Master of Arts in Theology - St. Mary's University

Credit Hours

Courses

Degree

Master of Arts https://www.stmarytx.edu/academics/programs/master-theology/ https://www.stmarytx.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/assumption-chapel-detail.jpg

Format

In-Person
Online
Hybrid

Department

Department of Theology

Contact

Xavier M. Montecel, Ph.D.

M.A. in Theology at St. Mary’s

The Master of Arts in Theology at St. Mary’s University continues the work initiated by the Society of Mary to foster critical reflection on the Catholic faith in a manner open to ecumenism and interreligious dialogue. The graduate degree introduces students to a variety of materials, questions, methods and thinkers in the academic discipline of Theology.

Students are instructed in the careful reading of Scripture, theological texts and Church documents. The program also emphasizes the importance of historical and philosophical influences on textual interpretation and religious practices. In addition to this rigorous academic preparation, students consider how and why it is important to implement the result of theological research in creative and practical ways.

Apply now

Request info

Program of Study

The program seeks to provide a broad formation for students. Students will encounter rich theological reflection in the areas of biblical theology, systematic theology, and Christian life and practice. Topics include historical criticism of scripture, liturgy and sacraments, Christology, moral theology, catechesis and spirituality.

Though grounded in the Catholic tradition and committed to teaching in accordance with the Characteristics of Marianist education, the graduate program is deliberately ecumenical and welcomes students of any denomination or religious background.

This program:

Forms students in faith through the pursuit of academic excellence

Introduces students to the discipline and practice of theology, particularly as handed down through the Catholic tradition

Fosters interdisciplinary knowledge appropriate for the study of Catholic Theology today

Orients students pastorally toward the service of the local Church in the Southwest in the context of an intercultural and interconnected world

Synchronous Distance Education

St. Mary’s is one of the few institutions offering a real-time and synchronous online Theology program. Students outside of San Antonio and across the country can participate in classroom activities and interact with professors and other students.

Degree Plans

This 36-credit-hour program is offered primarily in person with a synchronous online option available for coursework. Some in-person dates are required of all students.

Master of Arts in Theology

Students can also pursue a combined 5-year program:

Combined Bachelor of Arts in Theology and Master of Arts in Theology

A joint degree is also available, allowing students to complete both degrees in three to four years:

Joint Master of Arts in Theology and Doctor of Jurisprudence

The Department of Theology also offers 12-credit-hour graduate certificates:

Graduate Certificate in Theology

Graduate Certificate in Biblical Studies
Course Areas

Unlike many graduate programs, the Master of Arts in Theology at St. Mary’s requires courses in scripture, which provides students with a deep investigation into traditional and contemporary interpretations.

Course areas include:

Christian Life and Practice

Scripture

Systematics

See detailed course requirements and descriptions in the catalog:

Course Catalog

$79,219

Median annual earnings for Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary

Credit-Hour Graduate Certificate Programs in Theology and Biblical Studies

Program Formats: Online and On-Campus

What can I do with a master’s degree in Theology?

Many students with this degree have found success teaching in Catholic parochial schools and high schools, working in parish and diocesan administrative positions, and serving as catechetical leaders. Some have worked for other mission-based nonprofit organizations. Others have pursued doctoral work and gone on to teach in colleges and universities.

Theology became for me a vehicle for answering those existential questions or concerns.”

Trivett Wingo (M.A. ’20)

Joint Law Degree and Master of Arts in Theology

The joint Doctor of Jurisprudence and Master of Arts in Theology is especially suited for students who wish to pursue a legal career as a form of ministry.

Admission to the joint program requires application to both St. Mary’s University School of Law and St. Mary’s University, although application to graduate programs need not be made until the student begins law school. Upon successful application to both programs, students work with the graduate program director and the law school to coordinate student scheduling for completion of both degree programs.

joint degree programs

Combined Degree Program

This program allows qualified students to complete the requirements for a Bachelor of Arts in Theology and a Master of Arts in Theology in about five years — saving you money and time.

Learn more about combined degrees

Admission and Financial Assistance

Admission Requirements

Admission is granted to those who have completed an undergraduate degree and who show promise of successfully completing a program in graduate studies. Those without a degree in Theology must complete specific requirements.

To discuss specific admission procedures and requirements for this program, contact the Office of Graduate Admission at 210-436-3126 or graduate@stmarytx.edu.

Financial Aid for Theology Graduate Students

All graduate students in Theology who are, or will be involved in Church ministry receive a 50% tuition grant. St. Mary’s University offers various scholarships, grants and assistantships for graduate students.

Please contact the Office of Financial Assistance for additional information or visit www.stmarytx.edu/financial-aid.