The Master of Arts in Theology

The Master of Arts in Theology is a 36 semester-hour (12 course) program. The courses can be taken in any order, but should result in a broad foundation in the academic study of theology, particularly in the three areas of scripture, moral theology, and systematic theology.

• One course in Old Testament Scripture (3 semester hours)
• One course in New Testament Scripture (3 semester hours)
• One course in advanced Scripture study (3 semester hours)

• One course in Christ and the Christian God (3 semester hours)
• One course in Sacraments and Liturgy or in Ecclesiology (3 semester hours)
• One course in principles of systematic theology (3 semester hours)

• One course in Christian social ethics (3 semester hours)
• One course in moral theology (3 semester hours)
• One course in Theology and Catechesis, or Lay Ministry, or Theology in the Southwest (3 semester hours)

• Two courses chosen by the student (6 semester hours)
• One Capstone course (3 semester hours)

The graduate degree includes a general examination that is to be completed at the end of all coursework for the degree. Students are required to demonstrate the skills, knowledge, and habits of the program. These emphasize breadth of knowledge in the discipline, depth in specific areas, and the ability to integrate what has been learned. The examination is conducted in written and oral form.

Students receive bibliographies and lists of questions to prepare for the three major areas of scripture, moral theology, and systematic theology. There is a written exam in each area, followed by a one-hour oral exam before a committee of three faculty.