SAGU Offers New Master of Theological Studies Degree
Southwestern Assemblies of God University will offer a new master's degree this fall that requires fewer credit hours than an M.Div.
Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) in Waxahachie, Texas, is offering a Master of Theological Studies (MTS) degree program, which begins this fall.The 51-credit-hour program offers an alternative, streamlined route for those desiring to pursue a Ph.D. in Bible or Theology as opposed to the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree, which ranges from 72 to 90 credit hours.
“The M. Div. is a degree purposely broad in its coverage and it contains a substantial practical theology component," stated Dr. Bruce Rosdahl, SAGU’s department chair for Bible and Theology. “The MTS, on the other hand, is focused in the field of one’s doctoral pursuit.”
The MTS has the academic rigor and language requirements needed for most Ph.D. programs in Bible or Theology. It requires two years of biblical language study and the development and successful defense of a thesis. Students can choose a specialization in either biblical studies or theology.
Dr. Rosdahl went on to say that this degree is widely considered as an ideal option for individuals particularly interested in serving as teaching or resource pastors, part of a preaching team, or university professors.
Through SAGU’s MTS, students will learn how to:
• Interpret and apply Scripture employing responsible hermeneutical principles.
• Explain orthodox Christian theology, including Pentecostal distinctives.
• Translate biblical Hebrew or Greek commensurate with two years of language.
• Demonstrate advanced research and writing methodologies with an awareness of important bibliographic sources
“This degree will further SAGU efforts in preparing individuals to faithful teachers and expositors of God Word; whether that be in the classroom, the pulpit, or the mission-field around the world,” said Dr. Rosdahl.
To learn more about SAGU’s Master of Theological Studies, click here.