Designed for students who are entering teaching ministries, as well as those who want to pursue an area of particular interest before taking a call.
Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MTS)
The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) program is designed to provide a rigorous survey of theological studies culminating in a project focused on a student’s primary area of passion, like environmental theology, feminist theology, liberation theology, etc.
Students can take a broad array of courses related to their area of interest at PSR and at the more than twenty schools, centers, and affiliates of the Graduate Theological Union.
The MTS program is designed to be a two-year, full-time course of study but can be completed in up to five years.
PSR courses can be taken on campus or via distance learning options available and the degree can be completed entirely online. However, some GTU courses may only be offered in person.
Designed for
PSR courses can be taken on campus or via distance learning options available and the degree can be completed entirely online. However, some GTU courses may only be offered in person.
Program Outcomes & Mission Goals
| 1 | Cultivate a grasp of theological disciplines for dialogue across diverse religious traditions and perspectives | Vision (intellectual): Analyze |
| 2 | Develop a spiritual foundation that empowers societal engagement and sustains transformative endeavors | Vision (intellectual): Discern |
| 3 | Demonstrate the ability to engage diversity with cultural sensitivity | Resilience (emotional): Engage |
| 4 | Adopt diverse strategies to effectively navigate different contexts | Resilience (emotional): Sustain |
| 5 | Employ critical theological analysis to address structural inequalities and social injustices | Skill (material): Innovate |
| 6 | Creatively contribute to theological and ethical discourses informed by diverse schools of thought | Skill (material): Implement |
Professional Opportunities
The MTS prepares students for careers in academia, nonprofit or church leadership and other opportunities depending on their chosen course of study.
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
For further program details, refer to the academic catalog