Master of Theological Studies – Franciscan Theology

What careers can I pursue with an MTS degree?

Graduates of the MTS-FT program serve in a wide range of careers that integrate theology, service, and leadership. Alumni work as educators, pastoral ministers, priests, counselors, campus ministers, social workers, nonprofit leaders, chaplains, missionaries, school administrators, liturgists, youth ministers, doctoral students, faith formators, human rights advocates, musicians, program directors, and in many other fields. Some graduates pursue doctoral studies or use the degree to bring deeper meaning to their current careers or personal vocations

Do I need a theology master’s degree to teach?

It depends on the setting. Most religious high schools and catechetical programs require teachers to hold a master’s degree in theology or religious education, and some community colleges and Bible colleges consider a master’s degree the minimum qualification for teaching. If you’re interested in teaching at the university level, a PhD is typically required. The MTS-FT is an excellent foundation for further academic study or for teaching in parish, diocesan, or secondary school contexts.

Does the MTS-FT program admit lay persons?

Yes. Most students in the Master of Theological Studies – Franciscan Theology program are laypersons and include educators, chaplains, healthcare providers, nonprofit leaders, military professionals, and career changers. The program is open to individuals from all walks of life who seek to deepen their theological understanding, whether for ministry, teaching, or personal formation. For specific admission requirements, please visit our Admission Requirements page.

How much can I make with a Master of Theological Studies?

Career options with an MTS degree are extremely varied, and compensation depends on your chosen career path. MTS-FT graduates work in diverse fields, from pastoral ministry and chaplaincy to nonprofit leadership and education, so salary ranges can vary from volunteer service roles to six-figure incomes in sectors like healthcare, law, or organizational leadership.

How do I find the right theology program for my career goals?

Start by discerning how you hope to integrate theological study into your life or work. Are you seeking a career in ministry, nonprofit leadership, education, or simply a deeper understanding of your faith? Look for a program, like the MTS-FT, that offers both academic rigor and spiritual formation, and that fits your schedule and background. Speak with faculty, alumni, or an enrollment advisor to see how the program supports your chosen career path or specific goals.

Do I need an MTS or an MDiv?

The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) and the Master of Divinity (MDiv) serve different goals, depending on your intended path. The MTS is an academic degree designed for laypeople and professionals who want to deepen their understanding of theology, often for careers in education, parish life, chaplaincy, nonprofit leadership, or personal enrichment. It is ideal for those seeking to integrate faith into their work or pursue further academic study.

The MDiv, by contrast, is a professional ministry degree intended for those preparing for ordination or full-time ecclesial ministry. Through a combination of coursework, field education, and pastoral formation, the MDiv provides the depth of training required for sacramental ministry, chaplaincy, and other pastoral leadership roles.