World-Renowned Scholars
The FST faculty is comprised of distinguished theological scholars from around the globe—and across the theological spectrum.
Academic Rigor
Engage wholeheartedly in your faith journey and discover your unique role in caring for our world and ministering in 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.
Learn Where
Life is Beautiful.
FST is located on the pristine campus of the University of San Diego, where the beauty of God’s creation is all around you.
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
Justin Combs
| MTS 2017
“The professors at FST are world-renowned academics and theologians. They are second to none in their knowledge of what is being communicated and studied.”
TESTIMONIALS
Maria-de-Valencia
| Concurrent-MDiv MTS
“At the personal level, the formation as FST helped me become a better human being in seeing Christ in my brothers and sisters. I have learned to be more authentic with myself, to judge less and listen more, as well as to be attentive to the signs of the times and to respond accordingly. At the professional level, FST has equipped me with the education to apply my leadership skills, ability to analyze information critically, and capacity to make thoughtful decisions.”
TESTIMONIALS
Margaret E. McCahill, OFS, MD, MTS
| MTS 2016
“It has been my great privilege to be a physician, and from my work at FST, I strive to link observations and concerns from my experience as a physician, together with a potential Franciscan response is drawn from the message of beauty, joy, and goodness, that can be found in the Franciscan tradition's approach to the care of the sick.”
Answer Your Calling
Connect with our admissions team to learn more about our programs, graduate degrees, and opportunities!
Accredited Education
