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Master of Theological Studies
The M.T. S. program provides students with a solid theological foundation that prepares them for advanced theological study and for teaching and leadership roles in Christian communities. Students interested in pursuing a doctorate (Ph.D.) will benefit from this course of study.
“I chose the M.T.S., concentrating in systematic theology, because I felt that it would help me to ask and answer questions about my own experience of faith, as well as enable me to aid others in asking similar questions. I have found a real community of scholarship here in Collegeville and think that it has significantly impacted my life, both academically and personally. For those discerning the MTS, I would say that it has provided me with the space and the tools to develop a fides quarens intellectum et iustitiam and all within a community of friends and mentors that have walked with me every step of the way.”
Henry Widdicombe, MTS ‘23
The Master of Theological Studies immerses students in the wisdom of the theological tradition. Love of learning inspires students to embrace the rigors and joys of this course of study.
Students first complete twenty-one credits in scripture, liturgy, doctrine, monastic studies, spirituality, and the history of Christian thought. This initial coursework, which we label “the Collegeville core,” aims to cultivate an awareness of theological learning as a profound way of honoring the mystery of God.
Introduced to this mode of theological thinking carried out within the context of a praying community, students then choose one of the following five focus areas for the second half of their degree work:
- Scripture
- Liturgy
- Systematics
- History of Christian thought
- Monastic studies/spirituality
Capstone requirements for the degree include one graduate paper and a comprehensive exam.
Benedictine Tradition
Theological study has long been valued in the Benedictine tradition as a central element of the search for God. At Saint John’s, the monastic rhythm of prayer and work keeps academic study grounded in the common life of faith.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Master of Theological Studies program will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of the history and contemporary context of the Christian theological tradition, including its global context, ecumenical character, and the multicultural realities.
- Exercise a critical, historically-rooted approach to theology that includes reading primary texts in their historical context, assessing them critically, and identifying the social, cultural, and personal lens through which they interpret the tradition.
- Articulate ways in which theological study serves the ongoing life of the Church.
Incorporate the Benedictine charisms of biblical, liturgical, and communal life into their vocational identity and practice.
Application Process
Saint John’s uses a robust application software, Slate, for the application process. Prospective students will create a username and password, and then upload/request pertinent information directly into Slate. After beginning an application, students can log back into the application portal and check their progress.
If you have any questions/concerns about Slate and the admission process, please reach out to the Admission Office: [email protected]
Written Narrative
Applicants are required to upload a typed narrative as a part of the application. This narrative should be about 1250-1500 words, double spaced. This can be uploaded into your Slate Application Portal.
This narrative should address:
- The life experiences that have had a significant impact on your personal growth and development with particular attention to the ways these experiences have revealed both your strengths and areas for improvement.
- Describe your view of the Church in the next decade and the role you might have in serving the Church.
Outline the desired goals you wish to achieve at Saint John’s and how Saint John’s can assist in the fulfillment of your personal, professional, and educational goals.
Letters of Recommendation
M.T.S applicants are required to request 3 letters of recommendation, from educational or professional contacts, within the online application system. The M.T.S requires that at least one letter of recommendation speak to the applicant’s ability for research.
Recommenders should be able to speak to the academic ability, leadership qualities, communication skills, and overall readiness for graduate theological study.
Letters of recommendation must be requested through the Slate Portal and cannot be sent directly from the applicant to the admission office.
Transcripts
Official transcripts of post-secondary coursework must be sent from the Registrar’s Office to the Admissions Office
Contact Information for Sending Transcripts:
Admissions at Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary
P.O. Box 7288
Collegeville, MN 56321
Resume / CV
Applicants are required to submit an updated résumé outlining personal, educational and professional backgrounds. This can be uploaded directly into the application portal, Slate.