Master of Theological Studies (MTS)
Discover Franciscan Theology in a World-Class Academic Setting
Request InfoMTS Program Overview
The Master of Theological Studies – Franciscan Theology (MTS) is a two-year academic program offered by the Franciscan School of Theology in San Diego, California.
This is a one-of-a-kind professional and spiritual growth experience designed to help you gain the skills and hands-on education you need to advance your career — all while applying your faith to your profession and vocation.
The Franciscan Catholic tradition is a joy-filled faith study that promotes a heart of service, solidarity, and compassion. The Franciscan School of Theology faculty is committed to embodying this tradition in our increasingly diverse and connected world, using faith studies to enact positive change in communities from local to global.
Who Is the MTS Degree For?
Designed for established professionals and recent undergraduates alike, this program is ideal for those pursuing careers in religious education, parish support, or ministry, or as preparation for further academic work. The MTS degree program can accommodate all experience levels and welcomes anyone seeking a deeper understanding of faith-based service.
Students of the MTS program are:
- Educators and Teachers
- In Parish, Church, Campus/College Ministry
- Business Professionals
- Counselors/Medical Professionals
- Aspiring Theologians
- Military Professionals
- Community Leaders
- Seekers
- Career Changers
- Individuals looking for something more
- Individuals looking to integrate their faith into their respective careers
MTS Program Learning Outcomes
The MTS program learning outcomes are intended to prepare students to:
- Interpret and apply theological knowledge to various elements of the Catholic faith
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of a specified theological discipline
- Exhibit a focused knowledge in a chosen theological discipline
- Conduct research and construct a theological argument in the form of a thesis
- Communicate coherently, effectively, and persuasively in writing and speaking
- Collaborate with others
- Dedicate appropriate time and attention to chosen areas of study
Connect with an Advisor
Career Paths with an MTS Degree
Graduates of the MTS program go on to work or serve in a multitude of fields, many of them not strictly related to the diocese. The MTS is a popular program for service providers, among others, who wish to treat the “whole person” in their profession, drawing from their knowledge of people with diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences. Graduates of the Franciscan School of Theology MTS program include:
- Attorneys
- Campus Ministers
- Chaplains
- Counselors
- Educators
- Faith Formators
- Healthcare Providers
- Human Rights Advocates
- Liturgists
- Members of the armed forces
- Musicians
- Nonprofit Leaders
- Pastoral Ministers
- Program Directors
- School Administrators
- Social Workers
- Youth Ministers
Admissions
Step 1: Connect with an FST enrollment advisor. An enrollment advisor can guide you through the process, help request your documentation, and even get your application fee waived.
Step 2: Create an online account to apply for FST graduate programs. The easiest way to apply to FST is to complete the online application, uploading the supporting documents as they are ready.
Step 3: Gather your application materials. These include your official transcripts, Letters of Recommendation, and your Statement of Purpose.
Step 4: Complete and submit your application. Applications for admission are accepted on a rolling basis. The Review Committee will recommend a decision within one week of your application being submitted.
Please remember to review all admissions requirements carefully before applying.
AdmissionsMTS Program Requirements
MTS students are required to:
- Complete 48 semester units as described in the curriculum below, a maximum of 13 of which may be taken at the University of San Diego’s graduate schools.
- Maintain an overall 3.0 grade point average in all required and elective courses.
- Be enrolled in the school full-time for at least four semesters to fulfill the 2-year full-time tuition residency requirement.
- Complete all work within four years of the first semester of enrollment.
MTS Program Curriculum
The Master of Theological Studies program curriculum provides students with a foundation of theological knowledge in the Roman Catholic tradition, as interpreted by Saint Francis of Assisi. Students will develop their own interpretations of his teachings, as well as learn to apply this foundational knowledge to their professional and personal objectives.
Students choose an area of academic specialization among Biblical Studies (Old or New Testament), Christian Spirituality, Ethics and Social Theory, Religion and Society, History, Liturgical Studies, and Systematic and Philosophical Theology.
Sample curriculum:
After a brief introduction to the Bible as a whole and various approaches to it, this course seeks to present an overview of the Old Testament by studying its main literary works, theological traditions, and the historical contexts in which they grew. The primary focus is on theology and spirituality.
An introductory course on fundamental elements of Catholic Liturgy, including historical development of celebration of the Eucharistic liturgy, organization of liturgical space, important Church norms on liturgical practice and theology.
An introductory course in theology which will discuss sources, methodology, relationship to the world, and an understanding of the Catholic Magisterium. This course will consist of lectures, small group discussion, written midterms and finals as well as a short oral class presentation. Intended audience is first year theology students, required introduction.
This course studies the writings of the New Testament in their historical, cultural, social, and religious contexts. The student is introduced to the basic content, structure, and motifs of the NT.
This basic course in Christology focuses on the particular contribution of Franciscan thinkers, the importance of the intercultural dialogue today and the significance of Franciscan spirituality for the third millennium. Student work includes regular reflection papers, one major paper/project and one midterm exam.
An exploration of major Church documents from Vatican II to present, within the context of social and ecclesial developments and historical trends. After reviewing the development of the Church from the time of Vatican I to Vatican II, the course will use the documents of the Council and the post-conciliar world to explore such themes as the Church in a global world, dialogue, collegiality, ecumenism, priestly identity in the context of lay-clerical relationships, the role of women in the Church, the development of parochial life, the policies and teaching of the papacy, etc.
The first part of a two semester course in the history of Christianity the semester will have two modules of 6/7 classes each: the development of early and ancient Christianity, and medieval Christianity, Gregory the Great to the eve of the Reformation.
A continuation of History of Christianity I, this course covers the development of Christianity from Reformation times to the 20th century. Taught in modules of 6 or 7 weeks, the first part covers the Reformation to Vatican I and the second part covers the history of Catholicism in the United States.
A course exploring issues of Catholic theology, mission and indigenous culture, designed to complement Global Theological Education Initiatives.
This course explores the historical development of Christian spirituality by examining the inspirational texts that have touched the mind and heart of Christians throughout history. The course also discusses the development of the definition of spirituality and various approaches to the modern studies of spirituality.
Accreditation
The Franciscan School of Theology is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
The Franciscan School of Theology regularly assesses its academic programs to ensure that they continue to provide the desired depth and breadth of theological education and that they conform to the standards of the WASC and ATS accrediting agencies.
Program Faculty
Students of the MTS program study with renowned scholars whose teachings are drawn from lives of active service in parishes, schools, and community involvement. With a small student-teacher ratio, every student gets access to a wealth of knowledge and lived experiences.
Meet Faculty & StaffTuition & Financial Aid
The Franciscan School of Theology utilizes the University of San Diego’s financial aid department to provide financial aid guidance and support to our student body.
FST offers scholarships based on financial need and academic merit. Additionally, we offer two special programs for employees of Catholic institutions and professed members of the Secular Franciscan Order (full-time, on-campus degree programs only).
FST also participates in the Federal Direct Loan Program, open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
We recommend that applicants begin the financial aid process when applying for admission.
Financial AidWhy Choose The Franciscan School of Theology?
Discover the Franciscan Difference
The Franciscan School of Theology is committed to embodying Franciscan theology in a religiously and culturally diverse world. Based on the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, Franciscan theology offers an optimistic and hope-filled view of this world and Christ’s central presence within it.
In our living, our learning, our relationships, and our community, we address both the head and the heart by integrating the pastoral and academic dimensions of theological studies. In partnership with the University of San Diego, we share an affinity in Catholic identity, commitment to academic excellence, dedication to social change, and awareness of the unique challenges of living in a global world.
Learn with us and become part of the Franciscan Difference.
On-campus FST students can take advantage of:
- An immersive and unique career and personal-building education
- Accomplished professional faculty with extensive education/teaching experience
- Small class sizes with a small instructor-to-student ratio
- A strong community of dedicated, passionate, open-minded peers
- Access to numerous USD services and resources
“I am so grateful to FST for taking me in and allowing me to finish my master’s in
Theology. Even though I was only a part-time student the faculty and
student body always made me feel welcome.”
Peter Diaz, Master of Theological Studies, 2001
Other Degrees & Programs
Concurrent MDiv and MTS Degrees
Master of Divinity (MDiv)
MTS - Francsican Theology (Online)
FAQs About the Master of Divinity Program
Yes! The Franciscan School of Theology is unique in that lay people attend class alongside seminarians. Lay men and women may earn any of the degree programs offered by FST.
No. Persons of any faith background can apply to FST; however, applicants with in-depth knowledge of the Catholic faith, specifically the Franciscan charism, are given first consideration for the Master of Theological Studies degree program.
The answer is — almost anything they want! The Master of Theological Studies – Franciscan Theology degree provides an academic foundation for those who want to teach at the elementary or secondary level; those who want to provide support in their parish; counselors who work in hospitals, private clinics, or social services; or anyone who wishes to deepen their connection to their faith, whether in their personal or professional lives. The MTS program is also excellent preparation for those who wish to pursue further advanced degrees or academic research. Please be aware of any additional degree or licensure requirements for your desired profession.
FST offers scholarships to on-campus students. Applicants are also encouraged to speak to their enrollment advisor about financial aid options, which may include completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
The Franciscan School of Theology is authorized under federal law to enroll international, non-immigrant students. International applicants follow the same application procedures as other prospective students with a few added steps, including obtaining official English translations of transcripts (if written in a language other than English), a TOEFL score, and a financial declaration form for international students.
