Theological studies at Perkins School of Theology offers students the opportunity for deep contemplation and spiritual depth, both individually and with their cohort. Perkins develops Christian servant leaders through rigorous academic standards, communal worship in Perkins Chapel and a community of believers.
As a seminary student, you take on the honor and responsibility of studying God in an academic context. Whether you’re pursuing vocational ministry or a career in theology, theological education at Perkins will engage your faith journey and challenge you to think deeply about God, the Church and humanity. Discover what you need to know about studying theology at Perkins.
What is Theological Studies?
Theological studies encompasses many areas of Christian study, including Biblical study, the study of doctrines and church history and personal spiritual formation. Through each of these areas, students are encouraged to contemplate the truths of Scripture and apply them to their lives and the world.
One fundamental truth that many seminaries integrate into their curriculum is the necessity of contemplation with a cohort. The community of contemplative life comes directly from Biblical examples of having everything in common (Acts 5), bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6) and encouraging each other (1 Thessalonians 5). The unshakable unity and communion of Christ’s followers creates a built-in system of support and correction, especially in the close-knit context of students pursuing theologically-oriented vocations and careers.
You can narrow down the broad scope of theological studies by choosing a specific route for your theological education. Different paths lead to a variety of ministry and theology outcomes, but all of them focus on developing your heart and mind.
Types of Theological Education
Theological education often leads to degrees in Ministry, Divinity or Theology. But though these programs integrate the same Scriptural basis and spiritual development, they differ educationally and theologically. The field of theological studies is not one-size-fits-all — different types of theology degrees fit different goals, ministries and callings.
Divinity
Leaders, especially pastors (a word which comes from the Latin “shepherd”) are “shepherds” in a spiritual sense. A Master of Divinity gives you tools to shepherd a congregation and lead people spiritually. In John 10:11, Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd, and in John 21:17 he passes on the care of His flock into the hands of the early apostles, commanding them to “feed My sheep.” Today, church leaders carry on the shepherding of Jesus’ people, His Church.
A Master of Divinity (M.Div.) prepares students for ordination as leaders or elders in the church and emphasizes practical theology for application in church leadership contexts.
Theology
Getting a theology degree is similar to Mary “sitting at the feet” of Jesus, taking the time to learn and be renewed by God’s voice, unlike Martha who was so caught up in the work of ministry she forgot Jesus was right there (Luke 10:38-42).
A Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) is a more academic degree that lays the groundwork for further studies and offers personal theological education. A Master of Theology (Th.M.) is for those in leadership or pursuing leadership in the church who want to study a certain aspect of theology in-depth and have previously completed a theological master's degree.
Ministry
Master of Arts in Ministry (M.A.M.) is similar to the Master of Divinity in that it prepares students to become ordained Deacons in their churches, but not lead ministers. An M.A.M. prepares you for ministry centered on compassion and justice. The Lukan Beatitudes outline the people deacons and M.A.M. students are called to work with: the poor, the hungry, the mourning and all those in need (Luke 6:20-26). Because of its hands-on ministry focus, some churches won’t accept an M.A.M. for a senior pastor role.
A Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree goes deeper into seeking depth and direction for your ministry calling and becoming more theologically prepared to minister in your community.
Ministry education focuses more on the horizontal aspect of equipping deacons or other leaders to serve a community, while theological degrees emphasize the study of the character of God and the teaching of scripture. Both give students the fundamental Christian leadership skills to lead in a variety of capacities in the Church and in the world.
Benefits of Theological Studies at Perkins
Pursuing a theological education at Perkins is essential for any individual who wants to serve and lead in a ministry context. A Perkins theological education can enrich your life and prepare you for a fulfilling journey of learning and service. If God has called you to ministry, He will produce fruit in your life as you embrace your calling at Perkins. At its very core, Perkins is designed to cultivate those fruits, especially:
Educational Enrichment
A theological education equips students with a deep understanding of religious texts, history and theology, allowing you to engage with complex theological concepts. You also develop critical thinking skills by analyzing diverse perspectives, dissecting your own beliefs and interpreting religious doctrines thoughtfully.
Spiritual Depth
Theological studies encourages you to deepen your own faith as you grow spiritually and understand the context and purpose of your beliefs. Through spiritual and Biblical classes, you grow to understand others’ beliefs and solidify your own relationship with God, which in turn allows you to walk with others.
Vocational Opportunities
Many theological studies paths prepare students to be ordained into church leadership in a variety of denominations; other degrees offer the proper preparations for vocational ministry, deaconship or other church ministries. Theology school also paves the way for vital networking opportunities with denominational leaders and other ministry workers. Connections formed at seminary can continue with you for the rest of your ministry career.
There are many types of vocational careers in theology available for students after a theological education. From chaplaincy to counseling, theology studies open the door to making change in the Church, society and the world.
Before Applying for Your Theology Degree at Perkins
Theology school is a place for anyone to grow and examine their spiritual identity. However, you should deeply consider your spiritual calling and ask important reflective questions before deciding on a degree that prepares you for vocational ministry.
Throughout Scripture, God gives people certain gifts that prepare them to influence and serve people for His glory. By aligning education with the gifts God gives us, we can better prepare to carry out God’s plan. Be sure to take your own spiritual gifts into account when deciding on your educational path.
Your own spiritual life plays a significant role in your readiness for theology school. Analyze your spiritual alignment with the following questions before deciding to study theology:
- Am I willing to serve others?
- Will I be studying with intent to grow?
- Am I ready/open for God to shape/mold me?
Begin Your Theological Education at Perkins
Your theological education can be a life-changing experience when pursued for the right reasons.
Perkins School of Theology is the perfect place to begin or continue your journey in theological studies. By connecting spiritual and intellectual resources in a diverse community, Perkins prepares every student to pursue their special calling and vocation.
Don’t wait to begin the next chapter of your spiritual journey. At Perkins, we want to guide you every step of the way to cultivate your faith and explore your Christianity.
