Master of Theological Studies (Online MTS)
In Latinx Studies
Spanish Version Coming Soon! – ¡Pronto versión en español!
Credit Hours
Years (full-time)
Time Commitment
10 hours per week for each course
In-Person or Online?
100% online and asynchronous
First 8 Hours
Conducted entirely in Spanish
Accreditation
ATS
Application Deadline
No deadline. Rolling admissions.
Program Start
Rolling start date.
Build A Strong Theological Foundation With a Master of Theological Studies (MTS)
The MTS at Lexington Theological Seminary is a graduate degree focusing on the scholarly study of religion, biblical studies, and theology. We offer a Master of Theological Studies, an MTS in African American Studies, and a bilingual MTS in Latinx Studies – with the first year in Spanish.
Students will graduate with a deeper understanding of theology as an academic discipline and will be skilled in interpreting both historical and contemporary issues through a theological lens.
The Master of Theological Studies (Online) is ideal for students who wish to pursue graduate-level theological studies or for students who are pursuing a career in ministry.
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA, successfully complete one of our Certificate programs, or enter LTS’ Prior Learning Assessment program to be considered for admission. Completed hours can be transferred into the LTS Master of Divinity program and can be a prerequisite for the Doctor of Ministry.
Traditional models have historically made accessing higher education difficult for some.
Many individuals have had to abandon their dreams of higher education without the time and financial resources to pursue full-time study on campus. LTS is different.
Our Master of Theological Studies (Online MTS) is:
√ FLEXIBLE: Take classes in person or 100% online. Study part-time or full-time. Pursue your education without disrupting your established career.
√ AFFORDABLE: $480 per credit hour with 30% tuition waiver for all denominations and 50% tuition waivers available for Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ members. Interest-free payment plans are available. Most students graduate with zero debt. Graduates of CHM and CAAM also get a 50% discount on tuition.
√ RESPECTED: LTS stands on a foundation of educational excellence, supporting our mission to share the light of Christ as we adapt traditional theological education to the modern world.
Take Your Next Steps with a Community-Centered Program
Our Masters in Theological Studies (MTS) in Latinx Studies program is designed from the ground up to serve and engage the Latinx community, creating an entirely new curriculum in Spanish. This program focuses on the unique perspectives, cultural heritage, and worldview of the Latinx population, rather than merely translating English courses into Spanish.
Flexible Learning Options
The LTS MTS program is 100% online, offering flexibility and accessibility. For those who prefer in-person interaction, we provide the option to take courses on-site and participate in two in-person intensives each year.
Comprehensive and Practical Education
Our online master’s program enables students to pursue theological study and academic knowledge while acquiring the practical skills necessary for diverse forms of ministry. Emphasizing community engagement as a pathway to transformation, the LTS learning community spans online environments, on-site engagements, and active participation within congregations.
Program Highlights
- Flexible: Complete most of your coursework online, enjoying the convenience of remote learning without sacrificing the enriching community and fellowship of traditional, on-campus education.
- Diverse: Our location-independent program attracts students from various geographic regions, fostering a rich diversity of perspectives and experiences.
- Hands-On: Participate in on-campus intensives that provide practical, career-enhancing experiences, all while maintaining your daily life and commitments.
- Convenient: Pursue your higher degree through online courses, enabling you to balance academic goals with family and personal responsibilities.
- Community-Centered: Engage with peers both online and in-person to cultivate a sense of community and build professional networks that support your growth and development.
Embark on a transformative educational journey with our MTS program in Latinx Studies, where academic rigor meets practical ministry training within a supportive and diverse community.
What will I learn in the LTS MTS program?
Master of Theological Studies (MTS) students will explore the role of religion and its effects on individuals, families, communities, and the greater society.
Students will study church history in preparation for interpreting scripture in both ancient and modern contexts. They will engage in theological study, reflection, project management, and debate as they learn how to engage in ethical, compassionate ministry.
Students will also become competent in leadership capabilities to provide care, worship, formation, and mission guidance within the church. The program emphasizes approaching ministry with a theologically-informed mindset that brings awareness to how our thoughts and actions reflect on the nature of God, Christ, Spirit, the Church, and Salvation.
Theology, models of pastoral care, exploration of the nature of suffering and the influence of hope, and faith formation will be covered over 40 credit hours.
| Master In Pastoral Studies (MPS) | Master Of Divinity (M.Div) | Master Of Theological Studies (MTS) |
| Designed for Roman Catholic lay people who feel called to serve in the Church, but who do not seek ordination. Graduates will enrich their parish communities with knowledge of scripture, contemporary biblical scholarship, the Catholic tradition, and Catholic theology. √ Online √ Roman Catholic √ Non-Ordination Track √ 3 Years | Prepares students for ordination in many denominations. Graduates will be intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually- equipped to engage modern congregations in practical transformational ministry. √ Online + In-Person √ Multi-Denominational √ Ordination Track √ 4.5 Years | Designed to prepare students for a variety of ministries including advanced graduate study in one of the theological disciplines. Students study the main theological disciplines and explore their own ideas through a written thesis relevant to their goals. Students in the MTS-LS and MTS-AA will learn skills related to project management and administration relevant for leadership in the church, non-profits, and social services. √ Online only √ Multi-Denominational √ Ordination Track √ 2 Years |
What will I learn in the LTS MTS program?
The Master in Theological Studies (MTS) at LTS is based on two broad subject areas – Interpreting and Leading – which guide the following program learning goals:
- Graduates will integrate broad knowledge and basic interpretive skills in the disciplines of Interpreting Scripture, Faith, the Past, and Behavior.
- Graduates will show beginning acquaintance with the fields of Leading through Care, in Formation, into Mission, and in Worship.
- Graduates will engage critically and creatively with the larger Christian tradition, including reflecting on how the tradition affects their own theology and life of faith.
- Graduates of the bilingual MTS in Latinx Studies and MTS in African American Studies will be familiar with relevant theological, hermeneutical, historical, and ecclesial contexts.
- Graduates of the bilingual MTS in Latinx Studies and MTS African American Studies will be familiar with project management and creatively complete a project that addresses a critical issue pertinent to the congregation or ministerial site.
Further details of the Master of Theological Studies program
- Specific Learning Outcomes by Subject Area
- Curriculum worksheet for MTS in Latinx Studies
What Can I Do With a Master of Theological Studies (MTS)?
The MTS is ideal for those called to ministry, either by becoming church pastors or in less direct capacities such as church administrative work or youth ministry.
Career Options for MTS Graduates
- Church pastor
- Church administration
- Children and youth ministry
- Minister or director of music
- Non-profit ministry
- Educator in religious schools
- Creative work (writing, blogging, vlogging) on ministerial topics
- Counselor
- Lay pastor
- Church administration
- Missionaries
- Church and community volunteers
- Non-profit leadership
- Preacher
This program can be completed 100% online, in-person, or through a combination of both. Short-term, on-campus intensives are available for students who wish to fulfill some of their course requirements in person. It can be completed in as few as 3 years. 10 hours per course per week. Because the program is online, students may choose when they engage with their coursework. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a 2.5 GPA or higher. Those without a bachelor’s degree must have completed the Certificate in Pastoral Ministry at LTS with a 2.5 GPA or higher. Applicants also must submit their official transcripts, and two letters of recommendation, ideally from a minister and employer or professor. Yes, for students under the care of their Committee of Ministry. Students from all denominations receive a 30% tuition discount. Students from Disciples of Christ and United Church of Christ denominations receive 50% tuition discounts. A. LTS offers 3 Master’s degree programs: 1. Master of Divinity: Requires 76 hours to completion, competencies, and a capstone project. This program is usually selected by students seeking ordination. Students must participate weekly in a local congregation or site of ministry. 2. Master of Theological Studies: Requires 40 hours to completion, no competency exercises, and a final thesis project. This program can be selected by those seeking ordination (depending on the denomination) or by lay persons seeking higher study in a theological discipline. 3. Master of Pastoral Studies: Requires 40 hours to completion, no competency exercises, and a final thesis project. This program is designed for Roman Catholic lay people who feel called to serve in the Church, but who do not seek ordination. Divinity schools are often associated with larger universities, while seminaries are stand-alone institutions. Bible colleges generally offer associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees in mainstream areas of study with a focus on a Biblical worldview. As our name indicates, Lexington Theology Seminary reflects our commitment to sound theological education that prepares students for ministry. Applicants should submit two letters: one from a minister and one from an educator or employer. Prospective students can request more information by visiting the link below. We are happy to meet with prospective students via Zoom if desired. Following application submission, the Admissions Team communicates with the applicant throughout the process. Once candidates have submitted all required information and documentation, they can expect to hear from Admissions within 24-48 hours. Not necessarily! Ask us about a pathway to seminary without an undergraduate degree. Are the courses in-person or online?
How long does it take for a student to complete the MTS program?
What is the typical weekly time commitment?
What are the admission requirements for the Master of Theological Studies (MTS)?
Is financial aid available?
What is the difference between the Master of Divinity degree, the Master of Theological Studies degree, and the Master of Pastoral Studies Degree?
What is the difference between pursuing an MTS at a divinity school vs. a university vs. a seminary?
Who should write the letters of recommendation for the MTS application?
What is the application process like?
Do I have to have an undergraduate degree?
Our Curriculum
The MTS in Latinx Studies is designed to contextualize the ministry training and needs of Latinx students to serve in their communities and beyond. MTS-LS is a bilingual program with the first year in Spanish. Courses are 100% online and asynchronous.
| Curriculum Overview | |
|---|---|
| Required 500 Level Courses | |
| Succeeding in Seminary | |
| Interpreting Scripture for the Church | |
| Interpreting the Past for the Church | |
| Interpreting the Faith For the Church | |
| Interpreting the Behavior of the Church | |
| 500 Level Courses from Among the Following Areas: | |
| Leading the Church Through Care | |
| Leading the Church Through Worship | |
| Leading the Church Through Mission | |
| Leading the Church in Formation | |
| Free Electives Chosen From 500 Level Courses | |
| 600 Level Courses | |
| Students become eligibleto take 600-level courses when they have passed a minimum of 15 credit hours at the 500 level | |
| Thesis | |
| TOTAL HOURS |
View Course Catelog
MTS Worksheet 40 CR - Latinx Studies Track
MTS: ONLINE, IN-PERSON, AND BLENDED OPTIONS
The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) can be completed 100% online, in-person, or through a combination of both. Students who wish to complete some of their coursework in person can enroll in our in-person intensives held twice a year.
During an on-campus intensive, a typical 2-month, 2-credit course is covered in 3 days of full-time coursework. Students can select from classes in the categories of Leading Care (Pastoral Care), Leading Worship (Planning Worship/Sermon Preparation), Interpreting Scripture (Biblical Studies), Leading Mission (Mission/Church Governance/Administration), and Interpreting Faith (Theology).
These intensives allow students the opportunity to finish some of their coursework at an accelerated pace. Spending time together on campus also allows students to worship, study, dine, and relax in a community of Christ.*
*Please note that a community luncheon is provided each day of Intensives. Transportation, accommodations, and meals are not included in tuition.
Time to Graduation
This program can be completed in 3 years.
Admissions Requirements
- TIME COMMITMENT: 10 HOURS PER WEEK, PER COURSE
- IN-PERSON OR ONLINE?: IN-PERSON OR ONLINE OFFERED
- ACCREDITATION: ATS
- APPLICATION DEADLINE: ONGOING ADMISSIONS
- PROGRAM START: ROLLING START DATE
Admissions requirements for the Master of Theological Studies (Online MTS):
- A Bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA, OR completed the Certificate in Hispanic Ministries, OR undergo an LTS Prior Learning Assessment
- Two letters of recommendation: one from a minister, one from an employer OR professor
- Two essays
- $65 application fee