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Master of Theological Studies in Synodal Leadership

Equipping you for leadership, discernment, and co-responsibility in the Church

The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) with a concentration in synodal leadership is designed for those seeking a deep theological formation while also exploring and practicing synodality in the life of the Church. This program equips students with the theological, pastoral, and spiritual knowledge needed to participate in and lead synodal processes—fostering listening, discernment, and co-responsibility for the Church's mission in the contemporary world.

The MTS in Synodality offers a flexible online format, making it ideal for students involved in ministry or other professional commitments. Students will engage with the theological foundations of synodality, explore its role in ecclesial leadership, and develop the skills necessary to foster synodal culture in their own communities.

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MTS in Synodality at a Glance

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2 year program (full-time) or flexible part-time path
 
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For those passionate about serving the Church in leadership, ministry, and administration, who wish to engage in theological education deeply rooted in the vision of a synodal Church
 
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Fully online program delivered in English (with some multilingual resources)
 

Generous Scholarship Opportunities Availible

Through an historic partnership, the Hilton Foundation and JST-SCU are providing full-tuition scholarships for a cohort of Catholic religious sisters from the United States to complete this two-year MTS degree. It complements a parallel program by JST-SCU to fund additional partial and full-tuition scholarships, available to all students, to attain the MTS with a concentration in synodal leadership.

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Checklist
M.T.S. Handbook
M.T.S. Program

What Will You Learn?

“Women religious are prophetic voices for the Church and the world. We are investing in their academic formation, pastoral skills, and intercultural competencies to ensure they continue to play a key role in making the Church constitutively synodal at local and international levels.”

Agbonkhianmeghe E. Orobator, S.J., Dean of JST-SCU

Teresa Gaparin_Photo_2_25_2

More Information

  • Foundational Courses (24 credits):
    Gain a solid grounding in Biblical Studies, Theology, Spirituality, Ethics, and Culture.
    Required course: RS-2092: Culture, Context, and Lived Religion (3 credits).
  • Concentration (12 credits): in synodality 
  • Electives (9 credits):
    Tailor your studies by selecting electives from JST, GTU, or UC Berkeley.
  • Capstone (3 credits):
    Complete a Thesis, Praxis Project, or Advanced Course in your concentration.
  • Advising and Mentoring.
    Students are paired with faculty advisers who provide academic planning, vocational discernment, and capstone development support. These advisers help connect coursework with real-world ministry settings.
  • Monthly Online Community Gatherings.
    One online gathering per month that alternates between:
    • Topical sessions: Brief, focused sessions on important themes like biblical interpretation, leadership, discernment, and social analysis from a synodal perspective.
    • Conversation in the Spirit: Guided, prayerful communal reflection that encourages students to bring their academic learning into shared listening and discernment.
  • Synodality Hub (online resource space).
    A central hub where students access curated materials on synodality, pastoral leadership, upcoming events, and resources for ongoing formation.
  • Participation in Together at the Table.
    This annual event brings students together for community engagement, reflection, and exposure to synodal practices, fostering deeper connections among peers and broader understanding of synodal leadership.

This MTS concentration is designed for:

  • Ministers, educators, and pastoral leaders who want to deepen their theological knowledge and equip themselves for leadership in a synodal Church.
  • Those engaged in parish, diocesan, or ecclesial ministry who wish to develop practical skills in communal discernment, co-responsibility, and synodal decision-making.
  • Laity and clergy seeking to engage with the Church’s synodal vision and deepen their understanding of how synodality can shape pastoral practice, ecclesial leadership, and social justice.
  • Those discerning a leadership vocation who want a comprehensive theological education while remaining actively involved in their community or ministry.
  • Those involved in social ministries, justice, and peace who seek theological formation with a focus on mission, justice, and the needs of the poor.
  • Academic background: A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) is required for admission.
  • Language proficiency: Since the coursework is in English, students must have adequate proficiency in reading, writing, and participating in online discussions.
  • Format and schedule: The program is offered entirely online. Full-time and part-time enrollment options are available.
  • Tuition and financial considerations: Scholarships and financial aid are available for students. Students are encouraged to check with their dioceses or ministries for funding opportunities.
  • Location: The program is offered by the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University (Berkeley, CA, USA).