Master of Theology
Advanced Biblical Scholarship
Program Overview
The Master of Theology (ThM) program is designed to deepen the student’s theological understanding to better serve in pastoral ministry, teaching, or further academic scholarship.
Credit Hours
Per Credit Hour
Est. Years to Complete
or Online
Formats
Exegetical Theology
Hours
Historical Theology
Hours
Systematic Theology
Hours
Practical Theology
Hours
Electives
Hours
Academic Prep
Hour
Available In Two Tracks -
Research Option | Reformed Baptist Studies (Thesis Option)
Program Details
The Master of Theology (ThM) program is designed to deepen the student’s theological understanding to better serve in pastoral ministry, teaching, or further academic scholarship. Students have two tracks to choose from.
“This program will expand and deepen a student’s abilities in ministry by providing a focused opportunity in advanced biblical scholarship. Students are equipped for leadership in pastoral ministry and academia as they gain greater mastery in an area of study than is normally possible at the MDiv level. This program is an excellent choice for the student who is seeking further expertise in a specific area of study or seeking further preparation before a PhD program. Do you aspire to be part of the next generation of Pastor-Scholars? Come study with us!”
-Dr. Sam Waldron (CBTS President)
Admission Requirements
- Two letters of recommendation: an ecclesiastical letter of recommendation from a pastor/elder of the church of which the applicant is a member, and an academic letter of recommendation from a professor (preferably in the area specified as the major for the ThM degree), under whose guidance the applicant has pursued studies.
- Evidence of the possession of a MDiv Degree or its equivalent (evidenced by official transcripts).
- Application essay. All applicants must submit a short essay (250–500 words) explaining why they are applying to CBTS.
- An academic writing sample, preferably a research paper previously submitted in a graduate-level course. This sample may be a previously written paper, article, or essay that demonstrates proper citation methods and ability to construct, in English, a graduate-level paper.
- Students from non-native English-speaking countries must demonstrate proficiency in the English language prior to being accepted into CBTS. This should be done by meeting the required scoring on the TOEFL exam. A score of 575 is required for the written exam, and a score of 230 is required for the computer-based exam. The internet-based test score is 90. The CBTS reporting code is C683.
Cost
$100 Application Fee
$450 Semester Fee
$200/credit hour Tuition Fee
$250 one-time defense fee
For the ThM Program, tuition is only covered by the Advocate or Co-Laborer Church Partnership Program.
BDiv to MDiv Opportunity
A limited number of qualified BDiv students are provided the opportunity to enter the MDiv program without completing a bachelor degree.
Students who meet the following criteria may apply to enter the MDiv program:
1. Student must be at least 30 years old.
2. Student must have completed at least 50% of the BDiv program.
3. Student must have a minimum GPA of 3.3.
4. Student must agree to complete at least 12 credit-hours/year in the MDiv program.
Please note that the above-listed criteria are minimum requirements for application to the program. As this program is space limited, the possibility exists that students who meet the criteria above may still be unsuccessful in their application to the BDiv to MDiv opportunity.
FAQs
Absolutely. CBTS is built for distance learners:
• Live‑streamed semester courses for real‑time interaction.
• Self‑paced online courses.
• Modular classes – In-person courses where lectures are delivered over a few days during holiday weekends.
Yes. You may study either full-time or part-time. CBTS operates in view with the needs of students who work full-time and have families. Evening live streams and self‑paced courses accommodate bi-vocational schedules.
You can progress at a pace that fits your schedule and responsibilities. Some full-time students complete around 24–25 credits per year, while some students take a part-time approach of about 12–13 credits per year.
In general, students requirements include being a professing Christian walking in repentance and faith and an active member in good standing of a local church. Additional requirements may apply depending on the program—for example, pastoral programs require a pastoral recommendation letter and are limited to men. Please view the entire list of qualifications at cbtseminary.org/apply.
Yes. Graduate credits (C or higher) that match CBTS program requirements may be transferred up to two‑thirds of your degree, subject to approval by the academic committee. At least one‑third must be completed at CBTS.
Yes. Since 2019, CBTS has been an accredited member of the Association of Reformed Theological Seminaries (ARTS), recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). ARTS accreditation assures that CBTS meets rigorous academic and theological standards. Credits are usually transferable among accredited evangelical institutions.
Tuition: $100 per credit hour. ThM: $200/hour. PhD: See program page.
Semester Enrollment Fee: $450 each January & August
Application Fee: $100 (one‑time)
Graduation Fee: $250
Auditing: Free onsite evening classes; $20 per online course
Yes, scholarships & financial assistance are available to qualifying students. Also, our Church Partnership Program allows students of partnering churches to study tuition-free. Church-partner students must still pay semester fees.
Yes. In our payment portal, you can choose to pay for your classes and/or semester fee in 5 installments.
Online application → official transcript → pastoral recommendation (if required) → online interview → admission decision.
Our rolling enrollment system means you can apply and start learning at any time. Aim to submit your application, transcripts, and interview materials at least a month before you wish to start.
Still have questions?
Let us know how we can help.
Biblical Counseling Certification
Students have the opportunity to complete the IRBC biblical counseling certification in conjunction with their degree program.
Biblical Counseling Certification
Students have the opportunity to complete the IRBC biblical counseling certification in conjunction with their degree program.
Cost Calculator
Fees are structured with the express purpose of encouraging students to maintain diligence and consistency in their studies. The faster a student completes his course of studies, the lower his overall cost will be. Textbooks fees not included in calculation.
Learn from Trusted Faculty
CBTS is keenly aware of the crucial need to be pastorally concerned and to mentor men throughout their educational experience. All of our professors are either pastors or former pastors.
Flexible Learning Options
CBTS combines the best of the in-person classroom experience with the flexibility of taking courses online. You can enroll in courses at any time, from anywhere, and take as many courses as you like, allowing you to prepare for ministry while remaining in your own local church.
Apply to CBTS
If you are interested in studying at CBTS, the first step is to fill out the application form. Questions? We'd be happy to help.