Basic Graduate Theological Studies (B.G.T.S.)

The B.G.T.S. program is designed for:

Pastors in churches that do not require a masters degree for ordination but who would like graduate training to enhance their ministries.

Laypersons who desire greater knowledge of theological subjects in order to become more effective leaders in their churches.

Persons who hold a professional masters degree and are seeking to enter the Order of Deacon in the United Methodist Church.

United Theological Seminary offers all the courses that meet The United Methodist Church’s requirements for Basic Graduate Theological Studies.

For United Methodists seeking Deacon’s Orders, this coursework must be in conformity with the requirements of the United Methodist General Board of Higher Education and Ministry for the B.G.T.S. program.

This coursework is at the master’s studies level, and the standards for admission are the same as for masters degrees.

Educational Requirements for Deacons

The United Methodist Church has opened four different educational paths for those seeking ordination as Deacon:

1. Completion of the Master of Divinity degree.

2. Completion of a masters degree program from a graduate theological school, such as United’s M.A.C.G., M.A.L.M., or M.T.S.

3. Supplementing a non-theological masters degree with the B.G.T.S.

4. For persons 35 years of age or older who are recommended by their conference Board of Ordained Ministry, completion of a bachelors degree and professional licensing program and eight semester hours of graduate credit PLUS the B.G.T.S.

B.G.T.S. Requirements

The B.G.T.S. requires 27 semester hours of graduate theological study. The standards for admission are the same as for masters degrees.

Courses must be distributed as follows:

United Methodist Studies* in History, Doctrine, and Polity (6 semester hours total)

Old Testament (3 semester hours)

New Testament (3 semester hours)

Church History (3 semester hours)

Mission of the Church in the World (3 semester hours)

Theology (3 semester hours)

Evangelism (3 semester hours)

Worship/Liturgy (3 semester hours)

* Students from other denominations who wish to complete the B.G.T.S. may substitute six (6) semester hours of electives for the denominational courses.