Theology and Religious Studies
Master of Arts
Introduction
Build the skills, knowledge, and mindset you need for careers in religious education, ministry, counseling, nonprofit administration, and a variety of other roles with an M.A. in Theology and Religious Studies. A master’s degree in theology from 海角社区 is also excellent preparation for divinity school and related doctoral programs.
When you pursue your graduate degree at 海角社区, you become part of an academic community with a deep commitment to Jesuit values and a long history of developing compassionate, empathetic, ethical leaders.
Flexible Format & Timeline
Study online or on campus. Attend full-time or part-time. Either way, you’ll learn from an outstanding faculty and have access to JCU resources, including career advising and library holdings.
Customizable Curriculum
Choose an optional concentration in theological education, pastoral ministry, or chaplaincy. Or use your elective credits to broaden your knowledge and explore topics that pique your curiosity.
Campus Engagement
Participate in thought-provoking campus conversations and programs. The Tuohy Center for Interreligious Understanding hosts a variety of community events each year.
Program Overview & Outcomes
As a Jesuit university, our graduate program is firmly grounded in the Catholic theological traditions and radically open to the diverse religious communities that shape our world. Our faculty, curriculum, and learning experiences reflect that openness.
In this flexible program, you’ll build your own academic pathway, including an option to add a career-focused concentration that aligns with your professional and educational goals.
Find Your Calling
This concentration provides current and aspiring lay ministers the academic grounding necessary for a rich and fulfilling ministry career in the contemporary Catholic Church.
This program meets the educational requirements to become a certified lay ecclesial minister in the Diocese of Cleveland.
The pastoral ministry concentration may also be completed as a stand-alone graduate certificate.
This concentration empowers students to become better teachers in Catholic high schools. The curriculum focuses on developing courses, writing lesson plans, and practicing classroom management strategies.
This program meets the educational requirements for high school religion certification in the Diocese of Cleveland.
The theological education concentration may also be completed as a stand-alone graduate certificate.
Admissions & Aid
To apply to the M.A. in Theology and Religious Studies, you need:
- an undergraduate degree in a recognized area from an accredited institution
The following documents are required for a complete application:
- Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
- Two letter(s) of recommendation
- Personal statement - in 400-600 words, explain your aims and goals for the program
Applicants are admitted on a rolling basis. However, for best consideration, applications for specific terms should be received by these dates:
- May 1 - for fall semester start
- Feb. 1 - for summer semester start
- Feb. 15 - for graduate assistant positions
Other JCU Graduate Programs
If you’re interested in advanced studies in a counseling- or education-related field, these JCU master’s programs may also appeal to you.
Careers
Careers: Where Our Alumni Go
Our master’s in theology alumni serve individuals, students, communities, and congregations here in Northeast Ohio and around the country. They’re teachers, chaplains, church leaders, counselors, program directors, and more.
