Toronto School of Theology Academic Programs and Rankings
The Toronto School of Theology (TST) stands as a premier center for theological education, comprising seven member colleges. By leveraging a strategic partnership with the University of Toronto, TST provides a comprehensive academic ecosystem that offers everything from foundational certificates to advanced doctoral research.
Most degrees at TST are awarded conjointly by a member college and the University of Toronto, though some specific certificates and diplomas are granted solely by the individual member colleges.
Key Facts
- Global Standing: Ranked 11th worldwide and 1st in Canada for Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies (2021 QS World University Rankings).
- Scale: Operates the largest graduate program in theology within Canada.
- Academic Reach: Ranked 3rd for the number of doctoral graduates who secure positions in Association of Theological Schools member institutions.
- Partnership: Degrees are primarily granted conjointly with the University of Toronto.
Basic and Professional Degrees
TST offers a wide array of basic degrees designed to prepare students for ministry, spiritual care, and academic study. These programs are categorized according to the standards of the Association of Theological Schools.
Professional Master's Degrees
Students can pursue specialized paths including the Master of Divinity, Master of Religious Education, and the Master of Theological Studies. Other focused options include the Master of Sacred Music and the Master of Arts in Ministry and Spirituality.
Specialized Studies and Certificates
The curriculum extends into interdisciplinary fields such as Theology, Spirituality and the Arts, and Urban Community Development. For those focusing on mental health and spirituality, the Master of Psychospiritual Studies offers a Spiritual Care stream (including a Certificate in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy) and a Spiritual Care focus.
Additionally, conjoint certificates are available, though availability varies by member college:
- Certificate in Theological Studies (CTS)
- Certificate in Theology and Interreligious Engagement (CTIE)
Graduate and Doctoral Programs
As the largest graduate theology program in Canada, TST provides rigorous advanced training for scholars and practitioners. These degrees are granted conjointly by the University of Toronto and the specific TST member school where the student is registered.
Advanced Master's Degrees
The school offers two primary advanced master's paths: the Master of Theology (ThM) and the Master of Arts (MA) in Theological Studies.
Doctoral Degrees
For those pursuing the highest level of academic achievement, TST offers the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Theological Studies. For practitioners seeking a professional doctorate, the Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program is available.
| Degree Level | Programs Offered | Awarding Body |
|---|---|---|
| Basic/Professional | MDiv, MRE, MTS, MA in Ministry and Spirituality, Master of Sacred Music | Conjoint (Member College & U of T) |
| Certificates | CTS, CTIE, Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy | Conjoint or Member College |
| Advanced Graduate | MA in Theological Studies, ThM | Conjoint (Member College & U of T) |
| Doctoral | PhD in Theological Studies, DMin | Conjoint (Member College & U of T) |
Reputation and Global Rankings
The academic rigor of the Toronto School of Theology is reflected in its high international standing. In the 2021 QS World University Rankings, the TST/University of Toronto partnership was ranked 11th globally and 1st in Canada for Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies.
Further validation comes from the journal First Things, an organ of the Institute on Religion and Public Life in New York, which ranked TST fourth among graduate programs in theology. The institution also maintains a strong influence on theological academia, ranking third for the number of doctoral graduates who enter faculty positions within the Association of Theological Schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who awards the degrees at the Toronto School of Theology?
The majority of degrees are awarded conjointly by a TST member college and the University of Toronto, although some certificates and diplomas are awarded solely by a member college.
What is the largest graduate program in theology in Canada?
The Toronto School of Theology holds the distinction of having the largest graduate program in theology in Canada.
What doctoral options are available at TST?
TST offers two doctoral paths: the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Theological Studies for academic research and the Doctor of Ministry (DMin) as a professional doctoral degree.
How is TST ranked globally?
According to the 2021 QS World University Rankings, TST/University of Toronto is ranked 11th in the world and 1st in Canada for Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies.
Are there certificates available for shorter-term study?
Yes, TST offers the Certificate in Theological Studies (CTS) and the Certificate in Theology and Interreligious Engagement (CTIE), though these may not be available at every member college.