Master of Arts (Theology)

Do you wish to deepen your understanding of theology? The University of Notre Dame’s Master of Arts (Theology) degree has been designed with subject alternatives to serve a wide range of professional needs and interests. This program has a particular appeal to religious education teachers and will also resonate with students from other academic backgrounds. Completed in two years of full-time study (or the equivalent part-time), this program asks and offers answers to some of the big questions facing any Christian, such as the nature of God, the origins of human life and the nature of personal identity. You will become informed about the development of Catholic theology in relation to philosophy, history, and the everyday lives of people of faith worldwide.

Why study this degree?

• If you are already teaching religious education in a school setting, this master’s degree is ideal. Theology has always held a central place in the life and mission of the Church by nurturing communities of believers as they come to understand their faith and explain it to others. The Master of Arts (Theology) is a unique opportunity for students from various backgrounds to learn the fundamentals of theology.
• From a personal point of view, theology may be seen as faith’s search for understanding, for a sense of who God is, who we are, and what we and our world can become in and through a relationship with God. The study of theology explores issues such as the nature of God, His revelation in Jesus Christ, the nature of personal identity and humanity, human origins and destiny, the Christian community and God’s presence with us now in the Holy Spirit. Catholic theology develops a rich understanding of how humans respond to Scripture and Tradition.
• The Master of Arts (Theology) can be completed in two years of full-time study or as a part-time student. Assessment is by tutorial presentation, discussions, seminars and a research project. This program will particularly interest those already teaching religious education in schools but will also appeal to students from various backgrounds.

Learning outcomes

• Upon successful completion of the Master of Arts (Theology), graduates will be able to:
• Demonstrate broad and general knowledge of theological concepts, arguments, and principles in specific areas of theology
• Demonstrate knowledge of principles and methods applicable to research in theology
• Demonstrate theological skills that show mastery of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on theory and scholarship
• Demonstrate communication and technical research skills to justify and interpret theological propositions, methodologies, conclusions, and ethical decisions that can be understood by specialist and non-specialist audiences; and
• Demonstrate the application of theological knowledge and skills with creativity and initiative for further learning with a high-level personal autonomy.

Career opportunities

• Graduates of the Master of Arts (Theology) can find employment in areas such as religious education, ministry, pastoral counselling, spiritual direction and youth work.

Real-world experience

• You will learn from our academics, who are leaders in their field. There are no practicum requirements for this program.