Theology, M.A.

The mission of Xavier’s theology program is to provide a transformative theological education from a Catholic and ecumenical perspective inspired by the documents of the Second Vatican Council and the 35th General Congregation of the Society of Jesus. Accordingly, our mission empowers graduate students to think theologically, analyze issues from a Catholic and interreligious perspective, and act responsibly in the world for the promotion of peace and justice.

Our graduate program in theology provides students with a firm foundation in Christian theology through the study of scripture, tradition and ethics. The program is flexible enough to accommodate a wide variety of interests while equipping students with the historical awareness and professional resources necessary to enter or advance in careers such as teaching, ministry or writing, to pursue doctoral work,  or to promote the students’ personal spiritual development.

Because no definite amount of previous study of theology is prerequisite for admission to the program, students may vary considerably in their preparation. Ordinarily, applicants should have a background in the humanities, but each applicant will be considered individually. Students without sufficient undergraduate background in theology or religious studies will normally be admitted on a conditional basis, with a requirement to get grades of ‘B’ or above in their first two classes in order to continue in the program. All applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. An undergraduate GPA of 2.700 or better is preferred.

The MA in Theology will require satisfactory completion of 30 semester hours of graduate work (i.e. ten courses or nine courses plus a thesis), all of which must be at the graduate (500-800) level.

Undergraduates who attend Xavier University have a unique opportunity to begin work towards their master’s degree during their undergraduate studies. The 5-year path provides a focused, cost-effective way for our most qualified undergraduate students to prepare for a broad variety of professional careers.