Dr. Tim McNinch Named Director of MTS Degree Program

 

CTS is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Tim McNinch as the new Director of the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) program. Dr. McNinch, who serves as Assistant Professor of Hebrew Bible, brings a wealth of experience, passion, and a fresh vision to this versatile and intellectually rigorous program. In a recent interview, Dr. McNinch shared his insights about the program, its recent redesign, and his excitement about the role.

Dr. McNinch is known for his dedication to theological education and his innovative approach to teaching. His new role as the Director of the MTS program aligns perfectly with his commitment to fostering deep, analytical, and creative thinking within a theological framework. “The MTS program draws upon CTS’ core theological curriculum, but it also gives students an opportunity to focus on a deep dive into a particular topic or question that is critical for them in their vocation, whatever that may be,” he explained.

Dr. McNinch’s enthusiasm for the program is palpable. He sees the MTS as a degree that broadens the diversity of the CTS community, allowing students from various professional backgrounds to engage deeply with theological studies. “It’s exciting to walk with students through this process of theological formation and development as theological thinkers,” he said. “We’re developing people who are going to change the world in all sorts of vocations.”

The MTS program at CTS underwent a significant redesign in 2023, making it more accessible and flexible for students. The program now requires 37 credit hours, a reduction from previous years, and can be completed entirely online. This change allows students to pursue their studies full-time and complete the degree in two years, even while being fully employed or engaged in other life commitments.

“We have embedded significant flexibility in the MTS,” Dr. McNinch shared. “The degree is now accessible from any physical location with an internet connection, giving students the opportunity to add value to their vocations wherever they find themselves.”

The core components of the MTS program include introductory courses in Biblical studies, theology, ethics, and Christianity in a pluralistic America. These foundational courses are shared with the Master of Divinity (MDiv) program, ensuring a broad-based theological education. However, the MTS program stands out due to its flexibility and customization options. Beyond the core courses, students can tailor their studies with electives that align with their specific interests, from biblical studies, to non-profit leadership, to social justice advocacy, and more.

One of the distinctive features of the MTS program is the summative project, which serves as the culmination of the degree. Students have the option to complete a research-driven thesis—a 50–100-page paper—or undertake a creative project supplemented by written work. This allows students to delve deeply into a particular question or topic, contributing to the academic conversation around that theme.

“All MTS students finish their degree with a summative project,” Dr. McNinch explained. “It can be a thesis or another kind of integrative project. This project allows students to focus on a specific question or topic and really dig deeper into it with electives and guided research.”

Another significant advantage of the redesigned MTS program is its fully online format. All required coursework can be taken online, and even the one required intensive is offered in a fully online format. This flexibility ensures that students can complete their degree from anywhere with an internet connection, making it a viable option for those unable to relocate to Indianapolis.
The MTS program is designed to be versatile and appeals to a wide range of individuals. It is ideal for those seeking a deeper understanding of Christianity and its relevance in contemporary society, whether for personal enrichment, professional development, or preparation for further academic work.

The program guides students in the development of research skills, close reading of texts, analytical thinking, and the evaluation of claims. It is particularly beneficial for those interested in interfaith or interreligious dialogue, nonprofit work, and various professional fields such as medicine, mental health, law, and education.

As the Director of the MTS program, Dr. McNinch’s responsibilities include administering the program, recruiting new students, and serving as an academic advisor. He helps students navigate their academic journey, from initial interest to the completion of their summative projects.

“I think the thing that really grabs my attention the most is knowing that there’s a path to be involved in our CTS community where students don’t necessarily have to be headed to congregational ministry or counseling clinical practice but can bring their own vocational interest into the CTS community,” Dr. McNinch said. “This degree helps the whole seminary community think more broadly and deeply about what we’re doing and how we can participate with God in the transformation of the world.”

Dr. McNinch is committed to walking alongside students through their formative experiences, helping them integrate their theological education into their vocations. “We’re cultivating world changers in every vocation,” he concluded. “What a cool thing to be a part of!”

The Master of Theological Studies program at CTS, under the leadership of Dr. Tim McNinch, offers a robust, flexible, and accessible path for students to deepen their theological knowledge and apply it in diverse vocational contexts. With its fully online format, customizable coursework, and emphasis on analytical and creative thinking, the MTS program is poised to equip students for transformative roles in their communities and professions. Dr. McNinch’s vision and passion for the program promise to inspire and guide students on their journey of theological exploration and vocational excellence.

 

Dr. Tim McNinch

Timothy McNinch serves as Assistant Professor of Hebrew Bible at Christian Theological Seminary. He earned his PhD in Hebrew Bible from Emory University, where his dissertation focused on the compositional history of 1 Samuel 1–8. Prior to his academic career, McNinch was a church planting pastor in Michigan with the Association of Vineyard Churches (USA). He is now certified for ordination in the Presbyterian Church (USA).

Dr. McNinch’s scholarship has appeared in Vetus Testamentum, Bible and Critical Theory, and Encounter. He is the series editor of the “Politics of Scripture” blog at the Political Theology Network (politicaltheology.com), and series editor of the Illustrated Biblical Texts series from GlossaHouse Publishers (glossahouse.com). He is also the creator and co-host of the popular weekly preaching podcast, “First Reading” (firstreadingpodcast.com), and curates a biblical languages YouTube channel (youtube.com/timmcninch).

McNinch earned a BA (in Physics and Religion) from Kalamazoo College and an MDiv from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary.