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Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology

Master of Arts in Theology

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Through our master’s program in Theology, students can examine the rich heritage of Catholic Church teaching. The course of study provides an extensive academic foundation in four theological disciplines: biblical studies, moral theology, systematic theology and church history. Jewish-Christian Studies is a fifth concentration made available through the College of Arts and Sciences.

For students interested in deepening their knowledge of Catholic theology for personal development or in preparation for teaching others, the program offers a general track option consisting of coursework that provides a substantial and comprehensive overview of the Catholic faith.

A research track is available for those interested in pursuing doctoral studies, requiring a major thesis, language proficiency, and a comprehensive exam.

Accreditation & Awards

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"My students often tell me that the reason they want to study here is because they want to be beacons of light in a darkened world."

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Admissions Requirements

The Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology offers open enrollment. Applicants should have completed at least 12 credits or the equivalent in theology or religious studies in their undergraduate programs.

Students may apply for either full or part time study. Applications and scholarship considerations are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Deadlines

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International Students Welcome!

Seton Hall welcomes applications from international students for admission into full-time graduate degree programs.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum for this 45-credit program offers four concentrations. Each track offers focused theological training:

  • Biblical Studies (21 credits) includes Greek, Hebrew, Pentateuch, Synoptic Gospels, and one elective in biblical literature.
  • Church History (12 credits) covers early Christianity to American developments, with electives like Vatican II.
  • Moral Theology (6 credits) requires Fundamental Moral Theology and one ethics-related elective.
  • Systematic Theology (6 credits) requires two courses from topics such as Christology, Sacraments, and Ecclesiology. 
  • 100%

    Students Surveyed Say They are Prepared for Service to the Church

  • 100%

    Students Surveyed Say Program is Academically Strong

  • 92%

    Students Surveyed Feel Empowered for Ministry

Career Opportunities

The M.A. in Theology provides an educational and formational program for men preparing for the priesthood. The program also benefits lay men and women who want to fulfill their Christian vocations and dedicate themselves to their specific roles in the mission of the Church. 

Recent surveys of graduating students from the program reported that 100% of respondents felt that ICSST enhanced and embodied an environment in which one could encounter and pursue service to Jesus Christ through the Catholic Church. All survey respondents agreed that the academic content was strong.  Ninety-two percent of graduating students reported feeling prepared for ministry and lifelong learning.

SHU MA Theology graduate

Our graduates make an impact at world-class institutions.

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"When I began my studies, I never imagined that in two years, I’d be working for Catholic News Service – much less researching and writing my thesis at the same time! ICSST gave me the theological training needed to step into my role at CNS."

Our Faculty and Students

Bishop John Flesey Reflects on His Life and Hospitable Preaching

Bishop Flesey and Father John Job, Pastor, cordially welcomed us to the magnificent church that was recently constructed after a fire devastated the original structure. Our interview took place next to a stained-glass window of St. Dominic, founder of the Order of Preachers and known for his outstanding preaching. 

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

Seton Hall University is committed to providing students with the most current information on how to finance your graduate degree. A graduate degree is within your reach – a variety of options can help you finance your degree including scholarships, federal aid, graduate assistantships, and more.

  • 50%

    Amount Scholarships Can Reduce Cost of Degree

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Resources

Learning Outcomes

Theology Graduate Programs

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Office of Graduate Affairs

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About Seton Hall

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One of the country's leading Catholic Universities, Seton Hall University has been developing students in mind, heart and spirit since 1856.

Home to over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students and offering more than 90 undergraduate programs and over 130 graduate programs, Seton Hall's academic excellence has been singled out for distinction by The Princeton Review, U.S. News & World Report and Bloomberg Businessweek.

Seton Hall's 58-acre campus in the quaint town of South Orange, New Jersey, is only 14 miles from New York City — offering students a wealth of employment, internship, cultural and entertainment opportunities. The University’s nationally recognized School of Law is located in nearby Newark, New Jersey. The Interpro­fessional Health Sciences (IHS) campus in the owns of Clifton and Nutley, New Jersey, houses the University’s College of Nursing and School of Health and Medical Sciences.

  • 1856

    Founded by James Roosevelt Bayley

  • 14

    Miles from New York City

  • 90+

    Career-Building Graduate Programs

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