Theology

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DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN THEOLOGY (PhD)

The six-year program is designed to combine traditional MTS and PhD degree programs. It accommodates students on both a fully-funded and a self-funded basis, with provisions for extending the latter to as many as twenty-four semesters. The program is rooted in the Augustinian Catholic tradition. All students pursue a deeper understanding of the manifold ways in which faith and culture intersect. The Doctor of Philosophy in Theology program is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of The Association of Theological Schools (www.ats.edu). 

Requirements

The combined program requires fully-funded students to complete seventy-eight graduate credit hours of course work (less any accepted transfer credits) during their first seven semesters of residence. Fully-funded students complete an additional nine credits in theological education during semesters seven through ten of their residence. Students enroll in a dissertation writing course once they have been approved for the dissertation phase of the program. Successful completion of our "Heart of Teaching" Theological Education Formation program is a further requirement for the terminal degree. 

MASTER’S PROGRAMS

All Master's programs emphasize a broad understanding of the Catholic intellectual and ministerial traditions in the light of the Second Vatican Council and the questions raised by contemporary culture. The programs prepare for secondary school teaching, lay ministry, and doctoral studies; they also provide further foundation for those in educational or ministerial leadership.  All Master’s programs in Theology (Master of Theological Studies; Master of Arts in Theology; and Master of Arts in Ministry and Theology) are accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of The Association of Theological Schools (www.ats.edu).

Requirements for Master of Theological Studies (MTS)

The MTS is a stand-alone degree. We also award it “on the road” to the PhD degree. To earn the MTS, students complete forty-eight credit hours of course work. The degree can be pursued along two tracks. The Theological Education track includes a supervised teaching practicum. The Research/Creative Project track includes a supervised research or creative project. In both tracks, the exit requirement is a Portfolio Review.

Beginning Fall 2026, admissions and financial awards to the MTS (both the Research and Theological Education Tracks) are suspended.

Requirements for Master of Arts (MA)

The MA is a stand-alone degree. To earn the MA, students complete thirty-six credit hours of course work. Students may develop a concentration in one area of study. The exit requirement is a Portfolio Review.

Requirements for Master of Arts in Ministry and Theology (MMT)

The MMT is a stand-alone degree. Students complete forty-eight credit hours of course work, including field education or Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) units. The degree can be pursued along two tracks: the General Track or the Chaplaincy Education Track, which enables students interested in pursuing certification in hospital chaplaincy to complete necessary coursework and two CPE requirements to apply for board certification (please note that this program does NOT grant certification, but instead moves students toward being able to apply for certification). In both tracks, the exit requirement is a Portfolio Review.

Requirements for Combined Bachelor/Master (BA/MA)

The BA/MA combines the Bachelor of Arts in Theology and Religious Studies with the Master of Arts in Theology. Students replace four undergraduate elective courses with four graduate courses—which count towards both degrees. Requirements for each program must be satisfied.

CERTIFICATES

The Department offers three Certificate Programs:

  1. Theological Studies (15 credits)

  2. Interdisciplinary Theological Inquiry (15 credits)

  3. Pastoral Ministry (24 credits)

Each program permits students to develop concentrations and tailor courses to specific needs and professional objectives. Courses may be applied toward any of our master’s degree programs.

JOINT PROGRAMS

These programs offer the opportunity to combine the MA in Theology with a departmental or extra-departmental Certificate. All programs can be completed on a full-time or a part- time basis.

  1. Master of Arts with Certificate in History

  2. Master of Arts with Certificate in Education

  3. Master of Arts with Certificate in Non-Profit Management

  4. Master of Arts with Certificate in Gender and Women’s Studies

  5. Master of Arts with Certificate in Advanced Theological Studies

DUAL MASTER’S DEGREES

Dual degree programs provide alternate paths to Villanova degrees. They are especially designed for students who wish to complement their theological education with studies in related or different disciplines. We currently offer dual Master’s Degree Programs in Theology & History, Public Administration, English, Political Science, and Education. Other individualized programs are possible.

 

Disclaimer:
In order that programs offered by Villanova University reflect current advances and additions to knowledge and upgraded professional requirements, Villanova University reserves the right to change programs and requirements without prior notice. Students generally are bound to the requirements in effect and published on the world wide web for the year in which their class begins its first year of study. Special requirements may be in effect for students who have left the University and are being readmitted. Students are advised to check with the web catalog or with their college offices regarding changes that may affect them. Additional academic information may be obtained from the various college offices and the web sites listed for the particular policies, programs and services found in this catalog.

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Theology