Degree Programs

+DEGREE PROGRAMS

The regular earned degree programs at Whithorn School of Theology consists of a Licentiate in Sacred Theology, Associate in Biblical Studies, Bachelor in Theology, Master of Divinity, Doctor of Theology, and Doctor of Ministry. The Honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity is given by WST very selectively and rarely and is included in this list so that students and the general public may recognize the nature of the degree when it is presented.

Licentiate in Sacred Theology (S.T. Lic.)

The Licentiate in Sacred Theology is designed as a professional non-degree program for the preparation of students who intend to serve in Orders of Ministry (Minor Orders) or for those who intend to seek Holy Orders but do not hold an undergraduate to qualify to be admitted to the Master of Divinity degree program. In the licentiate program we follow the old English tradition of reading for orders during 8 terms of study corresponding to the conventional orders for ministry.

Associate in Biblical Studies (A. B.S.)

The Associate of Practical Ministry Program is designed to provide an introduction to and study of Holy Scripture. The program is 60 semester hours in length and provides a Biblical foundation of study for all Christians and especially for those desiring to enter into the pulpit ministry.

Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.)

The Bachelor of Theology Program is designed to resume the basics of Bible study and systematic theology for the continuing seminary student. The program is 60 semester hours in length and provides a Biblical foundation of study for all Christians who want to know more about theology.

Master of Divinity (M. Div.)

The Master of Divinity is ultimately the most respected graduate degree for pastors since it involves a wide array of course areas. The purpose of the degree is to provide leadership for the worldwide church by educating women and men in the classic disciplines of theological and biblical training, historical perspectives, and ministry skills.

The Master of Divinity program, 60 semester hours, is designed primarily to provide professional training for church related ministries leading to ordination. It could be considered the MBA of religious degrees. The heart of this program is the required biblical, theological, and practical course subjects which provide a broad foundation in the disciplines essential for an effective ministry especially within the autocephalous sacramental movement.

Doctor of Theology (Th. D.)

This degree is designed for students with a graduate degree in religion, a M. Div., or its equivalent, who wish to pursue research in original research in areas within the scope of Independent/Old Catholic or Celtic Christian belief and practice. This requires two full years (24 months) under the direction of assigned members of the faculty program. A dissertation must be submitted at the end of the research experience, contributing original work to the body of understanding in the field of study. All research work may be completed at the student’s location, but the defense of the dissertation must be done on campus and in person. This provision does not suggest that the student’s research committee may not require personal meetings in on campus.

Doctor of Ministry (D. Min.)

This is a degree for the professional clergyman, who can demonstrate no less than twelve (12) years in active Christian Ministry but has not had any formal academic training. Admission to this program requires an entrance examination and the 12 years of ministry must be documented to be of a full time, professional nature. The student is expected to undertake degree work much the same as for the Th. D. requirements.

Doctor of Divinity (honorary) (D. D.)

The Doctor of Divinity degree is presented to people in the general community who have made significant contribution to religion and Christianity by their work and/or activities. This degree is an honorary degree and can not be earned by academic means. The person selected for this degree must demonstrate major contributions in Christian care and love, reflecting the highest standards of devotion and self sacrifice over the course of a lifetime. The candidate for this degree must be approved by the President, Dean, and Board of Trustees of Whithorn School of Theology and by the Abbot-Bishop of Shepherd’s Heart Ministries. The degree is seen by Whithorn School of Theology to be a degree issued in Episcopal Recognition and Honor for a Christian life well lived.