Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)
Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)
An ideal degree for students wishing to prepare for doctoral studies in religion or theology or for teaching theology in a high school, the Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) program enables rigorous studies in the various subdisciplines of theology. The degree program is highly flexible: half the coursework consists of core requirements aimed at general theological literacy and basic competence (in the subfields of biblical studies, systematics, moral theology, and history of Christianity); the remaining half consists of electives that allow students to specialize in a particular area of interest. Our Theology and Ministry Library, home to the largest collection of Catholic literature outside the Vatican, is a tremendous resource to students during their studies.
In addition to taking courses at the School of Theology and Ministry, students may also take coursework through the prestigious Boston Theological Interreligious Consortium (BTI). Students can take up to 50% of their coursework at BTI member schools.
Given the focus of the M.T.S. on forming students as scholars and teachers, funding is available to support those who wish to attend and/or present at academic conferences. Learn more.
While the M.T.S. program doesn't require spiritual and pastoral formation programs, you are welcome to participate in the retreats, days of reflection, and faith-sharing groups the school offers. Learn more about Formation at STM.
95% of 2021 M.T.S. graduates found placement within six months of graduation.
Zac Karanovich, M.T.S. '18; Ph.D. Candidate in Systematic Theology, Boston College Theology Department
"Distinct from religious studies, theology is a confessional discipline—we practice what we teach. While theologians certainly strive for the objectivity that the academy demands, it is nevertheless true that when we write or teach, we are communicating a reality about God that draws from our deeply held convictions of faith and informs those same convictions in our readers, students, or audiences.”
At the end of the MTS program, students will be able to
A. Demonstrate knowledge of the Bible, its historical contexts and methods of interpretation;
B. Articulate methodologies of moral reasoning in relation to Scripture, Tradition, and experience,
demonstrated by literacy in a specific area of interest;
C. Demonstrate knowledge of Christian tradition, articulated in systematic thought on Christology,
ecclesiology, or fundamental theology;
D. Demonstrate critical knowledge of the historical development of the Christian church, its institutions, practices and teachings; and
E. Articulate methodologies of pastoral studies and practical theology, and demonstrate a capacity for interdisciplinary and contextual analysis for Christian discipleship.
INQUIRE
Connect with STM to learn more about the M.T.S. application process.
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We offer three master's programs. Explore the others below!
Meet Our Faculty
At a Glance
How long will it take?
This 48-credit program is typically completed in two years of full-time study. Part-time study is an option as well.
Faculty Support
Students may pursue directed readings with faculty members during the program’s second year.
Faculty Expertise | Faculty Publications
Language Study
Up to nine credits in ancient or modern languages can be applied to the degree.
Final Paper
A Final Reflection paper is a requirement for all M.T.S. students.
One elective may be used to write a 30–50 page thesis.
Financial Support
Scholarships and on-campus assistantships are available. | Financial Aid
Common Career Paths
High school teaching
Doctoral studies
Diocesan administration
Nonprofit careers
Application Information
PrintDeadlines
- Spring 2023:
- November 15, 2022
- Fall 2023 Priority Scholarship Deadline:
- January 13, 2023. We will continue to accept applications on a rolling basis after this date.
- Summer 2023:
- Summer applications are accepted on a rolling basis
Application Form
Please note you can submit your application form once it is completed; you do not need to wait for all of your supplemental materials to arrive. We are able to schedule your interview once we have received your submitted application
On the application form, applicants will have the opportunity to indicate interest in being paired with an STM alum from their program of interest to learn more about STM and provide support during the discernment process.
Additional Requirements:
Application Fee
A non-refundable fee of $75 is required for every degree and non-degree application submitted.
Payment Options
- Pay by credit or debit card via the web; You can pay the application fee at the same time your submit your application form. However, if you do not pay the fee at the same time you submit your application, you can pay online at a later date through the Agora Portal. You must use your BC Username and password to log in.
- Pay by check or money order made payable to Boston College, via regular mail. Please include your check with a copy of your application form submission confirmation page and include your name and intended degree program.
Please note: The application fee cannot be refunded for any reason. If you qualify for a fee waiver, you should not pay the fee when you submit the application form. Fee waivers are granted to the following applicants: Jesuits, veterans, applicants currently completing a year of service, and current STM students. Email the admissions office at stmadm@bc.edu to request a waiver.
Standardized Tests
The GRE is optional, but preferred. We especially recommend applicants submit scores if 1) they feel their undergraduate transcript is not indicative of their capacity for success in graduate studies, OR 2) they do not have a strong background in the humanities. We review all applications holistically. Applicants who choose not to submit GRE scores will not be penalized in the admissions process.
Applicants who do send GRE scores should have them sent directly from ETS. Our GRE code is 2508.
English Proficiency Exam
All applicants for whom English is not their native language must also provide TOEFL or IELTS test score results. Read more about special instructions for international applicants here. This webpage will also indicate under with criteria a waiver may be granted. Waivers must be approved in writing by the admissions office.
Transcripts
We require transcripts from all colleges, universities, seminaries, or theological schools that you have attended. Each transcript should contain a list of all coursework taken, grades/marks received, and, if applicable, degree granted and date of degree confirmation. If your college or university will send official transcripts electronically, they can be emailed to stmadm@bc.edu. Otherwise, transcripts must be mailed and be contained in a sealed, signed envelope. If the official transcript is not English, a translation should be provided with the official document. Please alert us if your transcript will be arriving with a different name than the one you are using on your application (e.g. your maiden name). Please note that a transcript is only considered official if received directly from the institution issuing it.
Please note that your application may be reviewed with unofficial copies of your transcripts. If you send unofficial copies, know that if admitted, you must sent official copies before you begin coursework. In addition, if you are currently finishing a degree, you must send a final, official version of the transcript upon graduating, and before beginning coursework at STM.
Mailing Addresses
For applicants using the U.S. Postal Service:
Boston College School of Theology and Ministry
Simboli Hall
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
For applicants using FedEx or UPS:
Boston College School of Theology and Ministry
Simboli Hall
9 Lake Street
Brighton, MA 02135-3841
Recommendations
M.T.S. applicants are required to submit three recommendations using the online application system.
Each recommender should be familiar with the applicant’s academic competence. For applicants who have been out of school for a significant amount of time, recommenders should be familiar with the applicant's professional competence. Please be sure that your recommenders are aware of the application deadlines and online process, and choose them carefully to ensure that they can write on your behalf in a timely manner.
Interview
The admissions office interviews all master's applicants. All interviews take place remotely.
Résumé
The resume must be uploaded as part of the application. It is helpful if you highlight relevant ministry, service, research, teaching, and leadership positions you have held.
Personal Statement
The personal statement must be uploaded as part of the application. The personal statement should be three pages in length, double-spaced.
Your statement should address the following:
- The academic, professional, and personal development that has motivated you to apply to STM. Include a sketch of your educational background and interests, any experience you have in ministry and/or religious education, and any other relevant professional and volunteer experience
- Your understanding of theological education and/or ministry in the context of the Church’s mission, as well as the role and responsibilities of a minister and/or theologian today.
- How you plan to apply your theological education
- Given your experience, how you assess your principal strengths for theological education and/or ministry as well as your areas of needed development
- If applicable, information outlining your specific area and field of academic interest, and how your previous academic, professional, and/or pastoral experience has prepared you for studies within that particular field
Please note that MTS students can submit an optional writing sample as part of their application.