Dallas Theological Seminary is a private evangelical graduate school in Dallas, Texas

Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS) is a graduate-level institution that trains students for ministry, teaching, and Christian leadership roles. The school does not offer undergraduate degrees — it focuses entirely on master's-level programs and doctoral degrees in theology, biblical studies, and related fields. The seminary is affiliated with the evangelical Christian tradition and has been operating since 1924.

The seminary operates on a traditional academic calendar and offers both full-time and part-time study options. Students attend classes on campus in Dallas, though some programs include online components. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and holds membership in the Association of Theological Schools (ATS).

Key Takeaways

  • Dallas Theological Seminary offers master's degrees in divinity, biblical studies, Christian education, and other theology-focused fields, as well as doctoral programs.
  • The seminary requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution for admission, along with transcripts, references, and a statement of purpose.
  • Tuition and fees vary by program, and the school offers financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans through its financial aid office.
  • Most master's programs take two to four years to complete depending on whether you study full-time or part-time.
  • You can request information directly from the admissions office by phone, email, or through the seminary's website.

Master's degree programs and what they cover

The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies is designed for students who want deep knowledge of Scripture and biblical languages without necessarily pursuing pastoral ministry. This program typically includes courses in Old Testament, New Testament, biblical theology, and often requires study of Greek and Hebrew. Students complete coursework and a thesis or comprehensive exam.

The Master of Divinity is the flagship program and prepares students for pastoral ministry, missionary work, or other full-time Christian leadership positions. This degree includes biblical languages, systematic theology, church history, pastoral care, preaching, and practical ministry courses. The program is longer and more comprehensive than the Master of Arts options.

The seminary also offers specialized master's degrees in Christian Education, Spiritual Formation, and other focused areas. Each program has its own course requirements and length. You can review the specific curriculum for each degree on the seminary's website or by contacting admissions directly.

Doctoral programs for advanced study

Dallas Theological Seminary offers Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degrees for students who have already completed a master's-level degree. The Ph.D. is a research-focused degree intended for those planning academic or scholarly careers. The D.Min. is designed for practicing ministers who want advanced training while continuing their ministry work.

Doctoral programs require a master's degree as a prerequisite and involve original research, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation. The time to completion varies but typically ranges from three to six years depending on the program and whether you study full-time or part-time. Admission to doctoral programs is more selective than master's programs and requires demonstrated academic strength and clear ministry or scholarly goals.

Admission requirements and the process process

To explore for a master's program at Dallas Theological Seminary, you must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. The admissions office will request official transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended. Your undergraduate GPA does not have to meet a specific minimum, but your academic record is reviewed as part of the overall process.

You will need to submit a statement of purpose or personal essay explaining your reasons for pursuing seminary study and your ministry goals. The seminary typically requests two or three references from people who can speak to your character and readiness for ministry — these are often pastors, professors, or mentors. Some programs may require a phone or video interview with an admissions counselor.

International students must demonstrate English language proficiency through standardized tests like the TOEFL if English is not their first language. The admissions office can explain specific requirements for your program and answer questions about documentation. You can begin the process by visiting the seminary's website or contacting admissions by phone or email.

Tuition, fees, and financial aid options

Tuition at Dallas Theological Seminary varies depending on the program you choose. Master's programs typically cost between $300 and $500 per credit hour, though this figure changes and depends on your specific degree. Doctoral programs have different fee structures. The total cost of a degree depends on how many credit hours your program requires and whether you study full-time or part-time.

The seminary's financial aid office administers federal student loans, institutional scholarships, and grants. You can borrow through federal loan programs like the Direct Unsubsidized Loan and the Direct PLUS Loan. The seminary also offers merit-based scholarships and need-based aid to may have access to students. Many students combine loans, scholarships, and part-time work to fund their education.

The financial aid office can discuss payment plans that allow you to spread tuition payments across the semester. You should contact the financial aid office directly to learn about current scholarship opportunities, loan options, and the cost of your specific program. They can also explain how to complete the Free process for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if you plan to borrow federal loans.

Online and part-time study options

Dallas Theological Seminary offers some courses and even some complete degree programs with online or hybrid components, allowing students to study while working or managing other responsibilities. Not all programs are available in online format — some degrees require significant on-campus attendance. The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies and certain other programs have online options, while the Master of Divinity typically requires more on-campus time.

Part-time study is available for most master's programs, meaning you can take fewer courses per semester and extend your degree completion over a longer period. This option works well for students who are working full-time or have family obligations. The admissions office can tell you which programs support part-time enrollment and what the typical timeline looks like for part-time students.

How to request information and next steps

You can contact Dallas Theological Seminary's admissions office by visiting their website, calling their main phone line, or emailing admissions directly. The website has program descriptions, curriculum details, and links to request more information. Many prospective students start by filling out an information request form, which prompts the admissions office to send program details and answer initial questions.

If you are considering seminary study, you may want to speak with current students or alumni about their experience, visit campus if possible, or attend an information session if the seminary offers them. The admissions office can connect you with current students or provide contact information for alumni in your area. Taking time to understand which program fits your goals and learning about the process timeline will help you plan your next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be ordained or have ministry experience to attend?

No. Dallas Theological Seminary welcomes students from many backgrounds, including those with no prior ministry experience. Some students come directly from undergraduate study, while others have worked in other fields. Your statement of purpose should explain your reasons for pursuing seminary study, but prior ordination or ministry work is not required for admission.

Can I transfer credits from another seminary or graduate program?

Yes, Dallas Theological Seminary may accept transfer credits from other accredited institutions, though the number of credits accepted depends on the program and the quality of the coursework. You should discuss transfer credit possibilities with the admissions office when you explore. They will review your transcripts and determine what credits can count toward your degree.

What is the difference between the Master of Divinity and the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies?

The Master of Divinity is broader and includes pastoral training, preaching, and ministry skills alongside biblical and theological study. It prepares you for pastoral or missionary roles. The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies focuses more narrowly on Scripture and theology and is suited for those pursuing academic study, teaching, or personal enrichment rather than pastoral ministry.

How long does it take to complete a master's degree?

Full-time students typically complete a master's degree in two to three years, depending on the program. Part-time students may take four to five years or longer. The Master of Divinity is generally longer than other master's programs because it requires more credit hours. Your admissions counselor can give you a specific timeline based on your program choice and study pace.

Does the seminary offer scholarships to international students?

Dallas Theological Seminary offers scholarships and financial aid to both domestic and international students, though the types and amounts of aid may differ. International students should contact the financial aid office to learn about available funding, visa requirements, and any restrictions on federal loans. The admissions office can also connect you with resources specific to international student support.