Program Objectives: The primary goal of the graduate program in theology at Newman University is to provide a superior educational and transformative educational experience which will allow graduates to work in various pastoral settings with confidence. Additionally, the MAT degree provides preparation for further graduate study and academic research.
Specifically, graduates of the program will be able to do the following:
Use various methods of biblical interpretation in order to analyze particular biblical texts.
Critically analyze and assess the value of contemporary theological works.
Situate various doctrinal formulations within the history of the Catholic tradition.
Demonstrate the pedagogical ability to communicate theological concepts in a clear and engaging manner.
Develop the capacity for theological research and to be able to present a variety of theological resources in their own voice as authors.
Admission Requirements:
Prospective students may apply at any point in the calendar year. Once admitted to the program, a student may begin his/her studies in any 8-week block in the academic year, subject to their plan of study. Admission to the program may be considered under the following circumstances:
Full Admission: An applicant must possess an undergraduate degree with a major in Theology or related field, such as philosophy or history, from an institution with accreditation recognized by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) with a cumulative GPA of 3.0. The applicant must also submit one letter of recommendation from a former professor or other academic administrative professional (school principal or pastor) who can testify to academic ability as well as a typed personal essay of no more than 700 words describing the applicant’s interest in theology and reasons for pursuing graduate study in this area of the program. In addition MAT applicants must submit an academic writing sample.
Conditional Admission: An applicant not meeting the criteria for full admission may still be considered for admission with other evidence of ability to complete the program of study. Conditional admission decisions are at the discretion of the Program Director and/or Dean of the School of Catholic Studies. Some applicants may be required to complete additional coursework in order to adequately prepare for the program. An applicant so admitted will have these requirements listed on the Plan of Study.
Progression Requirements: A grade of a C (70%) is considered a minimum passing grade for courses in the MAT program. Any grade below this minimum passing standard is considered a failing grade for program progression and for financial aid purposes. A grade of D or lower will not count toward meeting graduation requirements.
Degree Requirements: In addition to the required courses listed below, students must complete a comprehensive examination administered by the Theology faculty and must also demonstrate reading proficiency in one ancient foreign language (Latin, Greek, or Hebrew) and in one modern foreign language (French, Italian, German, or Spanish).
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