Master of Arts Degree

The Master of Arts (M.A.) is the broadest and most flexible of Claremont’s master’s programs, with an option for almost everyone. It engages students in developing religious intelligence while cultivating ethical integrity and intercultural (including multi-religious) understanding. This 56-unit degree can be completed in two years and culminates in a master’s thesis or other summative project.  

• Option A: General Theological Studies
  This option provides a broad introduction to the theological disciplines, including required courses in religious history, ethics, biblical studies, inter-religious dialogue, and theology. Students also work with a faculty advisor to select 30 units of electives to tailor the program to their own interests. This is a good option for personal growth or enhancement of a student's current career path
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• Option B: Theological Discipline
  This option provides students a foundation in religious history, ethics, biblical studies, inter-religious dialogue, and theology, allowing them 33 elective units for in-depth study in a single discipline. This option prepares students for doctoral studies in a theological field. Concentrations include:
  
  
• Biblical Studies                        
• Ethics, Politics & Society
• Historical Studies     
• Pastoral Counseling                 
• Philosophy of Religion   
• Religious Education         
• Sacred Music
• Spiritual Care / Pastoral Counseling
• Spiritual Formation
• Theology
• Urban Studies
• World Religions

• Option C: Interdisciplinary or Comparative Studies
  The most flexible of the master’s options, this program is designed for students with previous experience in theological or religious studies who want to study the integration of two or more fields of study (at least one of which is in theological or religious studies). With 54 units of electives, students work closely with a faculty advisor to select classes that provide master’s-level competence in each of the chosen fields of study and a balanced, interdisciplinary program that facilitates their integration. In concert with a faculty advisor, students in Option C can design their own study plans from existing courses in emerging fields such as:
  
  
• Arts and Religion
• Inter-religious Understanding
• Community Organizing
• Neurospirituality
• Narrative Pedagogy
• Sexuality and Religion