Masters in Divinity/Sacred Theology consists of 2 programs - The Master of Divinity degree and The Master of Sacred Theology degree.
M.Div./Master of Sacred Theology
The Master of Divinity degree is a three-year program of theological studies designed primarily, although not exclusively, to prepare the student for ordination to the Christian ministry. Students pursuing this degree explore a range of studies in sacred music, worship, and the arts, in addition to meeting the degree requirements at Yale Divinity School. (See the ISM and YDS bulletins for detailed information.)
The theologian Paul Tillich once observed that pastors are that rarest breed of specialist: they are generalists. In this spirit, the ISM ensures that its candidates for the M.Div. degree study ways that communities of faith articulate their beliefs through music, worship, and other art forms. Students in this program are offered many electives to explore the full range of studies in sacred music, worship, and the arts. By the time of graduation, all ISM/YDS students in the Master of Divinity program will have taken one 3-credit course from ISM faculty in each of the following areas:
- Sacred Music
- Worship
- Religion and the Arts (Visual Arts or Literature)
In addition, students will have taken a total of 9 credits in other ISM courses.* This requirement may be fulfilled by applied music lessons for credit; by upper-level homiletics courses; and/or by participation in any of the following vocal ensembles:
- Marquand Choir
- Marquand Gospel Choir
- Recital Chorus
- Repertory Chorus
- Yale Schola Cantorum
- Yale Camerata
*Those pursuing the Berkeley certificate are only required to take 3 credits in other ISM courses.
The Master of Sacred Theology degree is a one-year program for those who have obtained the M.Div. degree or the equivalent and wish to do concentrated research on a specific project. Typically, the ISM student in this degree program focuses either in liturgical studies or religion and the arts.
The ISM accepts candidates for the Master of Sacred Theology (S.T.M.) degree interested in pursuing research in liturgical studies or religion and the arts. The program, which may be regarded as a fourth year of preparation for the Christian ministry, a year of specialized work in one of the theological disciplines, or as preparation for doctoral studies, consists of 24 credit hours of study, of which 18 must be in the major area. A thesis, major paper in a regular course, or other acceptable project demonstrating independent research in the selected field of study is required.
The ISM provides a maximum of one year or equivalent of financial support to students in this program.
Course Listing and Curriculum
More detailed information about the degree requirements is in the Yale Bulletin for the ISM.
ISM Colloquim
All ISM students attend the Institute colloquium and elect courses with Institute faculty. Numerous performance opportunities are available for all students. Many Institute students take on a variety of leadership roles in the rich lives of Marquand Chapel and other chapels on campus. Opportunities for musical and liturgical participation abound.
Our Partners
ISM partners prepare students for careers in church music and other sacred music.
