Master of Arts

The Master of Arts (Religious Studies) is a two-year graduate program that focuses on the study of religious traditions, theology and ethics. Culminating with a Master’s Thesis, this program allows you to focus theological study in an area of personal interest. This is an appropriate degree if you are preparing for further study at the doctoral level; seeking advanced theological study as a foundation for service; or simply wish to study theology and religion without the aim of entering professional ministry.

CTS now offers a fully-accredited MA online. This first-of-its-kind degree program allows you to study here regardless of location. Learn more about our online degrees here.

Program Goals and Learning Outcomes:

PROGRAM GOALS

  • MA graduates will have acquired foundational knowledge of and the capacity to interpret and communicate religious traditions.
  • MA graduates will be able to think critically about religious traditions.
  • MA graduates will be able to complete graduate level academic research in religious studies.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

  • Students will apply foundational knowledge of religious traditions appropriately in scholarly research.
  • Students will demonstrate ability to construct and develop a substantial scholarly argument in religious studies.
  • Students will demonstrate ability to think and write critically about religious traditions.
  • Students will demonstrate in-depth scholarly knowledge in a specific area relating to religious studies.

MA Concentrations:

Islamic Studies

This concentration, offered in agreement with Bayan at CTS, is designed to offer a specialized course of study for persons who wish to explore Islamic thought and practices. Students who choose to concentrate in Islamic Studies may take courses toward the concentration either at CTS, Bayan at CTS, or via pre-approved courses at other Association of Theological Schools (ACTS) seminaries.

Interreligious Studies

This concentration is designed to offer a specialized course of study for persons who wish to explore issues in Interreligious Engagement and the study of diverse religious traditions. Students who choose to concentrate in Interreligious Engagement may take courses toward the concentration either at CTS or via pre-approved courses at other Association of Theological Schools (ACTS) seminaries.

Chaplaincy Studies

This concentration is designed specifically for those pursuing chaplaincy. Students must take three elective courses in the concentration area plus focus their thesis in that area as well in order to satisfy the concentration requirements.

LGBTQ+ Studies

This concentration offers a specialized study in LGBTQ+ faith and life. Students must take three elective courses in the concentration area plus focus their thesis in that area as well in order to satisfy the concentration requirements.

The Study of Black Faith and Life

This concentration is designed to offer a specialized course of study for persons, including professionals in fields other than ministry, who wish to explore issues in the study of Black Faith and Life within a theological framework. Students who choose to concentrate in the Study of Black Faith & Life may take courses toward the concentration either at CTS or via pre-approved courses at other Association of Theological Schools (ACTS) seminaries.