波士顿大学

Curriculum Requirements

Rationale: The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) degree at Boston University School of Theology is shaped by a conviction that the life of faith in today’s world may be enriched by deep exploration of theological traditions in dialogue with broad understanding of the complexities of our global context. Students have opportunities to prepare for a variety of contributions to communities, to faith, and to knowledge.

The curriculum begins with two semesters of basic study of scripture and the yearlong interdisciplinary exploration of history, theology, and contexts contained in the TF 701 Introduction to Christian Traditions/TF 702 Christianity Engaging Modernity sequence of courses. Reflecting on the contexts, theologies, scriptures, and historical experiences of communities of faith establishes basic frameworks for the deeper explorations that will lie ahead. And because all such exploration must take place in dialogue with the contemporary challenges of leadership, at some point during the course of study, all students engage in one semester of contextual education appropriate to their educational goals.

Beyond this basic outline, the MTS curriculum allows the student a great deal of flexibility to pursue interests in many fields. Those who come to the degree with specific academic and vocational goals may wish to choose a specialization, working with an advisor to tailor the program toward those specific goals. Specializations are available in a variety of disciplines. Currently, there are seven such specializations: Transcultural Studies; Ecological Theology and Ethics; Religion and Science; Spirituality Studies; Theology; Religion and Conflict Transformation; Texts and Traditions.

Official plans of study for MTS specializations are available on the STH Registrar’s website. Others are developed by the faculty on an ongoing basis and students are invited to suggest a specialization to the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs if it does not already exist. Students pursuing an MTS specialization must petition to do so through the Registrar’s office no later than the end of their second semester of study.