Master of Theological Studies

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Think Deeply. Study Faith Seriously. Engage the World Thoughtfully.

The Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) at Leland Seminary is designed for students who want to explore Christian theology with intellectual rigor and spiritual depth—without necessarily pursuing ordained ministry. This program invites you into a careful study of Scripture, theology, and Christian tradition while engaging the pressing questions facing church and society today.

At Leland, theological learning happens in community. You will study alongside a diverse body of students and learn from experienced faculty—many of whom are active pastors—who bring academic excellence and lived faith into every course. The result is a learning environment that is both intellectually challenging and spiritually grounded.

A Program Designed for Inquiry and Discernment

The M.T.S. is ideal for students seeking advanced theological study for personal enrichment, academic preparation, or professional development. Whether you are discerning next steps toward doctoral study, strengthening your work in education or nonprofit leadership, or deepening your theological understanding for service in the church or public sphere, the M.T.S. offers a focused and flexible path.

Leland supports students at every stage—whether theology is a new field of study or a long-standing passion—providing space to ask hard questions, reflect faithfully, and grow with purpose.

What You’ll Gain

Students in the M.T.S. program develop a strong theological foundation, sharpen critical thinking skills, and gain confidence engaging Scripture and Christian tradition in meaningful ways. Graduates are prepared to articulate thoughtful theological perspectives, engage contemporary issues with depth and clarity, and bring informed Christian insight into their vocations and communities.

Areas of Study

The M.T.S. curriculum emphasizes theological depth and interdisciplinary engagement, including:

  • Biblical Studies – Careful interpretation of Scripture within its historical and theological contexts

  • Christian Theology – Engagement with classical and contemporary theological voices

  • Ethics, Culture and Public Life – Faithful reflection on theology’s relevance to society

  • Research and Writing – Developing skills for graduate-level theological inquiry

Flexible, Accessible, and Academically Rigorous

The M.T.S. is offered online, with optional on-campus learning opportunities, making it accessible for working professionals, educators, and lifelong learners. As a long-time leader in education for bi-vocational students, Leland offers an academically strong, affordable program rooted in a biblical worldview.

The M.T.S. degree allows flexibility in course selection, allowing students to tailor their studies to their academic interests or professional goals while receiving mentoring and support from engaged faculty.

Prepare for Thoughtful Christian Engagement

The Master of Theological Studies equips students to think carefully, speak clearly, and live faithfully. Whether your path leads to further academic study, professional leadership, or deeper service within the church or community, the M.T.S. provides the theological grounding to engage the world with wisdom and conviction.

If you’re ready to pursue serious theological study in a supportive Christian community, Leland Seminary invites you to begin here.

What Will I Study?

Spiritual Formation Studies

  • Spiritual Formation (3 hours)

  • Spiritual Formation Elective (3 hours)

  • Covenant Group (6 semesters)

Biblical Studies

  • Hermeneutics & Biblical Exegesis (3 hours)

  • Tools Based Bible Study (3 hours)

  • Biblical Studies Elective (6 hours)

Theological & Philosophical Studies

  • Introduction to Theological Studies (3 hours)

  • Historical Theology I & II (6 hours)

  • Global Church History (3 hours)

  • Systematic Theology I & II (6 hours)

  • Baptist History & Identity (3 hours)

  • Introduction to Christian Ethics (3 hours)

  • Philosophy of Religion (3 hours)

  • Missions: The Challenge of Globalization (3 hours)  

Summative Project

  • MTS Thesis (2 hours)

*Total credit hours = 50