Master of Arts in Theology

Develop a thorough understanding of the fullness of the Catholic faith in preparation for teaching or further study through our Arizona-based Master of Arts (MA) in Theology degree program.

Uniting the intellectual, liturgical, and apostolic dimensions of Catholic teaching and tradition into a coherent vision of theology, our MA program provides a strong foundation in scripture, dogmatics, moral theology, Church history, and liturgical and sacramental theology. Students also choose a specific area of focus, preparing them to serve wherever their vocation calls.

Studying Alongside Future Priests

Lay students in the MA program take courses alongside seminarians at the Nazareth Seminary, sharing in the same rigorous theological formation that prepares men for the priesthood.

Take the First Step

Get in touch with any questions or submit a simple application for admission.
We will assist you every step of the way toward acceptance so you can enroll and begin your classes!

At a Glance

75%
Growth of the Catholic population in the US over the last 40 years

Program Length

2 academic years / 4 semesters / 36 credits

Format

Courses run online and in person at the University of Mary’s downtown Phoenix location.

Tuition per Credit

$775

Next Start Date: 9/7/2026

Fall Start

Apply

Is This the Degree For Me?

Who It’s For

  • Lay Catholics in the Diocese of Phoenix seeking advanced formation in the faith
  • Permanent deacons pursuing post-ordination theological development
  • Current catechists called to train and lead others in faith formation
  • Anyone seeking a graduate-level theological education rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition

Career Paths

  • Catechist or theology instructor
  • Parochial or diocesan leader or staff member
  • Catholic missionary

What You’ll Learn

  • Deepen your understanding of the Catholic faith
  • Explore how intellectual, liturgical, and apostolic traditions come together in a unified theological vision
  • Gain a strong foundation in Scripture, dogmatic theology, moral theology, Church history, and liturgical and sacramental theology
  • Put your learning into practice by applying Catholic theology in real-world ministry and church settings

Catholic Education Partner of Choice

The University of Mary and the Diocese of Phoenix have partnered to bring graduate-level theological formation to lay Catholics and deacons in the Phoenix area. Through the University of Mary's Master of Arts in Theology, students receive the same rigorous academic formation as those preparing for the priesthood. Today, Mary is the Catholic education partner of choice for the Diocese of Phoenix.

Program Details

Program Information

Please visit our catalog for admission requirements and a full list of our courses.

Your first step is to get in touch with any questions or submit the simple application for admission. After acceptance to the University as a candidate for graduate studies, we will assist you every step of the way toward acceptance into your academic program so you can enroll and begin your classes!

If you are serving or have served our country, we sincerely thank you. Our military services office is here to work closely with active duty, retired, reserve, and eligible family members qualified for military benefits. Learn how we can help you with the application process and review the benefits you have earned.

For a full list of fees, visit our Tuition and Fees page.

The University of Mary is committed to putting your educational goals within reach. Learn what scholarships you qualify for.

We welcome students from various backgrounds, including transfer students from institutionally accredited colleges and universities recognized by the US Dept. of Education and those with military or career and work experience. 

How do I show my previous college, military, or work experience?

  • Official transcripts (if applicable) from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 should be submitted directly to the Office of Admissions.
    • Did you graduate from the University of Mary? Then we’ll get your Mary transcript for you!
    • At most other schools, you can request transcripts by going to the National Student Clearinghouse or by contacting the registrar’s office. 
      • Have your transcripts sent to:
        Office of Admissions
        University of Mary
        7500 University Drive
        Bismarck, ND 58504
      • Or request to send electronic transcripts to registrar@umary.edu.
  • Students with previous career or work experience can earn credits for prior learning.
    • You can choose to test for prior learning credits — we convert your test scores into college credit.
    • You can request a portfolio review for prior learning credits. You’ll assemble documentation to show your experience, which will be reviewed and evaluated by an experienced faculty member.
  • Military experience can count towards a degree.

WHAT WILL I NEED TO APPLY?

  • All of our programs require you to fill out the general application form in addition to submitting the application fee and your transcripts.
  • Any program-specific requirements you’ll need to submit in addition to the items listed above can be found in our catalog.

At the University of Mary, we review every application on an individual basis, ensuring that the materials you submit are evaluated with care and attention. Reach out to us if you have any questions in filling out your application.

Get Started Today

Apply Online