Master's Seminary Degree Programs

Academically Rigorous and Rooted in the Reformed Tradition

Founded in 1794, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary has a long-standing tradition of offering academically rigorous, Christ-focused master’s programs rooted in the Reformed tradition. 

With a focus on practical ministry training and a commitment to serving diverse populations, our seminary master’s programs provide transformative educational experiences. We foster an environment that celebrates shared prayer and worship, intellectual inquiry, civil discourse, theological reflection, witness, reconciliation, justice, evangelism, and service.

Through these values, our seminary master’s programs prepare our graduates with advanced practical skills for their vocation underscored with a commitment to formation and doing God’s work in the world.

Master's Degree Programs

Master of Divinity (M.Div)

The master of divinity degree program prepares students to begin their vocations as ordained ministers or pastoral leaders across a wide range of settings. It can be completed on either a full- or part-time basis with hybrid courses that meet online each week and in person twice per semester. 

Our M.Div. program allows students to specialize in their area of interest through an individualized course of study, as well as options for a joint degree pathway with another professional field including social work or law. The curriculum focuses on deep theological reflection through a contextual lens and is paired with a Field Education component for the development of ministry skills.

Learn about the M.Div. degree.

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

The master of theological studies degree program features a highly customizable curriculum for students to tailor their education to their goals—whether that be continuing in another graduate program, pursuing a Christian education career, or enhancing their personal spiritual development. 

The rigorous M.T.S. curriculum culminates in a final project that explores the student’s area of interest, which can range from the Old Testament to practical theology to Christian leadership and beyond. What’s more, students can engage in research courses or accent their degree with a Graduate Certificate in Urban Ministry.

Learn about the M.T.S. degree.

Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (M.A.P.S.)

Our two-year master of arts in pastoral studies degree program is a launching pad for congregational ministry careers and pastoral positions. With coursework that covers Scripture, theology, history, and ministry, combined with a year-long Field Education course and placement, M.A.P.S. students can build a dynamic seminary experience that prepares them for their vocation. 

Learn about the M.A.P.S. degree.

Joint Degree Programs

In addition to our three master’s degrees, students can also pursue a joint degree program that expands their professional opportunities. We offer the pathway for students to cross-register with the University of Pittsburgh and earn their master of social work degree (M.Div./M.S.W., M.T.S./M.S.W, or M.A.P.S./M.S.W.) or earn their Juris Doctor degree with Duquesne University–both opportunities available with any of the master’s seminary programs.

Learn about our joint degree programs.

Concentrations

Pittsburgh Seminary offers a variety of concentrations for those pursing their master's degree.

Learn about our master's concentrations.

Hybrid Seminary Programs

We offer our master’s programs and certificates in a hybrid format, consisting of weekly online courses and limited in-person gatherings on campus in Pittsburgh each semester. This allows our students to flexibly pursue a rewarding master’s seminary program that seamlessly fits into their myriad of personal and professional responsibilities. In this way, you can stay in your community while being formed in ours.

Because our degree and certificate programs are offered in a hybrid format, classes can be taken in-person, hybrid, or online. The schedule is planned years in advance, so students can elect which delivery format best fits their needs. Students who prefer in-person learning and have the schedule flexibility can choose to do so.

Learn more about our hybrid program format.

Field Education

Field Education is a key component of the graduate seminary programs at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. It sits at the intersection of theory and practice, providing a welcoming environment for students to develop ministry skills and discern their calling. Students benefit from the real-world experience, supportive feedback, and space to explore their pathway while developing technical and intangible skills.

Field Ed is a required component of the M.Div. and M.A.P.S. degree programs and allows students to pursue this experiential learning opportunity to advance the practical application of their studies.

Discover more about Field Education at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.

Seminary Admissions

At Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, we aim to make the admissions process one that is streamlined and straightforward to quickly launch your pursuit of a master’s seminary program.

Our admissions team looks forward to connecting with you and assisting throughout the application process, providing more information about our degree and certificate programs, admissions requirements, and financial aid opportunities. 

Learn more about applying to Pittsburgh Theological Seminary’s master’s programs.

Do God’s Work with a Master’s Degree from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary

The master’s degree programs at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary provide flexible pathways for students to pursue their vocational calling in a welcoming environment focused on doing God’s work. Through a customizable, hands-on curriculum, students learn theological theory while developing in-demand ministry skills.

Take the next step in achieving your goals by requesting more information or starting your application.