The MTS program offers skills training to students who wish to teach classes in Parish Schools of Religion (PSR), the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) and in other areas of local parishes.
Master in Theological Studies
The Master of Theological Studies degree (M.T.S.) is intended to deepen the theological understanding of diocesan catechists and teachers of religion. It prepares students to explore and explain the Catholic theological tradition and provides a solid grounding in that tradition. The program is intended for those working in catechetical ministry in a Roman Catholic context and anticipates questions that frequently arise in the classroom and during the RCIA process.
Degrees Offered See the program-specific requirements. (PDF)
Master in Theological Studies
The master's in theology program is great! My wife and I are both enrolled and loving it. I think it will prove to be a brilliant move on behalf of Bishop Jackels and Newman University as far as improving the catechesis of the faithful.
~Christopher Riggs, Editor, The Catholic Advance, Catholic Diocese of Wichita
~Christopher Riggs, Editor, The Catholic Advance, Catholic Diocese of Wichita
Prominent Careers
More Information
The Department of theology offers two degrees in its graduate program of theology. The Master in Theological Studies (MTS) provides a solid grounding in the Catholic theological tradition and is intended for those working in parish ministry in a Roman Catholic context. The Master of Arts (MA) in Theology has more rigrorous requirements and is intended to prepare students to teach theology in a classroom setting as well as preparing those interested in pursuing doctoral work in theology. The MA degree requires some different course work than the MTS degree; it also requires the completion of a thesis and a comprehensive examination, as well as foreign language requirements, none of which are required for the MTS.
Toward the beginning of each course, all students will meet for an intensive weekend of instruction at the main campus in Wichita. The remainder of the instruction will take place online through modules that are designed to be interactive and visually engaging through the use of video clips, PowerPoint presentations and other electronic media-rich formats. Students must also complete reading assignments, participate in discussion boards and submit short essays. This online delivery format makes the degree programs available to people throughout the region. It also affords students with busy schedules the flexibility to do coursework at a convenient time and to continue working while they complete the degree.
The programs have been endorsed by the Catholic Dioceses of Wichita, Dodge City, and Salina.
Admissions
Admission into the Master of Theological Studies Program (MTS) requires the following materials:
- The applicant must already possess a four-year Bachelor’s Degree (B.A. or B.S.) in any field of study from an accredited college or university.
- An official copy of the applicant’s transcript(s) verifying the completion of the above degree.
- A completed application form.
- A non-refundable $25 application fee to be included with the application fee. Checks are made payable to Newman University.
- Two confidential letters of recommendation, one of which should come from a former professor or some other academic or administrative professional (school principal or pastor) who can testify to your academic ability. Exceptions can be made for those who have been out of college for a number of years.
- A typed personal essay of not more than 700 words describing the applicant's interest in Theology and his or her reasons and goals for pursuing graduate study in this area. The deadline for receiving all materials is July 31 for fall enrollment.