Master of Theological Studies
Course information for - 2024 entry
Offered at 8 locations
- Study mode
- Online, Multi-mode
- Duration
- 2 years full-time or equivalent part-time
- Fees (first year)*
$16800 Fee-paying
- Start dates
-
Semester 1 intake: Beginning February 2024Applications open August 2023Midyear (Semester 2) intake: Beginning July 2024Applications open April 2024
Overview
The Master of Theological Studies offers a sophisticated, broad-based grounding across theology, and philosophy within the Catholic tradition. You will advance your knowledge and skills, engaging deeply with the Catholic intellectual tradition, and its relevance in the twenty-first century.
The program offers a wide range of specialisations, as well as the opportunity to study across the breadth of the discipline without electing a specific specialisation. Available specialisations include:
- Biblical studies
- Bioethics
- Christian thought and tradition
- Liturgical studies
- Mission and ministry
- Philosophy
- Spirituality
Flexible study options are available, including a rich variety of international study tours which can offer up to 20 credit points, as well as invaluable opportunities for face to face interaction with peers and teaching staff.
The Master of Theological Studies may be undertaken as professional development if you are working in a Catholic or other Church or faith-based organisation. It is also suitable for you if you wish to pursue an interest in the field or are preparing for a higher degree research program in theology and/or philosophy.
Various entry pathways are available. The Master of Theological Studies can be undertaken without prior theological or philosophical training (suitable if you have an undergraduate degree in another discipline), while if you have a Bachelor of Theology (or equivalent) and wish to deepen your knowledge and skills at the postgraduate level, you may be granted advanced standing.
Course details
Course structure
To complete the Master of Theological Studies, a student must complete 160 credit points (cp).
Available Specialisation(s)
-
Biblical Studies
Bioethics
The bioethics specialisation provides you with the opportunity to explore and analyse ethical questions that arise in the inter-related areas of biomedical science, technology, and human health. You’ll have the opportunity to address many modern-day bioethical questions on topics such as organ transplantation ethics, cloning and genomics, the distribution of medical resources, physician assisted suicide and euthanasia, as well as ethical questions regarding freedom of conscience and human dignity. You will work with internationally recognised leaders in the field to further develop your ethical understanding and credentials.
Christian Thought and Tradition
Liturgical Studies
In the celebration of sacramental rituals and liturgy, the faith of the Church is expressed, nourished and strengthened. The liturgy specialisation explores how Catholic faith is enacted in our rites and sacraments, and you will learn how the faith life is expressed and nourished through liturgy and prayer.
Mission and Ministry
Spirituality
Philosophy
This philosophy specialisation provides you with the opportunity to explore some of the fundamental philosophical theories and topics that have influenced the discipline and society more broadly. Engage deeply with significant ethical theories, develop an understanding of the structure of knowledge, and explore the nature of mind and world. This specialisation will provide you with important analytical skills that can be used in a range of professional and educational roles.
Course map
AQF framework
Masters (Coursework) - AQF Level 9Exit Points
A student who has completed the requirements for the Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies (80 cp) or the Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies (40 cp) may exit with that award.
Additional course information
Units are delivered in one of three modes:
- multi-mode: comprising of a face-to-face component (including by video-conference) and online study over the course of a semester;
- attendance mode: normally delivered face-to-face in an intensive block over consecutive weekdays and/or weekends, and complemented by online study; and
- fully online.
EXIT QUALIFICATIONS
Students who have completed the requirements for the Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies or Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies may exit with that award.
Overseas study available
A diverse range of international study tours is offered, (e.g. Rome, Asia, and Israel and the Middle East.) Overseas study tours often provide 20 credit points (with units delivered in intensive mode). Study tours, while providing an overseas experience, also give fully online students an opportunity to complement their study with invaluable face-to-face interaction with academics and peers.
Entry requirements
An applicant must also comply with the Admission to Coursework Programs Policy.
To be eligible for admission to the course, an applicant must have completed a Bachelor degree in any discipline.
International applicants need to meet the English Language Proficiency requirements as defined in the Admission to Coursework Programs Policy.
Disclaimer: The course entry requirements above are for 2024 Admission.
Inherent requirement
There are essential components of a course or unit that demonstrate the capabilities, knowledge and skills to achieve the core learning outcomes of that course or unit. You will need to be able to meet these inherent requirements to complete your course.
Learn more about inherent requirements for your course and how they affect you
Pathways
Pathways into course for applicants with previous study and/or life experience
Those who have completed the Bachelor of Theology (Honours), Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies, or Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies will be granted advanced standing into the Master of Theological Studies.
Further study
Successful completion of the Master of Theological Studies may be eligible to progress to the Master of Theology (Research) or to doctoral studies.
Fees
Course costs
$16800 Fee-paying
All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a full-time study load of 40 credit points (normally 4 units) per semester.
A student’s annual fee may vary in accordance with:
- the number of units studied per semester;
- the choice of major or specialisation; and
- elective units.
The University reviews fees annually.
Payment options
You should be able to concentrate on getting good marks instead of worrying about how you’ll pay your fees. We have a number of options that can help you ease the financial burden, including government assistance, scholarships and income support.
Scholarships
You could be eligible for one of the hundreds of scholarships we award each year to help students from across the university with the cost of studying, accommodation or overseas study opportunities. Some of our scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit, but these aren’t just for the academically gifted; ACU also recognises excellence in community engagement and leadership. We also offer a range of scholarships for those who may be struggling financially or who have faced other barriers to accessing education.
How to apply
Domestic applicants
Direct application
Apply nowAdditional application information
Students who do not meet the admission requirements for this program should speak with the Course Coordinator as to whether they may be eligible to seek admission to the Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies on the alternative entry pathway.
Deferment
Deferment is available for one year. Find out more about deferment.
Testimonial
"Theology at ACU appealed because it covered such a broad range of challenging and thought-provoking topics. It also offered the opportunity of a four-week study tour to religious sites in Israel, Jordan, and Palestine. Distance learning offered me the flexibility I needed to continue my education while working, and gave me the opportunity to learn from experts all over Australia. The lecturers were hugely supportive, and I felt very much a part of the ACU community.”
Have a question?
We're available 9am–5pm AEDT,
Monday to Friday
If you’ve got a question, our AskACU team has you covered. You can search FAQs, text us, email, live chat, call – whatever works for you.