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Certificate of Theological Studies (CTS)
The Certificate of Theological Studies (CTS) is a graduate level certificate that gives students a broad foundation in theological study.
The CTS program is designed to be flexible and can be completed in one to three years.
On campus or distance learning options available.
Designed for
Students looking to deepen their academic study of theology with a flexible and tailored approach and those with a previous master’s degree looking to qualify for chaplaincy positions that don’t require a Master of Divinity.
Learning Outcomes
- Participate in and demonstrate an understanding of various spiritual formation practices especially as such practices inform and sustain the work of social transformation.
- Articulate the significance of personal transformation for the work of social change-making including recognizing and addressing one’s own collusion with institutional systems of oppressive power.
- Engage in cultural and political analysis both theologically and ethically, especially for insights into structural inequality, systemic injustice, and institutionalized oppressions.
- Recruit and prepare faith communities to engage in collaborative partnerships with programs and organizations devoted to systemic social change for the common good.
- Evaluate and appropriate diverse strategies for change-making drawn from the worlds of social innovation, non-profit organizations, and grass-roots community organizing, and identify the active and/or potential role of spiritual practice/formation in those strategies.
- Develop skills for transformative leadership suitable for building coalitions committed to the work of social and economic justice by attending carefully to the issues involving professional boundaries, institutional power, and social ethics.
Professional Opportunities
The CTS prepares students for community level leadership in a church setting, for a PHD programs within the field of theology or for chaplaincy positions that don’t require a Master of Divinity.Admissions Requirements
- Complete an application for Admission – for directions refer to our ‘How to Apply’ page
- Submit transcripts from an accredited bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA
- Provide three references (academic, professional and spiritual)
Prospective students who do not meet these requirements may be considered for provisional admission, provided they meet the following requirements:
- Applicants who hold an accredited bachelor’s degree without a 3.0 GPA should offer a GPA explanation on their application and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
- Applicants who do not have an accredited bachelor’s degree must demonstrate that they have equivalent education and are adequately prepared for graduate study. This can be shown through references, other educational experiences, and a strong personal statement.
Students who are admitted provisionally will be limited to 9 units during their first semester. After the completion of 9 units with a 3.0 GPA, their status will move from provisional to full student status.
All applications are reviewed by a faculty committee.
Next Steps
Financial Aid (FAFSA code: G01256)
For further program details, refer to the academic catalog.