Theology

The MA in Theology course offerings are rooted in Duquesne University's Catholic identity and simultaneously attentive to the University's mission -- which includes a commitment to ecumenical and global concerns -- as well as attentiveness to the most pressing moral issues of our time.

Learning Outcomes:

Through completing required courses, elective courses, and an optional six-credit thesis, students will accomplish these student learning outcomes at the curricular level: 

  • Students will demonstrate comprehension of foundational areas of theology, including both Catholic and ecumenical perspectives.
  • Students will analyze and critically engage both classical and contemporary theological sources.
  • Students will present an integrated and self-appropriated stance regarding key questions and issues in theology.
  • Students will demonstrate general knowledge of selected ecumenical, interreligious, and/or global perspectives as these inform Christian theological and ethical reflection. 

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Degree

Master's

School

McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts

Duration

2-year

Required Credit Hours

30

Course Offerings

The M.A. in Theology degree program consists of 30 credit hours. All classes are offered online and in-person. Elective offerings will allow you to pursue a degree of specialization as it aligns with your particular goals and interests. 

  • THEO 509 New Testament (3 credit hours)
  • THEO 510 Old Testament / Tanakh (3 credit hours)
  • THEO 508 Foundations of Theology (3 credit hours)
  • Seminar in Historical Christian Thought (3 credit hours)
  • Seminar in Interreligious Dialogue or Comparative Religion (3 credit hours)
  • Additional doctrine course from the following options (3 credits)
    • THEO 520 Christology
    • THEO 3XX/4XX/5XX Doctrine of God
    • THEO 531 Ecclesiology
    • THEO 538 Sacraments
  • Ethics course from the following options (3 credit hours):
    • THEO 541 Theological Ethics
    • THEO 543 Social 
  • Students writing a thesis will complete one of the courses below. Students who choose not to write a thesis will complete a second doctrine course from the list included above.
  • Non-Thesis Option
    • Students with the non-thesis option will complete two elective courses and may choose to substitute a 500- or 600-level course from another department for one of these courses (with advisor approval). 
    • THEO 5XX/6XX Health Care Ethics
    • THEO 3XX/4XX/5XX Christian Personhood and Disability
    • Additional elective offerings will be developed 
  • Thesis Option (6 credits)
    • Students are encouraged to complete an MA thesis. Students will enroll in 6 credit hours while completing their theses. Typically, these credit hours will be completed in sequential semesters.