Program Overview
The Master of Arts in Theology program at [Institution Name] equips students with a deep understanding of Catholic theology and pastoral ministry skills. Through a combination of online instruction and in-person interaction, the program prepares graduates for leadership roles in the New Evangelization, with a focus on innovative ministerial arts and a multicultural experience. The program offers a concentration in Evangelization, allowing students to specialize in this area.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
The Master of Arts in Theology forms leaders in the New Evangelization through a rich theological and ministerial curriculum. The program aims to provide students with a renewed Christian mind and vision — an intellectual and spiritual formation capable of engaging the postmodern, post-Christian culture. Through this program, graduates will be qualified and credentialed in the expert theory and practice of innovative ministerial arts in the Christian tradition. The program's mission is to educate men and women with theological expertise and pastoral skills within a community of faith and scholarship for use in service of the Church and society. This mission is modeled in the following ways:
- Courses that ground the student in the Catholic theological tradition and pastoral ministry practice.
- Opportunities for interaction among faculty and students beyond the classroom.
- Online instruction, use of multiple media, and new research technologies.
- Individual advisement as an integral element of students’ educational program.
- A rich multicultural experience provided by a diverse student body and learning opportunities.
- An ecumenical and interfaith appreciation grounded in the Catholic intellectual and artistic tradition.
- Concentrations that allow students to study further in particular areas. (For 2023-2024, we are offering 1 concentration, with additional areas of concentration to come.)
Outline
The MA in Theology program consists of 36 credit hours, divided into two sections: Theological Foundations (27 credits) and Evangelization Concentration (9 credits).
Theological Foundations
- STM 500B MA Theology Orientation
- STM 500 Theological Research and Writing
- STM 513 Fundamental Theology
- STM 521 Hebrew Scriptures
- STM 522 Christian Scriptures
- STM 531 Christian Thought I
- STM 532 Christian Thought II
- STM 541 Theological Ethics
- STM 732 Christology
- STM 737 Sacramental Theology
- STM 500 must be taken during the first year of study.
Evangelization Concentration
These courses enable the student to develop competence in evangelization. Students may choose courses according to their needs and course availability. Note: STM 591 is required of all students completing the Evangelization Concentration. Courses may be chosen from the following:
- STM 600 Evangelization
- STM 601 Catechetics
- STM 581 Spiritual Practices in/for Ministry
- STM 512 Method in Ministry
- STM 591 Ministerial Capstone
Required
Assessment
The Master of Arts in Ministry and Leadership program requires a total of thirty-six (36) graduate credit hours. For graduation, students need to earn a B or better in every course and attain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
Teaching
The program is taught by a faculty of experienced and qualified theologians and ministers. The program director is Brad Bursa, PhD, Assistant Professor of Theology.
Careers
People who complete a Master’s degree in theology see their earning potential rise. The difference between a Catholic educator with a BA compared to an MA can range from $10,000-20,000. A quick search on job search engines such as CatholicJobs.com, glassdoor.com, and HigherEdjobs.com will show many open and unfilled jobs for candidates with credentials such as a Master’s degree in Theology. These jobs include Hospital Chaplain, High School Theology Teacher, College Campus minister, Catechesis Director, Young Adult Ministry Director, Pastoral Associate, Mission Director, and many more.
Other
- The program is fully online.
- The program is affordable.
- The program offers year-round enrollment.
- The program works with your schedule.
St. Thomas University
Overview:
St. Thomas University is a Catholic university located in Miami Gardens, Florida. It is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive learning environment that fosters academic and professional success for its students. The university aims to prepare its graduates to become ethical leaders in a global community.
Services Offered:
St. Thomas University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
The university provides academic advising, tutoring, and writing centers to help students succeed in their studies.Student Life:
The university offers a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities to enhance the campus experience.Career Services:
The university provides career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities to help students prepare for their future careers.Financial Aid:
The university offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students afford their education.Housing:
The university provides on-campus housing options for students.Library:
The university has a well-equipped library with a vast collection of books, journals, and other resources.Athletics:
The university offers a variety of athletic programs for students to participate in.Student Life and Campus Experience:
St. Thomas University provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. The university offers a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities to enhance the campus experience. Students can participate in sports, clubs, and other activities that align with their interests. The university also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and conferences.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Catholic Values:
The university is rooted in Catholic values and provides a faith-based learning environment.Diverse Community:
The university has a diverse student body and faculty, creating a rich and inclusive learning environment.Small Class Sizes:
The university offers small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention from professors.Location:
The university is located in Miami Gardens, Florida, providing students with access to a vibrant city and its many cultural attractions.Career-Focused Programs:
The university offers a variety of career-focused programs that prepare students for success in the workforce.Academic Programs:
St. Thomas University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across several colleges and schools:
Biscayne College:
Offers programs in the liberal arts, social sciences, and humanities.Gus Machado College of Business:
Offers programs in business administration, accounting, finance, and marketing.College of Law:
Offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.College of Health Sciences & Technology:
Offers programs in nursing, health sciences, and technology.Other:
Academic Requirements:
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in the United States, or the equivalent.
- Official transcripts from all previous institutions attended.
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
Additional Required Materials:
- Online application form
- Curriculum Vitae with list of references
- Two confidential recommendation letters
- One from a priest, deacon, religious, or minister
- One from a professor, supervisor, or mentor
- A personal statement explaining the reason for pursuing the degree (minimum 250 words, maximum 500 words)
Additional Notes:
- Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA requirement may still be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis.
- International applicants are required to submit official transcripts that have been evaluated by a credentialing agency.
