Master of Arts in Theology (M.A.)

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:

• THL 500 - Theology: History and Methods
    
• THL 512 - Introduction to the Old Testament
    
• THL 520 - Introduction to the New Testament
    
• THL 535 - Patristic Theology
    
• THL 550 - Christ: Word and Redeemer
    
• THL 670 - Fundamental Moral Theology  

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.

• THL 640 - Thomas Aquinas: Doctrine of God
    
• THL 642 - Thomas Aquinas: Doctrine of Christ
    
• THL 644 - Thomas Aquinas: Moral Theology
    
• 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.

• THL 630 - Early Christian History
    
• THL 635 - Patristic Exegesis
    
• 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.