What is the Th.M. Degree at Vanderbilt?
The Master of Theology (Th.M.) at Vanderbilt Divinity School is a 24-credit-hour program designed for students who already hold a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or equivalent theological degree. This advanced program supports students seeking to refine their research skills, further explore a specific theological discipline, or strengthen their academic preparation for doctoral studies.
The Th.M. at Vanderbilt invites students to pursue meaningful research questions, engage critical methodologies, and contribute fresh insight to today’s most pressing theological conversations. Whether you're seeking to deepen your professional practice or lay the groundwork for doctoral study, the program offers close collaboration with a faculty mentor and a diverse community of peers—all united in a shared commitment to thoughtful, purpose-driven work. There’s no better time to broaden your impact and expand the ways you can serve the world.
Master of Theology Outcomes
Rooted in a commitment to the common good and purpose-driven scholarship, the Vanderbilt Th.M. prepares graduates to lead, learn, and serve—whether through advanced academic study that contributes to emerging theological conversations or vocational placements that advance justice and compassion in their communities. You can’t go far in Nashville—or the broader region—without encountering someone shaped by the Vanderbilt Divinity School.
Th.M. Degree Eligibility
- Completion of a Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.), or an equivalent degree from an institution accredited by a U.S. agency recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, or approved by a Canadian provincial quality assurance agency. Comparable degrees from institutions outside North America are reviewed by Vanderbilt’s International Curriculum and Credentials Analyst.
- A strong academic record demonstrating broad engagement with theological disciplines and the ability to integrate theory and practice in ways that contribute to the common good and reflect a spirit of critical inquiry.
- A minimum 3.0 GPA in the M.Div., M.T.S., or equivalent program, indicating academic readiness for advanced theological study and meaningful vocational impact.
- Admission is built on intentional faculty mentorship: students are matched with a Vanderbilt Divinity School faculty member who affirms their research goals and agrees to serve as a thesis advisor, with final approval by the VDS Admissions Committee.
We welcome learners of all backgrounds and traditions, and believe that preparation for ministry should be rooted in radical hospitality, spiritual formation, and a commitment to the common good. If you’re discerning a call to serve, lead, or accompany others through faith, we invite you to take the first step.
Financial Aid for Th.M. Students
U.S. citizens are eligible to be considered for federal financial aid, including work-study funding and educational loans.
Wendland-Cook Fellowship in Religion and Justice
The Wendland-Cook Program in Religion and Justice at Vanderbilt Divinity school will provide three fellowships of $2000 per semester, for up to four semesters for students enrolled in Vanderbilt Divinity School Masters programs (MDiv, MTS, or ThM). Applicants need to demonstrate interest in matters of religion and justice, with a focus on economic and ecological justice broadly conceived. Recipients are expected to enroll in the economic justice concentration at Vanderbilt Divinity School. They are strongly encouraged to take the course "Theology, Economics, and Labor" (DIV 6848) as early as possible during their course of study, as it is the foundational course for the Program.
Fellowship recipients will be required to work up to 10 hours per week for the Wendland-Cook Program in Religion and Justice during each semester in which they receive fellowship support.
Fellowship Application: For fellowship opportunities, please visit the Wendland-Cook website.
For more information about the program please contact Dr. Aaron Stauffer or Dr. Joerg Rieger.