Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)

The 48-hour Master of Theological Study degree at Truett Seminary provides a basic foundation in biblical and theological disciplines and a concentration in a particular area of study and practice. It is designed to provide students with both general theological education and the opportunity to concentrate on subjects important to their interests or ministries. It consists of a minimum of 48 credit hours and normally requires at least two years of full-time study to complete.

An M.Div. student who intends to change to the MTS degree can only transfer a total of 12 hours of coursework without an extra fee. If an M.Div. student has earned more than 12 hours of coursework and wishes to change to the MTS degree, a fee will be assessed.

Program Vision

The M.T.S. degree seeks to provide a basic understanding of theological disciplines for further graduate study or for general educational purposes. The curriculum will:

• Introduce students to the history and literature of the Old and New Testament as a basis for appropriate interpretation of the biblical witness.
• Engender an appreciation of the church's historic and confessional witness to the Gospel.
• Enable students to think theologically and critically.
• Involve students in disciplines of spiritual formation.
• Provide opportunities and forums to discuss issues of concern, which will provide a basis for lifelong learning.

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Each degree at Truett Seminary intends to provide graduate theological education that is centered in the gospel of Jesus Christ and consistent with historic Baptist commitments to prepare persons to carry this gospel to the churches and the world.

Information for International Students

It is strongly suggested that international students submit their application 1-2 years prior to the term in which they plan to enroll. In addition to the application for admission, required international documents (which are provided following admission) need to be completed and approved by the following dates in order to allow appropriate time for visa processing:

• Summer - March 15
• Fall - June 1
• Spring - October 15

Given the many adjustments for new students arriving in the U.S. and Truett Seminary, it is mandatory that international students come alone for their first semester at Truett. It is in the best interest of the student and their family that this is in place, as it (1)allows for the student to adjust to challenges of their move and seminary life, (2) allows the student to determine the financial implications of family living here and better discern if and when the family will arrive, and (3) allows the student to become familiar with the Waco community and investigate any school/educational options for young children. Additional financial resources are needed for living expenses and required health insurance for each family member. As with the student, documentation of resources to cover family expenses is required by the US CIS and is extremely costly.

Exam Requirements* - TOEFL or IELTS:

International applicants must provide a test score from one of these tests.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)- Applicants must attain a minimum score of 550 on the paper-based exam, 213 on the computer-based exam, or 80 on the internet-based exam.
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)- Applicants must attain a minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS exam.

*TOEFL or IELTS scores are not required (1) if the applicant has a degree conferred by a U.S. accredited higher education institution, or (2) if the official language of their country, or region of their country, is English. TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for two years. After that time, the applicant must retake the test and submit the new scores to Truett Seminary.

Next Steps with Baylor University

If offered acceptance, international student admission will be processed following receipt of an enrollment deposit, at which time Baylor University’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) Office will send communication regarding the next steps. For questions about visa processing and immigration requirements, please contact ISSS directly at [email protected] or 254-710-1461.