In North America, the Master of Theology (Latin: Theologiae Magister, abbreviated Th.M.) is a post graduate or doctoral degree considered by the Association of Theological Schools to be the minimum educational credential for teaching theological subjects in accredited seminaries and graduate schools.
A Master of Theology (Th.M.) is an advanced theological research degree offered by universities, divinity schools, and seminaries. The degree is usually earned after the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or an equivalent of three years of graduate studies in theology. This degree can range from one or two years of specialized advanced studies in theological research (i.e. Counseling, Church History, Systematic Theology, etc.). It may or may not require comprehensive subject exams and a research thesis. The Master of Theology is usually designed as an advanced academic degree with an emphasis on academic research. The Th.M. often functions as a terminal and/or doctoral level degree, dependent upon one's particular educational route and institution of study.