• Three units of independent study culminating in a writing project.
• Three units of elective credit.

Limited financial assistance is available for the ThM program. Students wishing to apply must complete and submit an application by the deadline posted on the Financial Aid packet.

Yes. The program is designed such that students can attempt a full-time course load.

Any course designated 500 or higher qualifies for ThM credit. Courses designated 500-699 require additional work for ThM students, since some MDiv students also take these courses. All 700-level courses are ThM classes.

There is no specific order in which to take courses. Students should keep in mind the requirements for their program and choose courses accordingly. Again, the ThM adviser can provide guidance with regard to planning out your courses.

Transfer of classes depends upon the nature of the class, the grade received, and the awarding institution. Transfer credit must be reviewed by the registrar and approved by the ThM advisor. In order to have a transcript evaluated for transfer credit, a student must be admitted into the ThM program and request transcript evaluation. Transfer credit is limited to elective hours in either ThM track and cannot exceed 12 hours.

Naturally, this depends upon how many courses are completed each year. The program is 30 credits long. Most students who are involved in full-time work or ministry would find it difficult to complete more than 3 hours of coursework per semester. At a rate of 9 hours per year, a student could finish between three and four years. This time will be longer or shorter depending upon the rate at which courses are taken. (Note: All degrees must be completed within nine years of the date in which the first course is taken.)

Absolutely! Any applicant who wishes to complete the program in residence at Covenant Seminary will be considered for the ThM. However, because Covenant Seminary believes that relationship is integral for learning, the modular ThM is only available to those students who are graduates of the Seminary (and who thus have already established relationships with our professors). Prospective students who are not Covenant Seminary alumni but who desire growth in academic and ministry skills via a modular format are encouraged to explore our Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program.

Yes, there are. Decisions are made twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring. In order to be considered for the program, applications must be received and completed by March 1 to be reviewed for the fall semester and by November 1 to be reviewed for the spring semester.