Sacred Heart School of Theology
Programs

Master of Arts

The Master of Arts in theology is a 30-credit academic program offering a concentration in Scripture studies, systematic studies or spirituality. Eighteen of the 30 credits must be from the chosen area of concentration. The remaining 12 credits are selected from other core courses or electives open to Master of Arts students. Nine credits a semester is considered full time. Full-time students can complete the entire program in two years. If the degree is pursued part time, it must be completed within six years.

Admission Requirements

In order to be admitted to the Master of Arts program, an applicant must

  • Ordinarily be at least 30 years old
  • Possess an undergraduate degree
  • Possess six credits of undergraduate philosophy in the areas relevant to theological studies
  • Demonstrate competency in undergraduate religious studies/theology. Taking six credits in Introduction to Theology at Sacred Heart School of Theology may fulfill this requirement.

Contact the director of the MA program for a catalog and an application form.


Graduation Requirements

  • Complete 30 credits of graduate work in the appropriate areas
  • Achieve a cumulative grade point average of 3.0
  • Complete one of these comprehensive options: Write a master’s essay on an approved topic OR pass written and oral comprehensive examinations

Course Listing

Prerequisites:

Requirements for admission include six credits in philosophy and six credits in religious studies or theology. These 12 credits may be fulfilled at Sacred Heart School of Theology.

Philosophy

  • Ancient Philosophy
  • Medieval Philosophy
  • Modern Philosophy
  • Contemporary Philosophy

Introduction to Theology

  • Catholic Doctrine I
  • Catholic Doctrine II

Scripture Studies

  • Scriptural Foundations
  • Pentateuch and Historical Books
  • Prophetic Books
  • Psalms and Wisdom Literature
  • Synoptic Gospels and Acts of the Apostles
  • Pauline Literature
  • Gospel of John and Catholic Epistles

Church History

  • History of Church Universal I
  • History of Church Universal II
  • American Catholic Church

Systematic Studies

  • Fundamental Theology-prerequisite for all other systematic courses
  • Eschatology and the Human Person
  • Ecclesiology, Mary and Mission
  • Patrology and Patristic Theology
  • God: One and Three
  • Christology
  • Liturgy and Sacramentology
  • Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation
  • Sacraments of Pastoral Activity: Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Marriage
  • Fundamental Moral Theology
  • Medical - Moral Ethics
  • Sexual Morality
  • Social Ethics
  • Foundations of Christian Sexuality

Pastoral Studies

  • Introduction to Canonical Studies
  • Canon Law of Marriage
  • Pastoral Care and Counseling I
  • Pastoral Care and Counseling II
  • Fundamental Preaching Skills
  • Preaching the Word of God
  • Preaching Practicum

Spirituality Concentration Courses–Required

  • Foundations of Christian Spirituality

Spirituality Concentration Courses–Electives

  • Prayer Styles
  • Major Figures in Christian Spirituality
  • Corazon y Alma
  • Sacred Heart: Devotion and Doctrine
  • Theory and Practice of Spiritual Direction
  • Hispanic Devotional Practices
  • World Religions: Spiritual Diversity and Dialogue
  • Introduction to Jewish Prayer and Liturgy

Electives

Many electives are offered. They are listed in the Master of Divinity Intellectual Formation section of this catalog as well as in the Hispanic Studies Program section and under the Jewish Chautauqua Society Lectureship. Language courses do not qualify.

For further information contact Dr. Steven Shippee (414) 425-8300, ext 7191 or e-mail sshippee@shst.edu

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