Master of Theological Studies
The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) is a rigorous academic degree best suited for those interested in teaching, leadership, or advanced theological studies. This degree program provides students with a solid theological foundation while allowing the opportunity to concentrate on a specific theological field.
MTS Areas of Concentration
- Liturgy
- Sacred Scripture
- Systematic Theology (Doctrine and Moral)
- History of Christianity
- Monastic Studies/Spirituality
“I chose the MTS, concentrating in systematic theology, because I felt that it would help me to ask and answer questions about my own experience of faith, as well as enable me to aid others in asking similar questions. I have found a real community of scholarship here in Collegeville and think that it has significantly impacted my life, both academically and personally. For those discerning the MTS, I would say that it has provided me with the space and the tools to develop a fides quarens intellectum et iustitiam and all within a community of friends and mentors that have walked with me every step of the way.”
Henry Widdicombe, MTS ‘23
The MTS degree requires the completion of 48 credits, or roughly 2 years of full-time studies. The MTS includes 24 credits towards our Collegeville Core and 9 credits towards a concentration area, not including electives. This program also requires final Comprehensive Exams (3 credits) with the elected concentration area. This program requires on-campus participation for at least half of the degree program, which can be satisfied either in academic year or summer
Comprehensive Exams
During their final semester of coursework, MTS students take comprehensive examinations to synthesize their learning from coursework. Based on ten significant texts selected by the faculty, students assess, question, and think through key theological ideas in writing and through an oral assessment led by faculty members. These exams highlight student capacities to bring contemporary insights, questions, and concerns into dialogue with the Christian traditions to advance “faith seeking understanding” for future generations.
Benedictine Tradition
Theological study has long been valued in the Benedictine tradition as a central element of the search for God. At Saint John’s, the monastic rhythm of prayer and work keeps academic study grounded in the common life of faith.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Master of Theological Studies program will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of the history and contemporary context of the Christian theological tradition, including its global context, ecumenical character, and the multicultural realities.
- Exercise a critical, historically-rooted approach to theology that includes reading primary texts in their historical context, assessing them critically, and identifying the social, cultural, and personal lens through which they interpret the tradition.
- Articulate ways in which theological study serves the ongoing life of the Church.
Incorporate the Benedictine charisms of biblical, liturgical, and communal life into their vocational identity and practice.
Application Process
Saint John’s uses a robust application software, Slate, for the application process. Prospective students will create a username and password, and then upload/request pertinent information directly into Slate. After beginning an application, students can log back into the application portal and check their progress.
If you have any questions/concerns about Slate and the admission process, please reach out to the Admission Office: [email protected]
Written Narrative
Applicants are required to upload a typed narrative as a part of the application. This narrative should be about 800 words. The narrative should address the applicants professional and vocational goals, and their interest in studying academic theology, particularly at Saint John’s.
Letters of Recommendation
M.T.S applicants are required to request 3 letters of recommendation, from educational or professional contacts, within the online application system. The M.T.S requires that at least one letter of recommendation speak to the applicant’s ability for research.
Recommenders should be able to speak to the academic ability, leadership qualities, communication skills, and overall readiness for graduate theological study.
Letters of recommendation must be requested through the Slate Portal and cannot be sent directly from the applicant to the admission office.
Transcripts
Official transcripts of post-secondary coursework must be sent from the Registrar’s Office to the Admissions Office
Contact Information for Sending Transcripts:
Admissions at Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary
P.O. Box 7288
Collegeville, MN 56321
Resume / CV
Applicants are required to submit an updated résumé outlining personal, educational and professional backgrounds. This can be uploaded directly into the application portal, Slate.