Master of Theological Studies Areas of Specialization

Areas of specialization

Catechetical Ministry (10 credits)
Course work in this specialization focuses on the foundation and process of catechesis. In addition, the psychology of faith development, administration of catechetical programs and RCIA are carefully examined. When appropriate, and with the pre-approval of the director of the program, students in this concentration may substitute THEO 589 (Special Topics) or THEO 594 (Theological Practicum) for one of the required courses.

THEO 520 Foundations of Catechesis
THEO 521 Process of Catechesis
THEO 522 Psychology of Faith Development
THEO 523 Administration and Supervision of Parish Catechetical Programming
THEO 545 Sacraments of Christian Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist

Faith-Based Management (10 credits)
Course work in this specialization focuses on the theology and practice of faith-based management—bringing the practice of Christian discipleship to the administrative functions of faith-based organizations. Financial, business and parish administrators are responsible for a wide range of activities. It is important for students in this area to learn how to bring the Light of Christ to the business side of their vocations in faith-based organizations. Practical emphasis is placed on legal, management and administrative functions. When appropriate, and with the pre-approval of the director of the program, students in this concentration may substitute THEO 589 (Special Topics) or THEO 594 (Theological Practicum) for one of the required courses.

THEO 560 Models of Ministry and Leadership in the Church
THEO 561 Administration and Management of a Faith Based Organization
THEO 562 Leadership in the Christian Community
THEO 563 Financial Management of a Faith Based Organization
THEO 564 Law and Parish Administration

Liturgy (10 credits)
Course work in this specialization integrates basic catholic liturgical theology with an examination of the celebration of the Eucharist, liturgical year and other sacramental rites and rituals. When appropriate, and with the pre-approval of the director of the program, students in this concentration may substitute THEO 589 (Special Topics) or THEO 594 (Theological Practicum) for one of the required courses.

THEO 540 Principles of Liturgy
THEO 543 Liturgy as Pastoral Care: Sacraments of Healing and Vocation and the Rites of Death/Burial
THEO 545 Sacraments of Christian Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist
THEO 546 The Church Year and the Liturgy of the Hours
THEO 547 Eucharist: History, Theology and Pastoral Practice

Pastoral Ministry (10 credits)
Course work in this specialization focuses on the theology and practice of pastoral ministry. Because pastoral ministers are responsible for a wide range of activities, this area offers greater variety and flexibility. It is important for students in this concentration, with the assistance of an adviser, to tailor course selection to fit with the specific duties of their pastoral work. When appropriate, and with the pre-approval of the director of the program, students in this concentration may substitute THEO 589 (Special Topics) or THEO 594 (Theological Practicum) for one of the required courses.

THEO 560 Models of Ministry and Leadership in the Church
THEO 576 Theology and Practice of Pastoral Care
One course from THEO 540, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, or 547
Two electives from THEO 577 or 578

Spirituality (10 credits)
Course work in this specialization integrates an examination of the history of Christian spirituality with contemporary analysis of biblical theological and social scientific resources. When appropriate, and with the pre-approval of the director of the program, students in this concentration may substitute THEO 589 (Special Topics) or THEO 594 (Theological Practicum) for one of the required courses.

THEO 580 Introduction to Spirituality
THEO 581 History of Christian Spirituality and Mysticism
THEO 582 Special Topics in Spirituality
Two electives from THEO 522, 546 or 573

Youth Ministry (10 credits)
Course work in this specialization integrates an understanding of youth ministry as grounded in church documents and current pastoral practice with an examination of developmental psychological leadership theories and principles of foundation. When appropriate, and with the pre-approval of the director of the program, students in this concentration may substitute THEO 589 (Special Topics) or THEO 594 (Theological Practicum) for one of the required courses.

THEO 521 Process of Catechesis
THEO 522 Psychology of Faith Development
THEO 526 Principles and Practices of Youth Ministry
Two electives from THEO 520, 523, 545, 560 or 573