Selecting your Theological Objective
As a graduate school of theology and ministry, the Washington Theological Union offers several academic programs 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, pastoral and/or catechetical skills. Below is an overview of the Union’s programs. Use the program’s link to load a page with in-depth information on that program.
Doctor of Ministry in Christian Spirituality
The D.Min. in Christian Spirituality provides a top-level program to advance one's professional and pastoral interests and capabilities.
Masters Degrees
The Union offers four Masters Degree programs. The Master of Divinity (MDIV) and the Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies (MAPS) are two forms of a professional degree designed for persons who desire to serve in positions of ministerial or pastoral leadership. The MAPS is a shorter version of the MDIV, while the MDIV is a lead-in to DMIN programs.
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. The MA prepares one seeking to pursue doctoral studies in various theological disciplines. Many in the catechetical field pursue the MTS to enrich their theological background.
Two special programs are available that offer double degrees: the MDIV and MA; the MAPS and Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling. Each broadens one’s capabilities to pursue further theological studies or to minister in various pastoral situations.
Certificate Programs
In addition, a wide variety of Graduate Certificate programs are offered either as "stepping stones" to our degree programs or as a supplement to enriching their theological or pastoral perspective. Current certificates offered are in the fields of Carmelite Studies, Franciscan Theology and Spirituality, Spirituality Studies, Spiritual Direction Studies, Mission-Cross Cultural Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Theological Studies, Word and Worship or Lay Liturgical Practice.
Continuing Education
Courses can be taken without regard to degree and certificate programs for general theological interest.