The Master of Arts in Catechetics introduces the student to scholarship and research in the area of Catechetics. The degree also prepares the student for doctoral studies. The program is designed to give the student a solid academic foundation in the discipline while offering the opportunity for elective courses to further the student's academic goals.

Prerequisites

  • A bachelor's degree.
  • Students with little or no background in theology and religious studies may be required to take prerequisite courses.
  • Three letters of recommendation from persons able to evaluate applicant's ability to successfully complete graduate studies.
  • The results of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), which are considered in awarding scholarships.
  • Non-native English speakers must show proficiency through the TOEFL exam (Test of English as a Foreign Language).

Program

The Master of Arts program consists of a minimum of 36 credit hours at the 600 or 700 levels. Students are to maintain a 3.3 or higher GPA.

  • 24 credit hours of foundational courses in Catechetics, Liturgy, and Theology.
  • 12 credit hours of electives determined in consultation with the student’s advisor.
  • Two major course research papers demonstrating an ability to incorporate scholarly sources written in French or another foreign language on a topic directly related to the study of Catechetics, or an M.A. thesis (two semesters of directed thesis guidance) which counts as six (6) of the above listed required 36 credits.

Languages

  • Reading competence in French or another foreign language.
  • Completion of language exam with a passing grade must be satisfied before the student begins the third semester of study.
  • Modern language sources are to be used in research papers.

Comprehensive Examinations

The M.A. comprehensive examination is normally taken during the student's last semester of study. It is based on coursework and an M.A. Catechetics Area reading list. The M.A. comprehensive examination consists of eight questions for each day from which the student answers four. It takes place on two days for four hours on dates specified by the University academic calendar. The examination is evaluated as one unit on a pass/fail basis.