The M.A. in Theology introduces and explores the major themes in Catholic doctrine and practice, as well as the research methods that are central to theology as an academic discipline. Required and elective courses permit the student to both develop a foundation and pursue an area of interest among courses in doctrine, biblical studies, morality, spirituality, Church history, and the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas. Within the M.A. in Theology, the program also includes concentrations in Early Christian Studies and Aquinas Studies.

Admission Requirements

• A completed admission application form and application fee
• A personal statement
• Official transcripts of undergraduate and graduate course work
• Graduate Record Examination scores (M.A. Programs only)
• Two letters of reference
• 18 credits in theology with minimum B average
• Interview with the Program Director
• Approval by the Committee on Admissions

Degree Requirements

For the M.A. in Theology, students are required to complete 30 credit hours of graduate work, which includes 15 credits in the required courses: Introduction to the Old Testament, Introduction to the New Testament, Theology: History and Methods, Christ: Word and Redeemer, and Patristic Theology. Those students who desire to pursue the concentrations in Early Christian Studies and Aquinas Studies will take 12 hours of coursework in this area in addition to the required courses. All students are required to write a thesis under the direction of a professor and offer an oral defense before the faculty. Students also take a comprehensive exam based on a bibliography of primary sources in the field.

For further information, contact:

Dr. Gary Culpepper
Program Director
St. Catherine of Sienna Hall 238
garyculp@providence.edu
(401) 865-2863