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Master of Arts in Theological Studies

The Master of Arts in Theological Studies (M.A.T.S.) fosters development of theological understanding as part of educational, professional, and spiritual growth. This two-year degree program is a general academic degree, providing balanced exposure to theological disciplines while allowing for focus on an area of interest.

Degrees Offered

• Master of Arts

Program Types

• Graduate

Mode of Study

• Hybrid

School / College

• San Francisco Theological Seminary

What is a Master of Arts in Theological Studies degree?

The Master of Arts in Theological Studies (M.A.T.S.) at the San Francisco Theological Seminary fosters the development of theological understanding as part of educational, professional, and spiritual growth. This two-year degree program is a general academic degree, providing balanced exposure to theological disciplines while allowing for focus on an area of interest.

Why this program at SFTS?

The M.A.T.S. offers the same breadth as the M.Div., but with greater flexibility. M.A.T.S. students develop a final paper integrating their learning and are not required to complete an internship. The M.A.T.S. may also be pursued part-time, and with the option to study online, on campus, or a combination of the two. It is ideal for those looking to enrich personal or professional development through theological education.

This degree is designed for students who:

• Are not seeking ordination, but wish to work in a church setting
• Are ordained, but desire further academic work in theological studies
• Wish to enhance their understanding of theological perspectives, religious practices, and/or principles of compassion to their vocations and professions

Program information

Concentrations

This program allows for concentration in a field of study to a greater extent than the M.Div. require­ments generally permit. The faculty and disciplines are organized into the following curricular areas:

• Biblical Studies
• History/Theology/Ethics
• Ministry/Spirituality
• Spiritual Care/Chaplaincy through the Shaw Chaplaincy Institute
• Or design your own!

Degree Requirements

• Two years full-time; up to four years part-time
• 16 courses; 48 units

What you'll learn

• Theological education
• Critical analysis
• Formation for ministry
• Pastoral and spiritual care

Expand your interfaith education at the GTU

SFTS is a founding member of the Graduate Theological Union (GTU) in Berkeley, CA—America’s largest consortium of interfaith and interdisciplinary religious thought, study, and practice from around the world. Students have access to classes and resources from institutions ranging from the Institute for Buddhist Studies to the University of California, Berkeley.