Washington Theological Union
Masters Degree Programs
The programs defined below are designed to meet the diverse needs of men and women who wish to deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith and 
tradition and/or acquire ministerial skills.
The Master of Divinity (MDiv) and the Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (MAPS) are professional degrees designed for persons who desire to serve in positions of ministerial leadership.
The Master of Arts (MA) in Theology and the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) are academic degrees, focused on attaining knowledge of various theological disciplines.
Two special programs are available that offer double degrees: the MDiv and MA; the MAPS and Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling.
The degree requirements described in the following narratives are effective for students admitted/enrolled for the Fall 2010 semester.
Master of Divinity (MDiv)
Purpose
This program leads to a professional degree that prepares men and women for general pastoral leadership responsibilities. In keeping with Catholic tradition, it provides a strong grounding in various theological areas of study, but also develops the skills and experiences essential for ministerial leadership in a collaborative and multicultural church. As such, this degree is normative for those seeking ordination as presbyters in the Roman Catholic Church. It is also the required degree for admission into a Doctor of Ministry program. Students have a maximum of seven (7) years to complete the MDIV degree program.
Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (MAPS)
Purpose
This program leads to a professional degree that provides the theological understanding and practical skills necessary for effective service in a focused ministry in the church. It is designed for people of all ages and careers who desire to work professionally as lay ecclesial ministers or who are already engaged in ministerial work and wish to improve their theological understanding and pastoral competency. Students have a maximum of five (5) years to complete the MAPS degree program.
Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies and Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling
Purpose
This program leads to two degrees that offers students the opportunity to combine theological and pastoral studies with advanced and specialized counseling techniques; some credits are shared. Students have a maximum of five (5) years to complete the MAPS degree program.
The MAPS degree is awarded by the Union and the MS degree is awarded by Loyola University (Maryland). The Loyola courses are usually offered at its nearby campus in Columbia, Maryland. Applicants for the MS degree must obtain admissions acceptance through separate application to: Graduate Admissions Office of Loyola University.
Master of Arts (MA) in Theology
Purpose
This program leads to an academic degree that provides students with a course of study that offers a thorough and well-rounded introduction to the Catholic theological tradition along with concentrated coursework and research in a specific theological discipline. The accent on specialization with research makes this degree especially appropriate for students who intend to pursue doctoral studies in theology. Students have a maximum of four (4) years to complete the MA degree program.
For more information...Master of Theological Studies (MTS)
Purpose
This program leads to a general academic degree that provides students with a broad knowledge and basic understanding of the Catholic theological tradition. Designed for general educational purposes, this degree provides theological grounding for those considering or already engaged in some ecclesial program (e.g. general catechesis, elementary or secondary education, church institutions, etc.). Although academic in nature, the level of research does not prepare students for admission into advanced programs aimed at theological research and teaching. Students have a maximum of four (4) years to complete the MTS degree program
Master of Divinity and Master of Arts in Theology
Purpose
This program leads to two degrees that offer students the opportunity to gain both professional features of the MDiv with the research characteristics of the MA degree, especially for those interested in pursuing doctoral studies in addition to pastoral programs; some credits are shared. Students have a maximum of seven (7) years to complete the MDiv/MA degree program.