The Master of Theology (ThM)

This course of study expands and deepens a student’s abilities in ministry. It is designed for students who possess a Master of Divinity degree or equivalent to help them take their learning to a higher level. It can be used as a terminal degree or as a transitional degree to additional graduate studies, particularly a PhD program in religion or theology. Students in the ThM program are taught to:

Exegete individual passages of Scripture accurately, employing understanding of the original languages, historical circumstances, and literary and theological relationships
Articulate the major issues of faith and life that the church has confronted throughout its history
Articulate confessional Reformed theology on exegetical, biblical, and theological grounds
Systematize exegetical, historical and theological data into a consistent and coherent theology, and explain how theology applies to personal and church beliefs and actions. Demonstrate leadership abilities in ecclesiastical and academic environments, especially in relating these truths to the church today.
Respond with biblical discernment to contemporary trends in biblical interpretation and apply a sound Christian worldview to contemporary cultural issues that impact the church today. Understand, analyze and respond to current trends and crises in specialized disciplines and contribute new vistas of thought to these issues.
Demonstrate an ability to apply biblical and theological studies to ministry, whether pastoral or academic.
Demonstrate academic competence in the chosen field of study, including proficiency in the methods and tools of theological research and writing by conducting graduate level research and evidencing skills of critical analysis.

Applications for admission to the ThM degree program at PRTS must be received by the registrar’s office by May 1 for the fall semester and by September 1 for the spring semester. To begin your online application for study at PRTS, please fill out this form. Applications received after either of these dates may also be considered; however, we cannot ensure that immigration forms for international students will be satisfactorily processed, should the applicant be admitted after the date given. Applicants to the ThM should include in their application:

A completed PRTS application for admission.
Evidence of the possession of a Master of Divinity Degree or its equivalent. If, at the time of application, the applicant has not completed his previous degree work, any admission to PRTS would be conditional on the completion of the degree. Evidence of this degree should be presented prior to enrolling in any ThM coursework.
An academic writing sample, preferably a research paper previously submitted in a graduate-level course.
A letter of recommendation from a former instructor (preferably in the area specified as the major for the ThM degree), indicating ability and promise for the ThM program.
A letter of recommendation from a minister or, in the absence of a minister, the consistory or equivalent (session, council, board) of the student’s local church. This letter should indicate, among other things, membership in good standing in this local church. Also helpful, though not required, is a letter of a denominational leader or body, indicating the usefulness of this course of study for this individual, and the body of which he is a part.

ThM Requirements

322 Reformed Theological Research:

All ThM students must successfully complete (“B-” or better) 322 Reformed Theological Research. Reformed Theological Research is offered every fall semester as a modular course; it is strongly recommended that students complete this course as their first course (or in conjunction with their first three-credit course). It should be noted that 322 must be completed on campus; there is no distance learning equivalent.

Concentrations and coursework requirements:

A total of 31 credit hours must be completed with a minimum 3.0 grade point average (B) for the completion of the ThM program. The program must be completed within 6 years of matriculation; any exception must be approved by the president and academic dean. ThM students will choose a concentration in one of three areas: Biblical Studies, Reformation and Post-Reformation Theology, and Systematic Theology. Each of these concentrations is designed for either ministers desiring advanced training beyond the MDiv or students desiring to pursue doctoral studies. Students choosing a ThM in Biblical Studies must demonstrate competency in Hebrew and Greek, having completed a minimum of one year of biblical Hebrew and one year of biblical Greek. It is particularly the purpose of this concentration to sharpen exegetical skills, to learn to employ effectively the discipline of Biblical Theology for scriptural study and exposition, and to be able to defend the integrity and authority of Scripture.

The ThM degree can be earned following one of two tracks: either the ThM by classes only, or the ThM by classes and thesis. The first is designed for those intending the degree to be terminal; the second for those intending the degree to be transitional to further graduate study (such as a PhD). If a ThM student, admitted to the classes only track, desires during the program to pursue a ThM by the classes and thesis track, the student may apply to the faculty for permission to do so providing the successful completion of at least one 3-credit ThM course. The student should then pursue the thesis track by presenting a thesis proposal of approximately five pages outlining the originality, viability, and potential of the thesis to his academic advisor. The application will then be brought forward for faculty consideration. Admission to the thesis track requires approval of both the general faculty, as well as that of the faculty member who would serve as thesis supervisor.

All students admitted to the ThM by classes and thesis track will complete 25 credits of coursework (of which at least 18 credits, or 6 courses, must be in the student’s chosen area of concentration) and a 6-credit thesis. All students admitted to the ThM by classes only track will complete 31 credits of coursework (of which at least 21 credits, or 7 courses, must be in the student’s chosen area of concentration).

ThM classes can be taken as follows:

Completion of paired ThM and MAR/MDiv courses. ThM students choosing paired courses will be asked to fulfill a higher standard of course requirements, amounting to no less than 30% more work . Normally, the ThM student choosing this option will not take introductory MDiv/MAR courses.
Completion of ThM-specific courses. Special ThM level classes will be offered in the above-mentioned concentrations (see course descriptions below). These classes may be offered as individual classes, or special tutorial seminars. These seminars will meet five times for three hours, either as a module, or throughout a semester .
The Thesis: Students accepted by the faculty into the ThM by classes and thesis track will write a 100–200 page thesis on a topic related to the student’s concentration, and approved by the appropriate faculty supervisor. The thesis is valued at 6 credits .

In order to maximize benefit to resident ThM students attending PRTS on scholarships, all such students are required to audit one MDiv course a semester, the course to be chosen in consultation with the faculty. They are also encouraged to attend at least one practice preaching session a week and participate in the subsequent discussion. There will be no charge for auditing these courses.

Residency Requirement

At least one-half of the coursework towards the ThM must be completed through on-campus classes (modular courses qualify as on-campus courses). Up to one-half of the coursework may be completed through a combination of: 1) transfer of credit; 2) distance learning courses (i.e., courses that virtually “meet” synchronously with on-campus classes); 3) independent studies (a maximum of two courses can be taken as independent study).

Comprehensive Exam

Each ThM student, matriculating in the program as of the fall semester of the 2013-14 academic year, must take a comprehensive examination at the end of the program. This comprehensive exam will focus primarily on the student’s particular concentration. Deadlines for passing the comprehensive examination are stipulated in the academic calendar.

Thesis Requirements

The following steps outline the requirements for those matriculating in the thesis-track program as of the fall semester of the 2013–14 academic year:

Prior to enrolling in the ThM thesis-track program, the student should present a 2-page proposal of the thesis topic to the academic dean for faculty approval.
If the proposal is accepted, the registrar will be informed and the student will then be enrolled in the 6-credit thesis and be assigned a thesis advisor. Financial obligations for enrollment in the thesis will be treated as enrollment in any other course.
The student will next present a 10-page prospectus of the thesis which must include: justification of the thesis, delimitations, review of literature relevant to topic, a synopsis of chapter development detailing the overall methodology, and outline of thesis. Much of this can serve as introductory material for the final draft.
The student must present his or her thoughts and research in an acceptable style and format. The formatting is according to Kate L. Turabian: A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations (7^th ed.).
The student should submit chapters to his or her advisor as they are completed for input and possible revisions.
Deadlines for a May graduation:
1. The student must submit the 100–200 page thesis to his or her faculty advisor by the last Monday in September (for a December conferral of the degree) or by the first Monday in February (for a May graduation); at this time a second reader will be assigned.
2. The final copy (in electronic format – MS Word) must be presented to the registrar and head librarian no later than the last Monday in November (for a December conferral of the degree) or the first Monday in April (for a May graduation). This will allow time for the library staff to check for formatting violations and for any final corrections to be made.
3. Failure to reach either of the above two deadlines will result in a delay of the student’s degree conferral or graduation.

MASTER OF THEOLOGY COURSE OFFERINGS

BIBLICAL STUDIES

BS801 Language and Exegesis (3) – staff

Reinforcement and development in the grammatical and syntactical principles of exegesis, and application through the analysis of selected passages in the Old Testament and New Testament with a special emphasis on the practical use of biblical languages in sermon preparation.

BS802 The World of the Bible (3) – staff

A study of ancient near eastern and biblical history, including the cultures, religions, and peoples preceding and con-temporary with Israel from the Exodus to the post-exilic era, including the inter-testamental period and the first century Mediterranean world. Includes the discussion of key archaeological discoveries that are relevant to providing information crucial to the historical context of the books of the Bible, which is vital data in the overall exegetical process.

BS803 Advanced Biblical Theology (3) – staff

Reinforcement and development of the application of the principles of biblical theology, particularly focusing on Scripture as the interpretation of redemption with a view to demonstrating how the discipline contributes to and demonstrates the validity of covenant theology. Attention will be given to how Biblical Theology aids in identifying the specific themes and messages of individual books of the Bible and how they relate to a holistic understanding of Scripture.

BS804 Christ in the Old Testament (3) – David Murray or staff

The hermeneutics of identifying Messianic revelation from the various portions of the Old Testament and the principles and practices of preaching Christ from the ancient texts. Attention will be given to the revelation of Christ in His prophets, pictures, promises, presence, precepts, poets, past, and people. Special focus may be given to a particular book to illustrate how to preach the ancient message to the modern church.

BS805 Distinctive Ideas in the Old Testament (3) – staff

Development of key Old Testament themes or concepts from a biblical-theological perspective, such as the covenant, law, life after death and resurrection, names of God, creation theology, the Holy Spirit, and key theological words.

BS806 Distinctive Ideas in the New Testament (3) – staff

Development of key New Testament themes or concepts from a biblical-theological perspective, such as conversion, stewardship, missions, parables, and key theological words.

BS807 Problems of Interpretation in the Old Testament (3) – staff

Analysis of specific problem passages in the Old Testament, including major issues and individual texts. Major issues include topics such as the genealogies of Genesis 5 and 10, the date of the Exodus, extermination of the Canaanites, polygamy, sacrifice of Jephthah’s daughter, imprecatory Psalms, interpretation of Canticles, Hosea’s marriage, and more.

BS808 The New Testament Use of the Old Testament (3) – staff

A study of the different types of Old Testament quotations and allusions occurring in the New Testament. Consideration is given to textual issues as well as the hermeneutical principles employed by the New Testament writers.

BS809 Readings in Old Testament Scholarship (3) – staff

Directed reading in various schools of thought and theories involved in Old Testament scholarship (past and present), and evaluation on the basis of the absolute authority of Scripture with a view to defending Scripture against critical attacks.

BS810 Readings in New Testament Scholarship (3) – staff

Directed reading in various schools of thought and theories involved in New Testament scholarship (past and present), and evaluation on the basis of the absolute authority of Scripture with a view to defending Scripture against critical attacks .

BS811 The History and Preservation of the Biblical Text (3) – staff

Studies in the history, theories, and praxis of textual criticism with a view to affirming the reliability of the Masoretic Text for the Old Testament and Majority Text for the New Testament.

BS812 Independent Study (3) – staff

Subject to approval by the administration, the student will submit an outline of a topic of special interest in the general field of biblical studies, including the course requirements and how the objectives of the course will be achieved. The requirements should include a detailed bibliography, the number of pages to be read, a description of a research paper, and the number of scheduled meetings with the directing professor.

REFORMATION AND POST-REFORMATION THEOLOGY

CH849 The Theology of Augustine (3) – William VanDoodewaard

A study of the life, theology, and influence of Augustine of Hippo, with attention to Augustinian thought in the Middle Ages.

CH850 The Life and Theology of Thomas Aquinas (3) – Carl Trueman

This course examines the life and theology of Thomas Aquinas, the single most important theologian in the shaping of medieval and modern Catholicism. Topics covered include: his biography; the basic elements of his philosophy; his doctrine of God; his Christology; his understanding of predestination; his understanding of the nature of salvation; his sacramentology; his influence on later Reformed orthodoxy.

CH851 Forerunners of the Reformation (3) – Carl Trueman

An investigation of the historical setting and doctrinal perspective of the men regarded as forerunners of the Reformation such as John Wycliffe, John Hus, Gregory of Rimini, Thomas Bradwardine, Girolamo Savonarola, Jacques Lefevre d’Etaples, and Juan de Valdes.

CH852 The Life and Thought of Francis Turretin (3) – Jonathon Beeke

This course offers an in-depth study of the life and thought of Francis Turretin (1623-1687), considered by many the quintessential representative of Reformed orthodoxy. Primary attention will be given to Turretin’s magnum opus, his Institutes of Elenctic Theology (1679-1685). As even the title of this work demands that due diligence be given to contextual considerations, Turretin’s historical context within which he formulated his theology will be considered. Special attention will also be given to Turretin’s scholastic method, his prolegomena, his covenant theology, and his Christology.

CH853 The Theology of John Calvin (3) – William VanDoodewaard

A historical-theological study of the sources and development of Calvin’s thought, with special reference to the Institutes. Supplemental readings are given from Calvin’s theological treatises, commentaries, sermons, letters, and polemical writings.

CH854 The Reformation in the Netherlands (3) – Robert Godfrey

A historical study of the development of the Reformation in the Netherlands, including the Lutheran period (1517-26), the Sacramentarian period (1526-31), the Anabaptist period (1531-45), and the most influential period of Calvinist infiltration through the Synod of Dort (1545-1619).

CH855 The Dutch Further Reformation (3) – Cornelis Pronk

A historical and theological study of the Nadere Reformatie, or Further Reformation, in the Netherlands, covering the period 1600 until 1775. Similarities and differences with English Puritanism will be highlighted. The theology of some leading representatives of the Dutch Further Reformation will be examined, especially their views on the church, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit’s saving work.

CH856 The Theology of Wilhelmus à Brakel (3) – Bartel Elshout

A deductive study of à Brakel’s magnum opus, The Christian’s Reasonable Service, with a special emphasis on the experiential and practical applications of his theology. Includes a historical assessment of à Brakel’s life and ministry.

CH857 John Knox and the Scottish Reformation (3) – Sherman Isbell

Covers the Scottish Reformation from its earliest representatives until the end of the sixteenth century, with a particular focus on the life, work, and theology of John Knox.

CH858 Scottish Presbyterianism (3) – William VanDoodewaard

Covers Scottish Presbyterianism from the beginning of the seventeenth century to early eighteenth-century Moderatism. Particular attention will be given to the period from the Scottish Second Reformation to the Marrow Controversy: the Covenants, the Scottish influence on the Westminster Assembly, the persecution, the reestablishment of Presbyterianism, and the distinctive contributions of such theologians as Rutherford, Gillespie, Dickson, Durham, Brown of Wamphray, and Boston.

CH859 The Westminster Assembly (3) – Chad Van Dixhoorn and/or Sinclair Ferguson

A study of the origin and convening of the Westminster Assembly, followed by an exposition of the theology of the assembly by means of a study of the Westminster Confession of Faith and the Larger and Shorter Catechisms.

CH860 The Theology of John Owen (3) – Derek Thomas

An in-depth study of Owen’s life and theology. Attention will be given to the Trinitarian and covenant structure of his theology and to his distinctive contributions to Puritan teaching.

CH861 Puritan Theology in England (3) – Joel Beeke

An in-depth examination of some major themes of Puritan theology, including the Puritan view of Scripture, meditation, election, predestinarian grace, spiritual adoption, assurance of faith, sanctification, conscience and casuistry, church and worship, evangelism, and eschatology. Concluding lectures address the Puritan lifestyle that resulted from Puritan theology.

CH862 Puritan Theology in New England (3) – Cornelis Pronk

A study of the origin and development of the theology of New England Puritan ministers, with particular emphasis on John Cotton, Thomas Hooker, Thomas Shepard, Peter Bulkeley, and Thomas Cobbet. Among the issues discussed will be the “visible saints” criterion for church membership, New England covenant theology, the antinomian controversy, the Half-way Covenant, and the relationship between church and state.

CH863 The Theology of Jonathan Edwards (3) – Michael Haykin

An examination of the doctrinal, experiential, ethical, and philosophical thought of America’s greatest theologian, with an emphasis on Edwards’s formative role in shaping subsequent American theology and spirituality through his most important treatises and sermons.

CH864 Puritan Approaches to Scriptural Interpretation (3) – David Murray or William VanDoodewaard

A study of Puritan methods and practice of interpretation, with special attention to great commentaries from the Puritan era. The student will become familiar with the skill and orientation of the Puritan commentator and the full range of Puritan commentaries and their value for today.

CH865 Revival in the Reformed Tradition (3) – Michael Haykin

A study of the history of revival in the western world since the Reformation. Particular attention is paid to the Puritan understanding and experience of revival, and the First and Second Great Awakenings. More recent reflections upon the nature of genuine revival by authors such as D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones and Iain H. Murray will also be considered.

CH866 Reformed Covenant Theology (3) – Joel Beeke or Malcolm Watts

A study of the origin and development of Reformed covenant theology from the sixteenth through the eighteenth centuries, including early Reformers such as Zwingli and Bullinger, the Genevan influence of Calvin and Beza, the Heidelberg impact of Ursinus and Olevianus, the Puritan stream of Perkins and Roberts, and the Scottish connection through Knox and Boston, etc.

CH867 Lutheran Orthodoxy (3) – Robert Kolb

An examination of Lutheran orthodoxy in response to Phillipist and Reformed challenges. A comparison with parallel problems and resolutions in Reformed Orthodoxy will be studied.

CH868 Anabaptism (3) – Robert Oliver

A study of Anabaptist theology, practice, and relation to the world, as well as how Anabaptism interacted with Lutheranism and Calvinism. The influence of Anabaptism on later developments in issues such as tolerance, church and state relations, and pacificism will also be explored.

CH869 French Protestantism (3) – Jason Zuidema

This course will survey major developments in the history of doctrine and practice within French reformed churches in the 16^th and 17^th centuries. Although Jean Calvin has a preponderant place in that history little is known about the so-called lesser figures during his time or the history of French Protestant thought after his death. This course attempts to complete that picture to add depth and richness.

CH870 American Presbyterianism (3) – C. N. Willborn

A study of American Presbyterian history with a particular emphasis on the theological developments and contributions of leading American Presbyterians. Students will also learn the distinctives of major branches of American Presbyterianism.

CH871 North American Church History (3) – William VanDoodewaard

A study of the establishment, expansion, internal development, and societal impact of the Protestant church on the North American continent from the colonial period until today, with particular focus on the major leaders and controversies in the development of Reformed and Presbyterian theology in the United States.

SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY

ST853 The Theology of John Calvin (3) – William VanDoodewaard

ST856 The Theology of Wilhelmus à Brakel (3) – Bartel Elshout

ST859 The Westminster Assembly (3) – Chad Van Dixhoorn and/or Sinclair Ferguson

ST860 The Theology of John Owen (3) – Derek Thomas

A close study of Owen’s life and theology. Attention will be given to the Trinitarian and covenant structure of his theology and to his distinctive contributions to Puritan teaching.

ST861 Puritan Theology in England (3) – Joel Beeke

ST862 Puritan Theology in New England (3) – Cornelis Pronk

ST863 The Theology of Jonathan Edwards (3) – Michael Haykin

ST866 Reformed Covenant Theology (3) – Joel Beeke or Malcolm Watts

ST881 Prolegomena (3) – Joel Beeke

The first half of this course is a study in the basic areas preliminary to systematic theology, including the definition, nature, history, methods, and sources of systematic theology as well as theological encyclopedia and the spirit of Reformed theology. The second half covers the doctrine of revelation, with special emphasis on the inspiration, inerrancy, and authority of Scripture.

ST882 Theology Proper (3) – Joel Beeke

Considers the doctrine of God, the knowability and being of God, the names and attributes of God, the Trinity, the divine decrees, and providence.

ST883 Anthropology (3) – Joel Beeke

A study of the doctrine of man, including creation, the original state of man, the covenant of works, the fall, and sin and its punishment.

ST884 Christology (3) – Joel Beeke

Considers the doctrine of the person and work of Christ: the names, natures, offices, and states of the Mediator, as well as atonement.

ST885 Soteriology (3) – Joel Beeke

A study of the doctrine, nature, and work of the Holy Spirit, with a special emphasis on the Spirit’s order of application of salvation (ordo salutis): union with Christ, calling, regeneration, conversion, repentance, faith and assurance, justification, adoption, sanctification, perseverance, and glorification.

ST 886 Ecclesiology (3) – David Kranendonk

A study of the doctrine of the church, with focus on the attributes and marks of the church, the nature and necessity of ecclesiastical offices, and the means of grace, including preaching and the sacraments. Considers scriptural principles for the organization of the New Testament church, analyzes various systems of polity, and compares church governments.

ST887 Eschatology (3) – David Murray

A study of the doctrine of the last things, including a treatment of the eschatological nature of the biblical message; death, immortality, and the intermediate state; the signs of Christ’s second coming, His return, and millennial views; the resurrection, final judgment, and heaven and hell.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

322 Reformed Theological Research (1) – Joel Beeke, Laura Mustafa, William VanDoodewaard

This course is a study of research skills and methodology, authoritative sources, and library use designed to prepare the student to research, to write a thesis, and to engage in effective study, writing, and preaching in ministry. Attention is given to Turabian format, bibliographies, and matters of form and style in academic writing. This course is required of all incoming students in all programs, and is to be taken in the student’s beginning fall semester.

TH951 Thesis (6): 100-200 page paper—faculty supervisor appointed

Puritan Theological Seminary

The Master of Theology (ThM)