Online vs. On-Campus MTS: Choosing the Right Path for Your Theology Education
Choosing to pursue a Master of Theological Studies (MTS) is a crucial step for those seeking to deepen their faith, expand their theological understanding, and integrate faith-based values into their lives and careers. At the Franciscan School of Theology (FST), students can choose between two distinct learning formats — a traditional on-campus experience or a flexible online program — each designed to meet the needs of diverse learners.
Whether you thrive in a collaborative classroom setting or need the flexibility of online study, this guide will help you compare both options and determine which path best aligns with your personal and professional goals.
Overview of the On-Campus MTS Program
The on-campus Master of Theological Studies at FST is a two-year academic program designed to integrate theological study with faith-based service. Located in San Diego, California, this program provides a rich academic and spiritual environment rooted in the Franciscan Catholic tradition, which emphasizes joy, service, solidarity, and compassion.
The MTS program prepares students for careers in religious education, parish support, and ministry, or to pursue further academic study. Students are required to complete four semesters (48 units) of coursework that culminates in a thesis. The rigorous curriculum leads students in deepening their theological understanding while engaging in practical applications of faith and service.
Within the MTS program, students may choose an elective specialization in:
- Biblical Studies
- Christian Spirituality
- Ethics and Social Theory
- Religion and Society
- History
- Liturgical Studies
- Systematic and Philosophical Theology
Studying on campus at FST offers a unique, immersive experience where students learn alongside peers committed to active service and theological inquiry. Small class sizes foster personalized instruction, enabling students to build meaningful relationships with renowned Franciscan scholars who bring extensive backgrounds in theology and ministry. The collaborative nature of the program ensures that students engage deeply in theological discussions, liturgical experiences, and interdisciplinary coursework that integrates faith with real-world applications.
Being part of the on-campus MTS program at FST means:
- Engaging in face-to-face discussions with distinguished theologians
- Receiving mentorship and personalized academic and vocational guidance
- Utilizing the University of San Diego’s libraries, research centers, and academic support services
- Participating in workshops, liturgies, and spiritual formation activities
- Building lasting relationships with faculty, peers, and the wider Franciscan community
- Applying theological studies to ministry, social justice, faith-based leadership, education, community outreach, and more
- Taking part in hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for fulfilling careers
The on-campus MTS program at FST is a deeply immersive experience, where academic study and spiritual formation come to life through community, mentorship, and hands-on engagement. Here, students are not just learning theology — they are living it, preparing to bring Franciscan values of solidarity and compassion into the world in meaningful and impactful ways.
Overview of the Online MTS Program
FST’s online Master of Theological Studies – Franciscan Theology degree program provides a flexible and accessible alternative for students seeking to deepen their understanding of faith-based service. Offered in partnership with USD, this two-year academic program is designed for working professionals, recent graduates, and individuals balancing personal and professional commitments.
The online MTS-FT program provides the same rigorous curriculum as the on-campus program, preparing students for careers in religious education, parish support, ministry, and continuing studies. The program consists of 36 units, with courses delivered one at a time in an accelerated seven-week format to provide an engaging yet manageable academic experience. The MTS-FT culminates in a capstone project.
The program’s fully online format allows students to complete coursework from anywhere, ensuring that geographic location or busy schedules do not stand in the way of theological education. The asynchronous structure enables students to engage with course materials on their own schedule, while still benefiting from small class sizes that foster personalized faculty interaction through discussion forums, virtual meetings, and collaborative projects.
Courses are taught by many of the same Franciscan scholars who teach on-campus, ensuring that students receive high-quality academic instruction in a supportive and inclusive online community. The program integrates academic study with examples of real-world application, leading students to connect their theological insights with practical ministry and service-based leadership.
Choosing the online MTS-FT program means students can:
- Enjoy a fully flexible learning experience, balancing studies with work, family, and personal commitments
- Complete coursework from anywhere without relocating or adjusting their professional responsibilities
- Focus on one course at a time, ensuring deep engagement in each subject area
- Access world-class faculty and resources, including USD’s digital libraries, research databases, and online student support services
- Connect with a diverse community of learners, engaging in virtual discussions and group projects with students from around the world
- Apply Franciscan theology to careers in education, ministry, healthcare, nonprofit leadership, and other service-based professions
- Develop practical skills for engaging with diverse communities and addressing contemporary faith-related challenges
The online MTS-FT program offers more than convenience alone. It provides an immersive and transformative theological education, empowering students to integrate faith and service into their personal and professional lives, no matter where they are in the world.
“Each of our instructors was really invested in our success. We were all different ages, from all over the world, and not everyone was Catholic — but we learned from each other.”
Denise Clare, online MTS-FT student
Comparing the Online vs. On-Campus MTS
Both the on-campus MTS and online MTS-FT programs offer a rigorous theological education, but they cater to different learning styles, schedules, and career goals. The table below highlights the key differences to help prospective students choose the format that best aligns with their needs.
| On-campus MTS | Online MTS-FT | |
| Flexibility / Scheduling | – Traditional semester-based schedule requiring full-time or part-time enrollment – Multiple courses per term – Classes take place in the evenings to accommodate work schedules – Requires dedicated time on campus | – Designed for working professionals and those with personal commitments – 100% online coursework with asynchronous learning – One class at a time in an accelerated seven-week format – Greater flexibility for balancing studies with work and personal life |
| Interaction / Community | – Face-to-face interactions with faculty, peers, and Franciscan communities – Immersion in campus life, worship, academic events, and personal mentorship | – Virtual engagement through discussion forums, live video sessions, and collaborative projects – Connects students with faculty and peers worldwide and on the FST campus, fostering a diverse virtual community |
| Learning Environment | – Traditional academic setting with access to faculty, campus libraries, and University of San Diego resources – Structured, immersive learning environment with in-person lectures, discussions, and theological reflections | – Self-paced digital learning experience with access to online libraries, research databases, and virtual student support services – Interactive, discussion-based coursework with virtual faculty and peer engagement |
| Career Outcomes / Networking Opportunities | – In-person networking with faculty, peers, and local religious communities – Opportunities for immersive ministry experiences, spiritual retreats, and local service projects – Strong connections with Franciscan leadership, alumni, and University of San Diego professional networks | – Virtual networking through global student connections and online discussions – Ideal for professionals integrating theology into existing careers (education, counseling, healthcare, nonprofit leadership) – Access to a broad, international network of Franciscan scholars and alumni |
Which Program Is Right for You?
Choosing between the on-campus MTS and online MTS-FT programs depends on your lifestyle, learning style, and career aspirations.
The on-campus MTS is ideal for students seeking a traditional, immersive learning experience, with face-to-face mentorship and direct engagement in Franciscan theological and ministerial life. This program provides the opportunity to build strong in-person connections with faculty, peers, and the Franciscan community.
The online MTS-FT is best suited for those who need flexibility and prefer self-paced study. This program enables students to engage with a global Franciscan community while balancing studies with work, family, or other commitments.
If you’re unsure which path is right for you, we encourage you to speak with an FST admissions counselor for guidance. Our team is here to help you find the program that best supports your academic, spiritual, and professional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an online and on-campus Master of Theological Studies (MTS) program?
At the Franciscan School of Theology, both programs provide a rigorous, Franciscan-rooted theological education, but they differ in format and learning experience. The online MTS offers flexibility through asynchronous courses that enable students to complete coursework on their own schedule. It is ideal for working professionals, those with personal commitments, or students who prefer self-paced study. The on-campus MTS follows a traditional semester-based structure that requires in-person attendance. It provides a more immersive learning environment, with direct engagement in Franciscan community life, worship, and mentorship.
Is an online MTS degree as respected as an on-campus degree?
Yes! The online MTS-FT degree at FST holds the same academic integrity and accreditation as the on-campus program. It is taught by the same renowned Franciscan scholars and provides a high-quality theological education. Employers and academic institutions recognize online graduate degrees, especially those from respected institutions like FST and the University of San Diego.
How do online MTS programs support interaction with faculty and peers?
FST’s online MTS-FT program fosters a strong sense of community through:
- Discussion forums where students exchange ideas and theological insights
- Live virtual meetings with faculty and classmates for deeper engagement
- Collaborative projects that encourage teamwork and peer learning
- Personalized feedback from instructors who are invested in student success
Even in a digital format, students build meaningful connections and engage in rich theological discussions.
Do online MTS students have the same networking advantages as on-campus students?
Yes! While on-campus students benefit from in-person interactions and local ministry opportunities, online students gain unique networking advantages, including:
Flexible pathways to integrating theology into various career fields such as education, ministry, nonprofit leadership, and counseling
Global connections with classmates from diverse backgrounds and locations
Access to Franciscan scholars and alumni networks worldwide
Virtual networking opportunities through discussion groups, live sessions, and online events
