Master of Theological Studies

Duane Library

Fordham’s Master of Theological Studies (MTS) degree will allow you to engage in critical and constructive theological research while immersing yourself in this distinguished department's vibrant community of scholarly inquiry.

Our intensive, four-semester program is rigorous, interdisciplinary, and focused. You will gain a comprehensive foundation in Theology and Religious Studies as you pursue your own research. Designed to equip students for advanced doctoral study, the program also provides excellent preparation for a variety of careers requiring deep theological and religious competence.

In our increasingly mobile and interconnected global society, the ability to come to terms with theological complexity and religious difference is a vital skill. On complex issues such as ecological crisis, economic disparity, sexual, racial, and gender bias, and war and peace, theological and religious study offers a unique platform for deep understanding and constructive analysis. Whether you wish to pursue textual, linguistic, or historical studies, constructive theology, comparative religion, religious ethics, or something else, our program will prepare you for the next stages of your academic and career journey, and to make meaningful contributions to a more wise and just world. 

Download the Master of Theological Studies Brochure (PDF) or the MTS overview for more information.

Program Basics

  • The MTS requires 16 courses for a total of 48 credits, across four consecutive semesters
  • Graduates are required to gain language competencies appropriate to their field
  • Students complete at least two courses that concentrate on Islam, Judaism, or another non-Christian tradition
  • All students take an interdisciplinary methodology course entitled “Context, Theory, and Theology.”

Courses of Study

Students have the opportunity to work with faculty in all of the department’s areas of research:

  • Biblical Studies
  • History of Christianity
  • Systematic Theology
  • Judaism in Antiquity
  • Theological Ethics
  • Medieval and Modern Islam

In addition to completing a broad-based core curriculum, students will concentrate in one of two fields of study:

  • Studies in Ancient and Medieval Theology/Religion 
  • Studies in Modern and Contemporary Theology/Religion

Admissions Requirements

Acceptance into the MTS program will come through a successful application that includes official undergraduate transcripts, a statement of intent ( maximum 1000 words), a writing sample, (10-20 pages), three confidential recommendations, and optional GRE scores. The ideal student need not be a theology or religious studies undergraduate major, but may be someone with a strong background in the humanities (e.g., history, classics, philosophy, languages, or English), or even a background in the sciences (natural or social) who demonstrates the potential to conduct theological research at a high level.

Student Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be prepared to enter doctoral work in various fields, including:

  • Theology
  • Religious Studies
  • Medieval Studies
  • History
  • Jewish Studies
  • Islamic Studies
  • Theological and Social Ethics

They may also pursue non-academic careers in a wide range of occupations that draw upon theological/religious knowledge. Some examples include:

  • Publishing
  • Journalism
  • Law
  • Social Service and Justice Advocacy
  • Ministry
  • Secondary Education