Master of Divinity Degree
The Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree is the central degree program of NTS. Its purpose is to prepare persons for pastoral and spiritual leadership in congregations and other settings. It is the normative degree for those preparing for ordained ministry. The M.Div. Program provides both breadth of exposure and depth of understanding for theological disciplines and ministry skills. It prepares persons for pastoral responsibilities by providing opportunities for the integration of theological study, personal and professional formation, and the practice of ministry in congregational, community, and cross-cultural contexts.
Master of Divinity In-Service Program
Two-week modules scheduled at the beginning of each semester on campus are the centerpiece of this program. Modules are also available in the summer. The pastor/student will only be away from the congregation for one Sunday. Sixty credit hours can be earned this way with the balance earned through online classes, individualized research, cross-registration, mentored field experience, and advanced placement. In this program, one can fulfill the degree requirements within five calendar years without having to move or resign one's position.
Master of Arts in Christian Formation and Discipleship
The Master’s Degree in Christian Education provides resources in faithful discipleship for those entering ministry and specialized study for practitioners seeking to expand their abilities in educational ministry. As a research degree in practical theology, the program seeks to integrate specialized study with theological reflection. As a professional degree leading to ministry practice, the program provides both foundational ministry education (in conjunction with the MACE Diploma for Diaconal Ministry) and specialized age-level or family based ministry.
Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies Degree (MAICS)
The Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies Degree program prepares students for ministry in multicultural contexts, providing special preparation for future missionaries, pastors, teachers and other professionals who will minister in a multicultural world. The MAICS combines theological and intercultural scholarship from a Wesleyan-Holiness perspective with the specific goal of ministry in a multicultural setting. The program also allows students to seek specialization in areas such as urban ministries, education, and other areas of servant-leadership in intercultural contexts.
Master of Arts Degree (Theological Studies)
The Master of Arts (Theological Studies) Degree exists for two specific groups of students as represented by its two "tracks," the General Academic Track and the Research Track. The General Academic Track is designed for students who do not intend to enter full-time ministry or to serve as professional clergy, but who desire familiarity with the major theological disciplines and to deepen their understanding of Christian faith. The Research Track is designed for students who intend to pursue doctoral studies or other further study in a theological discipline. It is designed to provide students with specialized knowledge in their chosen area of study and advanced research and writing skills necessary for doctoral-level graduate work. The Research Track has two concentrations: Biblical Studies and Christian Thought and History.
Doctor of Ministry Degree (DMin)
The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) Degree is an advanced, professional theological degree in which NTS takes to the highest level its mission to prepare women and men to be faithful and effective ministers of the Gospel, and to offer itself as a theological resource in service to the church. The program is for ministers who have already earned an MDiv or who have (or are willing to work toward) an MDiv equivalency. It is professional in orientation, passionately committed to the integration of theory and practice. The DMin is designed for Christian ministers/pastors, chaplains, denominational executives, or staff specialists who desire to expand their capacity in their current roles.