The School of Theology and Ministry (STM) offers two post-masters degrees: a Master of Theology (Th.M.) and a Licentiate in Sacred theology (S.T.L.).  Each degree is structured to uniquely benefit the student as he/she continues to pursue his/her academic and ministerial goals.

The Th.M. is a 24, credit one year program.  It is designed to give students another year of academic studies in preparation for doctoral studies.  It is uniquely suited for those students who have earned master’s degrees that have a ministerial focus.  The Th.M.’s flexibility allows students to concentrate in particular areas of theological study.  As a result, the Th.M. is also appropriate for students seeking more concentrated knowledge in a particular theological discipline.
www.bc.edu/stmthm

The S.T.L. is an Ecclesiastical degree granted in the name of the Holy See.  It is the second of three canonical degrees.  It features two additional years of coursework as well as a nine credit thesis as requirements for graduation.  Completion of the S.T.L. allows students to teach at Catholic seminaries and other equivalent institutions.  It also gives graduates opportunities to work in higher-level diocesan positions and other Catholic institutions.  Other students use the S.T.L. to prepare for doctoral studies.

Because the S.T.L. is a degree specific to the Catholic Church, it would not be as appropriate for students wishing to engage in ministries outside the church.  This would include theology schools at universities which would prefer or require a Ph.D. or another terminal degree.
www.bc.edu/stmstl