Master of Theological Studies at JST-SCU: A Flexible Path to Academic and Ministerial Formation

Earning a Master of Theological Studies (MTS) degree can transform your life and career through a combination of rigorous study and spiritual formation. In the MTS program at Santa Clara University's Jesuit School of Theology (JST-SCU), you'll expand your intellectual horizons while earning a valuable credential that can boost both your scholarly profile and ministerial service. Designed for modern scholars, this degree program marries unmatched flexibility with academic excellence.

This post explores how JST-SCU's Jesuit framework shapes theological education, examines the program's flexible structure for working professionals, and outlines the academic and ministerial career pathways the MTS opens for graduates.

A Jesuit Framework for Theological Study

A JST-SCU theology degree embodies the distinctive Jesuit approach to theological education. You'll engage with ancient scripture and contemporary social justice concerns. Faculty and peers will help you interpret biblical texts within their historical and cultural contexts. At the same time, you will develop sophisticated methods of interpretation that will enable you to bring this ancient wisdom to bear on modern challenges. Throughout your education, scripture will serve as a strong foundation for a comprehensive study of Christian ethics.¹

In keeping with historical traditions, Jesuit theological education is deeply rooted in social justice concerns. This reflects the order's commitment to faith that does justice. As a student, you'll have the opportunity to examine systemic inequalities across a broad spectrum of issues:

• Economic disparities: Liberation theology emphasizes the need for equitable societies
• Social injustices: The Jesuit tradition has historically grappled with matters of discrimination and social inequality
• Environmental concerns: Jesuit theology emphasizes humanity's responsibility for ecological stewardship; you may choose to earn a Certificate in Ecological and Social Justice, learning practical ways to engage these concerns with a global theological foundation

You'll learn to view these issues through a theological lens and address the full scope of human suffering through the transformative power of the gospel. This emphasis on social justice work will prepare you to help communities address complex social issues with intellectual rigor and spiritual depth.

Reflection and discernment practices remain central to Jesuit spirituality. Your studies will integrate scholarship with personal spiritual development.

Program Flexibility for Diverse Student Needs

As a working professional, you'll appreciate the flexibility of the hybrid MTS program: It features evening and weekend coursework designed to fit around your responsibilities at work and at home. In addition, Santa Clara's hybrid MTS program uses online tools, including discussion boards and shared collaborative documents, to help you and your classmates stay connected to each other. Peer-to-peer learning remains a significant benefit of this structured academic program.

JST's theological education integrates two complementary learning modalities:

• Live interactive sessions that feature real-time discussion and collaboration with faculty and peers
• Self-paced coursework that includes recorded lectures and assignments that align with your professional schedule

While you can complete most coursework remotely, you must attend some classes and seminars. This is necessary for hands-on learning experiences that cannot be replicated online. For example, orientation programs take place on campus. This helps build community and connections that will help strengthen your theological education.

Part-time and full-time study options let you personalize your academic journey based on your unique life and career goals. If you opt for a part-time course of study, you can expect to complete your degree in three to four years. This usually means taking one to two courses per semester, which allows you to maintain full-time employment.

If you choose to become a full-time student, you will likely complete the program in two years. A full-time course of study makes it challenging to keep a full-time job throughout your studies. You will, however, benefit from a deeper level of engagement with the learning materials and your peers and professors.

Whichever path you choose, you will receive an education that combines academic rigor with personal and spiritual development. JST recognizes that theological education serves formative purposes that extend well beyond intellectual achievement. You will have the opportunity to engage in retreats and community service to build on your learning with practical ministry experience.

Career and Academic Pathways

The MTS program will prepare you for a variety of career paths, including those in academic, ministerial, and professional contexts. The MTS degree also serves as a foundation for doctoral programs.

Having earned your MTS degree, you might pursue one of the following career paths:

• Educator: In this capacity, you’ll integrate faith and learning in the classroom, creating curricula and learning environments that help students explore theological concepts in Catholic schools, parish religious education programs, and other educational settings
• Theologian: Throughout your career, you’ll engage in scholarly research and writing, exploring fundamental questions about faith, doctrine, and religious practice in academic or institutional contexts
• Parish or church minister: You’ll serve and lead at the local level, overseeing religious education, coordinating community outreach, and providing spiritual guidance to parishioners
• Pastoral counselor: In this position, you’ll practice a ministry of accompaniment, providing spiritual guidance and support to individuals navigating life transitions, grief, relationship challenges, and questions of faith
• Chaplaincy: These positions typically require graduate-level theological education.² If you want to work as a chaplain in a hospital, university, or military setting, completing the Santa Clara MTS program will make you a competitive candidate for one of these specialized roles through tailored educational opportunities, and concentration opportunities in areas like Biblical studies and theological ethics.

These roles suit MTS graduates well because both theological expertise and practical ministry skills are necessary for success. In addition, these positions typically require a deep understanding and appreciation for social justice concerns and spiritual guidance.

Professionals in nonprofit leadership positions also benefit significantly from theological education. In particular, organizations focused on social justice and community development have long connected with the Jesuit order. Your MTS education will equip you to navigate complex moral questions and facilitate difficult conversations—two skills that will help make you an ideal leader in this sector.

Discover Your Calling Through JST-SCU's Transformative MTS Program

The hybrid MTS program in Santa Clara University's Jesuit School of Theology combines a flexible learning environment with rigorous spiritual education. The program's flexibility allows you to balance academic rigor with your personal and professional commitments. Faculty guide you in studying the broad foundations of theology in its historical, cultural, and interreligious contexts, while the program's in-person components—including orientation and select seminars—connect you with peers and build the professional network that will support your theological education and ministerial formation.

Reach out today to learn more about admissions for the flexible MTS program and how this degree can transform your life and career.