Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Sharpen your theological knowledge in a versatile one-year academic degree.
The Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MA) is designed as a one-year second degree in theology. It fosters graduate-level competence in theological study, and students may specialize in an original research topic for a thesis.
STUDY within a close-knit Christian community embedded in a world-class university at the heart of a global city.
DEEPEN & DIVERSIFY your studies with 300+ course options in 7 Toronto School of Theology colleges.
GRADUATE with a degree awarded jointly by Wycliffe College and the University of Toronto.
5-7 electives
Required courses (2)
- MA Research Seminar
- Methodology & Interdisciplinary Course
Free electives
Students can take up to 4-6 credits of free graduate-level electives, depending on whether the student chooses the research paper option (see Study Options tab for more information).
Master's Research Paper
MA students have the option of writing a major research paper of at least 15,000 words in length.
For full details, consult the Graduate Handbook (section C).
Applications to the MA program are processed through the Toronto School of Theology.
Eligibility
An applicant is required to have a Bachelor’s degree in Theology or a major or specialist in Theology or Religious Studies from a recognized degree granting institution, with at least B+ (3.3/4.0 CGPA) standing (or equivalent). Also acceptable are applicants possessing a second-entry degree in Theological Studies (such as the Master of Divinity (MDiv) or Master of Theological Studies (MTS), representing at least two years of full-time studies or equivalent.
Language requirements
In most cases, there are no research language requirements for admission into the program, unless the applicant’s stated area of focus is one in which a research language, other than English, is essential for scholarly access to the primary sources. In such cases, applicants will normally be required to provide evidence of competence in that language.
For full eligibility and language requirements, visit the TST website.
Application deadlines
First round applications are typically due in December. Space permitting, a second round opens in the Winter. See details here.
English proficiency
Applicants from outside Canada whose primary language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the accepted language proficiency tests. For details and exemptions, please consult the Graduate Handbook (section B).
Domestic MA Fees (2023-2024)
- Tuition per academic year: $6390.00
- Ancillary fee per academic year: $894.75
International MA Fees (2023-2024)
- Tuition per academic year: $26,220.00
- Ancillary fee: $894.74 per term
- University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP): $756.00 per academic year
Financial Aid
Wycliffe College offers a number of generous bursaries and scholarships for both domestic and international students. For more information, click here.
OPTION I: Master’s Research Paper (MRP) plus Courses
In addition to the two core courses, students complete a Master’s Research Paper which counts as 2 credits. The remaining 4 credits are electives. *Students considering doctoral work are advised to choose this MRP option; consult with your advisor after admission.
OPTION II: Course-based Option
Students complete 2 core courses. The remaining 6 courses are electives, at least 2 of which must be in the student’s area of specialization and include graduate level research activity. Those who choose this option must also submit a Research Master's Portfolio. For more on this, see section B8 of the Graduate Handbook.
What Will I Prepare For?
The MA is a research degree well suited for those desiring to pursue further research in a doctoral program. The degree is equally suitable for those wishing to pursue further specialized studies toward academic enrichment in their professional careers, such as in positions of leadership in ecclesiastical and related organizations, as well as in the private and public sectors (such as chaplains, teachers, social services workers, among others).
Qualifying for Doctoral Study
MA students who achieve at least A- (3.7/4.0 CGPA) standing are qualified to apply to the Toronto School of Theology doctoral program. See eligibility requirements for further details.
Required courses (2)
- MA Research Seminar
- Methodology & Interdisciplinary Course
Free electives
Students can take up to 4-6 credits of free graduate-level electives, depending on whether the student chooses the research paper option (see Study Options tab for more information).
Master's Research Paper
MA students have the option of writing a major research paper of at least 15,000 words in length.
For full details, consult the Graduate Handbook (section C).
Applications to the MA program are processed through the Toronto School of Theology.
Eligibility
An applicant is required to have a Bachelor’s degree in Theology or a major or specialist in Theology or Religious Studies from a recognized degree granting institution, with at least B+ (3.3/4.0 CGPA) standing (or equivalent). Also acceptable are applicants possessing a second-entry degree in Theological Studies (such as the Master of Divinity (MDiv) or Master of Theological Studies (MTS), representing at least two years of full-time studies or equivalent.
Language requirements
In most cases, there are no research language requirements for admission into the program, unless the applicant’s stated area of focus is one in which a research language, other than English, is essential for scholarly access to the primary sources. In such cases, applicants will normally be required to provide evidence of competence in that language.
For full eligibility and language requirements, visit the TST website.
Application deadlines
First round applications are typically due in December. Space permitting, a second round opens in the Winter. See details here.
English proficiency
Applicants from outside Canada whose primary language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the accepted language proficiency tests. For details and exemptions, please consult the Graduate Handbook (section B).
Domestic MA Fees (2023-2024)
- Tuition per academic year: $6390.00
- Ancillary fee per academic year: $894.75
International MA Fees (2023-2024)
- Tuition per academic year: $26,220.00
- Ancillary fee: $894.74 per term
- University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP): $756.00 per academic year
Financial Aid
Wycliffe College offers a number of generous bursaries and scholarships for both domestic and international students. For more information, click here.
OPTION I: Master’s Research Paper (MRP) plus Courses
In addition to the two core courses, students complete a Master’s Research Paper which counts as 2 credits. The remaining 4 credits are electives. *Students considering doctoral work are advised to choose this MRP option; consult with your advisor after admission.
OPTION II: Course-based Option
Students complete 2 core courses. The remaining 6 courses are electives, at least 2 of which must be in the student’s area of specialization and include graduate level research activity. Those who choose this option must also submit a Research Master's Portfolio. For more on this, see section B8 of the Graduate Handbook.
What Will I Prepare For?
The MA is a research degree well suited for those desiring to pursue further research in a doctoral program. The degree is equally suitable for those wishing to pursue further specialized studies toward academic enrichment in their professional careers, such as in positions of leadership in ecclesiastical and related organizations, as well as in the private and public sectors (such as chaplains, teachers, social services workers, among others).
Qualifying for Doctoral Study
MA students who achieve at least A- (3.7/4.0 CGPA) standing are qualified to apply to the Toronto School of Theology doctoral program. See eligibility requirements for further details.
