Master of Arts in Theological Studies

What is a MATS Degree?

A Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) degree is a master’s level degree that is designed primarily for individuals who are interested in continuing their education by earning a doctorate degree or entering a Ph.D. program. This degree is also helpful for those who wish to enrich and strengthen their theological foundation. To meet the requirements for MATS program acceptance, an individual must:

  • Provide proof of Bachelor’s Degree completion
  • Provide proof of English proficiency (international students)
  • Apply

Saint Paul School of Theology’s MATS program requires 38 credit hours and can be completed in two years.

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Why Choose Saint Paul For Your MATS Degree?

At Saint Paul School of Theology, our MATS courses are highly academic, and provide the perfect theological education foundation for students wanting to enter a PhD program in a theological field. The faculty and ministry practitioners employed at Saint Paul are dedicated to our students’ educational and spiritual development. They help us create an educational environment where high-quality education is the standard, and academic life is rooted in faith. Our MATS courses have prepared countless students for continued theological education. Graduates from Saint Paul School of Theology find employment in a variety of fields. They are leaders who rely on their faith to guide them through life’s challenges. If you are interested in Saint Paul’s Theological Studies master’s degree program but still have questions, we are here to help you. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information. Our admissions office can provide you with the answers you need to determine if this program is right for you.

Course Overview

Saint Paul School of Theology is proud to offer a Flexible Learning EXperience (FLEX) course system that allows students to be in charge of how they will receive their theological education. Have a busy schedule? Thanks to Saint Paul’s FLEX system, that isn’t a problem. You can choose from online, hybrid, and on-campus courses. Students enrolled in the MATS degree program who are taking hybrid courses at Saint Paul will be enrolled in online courses, but will be expected to attend on-campus classes during FOCUS week each semester. With the exception of FOCUS week, students will complete coursework in an online format.

  • During the first year of the MATS program, Saint Paul students are introduced to courses in Bible, Theology, and History. 
  • Second-year courses focus on completing electives in the student's area of study, research, and thesis writing. Students will engage in significant scholarship work, including at least one historically marginalized perspective, on a selected topic of study. 

Saint Paul’s MATS degree program is similar to our MDiv program in the academic rigor of the program. However, the MATS program does not require contextual education or practicum courses for degree completion. If you would like to learn more about program similarities and differences, please view the MDiv page or contact the Office of Admissions.

Degree Requirements

To learn more about MATS requirements, view the following documents: