The Master of Arts in Theology degree introduces and explores the major themes in Catholic doctrine and practice, and emphasizes the development of research skills that prepare the student to engage in further theological study and writing. Required and elective courses permit the student to develop both a foundation and pursue an area of interest among courses in doctrine, biblical studies, morality, spirituality, and Church history.
Two areas of concentration are available with this degree: the theology of St. Thomas Aquinas (Aquinas Studies) and the study of Early Christianity (Early Christian Studies).
M.A. in Theology Degree Requirements
For the M.A. in Theology, students are required to complete 30 credit hours of graduate course work, which include the required courses:
Those students who desire to pursue the concentration in Aquinas Studies will take 12 hours of course work in this area in addition to the required courses.
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- THL 646 - Thomas Aquinas: Doctrine of Sacraments and the Church
Students in the concentration on Early Christian Studies will take nine hours of course work in this area in addition to the required courses.
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- One course from among the regular or Special Topics offerings in Early Christian thought
After completing the required 30 credit hours of graduate course work, students are required to take a three-hour comprehensive exam based on a bibliography of primary sources, write a thesis under the guidance of a director, and offer an oral defense of the thesis before the faculty.
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