Marquette University

Programme overview

Marquette's MA in Theology is a 30-credit graduate degree normally completed in two years with both full- and part-time options. The department emphasizes an integrated approach to theological study, paying particular attention within specialties to the interaction of Judaism and Christianity in antiquity and to historical, systematic and ethical methods. Students may enter in fall (typical) or spring terms under rolling admission.

What you'll study

The program offers several specializations. Those oriented to pre-academic careers in education may choose:

• Judaism and Christianity in Antiquity
• Historical Theology
• Systematic Theology/Theological Ethics

Other specializations aimed at a broader range of vocations include:

• Christian Doctrine
• General Studies
• Theology and Society

Students in the Trinity Fellows program may take the interdisciplinary Theology and Society specialization. The department frames study to develop scholarly capacities for theological research and writing and to prepare students to teach a broad set of courses.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution (or international equivalent) before starting graduate study and normally have a minimum 3.00 GPA on a 4.00 scale. Ideal applicants have an undergraduate major or minor in theology or religious studies, or a relevant personal/professional background; basic familiarity with Christian Scripture and doctrine is expected. Application materials required are an online application and fee, transcripts from all colleges/universities (final official transcripts due after admission), three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose describing motives, vocational aims, and reasons for choosing Marquette. GRE scores are optional. Applicants without an undergraduate theology degree must supply a list of all college-level theology coursework (courses, level, instructors). Non-U.S. citizens must demonstrate English proficiency (TOEFL or equivalent). Rolling application windows include: fall-term deadlines of August 1 (June 1 for international applicants) and spring-term deadlines of December 15 (October 1 for international applicants).

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for scholarly work in theology and for teaching at the college and high-school levels. The department reports alumni success in securing positions at over 200 colleges and universities, and graduates also pursue church work, ministry, and roles in various education-related institutions.

Scholarships & funding angle

Marquette's Graduate School offers a reduced per-credit rate for humanities master's programs; the listed tuition cost per credit for the master's program is $625. The Department of Theology also draws on university resources to offer fellowships and partial tuition scholarships for qualified graduate students; private scholarships and federal student loans (for U.S. citizens and permanent residents) may also be available. Applicants seeking merit-based aid should note the program's priority financial-aid application deadline and consider applying to the Trinity Fellows program for combined study/work funding opportunities.