YALE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Sacred Theology (S.T.M.)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 24+Credit hours of graduate study required
- 1-4 yearsProgram completion timeframe
- Thesis, Project, or Extended PaperCulminating requirement
- Interdisciplinary studyOpportunities across Yale
The Master of Sacred Theology (S.T.M.) is a graduate program designed for individuals who have already earned a theological degree, such as a B.D. or M.Div., from a recognized institution. This program can serve as a fourth year of advanced preparation for ordained ministry or specialized Christian service. It offers opportunities for advanced training in various ministry specializations, including college/university ministry, chaplaincy, urban ministry, ecumenical leadership, continuing education, international missions, and ministry with specific communities like LGBTQ youth or refugees. Alternatively, the S.T.M. can be used for in-depth study in a specific theological discipline or as preparation for doctoral studies. Students may take courses across different schools and departments at Yale University.
Curriculum
The S.T.M. program requires the completion of at least twenty-four credit hours of graduate study. Students must develop and pursue an integrated program of study related to their chosen concentration, with at least three-fourths of their courses aligning with this field. A thesis, major paper in a regular course, or other approved project demonstrating independent research is also required.
- Year 1
Careers
The S.T.M. degree is designed to enhance preparation for various forms of Christian ministry and service, or to serve as a foundation for further academic pursuits.
- Christian Ministry
- Specialized Christian Service
- College or University Ministry
- Industrial, Institutional, or Armed Services Chaplaincy
- Urban or Inner-City Ministry
- Ecumenical or Interfaith Leadership
- Continuing Education Director
- International Missions
- Ministry with LGBTQ youth, refugees, or the elderly
- Theological Discipline Specialization
- Preparation for Doctoral Studies
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Master of Sacred Theology (S.T.M.) program?
- Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) or Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree, or an equivalent degree from a recognized theological school.
- What is the duration of the S.T.M. program?
- The program can be completed in 1 to 4 years, depending on the student's course of study and progress.
- Are tuition fees specified for the S.T.M. program?
- Tuition fees are not explicitly stated for the S.T.M. program. However, need-based financial aid is available.
- What is the credit hour requirement for the S.T.M. program?
- Students are required to complete at least twenty-four credit hours of graduate study.
- What are the potential career paths after completing the S.T.M. degree?
- The S.T.M. degree is designed to enhance preparation for various forms of Christian ministry and service, or to serve as a foundation for further academic pursuits, including doctoral studies.
- How can I apply for scholarships for the S.T.M. program?
- To be considered for scholarships, the online application, including the Need-Based Financial Aid portion, must be completed by January 7, 2026.
Entry requirements
Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) or Master of Divinity (M.Div.)Or equivalent degree from a theological school of recognized standing.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are not explicitly stated for the S.T.M. program in the provided information. Financial aid is available and is need-based.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are not explicitly stated for the S.T.M. program in the provided information. Financial aid is available and is need-based.
LivingLiving costs are not specified.
Financial aid applications are required for those seeking assistance. Federal loan programs may be available if Satisfactory Academic Progress is maintained. Students are not typically provided financial aid for coursework beyond degree requirements.
How to apply
1. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit the full online application for the Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) program, including the Need-Based Financial Aid portion.
2. Identify Faculty ReadersFor thesis or project option, identify two Yale faculty members who will serve as readers, one as the primary adviser. External readers may be permitted with approval.
3. Submit Thesis/Project ProposalSubmit a proposal form, a one-page description of the thesis/project, and necessary signatures by the end of the first week of the term in which the work begins. Early submission is encouraged.
4. Demonstrate ProgressSubmit agreed-upon evidence of progress by the Monday of the fifth week of the term, as outlined in the thesis/project guidelines.
5. Final SubmissionSubmit the completed thesis, project, or extended paper by the term's deadline. A final electronic copy (PDF) must be provided for archiving.
Scholarships
New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) ScholarshipFull tuition (travel not included)
STARS ScholarshipFull tuition and travel costs
Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Alumni ScholarshipFull tuition (travel not included)
Young Leaders (YL) ScholarshipFull tuition and travel costs
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the Master of Sacred Theology (S.T.M.) program?
+
Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) or Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree, or an equivalent degree from a recognized theological school.
What is the duration of the S.T.M. program?
+
The program can be completed in 1 to 4 years, depending on the student's course of study and progress.
Are tuition fees specified for the S.T.M. program?
+
Tuition fees are not explicitly stated for the S.T.M. program. However, need-based financial aid is available.
What is the credit hour requirement for the S.T.M. program?
+
Students are required to complete at least twenty-four credit hours of graduate study.
What are the potential career paths after completing the S.T.M. degree?
+
The S.T.M. degree is designed to enhance preparation for various forms of Christian ministry and service, or to serve as a foundation for further academic pursuits, including doctoral studies.
How can I apply for scholarships for the S.T.M. program?
+
To be considered for scholarships, the online application, including the Need-Based Financial Aid portion, must be completed by January 7, 2026.