At the Graduate Theological Union (GTU), our Master of Arts (MA) program invites students to embark on an academically rigorous and deeply personal journey of theological and religious studies. Designed for scholarly and professional success, the MA provides an ideal foundation for doctoral study or leadership in the field of your choice.
Focus Your Studies with Concentrations
Our 36-unit MA can be completed in just 1.5 years of full-time study, with flexible part-time options available. After completing a foundational course in research methodologies, students explore the vast landscape of theological and religious thought through a set of core courses aligned with their chosen area of concentration.
Whether you are drawn to deep exploration of a particular faith or an interdisciplinary field, students personalize their educational journey with over 10 unique areas of study. Concentrations range from Interreligious Chaplaincy and Psychedelics and Spirituality, to Jewish, Islamic, Hindu, or Christian Studies. For the first time ever, the GTU MA also offers a Self-Designed concentration, ensuring students’ academic, research, and professional interests are prioritized.
Each concentration is supported by world-class faculty with access to the GTU’s expansive consortium of member schools and centers plus access to UC Berkeley resources to provide students with intellectual depth and interreligious diversity.
A Capstone Tailored to You: Research Thesis or Practical Portfolio
The culminating experience of the MA program is a capstone project—tailored to each individual’s aspirations, path, and future plans. Through either a Research Thesis or Practical Portfolio, the capstone is a powerful opportunity for students to expand knowledge while pursuing a passion.
The Research Thesis is perfect for students looking to deepen their expertise and contribute original scholarship to the academic world. If you’re considering further academic work, such as a PhD, or if you’re passionate about advancing scholarly understanding and research, this option allows you to develop new insights, contribute to academia, and leave an intellectual legacy.
The Practical Portfolio is for those who want to take their knowledge beyond theory and into creating real-world impact. Whether preparing for a career as an interfaith chaplain, launching a spiritually driven business, or making a difference through non-profit leadership, this option channels learning into purpose-driven, tangible outcomes.
Outstanding Outcomes for MA Graduates
GTU MA graduates from the past three years have seen a 93% placement rate in academic and professional roles across scholarship, chaplaincy, education, public policy, healthcare, and more. Recent alumni have directed their education into meaningful contributions all over the world as executive directors in non-profit organizations and as doctoral students at prestigious universities.
What sets the GTU experience apart is its personalized mentorship. Graduates benefit from guidance by internationally recognized faculty and alumni who walk alongside them, shaping both their academic and vocational trajectories. The GTU’s consortium serves as a launching pad for purpose-driven, fulfilling, and impactful work.
Flexible Modality Options
The GTU’s MA emphasizes accessibility, personalization, and flexibility. Students can pursue their studies in-person, online, or through a hybrid model. The GTU’s Online MA program integrates our world-renowned education with interactive distance learning. Students receive full support from GTU faculty, staff, library resources, and consortial members, regardless of their location or life circumstances.
Join GTU’s Diverse, Interreligious Community
Through thoughtful specialization, community, and flexibility, the GTU MA bridges passion and purpose. Whether pursuing academic, spiritual, or professional, goals, the GTU’s MA program equips students to engage meaningfully with the world they’re called to serve.