The Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) provides students with a thorough understanding of theology that simultaneously increases knowledge of the faith and incites humble adoration of the mysteries of divine revelation.
The MATS program is well-designed for those who wish to engage in further study (such as a Ph.D. program in theology); for those who wish to pursue the art of teaching the faith (either in a Catholic school or parish environment); or for those who wish to receive systematic theological formation with the opportunity to study a particular area through a concentration and the possibility of a thesis. Students can take this Masters in Catholic theology online or on campus.
Students engage theology broadly while choosing a specific focus in Biblical Theology, Historical Theology, Systematic Theology, or Pastoral Theology. Unique among our degree programs, the MATS affords students great flexibility in course selection: within a given concentration, students have freedom to build a curriculum that can be directed towards comprehensive understanding or particular areas of research interest.
A student who completes the MATS can expect:
1. To demonstrate an understanding of the foundations of Catholic theology
2. To achieve rigorous competency in a focused area of theological study
3. To integrate theological reflection, spiritual devotion, and academic research
4. To articulate Catholic theology in a manner that both draws on received tradition and engages contemporary culture
Curriculum:
- C215 - Introduction to Theological Studies
- D214 – Spiritual Formation
Course I
Course II
Course III
Course IV
Course V
Course VI
Course VII
Course VIII
A/B/C/D-Area Elective I
A/B/C/D-Area Elective II
A/B/C/D-Area Elective III
A/B/C/D-Area Elective* IV
A/B/C/D-Area Elective* V
*In the thesis track, A/B/C/D-Area Electives IV and V are replaced with Thesis I and Thesis II.
To explore further the courses available in the MATS program, click here to view our Course Catalog, which offers a listing of courses and course descriptions!
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What can I do with a Masters in Catholic Theology?
St. Bernard's Master of Arts in Theological Studies program prepares you for further graduate work, teaching positions, personal study and writing interests, and related work in non-academic fields. St. Bernard's MATS graduates have gone on to pursue Ph.D.’s, academic and popular writing, and teaching positions in theology and catechesis. A more in-depth overview of what to do with this degree can be found here: https://www.stbernards.edu/blog/why-study-theology -
What are the prerequisites for a Masters in Theology?
The prerequisites for a Masters in Theology at St. Bernard's include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5. No GRE is required. More information on prerequisites and the admissions process can be found here: https://www.stbernards.edu/admissions -
Can I study theology online?
Yes, St. Bernard's offers all courses online both synchronously (live via Zoom) and asynchronously (at your own pace) for those unable to attend in person. More information about studying our Masters in Catholic theology online can be found here: https://www.stbernards.edu/distance-learning-and-online-education -
What is the difference between a Master of Theology and Master of Divinity?
The difference between a Master of Theology and Master of Divinity at St. Bernard's is that an MATS prepares you for a teaching or academic career, while an MDiv prepares you for leadership and ministry roles in the Church and nonprofit organizations. More on our MDiv program can be read here: https://www.stbernards.edu/master-of-divinity -
How long is a Masters in Theology?
A Masters in Theology at St. Bernard's typically amounts to 2 years when completed on a full-time basis. Completing the program part-time usually takes around 3 to 4 years. Our programs are flexible and can be completed at a pace that works for you!
