Degree Programs

Harvard Divinity School offers four degree programs: master of theological studies (MTS), master of divinity (MDiv), master of theology (ThM), and doctor of theology (ThD), key features of which are briefly compared in the table below. While minor program requirements are subject to change from year to year, to help applicants make an informed decision about which program is the best fit for their academic and vocational goals, we encourage applicants to review and become familiar with current program requirements before submitting an application for admission. Detailed information about current program requirements can be found in the HDS Handbook for Students.

 

Master of Theological Studies (MTS)

Master of Divinity (MDiv)

Master of Theology (ThM)

Doctor of Theology (ThD)

Length of full-time study

2 years

3 years

1 year

5-7 years

Size of program

172

147

3

41

Financial aid available (based on eligibility)

Institutional grant aid, work-study, federal loans

Institutional grant aid, work-study, federal loans

Federal loans only

Institutional grant aid, work-study, federal loans, stipends

Prior graduate study required for admission

None

None

MDiv or equivalent

MDiv or equivalent

Sample core requirements (see HDS Handbook for Students for full degree requirements)

16 courses, 6 of which are in the student’s chosen area of study

24 courses, field education, and senior seminar

8 courses, 4 of which are in the student’s chosen area of study

2 years of coursework in chosen field, general examinations, dissertation and defense

Language requirement to be completed while at HDS

Intermediate competency in a language relevant to area of study, demonstrated through coursework or examination

3 courses in a language appropriate to the religious tradition the student is studying

Intermediate competency in a language relevant to area of study, demonstrated through coursework or examination

Intermediate reading competency in 2 modern languages, in addition to primary source languages required in chosen field; intermediate reading proficiency in Greek, Hebrew, Sanskrit, or equivalent ancient language