Study at Tabor / Postgraduate Studies / Theology / Master of Theology
Course Overview
The Master of Theology provides the opportunity for graduates in theology to extend their knowledge and understanding to an advanced level in selected areas of theological study such as biblical studies, systematic and historical theology, practical theology and contextual theology. Students will engage in original investigation or testing of ideas, and thoroughly and competently review and critique literature in a specialised field of theological study. They will also demonstrate a thorough understanding of research methods and techniques relevant to the field of study. The Master of Theology may provide a pathway into other advanced study options, including the Doctor of Ministry course.
Prerequisites
An applicant for entry into the first year of the Master of Theology is required to have qualified for a Bachelor of Theology degree with a minimum GPA of 5.0 (CR), or an approved equivalent. Students who have a BMin degree are required to complete a year's undergraduate study in Theology, thus qualifying with a double degree in Theology and Ministry.
Students may enter the second year of the Master of Theology after completing the qualifying requirements of a Graduate Diploma award or an Honours year in ministry, having either gained a minimum GPA of 5.0 (CR) in all subjects in the first year of the course, and successfully completed a directed study or research subject; OR qualified for an honours degree in Theology with a minimum of second class honours, or for an approved equivalent.
Course Content and Outline
The MTh consists of a coursework strand and a research strand.
Coursework Strand (36-60 Credit Points)
The coursework strand involves one-week, on-campus, 12cps intensive seminars taught by local and overseas leaders and scholars offering students the opportunity to draw from the insights of top thinkers and practitioners in the fields of ministry, theology and intercultural studies. Lecturers in recent years have included Scot McKnight, Ben Witherington III, Edith Humphrey, John & Olive Drane, Colin Harbinson, David Baer, Dudley Woodberry, Soong-Chan Rah, Tom & Christine Sine, David Wilkinson, Colin Greene, Stephen Barton, Mike McNichols, and Steve Taylor. On-campus intensives may be substituted with 12cps subjects delivered online, where available. Students normally complete their coursework strand first.
Research Strand (36-60 Credit Points)
The methodology component (12 cps) forms an integral and formative part of the research strand, and consists of two 6cps subjects (usually delivered online):
In some circumstances, RPL may be available for one or two of these methodology subjects.
Students then undertake the thesis component (24-48 cps) of their research strand under the guidance of a principal supervisor and one co-supervisor. At least one of the supervisors will be a member of the Tabor Adelaide faculty, while other supervisors are sourced either nationally and internationally for their relevant expertise in the student's field of enquiry. The thesis component will vary according to the type of Masters degree undertaken. For example, the assessment may be in the form of a well-ordered thesis demonstrating the acquisition of in-depth understanding in a number of theoretical and applied topics related to a specialised area in theology; or a project addressing a matter of substance concerning ministry praxis, demonstrating creativity and flexibility in the application of knowledge and skills in new situations.A thesis handbook is provided as a valuable and comprehensive resource to help students with the various requirements and protocols for writing and submitting their thesis. In the case of extenuating circumstances, provision exists to apply for up to one year's 'Leave of Absence' whilst enrolled in thesis studies.
Coursework and Research Options
The total number of credit points for the Master of Theology course is 96. Flexibility in the possible ratios between the coursework and research strands gives each candidate the ability to tailor the MTh according to their ability, preferences, and chosen area of research. Selection of coursework subjects and thesis focus takes place in consultation with the Director of Postgraduate Studies in the School of Ministry, Theology and Culture. Candidates who complete a satisfactory amount of the coursework strand may exit the Master of Theology course with a Graduate Certificate of Theology (24 cps) or a Graduate Diploma of Theology (48 cps). Under appropriate circumstances and with the approval of the Director of Postgraduate Studies in the School of Ministry, Theology and Culture and following the advice of at least two external readers, students enrolled in the second year of a Master of Theology may transfer into the Doctor of Theology course. Masters thesis work cannot be automatically 'rolled into' Doctoral level research, and will normally need to be substantially reconceived.
Master of Theology (Grad Dip Th & rad Cert Th exits) (pdf 719kb)