Master of Arts in Theology and Leadership (MA)
Department Website: Master of Arts in Theology and Leadership
Master of Arts in Theology and Leadership
The M.A. degree in Theology and Leadership (MATL), offered by the Department of Religious Studies at Gonzaga University, is an online, interdisciplinary program that combines critical theological reflection with the study of leadership, preparing students to respond thoughtfully to the challenges of a changing church and world. Rooted in Gonzaga’s founding Catholic and Jesuit traditions, the program is guided by the spirit of the Second Vatican Council and a synodal vision of the church. Consequently, the MATL program is committed to the ecumenical movement and interfaith dialogue, welcoming students from all academic backgrounds and faith traditions.
Designed for those balancing full-time work, volunteer commitments, and family, students take one course at a time and total of two courses per semester. Engaged, supportive faculty offer close mentorship as students grapple with the enduring question of the Christian tradition and how the church is called to respond to the signs of the times. The program consists of 33 semester credits. Students complete 27 core credits in the study of theology with their cohort and take 6 elective credits with other graduate students enrolled in leadership studies programs. With one start each summer, students enter the program as members of a cohort and progress through the program together. Two short on‑campus summer immersions, one held at the end of RELI 505 Introduction to Christian Leadership and the other held in the midst of RELI 606 Mission Leadership Seminar, are centered on spirituality and synodal leadership in order to deepen learning and community
This program provides graduate theological education and leadership formation for teaching, consulting, research, ministry, chaplaincy, facilitating adult education programs, and other services to the church and the wider civic community. Graduates of this program have combined their theological work with diverse career commitments, including church ministry, journalism, medicine, community service, teaching, healthcare administration, military service, public service, chaplaincy, business and finance, sports administration, and law, among others.
The program meets the educational requirements for board certification as a chaplain through the National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC), with whom the MATL is an education partner. It also meets the graduate theological education requirements for board certification as a chaplain through the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) and Association of Certified Christian Chaplains (ACCC) and can be combined with another graduate degree in any field to meet the total graduate education requirements for the APC and ACCC.
Admissions
- Students applying to Gonzaga University must submit Gonzaga’s Graduate Application, which can be accessed online at https://www.gonzaga.edu/gradapply
- Along with the application for graduate study, each program at Gonzaga has distinct admission requirements. Please refer to the table below to view that detailed information.
| Program Name | How to Apply Link |
|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Theology & Leadership | https://www.gonzaga.edu/online-graduate-programs/online-programs/m-a-theology-leadership/how-to-apply |
Prerequisites
An application is not complete and will not be evaluated until all materials have been received by the Office of Graduate Enrollment Management. Materials or fees submitted to another party do not constitute application to the program. Applicants must fill out the application online at www.gonzaga.edu/gradapply.
Applicants should have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. While applicants with a B.A. in Religious Studies, Theology, or a related area may be especially well-suited for the program, we welcome applicants with bachelor's degrees in all areas. Applicants with a bachelor's degree in other areas should show some experience in a religious or mission-related organization (for example, as a volunteer, an employee, or a participant in adult or continuing education program, or through some other form of active engagement).
Applicants may be eligible for advanced standing of up to 6 credits for related graduate work as determined by the graduate Program Director(s). Applicants seeking advanced standing must petition the graduate director(s) in writing at the time of application.
Program Requirements
Students enter the program as members of a cohort and register for six credits per semester.
All work accepted toward a degree is to be completed within a five year period from the date of acceptance into the program, or from the date of the earliest course accepted transfer credits, whichever occurs first.
Only authorized courses for a degree will be counted in computing the grade point average. Courses not authorized will appear on the transcript with a letter grade awarded but will not affect the graduate grade point average.
Residency Experiences
- Students will participate in two residency experiences during the summer.
- During the first summer of the program, students will participate in the 3-day residency portion of RELI 505 Introduction to Christian Leadership.
- During the second summer of the program, students will participate the 5-day residency portion of RELI 606 Mission Leadership Seminar.
Financial Aid
The department has a limited amount of financial aid available in the form of scholarships. They are awarded based on financial need and academic performance.