Master of Theological Studies

This degree program is intended to be a first degree in theology for prospective clergypersons and religious leaders.  It is designed to be completed in three academic semesters, and includes both coursework and real-world learning experiences.  This program is structured around three broad areas - holy scriptures, the Christian tradition, and the practice of ministry.

Holy Scriptures: This area emphasizes the themes, structures, and practical application of both the Old and New Testaments.  Additional coursework is required in the interpretation and proclamation of the scriptures; this provides training in the exegesis and preaching of the Bible.

Christian Tradition: Coursework in the history of Christianity, theology, and Anglican history and theology help to preserve the continuing tradition of Christianity and facilitate further scholarship in these areas.  Knowledge in these areas is crucial for the informed praxis of ministry.

Practice of Ministry: Christianity is a faith of action as well as of knowledge.  Required courses in liturgical worship, spirituality, pastoral care and counseling, and leadership help learners develop the practical skills they need to serve others.  This is enhanced by field education, which incorporates additional material in ethics and social justice.

Student learning outcomes

After the completion of the MTS program, graduates will be able to:

1. Have a knowledge of both the Christian and Anglican religious heritages, including scriptural sources, history, and belief structures;
2. Understand cultural contexts for ministry through field education experiences in local environments;
3. Demonstrate growth in both spiritual depth and moral integrity; and
4. Have an increased capacity for religious leadership, including (but not limited to) administration of the sacraments, delivering pastoral care, and leading congregational and/or organizational growth.

Student achievement towards these goals are measured in a variety of ways, including course examinations, end-of-course assessments, graduation questionnaires, and portfolio review.

Curriculum

The MTS is a 36 credit post-baccalaureate program designed to be completed in three academic semesters.  The same courses are offered every semester and include both coursework and field education experiences. Students must pass all courses during a semester in order to progress to the next semester.  Course requirements include the following:

Old Testament

New Testament

Interpretation and Proclamation

History of Christianity

Christian Theology

Pastoral Care and Counseling

Liturgical Worship

Spirituality

Religious Leadership

Anglican History and Theology

Field education

Field education is conducted under the direction of the local bishop of the Anglican Free Communion.  Each semester requires 2 credits of field education, which includes practical experience in pastoral care and counseling, religious education, religious leadership, administration of sacraments, ethical decision making, and/or social justice.  The theological reflection process is heavily integrated into field education. Anti-racism, diversity, and child protection training are a mandatory part of the field education process.

Students who are seeking this degree in preparation for ordination are required to have ecclesiastical endorsement.  For students in the Anglican Free Communion, this means recommendation by the person’s bishop. For students coming from other churches, a comparable recommendation from a bishop, pastor, or comparable authority may be required.  It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all ordination requirements of their church are met.