Academics
The academic programs respond to the fact that “all human beings desire to know” (Aristotle, Metaphysics I, 1), and that this object of desire is only satisfied in the Person of Jesus Christ (Fides et Ratio 33-34). The goal of the academic programs of the School of Theology is to enable its students to not only “seek the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:8), but to be able to “lead others to the ‘yes’ of faith in Jesus Christ” as well (Catechism of the Catholic Church 429).
Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology offers several certificate and master’s degree programs encompassing a range of fields, including theology, ministry, scripture, and more. Qualified students may also enroll in most School of Theology courses, on a credit or audit basis, without having been admitted to a degree program. In this way they can design their own course of studies.
The Master of Divinity degree consists of a four-year academic curriculum with seminary residence. There is a possibility of a supervised pastoral internship year at the discretion of the seminarian’s bishop; ordinarily, the internship year occurs following the second year of theology. It separates the four-year academic program into two phases.
In the first two years, the seminarian is introduced to that knowledge and ministerial experience which is considered foundational for the study of theology and a successful internship. In the final two years, he is encouraged to take advantage of the elective program in such a way as to develop his own ministerial identity and competency. Seminarians can also apply for a Master of Arts degree (Biblical Studies or Theology) during these final two years.
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Formation for the Permanent Diaconate consists of three years of coursework, spiritual direction, practical sacramental training, and more. Click here for more information.
The School of Theology’s Certificate in Catholic Theology is intended for those who desire to enrich their basic knowledge of the Catholic Faith, without anticipating any formal work or ministry in a parish setting. This program assumes no prior undergraduate experience and is an excellent option for those looking for an introductory course of studies. The Certificate is also offered at satellite locations across the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Click here for more information.
The School of Theology’s Certificate in Pastoral Ministry is designed for people who wish to deepen their knowledge of Catholic doctrine, grow in their faith, and become informed and effective ministers for the Church. This program assumes no prior undergraduate experience and is an excellent option for those looking for an introductory course of studies. The Certificate is also offered at satellite locations across the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Click here for more information.
The Graduate Certificate in Catholic Theology introduces the scriptural and theological foundations of the Catholic Faith. This certificate includes 19 credits of graduate course work, which can be applied toward the completion of a Master of Arts degree program in the School of Theology. Click here for more information.
The Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Ministry provides training and ministry formation at the graduate level. Program requirements blend academic and pastoral approaches for those wishing to integrate theology and practice. As a 20-credit hour program, it fulfills part of the requirements for the Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry (MAPM). Click here for more information.
The Master of Arts, Biblical Studies (MAB) equips students with the knowledge of the scriptural authors and their cultural context necessary to understand the Bible, and with skill in interpreting the Sacred Scriptures in light of the Holy Spirit. The program requires coursework in the Scriptures, Biblical Greek or Hebrew, elective courses in theology, and the development and defense of major research. Click here for more information.
The Master of Arts, Catholic Studies (MACS) is in interdisciplinary study of the Catholic intellectual tradition. Coursework examines Western philosophy from ancient to contemporary, systematic theology, Catechism studies, and electives. The program culminates in either major research (i.e., a thesis) or a comprehensive exam. Click here for more information.
The Master of Arts, Pastoral Ministry (MAPM) is both academic and pastoral in approach, and provides the core theology courses from the MAT in conjunction with ministerial formation. This program is intended for people who want to integrate theology and practice. Program requirements include coursework, mentoring, supervised field education, theological reflections, and a capstone ministry project. Click here for more information.
The Master of Arts, Theology (MAT) studies the beliefs and practices of the Roman Catholic Church and the experiences of its members. Program requirements include philosophy (as a preparation for theology), biblical studies, moral theology, Church history, systematic theology, and the development and defense of major research. Click here for more information.