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As a disciplined course of study in Catholic theology, the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry (STM) offers the two-year Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) program which provides students with the opportunity for the broad study of the various disciplines of theology, while also permitting them to concentrate in one area.

Unlike the Master of Divinity program, the M.T.S. student has more elective credits that meets their vocational and professional needs. This degree is especially useful for those interested in personal reflection and theological development, those preparing for doctoral study, and for future teachers and for professionals seeking to integrate theology into their work life.
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THE FOUR TRACKS
The M.T.S. is divided into four tracks reflecting the main uses of the degree. Students must select which track they intend to pursue upon application.
*Curriculum worksheet

TRACK I: THEOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT
For students who are pursuing general theological literacy and competency or who want to explore theological issues and learn more about their faith tradition.

Special Requirements and Options: None

Concentrations:

• Biblical Studies; Historical/ Systematic Theology; Moral Theology; Church History; Pastoral Leadership; Liturgical Studies; Spirituality; and Politics, Justice and Social Action. Other concentrations may be arranged in consultation with the faculty advisor and the director of the program.

TRACK II: PRE-DOCTORAL
For students intending to pursue doctoral studies.

Special Requirements and Options:

• Area of concentration is required. Two 300-level seminars are required. Up to nine credit hours may be taken in ancient or modern languages (no more than six credit hours in one language).

Concentrations:

• Biblical Studies; Historical/Systematic Theology; Moral Theology; Church History; Liturgical Studies; and Spirituality.

TRACK III: CATHOLIC EDUCATION
For students who plan to teach, particularly Catholic Theology.

Special Requirements and Options:

• Three-credit hour teaching practicum (or equivalent, previous teaching experience). Up to nine credit hours (including the teaching practicum) may be taken in professional education courses. STM students are eligible to cross-register for such courses at the Boston College Lynch School of Education.

Concentrations:

• Biblical Studies; Historical/Systematic Theology; Moral Theology; Church History; Pastoral Leadership; Liturgical Studies; Spirituality; and Politics, Justice and Social Action.

TRACK IV: INTEGRATING THEOLOGY AND THE PROFESSIONAL LIFE
For students with a background or interest in professional life, including law, medicine, finance, media, politics, etc., who want to integrate theology with their profession.

Special Requirements and Options: None

Concentrations:

• Ethics; Gender and Sexuality; and Spirituality. Other concentrations may be arranged in consultation with the faculty advisor and the director of the program.

FLEXIBILITY:

The M.T.S. degree provides many options to make it unique and tailored to the individual needs of our students.

• Concentrations: Students have the option to select a concentration. A concentration requires that a student take at least 12 of the 24 elective credit hours in the chosen field of study. No more than 24 credit hours may be taken in a concentration.
• Language Study: Up to six credit hours of elective courses may be taken in ancient or modern languages.
• Practicum: For those interested in practical experience, one three credit hour professional ministry practicum may be taken with the M.T.S.

COMMON CORE CURRICULUM:

• Six credit hours Biblical Studies
• Six credit hours Historical/Systematic Theology
• Six credit hours Moral Theology
• Three credit hours Church History
• Three credit hours Pastoral Studies, Word and Worship, or Church History
• 24 credit hours Electives
• Concluding paper (either a 10-page, non-credit reflection paper or a three credit hour thesis)

PREREQUISITES FOR ADMISSION:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• One-third of undergraduate studies in liberal arts coursework.
• English proficiency. An acceptable TOEFL score is 213 or above on the computer-based exam, 550 on the paper-based exam, or 79 on the new Internet exam, if an international applicant from a non-English speaking country.

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DEADLINES:
Spring:
November 15

Fall:
February 15