A faith-filled journey awaits you at the Franciscan School of Theology (FST)
Scholarship Opportunities
FST offers a variety of scholarship opportunities based on need and merit.
- 68% of FST students receive scholarships based on need
- The average need-based scholarship covers approximately 56% of tuition
- Employees of Catholic institutions are eligible for a 25% reduction in tuition or a matching grant up to 50%
- Merit-based scholarships available to students with 3.5 GPA and above
FST at USD
FST is located at the University of San Diego, providing students with additional facilities and resources to enhance the learning experience.
FST students have the opportunity to enhance their capabilities to serve in mission-oriented institutions and utilize multiple university resources through our curricular and service affiliation with the University of San Diego.
The affiliation makes available to all FST students numerous USD services, including access to the Copley Library, technology services and enrichment organizations and programs.
Degree-seeking students can enroll in approved graduate courses offered through the School of Leadership and Education Sciences, the School of Business MBA program, the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies, and in selected undergraduate courses in the USD Department of Philosophy.
Perfect Weather
FST is located on the campus of the University of San Diego, where you'll enjoy an average of 263 sunny days each year!
Life Changing Graduate Degrees
Master of Theological Studies (MTS)
The MTS is a two-year academic program in which students demonstrate a focused knowledge in their chosen theological specialization. Students will research, interpret, and apply theological knowledge, and construct a coherent, sustained theological argument reflecting an in-depth study of a theological topic.
Suitable for those interested in:
- Teaching at the elementary, secondary, or junior college level
- Working in church ministry
- Preparation for further academic work
Master of Divinity (MDiv)
A three-year professional degree preparing students for church ministry, the MDiv curriculum provides an interdisciplinary education with a theological foundation, grounded in the Franciscan tradition. Seminars, supervised field education, courses in pastoral ethics, and the cultivation of intercultural sensitivity are integral elements of this degree.
Suitable for those interested in:
- Serving in lay or ordained ecclesial and service ministries
- A career in education and professional ministry
Master of Arts (MA)
The Master of Arts degree (theology) is an academically rigorous degree that allows for specialization in Franciscan studies—especially Franciscan theology, history, and spirituality. Such specialization prepares students to work in programs of religious formation, in translation and publication of theological and historical texts, and preparation of printed and electronic resources to enhance awareness of significant authors, texts and themes of the Franciscan Tradition.
Suitable for those interested in:
- Teaching at the secondary level or in two-year college programs
- A graduate research degree in preparation for a doctoral program
TESTIMONIALS
Michael Brown
| MTS 2019
"It is a superlative education in faith" taught by the "most scholarly people in the world...It's very grounding and it's very satisfying."
TESTIMONIALS
Audrey Anaradian, PhD
| MDiv 2019
"Seeing life through the theological and spiritual lens of the Franciscan tradition opens the heart and mind to a lens of love, beauty, and goodness that fills one with awe and gratitude."
TESTIMONIALS
Sam Nasada, OFM
| MDiv 2017
"At FST, I not only received a theological education, I gained a community. It continues to be an inspiration in recognizing that if I look up deep enough and carefully enough, there are traces of the Franciscan spirit in everyone. The spirit of Francis is still alive in many people I meet and there are so many allies in the world. That has been a great source of hope for me. That is why we as Franciscans call everyone and all creations as brothers and sisters because we are all connected."
TESTIMONIALS
Kendra McClelland
| MDiv 2017
"Our professors genuinely invest in the development of the whole person, with a deep concern for our well-being and growth as a person of inherent value and extraordinary potential. Oftentimes, they saw more potential in us than we saw in ourselves, and over the course of the semester, they challenged us to not only realize it but to surpass it."
World-Renowned Scholars
The FST faculty is comprised of distinguished theological scholars from around the globe inter–and across the theological spectrum.
Academic Rigor
Engage wholeheartedly in your faith journey and discover your unique role in caring for our world and the Catholic Church with rigorous master’s programs and other educational opportunities.
A Vibrant Tradition
FST embodies the rich Franciscan theological tradition, applying centuries of lived wisdom to the needs of today–and shaping compassionate leaders for our diverse world.
Answer Your Calling
Connect with our admissions team to learn more about our programs, graduate degrees, and opportunities!
Accredited Education
