Master of Theological Studies

School of Philosophy & Theology, Sydney Campus

The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) is a unique opportunity to study Theology both at a Catholic University and at an Ecclesiastical Faculty. Students will learn the foundations of Theology and practice the skills of critical analysis and faith-led exploration, by studying courses in philosophy, Sacred Scripture, Catholic Theology, and associated disciplines. Graduates will be able to communicate the Catholic faith and its foundations in a variety of contexts.

  • Why study this degree?

    When you study this program, you will have the opportunity to learn from a rich array of courses in the various areas of theology, and of the disciplines that inform theology. You can take courses in Scripture, Church teaching, Philosophy, Sacraments, and a range of other areas. Additionally, you will tailor your own learning by writing a research task. Meeting other students who are passionate about theology will open you to a range of views, and will prepare you for many areas of Church and public life.

  • Program summary

    Students enrolled in the Master of Theological Studies are required to complete one (1) Core Curriculum course in ethics or theology at the 6000 level.

    Additionally, students enrolled in the Master of Theological Studies may undertake a designated research component for 50 units of credit if they are averaging a Credit grade in their coursework. In addition to the designated research component, such students are required to complete an additional twelve (12) elective courses (300 units of credit) chosen from the lists of courses in Appendix B for a total of 400 units of credit. The research is usually completed in the final semester of the program. Students enrolled in the Master of Theological Studies who are not completing a designated research component are to complete an additional fourteen (14) elective courses (350 units of credit) from Appendix B for a total of 400 units of credit.


    Theology Electives (to be chosen from)

    • Bioethics
    • Directed Individual Study
    • Discord and Dialogue: The History of The Ecumenical Movement
    • Eschatology: The Living Hope of Christians
    • Eucharist I
    • Foundations of Moral Theology
    • Friendship: The History and Experience of Christian Friendship
    • Fundamental Theology
    • Gospel of Luke and Acts of the Apostles
    • Human Affectivity in Theology and Christian Living
    • Introduction to the New Testament
    • Liturgy: Work of God and Work of God’s People
    • Marriage and Orders
    • Marriage and Sexuality
    • Ministry of Social Justice
    • Modern Church History
    • Mystery of Christ: Church and Sacrament
    • Pastoral Theology Foundations I
    • Pastoral Theology Foundations II
    • Pentateuch
    • Personal Growth and Integration
    • Psalms and Wisdom
    • Sacraments in Catholic Tradition
    • Scripture and Church
    • Scripture and Morality
    • Special Topics in Theology
    • Spirituality and the Challenges of Reconciliation
    • The Johannine Literature
    • The Patristic Tradition
    • The Prophets: Critics of the Status Quo
    • The Theology and Practice of the New Evangelisation
    • Theology of Leadership
    • Theology of Today for Adults of Tomorrow
    • Trinity

    Note: Electives selected must cover the five discipline areas of Scripture, Church History,
    Systematic Theology, Moral Theology and Pastoral Theology.

    More information regarding courses can be found at the course descriptions page.

    Full details of the program requirements are contained in the Program Requirements.

  • Entry requirements

    A Bachelor's degree in any discipline.

  • Learning outcomes

    Upon successful completion of the Graduate Diploma of Theological Studies, graduates will be able to:

    1. Demonstrate advanced understanding of a complex body of knowledge in a range of theological disciplines.
    2. Integrate insights from diverse fields of Theology.
    3. Critically review, analyse, consolidate, and synthesise complex theological concepts from a range of theological disciplines.
    4. Communicate complex theological concepts and ideas to specialist and non–specialist audiences.
    5. Apply theological knowledge and skills with creativity and initiative to new situations in professional practice and/or for further learning, and plan and execute a substantial research–based project.
  • Real-world experience

    You will learn from our academics, who are leaders in their field. There are no practicum requirements for this program.

  • Fees and costs

    This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:


    Domestic Fee-Paying
    A domestic fee-paying place is a place at university where the student is responsible for the full cost the program.

    Eligible domestic fee-paying students may apply for the FEE-HELP loan scheme which assists eligible fee-paying students with the payment of all, or part, of their tuition fees, not including additional study costs such as accommodation or textbooks. Your FEE-HELP debt will be indexed each year in line with the Consumer Price Index.


    For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page.

  • More information

    Considering your uni options?

    Talk to one of our career advisors for a personalised advice session. Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process. Book my session.

    For more information, please contact our Prospective Students Office.

    Fremantle and Broome
    Phone: +61 8 9433 0533
    Email: future@nd.edu.au
    Sydney and Melbourne
    Phone: +61 2 8204 4404
    Email: sydney@nd.edu.au


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