Program Overview

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Introduction to the M.A. in Theology and Ministry Program

The M.A. in Theology and Ministry program at Boston College's Clough School of Theology and Ministry is designed to provide students with a thorough grounding in theology and ministry. This program combines intensive theological study, spiritual formation, and ministerial development, preparing students to respond to the complex needs of the Church and the world.

Program Overview

The M.A. in Theology and Ministry program is available in both in-person and hybrid formats, as well as 36- and 48-credit tracks. The program can be completed in two years of full-time study or three years for dual degree and hybrid modality students.

Program Modalities

The M.A. program is available through three modalities:

• Boston-based (full-time or part-time)
• Hybrid (summer residencies in Boston, academic year online)
• Dual degree (with social work, counseling, business, or education)

Curriculum

The curriculum for the M.A. in Theology and Ministry program includes:

Theology & Scripture Core

• Theological Foundations in Practical Perspective (3 credits)
• Christology (3 credits)
• Systematic Theology or History of Christianity (3 credits)
• Ecclesiology or Ecumenical/Interreligious Studies (3 credits)
• Ethics (3 credits)
• Old/New Testament (3 credits)
• Scripture course that includes a focus on the other Testament (3 credits)

Pastoral Studies for Ministry Core

• Religious Education (3 credits)
• Pastoral Care (3 credits)
• Spirituality (3 credits)
• Pastoral/Practical Theology or Liturgy (3 credits)

Formation for Ministry

• Spiritual Formation (1 credit)
• Contextual Education (1 credit)
• Internship Reflection Group (4 credits)

Electives

• 9 credits of elective courses

Capstone Project

In their last year of study, M.A. students will complete their degree with a Capstone Project, which can be completed in one of three ways:

1. An integrative ministry project design with accompanying theological reflection
2. An arts-based project or performance with accompanying theological reflection
3. A written research-based thesis, which will culminate in an oral defense

Justice and Diversity Formation Commitments

One three-credit course in each of the following areas must be courses identified by the CSTM as meeting schoolwide criteria to fulfill Justice and Diversity formation commitments:

• Theology and Scripture Core
• Pastoral Studies Core
• Elective

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the M.A. in Theology and Ministry program will be able to:

• Bring informed theological, biblical, and pastoral resources to interpret and enhance the life and ministry of faith-based communities and programs of service
• Embody the intellectual, pastoral, and spiritual formation that is needed to provide leadership and empowerment to diverse communities of faith through various functions of education, ministry, and service
• Demonstrate leadership (ecclesial, educational, ministerial, and public) that is well-grounded in theological and pastoral studies, and that affirms the values of justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion, enabling persons and communities to integrate life and Christian faith in accord with these values

Optional Program Concentrations

Students completing the 48-credit M.A. full-time may pick one of the following concentrations:

• Religious Education
• Latino/a Christianity and Ministry
• Spirituality
• Faith and Public Life
• Theology and the Arts
• Theology and Women's Studies

Dual Degrees

The M.A. in Theology and Ministry can be paired with a top-ranked master's in business administration, social work, mental health counseling, or curriculum and instruction (through a partnership with BC's Urban Catholic Teacher Corps).

Careers

100% of 2023 M.A. graduates found a placement within six months of graduation. Recent placements include:

• Director of Faith Formation, St. Ignatius of Loyola Parish
• Campus Minister for Retreats, Loyola University Chicago
• Hispanic Youth and Young Adult Coordinator, Diocese of Mobile
• Theology Teacher, Mount Alvernia High School
• Therapist/Case Manager, McLean Hospital
• Chaplain Resident, New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care

Application Requirements

• Application form
• Application fee ($75)
• Standardized tests (GRE optional, but preferred)
• English proficiency exam (TOEFL or IELTS) for international applicants
• Transcripts from all colleges, universities, seminaries, or theological schools attended
• Three recommendations
• Interview
• Résumé
• Personal statement (three pages, double-spaced)

Application Deadlines

• Spring 2026: November 1, 2025
• Fall 2026 Priority Scholarship Deadline: January 15, 2026
• Summer 2026: Rolling admissions until June 1, 2026 (final deadline)