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Application Process
Where faith and scholarship meet.
Apply to be a part of a faith centered community, built on the shared missions of the church. Here at Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary, our goal is to equip students with the theological knowledge and understanding needed to serve not only communities of faith, but the world.
At the heart of it all is our Benedictine identity, instilling in us a strong commitment for community, inclusivity, learning, and prayer. These values influence how we study, pray, serve, and live with one another, both in the classroom and beyond.
How to Apply
Thank you for your interest in applying to Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary. Each application we receive is reviewed holistically by our admission committee, paying close attention to academic experience, personal interests, ministerial engagement, and leadership qualities. All components of the application are considered, and please note that the application process may be different depending on the program you are applying to.
There is not a separate application for financial aid. Your application for admission also serves as your application for scholarship funding.
Navigating Slate
To get started, please make an account with our application portal: https://admissions.csbsju.edu/portal/sot-application (or press, Apply Now, anywhere on our webpages).
This portal allows you to upload and access all of your application materials, from the start of your application until you receive your admissions decision.
If you have any questions, please reach out to our admissions office at [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
What do your graduates do with degrees in theology?
Alums of the School of Theology and Seminary are prepared for a variety of ministry positions in parishes, diocesan offices, and social ministry including hospital chaplaincy and prison ministry. Other students pursue their vocation through further studies at the doctoral level, work in higher education, at large social services agencies (like Catholic Charities) or teach in high schools. While there are anticipated outcomes of graduate theological education, our alums have also used advanced studies in theology to further unique outcomes nor particular to theology like law school, medical school, communications/filmography careers, etc.
Can I try coursework before applying?
Many students begin at a non-degree status which exposes them to the content for graduate theology and provides opportunities to visit with faculty and classmates. This is especially beneficial if prospective students are uncertain about which degree program or certificate program is best for their personal, professional, and vocational goals.
Contact admission at: [email protected]
I’m interested, but not sure what to do next.
Our experienced admission team is prepared to walk with you in your discernment. After an initial conversation, usually over the phone or via zoom, the admission team can assist in getting an application started, or if you have remaining questions, can help you get connected with a faculty member or current student.
Will I receive a scholarship?
100% of admitted degree-seeking students receive a scholarship, ranging from a 30-100% tuition scholarship.
Can I earn a degree online?
Yes, our Master of Arts in Theology, Master of Arts in Ministry, and Master of Theology can be earned fully online. For our other degrees, a student may earn half of the degree credits online in a synchronous format.
How long does it take to earn a degree? (Full-time Courseload)
- The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) for Lay Ministry is a three year program of study which includes Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) and Field Education credits.
- The Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) is a two year program of coursework.
- The Master of Arts in Liturgical Music is a two year program pending skill development.
- The Master of Arts in Theology and Master of Arts in Ministry are two year programs that can be earned fully online.
- The Master of Theology (Th.M.) is a one-year preparation program for doctoral studies that can be earned fully online.
Can I live on-campus?
Yes, many students live residentially on-campus in Emmaus Hall. We have three room options available. Contact admission for more information [email protected]
| Admission Checklist | M.Div.Lay | M.Div. Priesthood | M.T.S. | M.A.Lit.Mus | M.A.M | M.A.T | Th.M |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Application Form | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Official Transcript | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Letters of Recommendation | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 |
| Written Narrative | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | |
| Autobiography | √ | ||||||
| Writing Sample | √ | ||||||
| Resume/CV | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Certificate of Baptism and Confirmation | √ | ||||||
| Physician’s Note | √ | ||||||
| Audition/Interview | √ | ||||||
| Supplemental Priesthood Questionnaire | √ |