The Masters Program
The Masters (M.A.) Program
Admission
Applicants must possess a Bachelor's degree and have completed a minimum of 18 credit hours in philosophy, theology and/or religious studies will be required to fulfill that requirement. Persons possessing a Bachelor's degree who have not completed 18 credit hours in philosophy and/or theology will be required to make up that deficiency. Such persons should consult with the Dean regarding fullfilling these prerequisite courses at the Institute. As a rule, only six credits from other graduate programs will be accepted for transfer.
Admission to the M.A. Program
- File a completed application form which may be obtained by contacting the Institute at Dunwoodie. There is a $50.00 non-refundable application fee.
- Include with the application a statement, explaining the motivation for graduate theological study.
- Submit official transcript(s) from each undergraduate and graduate institution attended.
- Request letters of recommendation from two individuals familiar with your academic background.
- Arrange for an interview with the Dean.
Auditors
Qualified students may be permitted to audit courses. An auditor participates in a course without receiving credit.
Requirements for the Degree
Candidates for the Master of Arts degree in Religious Studies (M.A.) must complete 30 credits (ten courses), maintain a B average and pass a written comprehensive examination. Only students who have a cummulative B average will be admitted to the comprehensive exam.
All candidates are required to take these four courses (12 credits): Introduction: Sacred Scripture, Introduction: Dogma, Introduction: Liturgy and Sacraments, and Introduction: Fundamental Moral Theology. A minimum of 15 credits hours (5 courses) is required in the student's field of concentration. Students must complete the degree requirements within seven years from matriculation.
