Theology and Theological Studies Master’s program at Emory University

Dual Degree: Master of Arts in Bioethics (MA-Bioethics).

The MTS is especially designed for individuals interested in pursuing some aspect of teaching and research, whether in an academic context, the non-profit world, or in public policy and social engagement. It provides superb preparation for doctoral-level studies in religion and theology.

The program focuses on three areas: History, Scripture, Tradition of Christianity Modern Religious Thought and Experience and Global Religions. The MTS emphasizes historical and constructive issues of religious and theological reflection from a variety of perspectives. The larger Candler and Emory community provides a setting of open engagement and serious theological reflection that enhances the context of the MTS program.

The flexibility of the Candler MTS program allows students to focus their work within an area of specialization or construct a broader degree across the theological disciplines. The program is also intentional helping students discern their vocation through plenaries, small groups and professional development electives in areas such as Non-Profit Leadership and Management Religion, Violence and Peacebuilding and Youth Ministry.

Credit Hours The 48-credit hour curriculum is structured to be completed in two years of full-time study the maximum length of time allowed to complete the program is six years.

Curriculum All students, regardless of their area of focus, are required to complete six hours of courses designated as History, Scripture, Tradition of Christianity six hours of courses designated as Modern Religious Thought and Experience, and six hours of courses in Global Religions.

Thesis and Portfolio Students will complete the degree with course work plus a thesis or a portfolio. Theses or portfolios should be written within the declared area of focus.

That means that students can design a program to fit their academic interests. Up to two-thirds of the curriculum is customizable.

Prerequisites for advanced courses taken at Candler usually do not apply to MTS students.

In keeping with the flexibility of the program, no maximum limit is placed on the number of courses taken in an area of focus. At the same time, a candidate should pursue a cluster of courses that reasonably constitutes interests outside of the area of focus in order to balance depth with breadth in a course of study.

Candler offers the following certificates in conjunction with a Candler degree.

Black Church Studies A theoretical and practical exploration of the black church tradition and its role in contemporary society.

Human Rights (Emory Graduate Certificate)Combines the resources of Emory University with the applied programs of our professional partners, including CARE USA, The Carter Center, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among others, for an interdisciplinary approach to human rights scholarship and training.

Candler offers four dual degrees with the Master of Theological Studies.