a GSST doctoral dissertation

This information has been most valuable, I always knew there were differences in the requirements for the different degrees, but always assumed MTh and MDiv were completely different tracks of study. To summarize

I had always thought the MMin was a 1-2 yr program and required much less work than either the MTh and MDiv.

I assumed the MMin required research and project work, but associated specifically with work in a current ministry. For example, one would be expected to summarize, explain, or demonstrate how information from a course would be utilized in a ministry setting. This is why a command of original language was not always a requirement, but exegisis utilizing language reference tools was encouraged/advised.

I thought the MDiv was focused on those in/pursuing a pulpit ministry. Course focus would always be exegetical, with a strong focus on cultural relevance, history, and original language.

The MTh was a step beyond this, but the MDiv or MMin could be used as foundation for continued study. The concentration was scholarly research on Biblical interpretation with a commanding focus on a specific theological topic AND could not be attained without work in original language exegesis.

It appears I might have made some bad assumptions. All in all I never thought (and so assumed others did not) that the MMin was ever equivalent to an MDiv or MTh. I did some research at various websites and was quite surprised at what the curriculum was at some schools for a MTh. I am also seeing why there is a real concern for UA programs (at least that offer a MTh).

Again, thanks for the info

 

Not to mention an M.Th. strictly by dissertation at some schools.

 

Hi Michael: Glad things are becoming clearer. Best wishes.

 

Thanks for the info, Bill. It illustrates that there is not an ongoing working relationship between The Master's Seminary or Western Seminary and GSST. Your research underlines the severely limited utility of unA degrees, and points out obliquely that the occasional, rare acceptance of an unA student by an RA or NA institution dare not be generalized for public relations purposes into a routine acceptance of an unA school's degree--not by the specific school alleged, let alone by all NA or RA schools.

 

For what it’s worth, the only unaccredited schools of theology that I have found which seem to enjoy general acceptance in the field all eschew distance education degree programs. That is not to say that they don’t offer individual classes by distance learning, just no degrees.

One can also usually discern whether refusing accreditation on principles of separation is legitimately part of the school’s theology or not. The schools I refer to have established a reputation for no-compromise separatism as well as academic strength. The typical substandard school does not seek ecclesiastical separation from any paying student.