Master of Theological Studies
The M.T. S. program provides students with a solid theological foundation that prepares them for advanced theological study and for teaching and leadership roles in Christian communities. Students interested in pursuing a doctorate (Ph.D.) will benefit from this course of study.
Application Requirements
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or the equivalent
- Official transcripts of post-secondary coursework
- Three letters of recommendation from educational or professional contacts
- Typewritten narrative
- Resume/CV
See more complete details of these requirements
Application Deadline: Rolling Admission
The Master of Theological Studies immerses students in the wisdom of the theological tradition. Love of learning inspires students to embrace the rigors and joys of this course of study.
Students gain a solid theological foundation that prepares them for advanced theological study and for teaching and leadership roles in Christian communities.
Students first complete twenty-one credits in scripture, liturgy, doctrine, monastic studies, spirituality, and the history of Christian thought.
This initial coursework, which we label "the Collegeville core," aims to cultivate an awareness of theological learning as a profound way of honoring the mystery of God.
Introduced to this mode of theological thinking carried out within the context of a praying community, students then choose one of the following five focus areas for the second half of their degree work:
- Scripture
- Liturgy
- Systematics
- History of Christian thought
- Monastic studies/spirituality
Capstone requirements for the degree include one graduate paper and a comprehensive exam.
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.