Master of Theological Studies

Graduates of the Master of Theological Studies will:

• demonstrate a critical awareness of sources for and methodological approaches to a range of theological studies
• interpret biblical texts in view of historical, cultural, literary, philosophical, and theological analyses
• use biblical and theological resources to explain the historical origins, development, and interconnections of Christian doctrines
• articulate implications of Christian belief for Christian practice
• demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in one or more theological disciplines
• have the opportunity to study units in philosophy that enrich theological understanding, including a specialisation in the discipline
• undertake a research-based project.

The Master of Theological Studies is a coursework degree for students seeking to develop mastery of theological knowledge and develop skills in communicating that knowledge. The course offers a sophisticated, broad-based grounding across theology, and philosophy within the Catholic tradition. You will advance your knowledge and skills, engaging deeply with the Catholic intellectual tradition, and its relevance in the twenty-first century.

Recommended study pattern

As a guide, core subjects in this degree can include: 

• Introduction to Theological and Philosophical Research 
• Foundations of Christian Faith
• Biblical Studies

Plus there’s a selection of electives to choose from. As part of your application, you’ll be guided through how to get the right degree structure in place for you. 

Award requirements

To qualify for the degree a student must complete 160 cp from the Schedule of Unit Offerings comprising:

• 30 cp in Specified subjects (if Introductory Biblical Studies, Theology or Philosophy units have been undertaken as part of previous studies, 30 cp from Electives*);
• 10 cp from Introduction to Theological and Philosophical Research;
• 20 cp from Project B subjects;
• 100 cp drawn from Elective subjects*.

* Students may take Electives drawn from the Schedule of Unit Offerings or, a maximum of 40 cp drawn from Religious Education units or, a maximum of 20 cp drawn from Educational Leadership units at 600-level.

Exit points

A student who has completed the requirements for the Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies (80 cp) or the Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies (40 cp) may exit with that award.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $35,616

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Established in 1991 after amalgamating four eastern Australian Catholic tertiary institutes, Australian Catholic University now has seven campuses, from Brisbane to Melbourne and welcomes students of all beliefs. Specialising in arts, business, education, health sciences, law, theology and philosophy, ACU encourages its students to think critically and ethically and bring change to their communities and offer this online through Open Universities Australia.

Learn more about ACU.

Explore ACU courses.

QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

35

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

26

To be eligible for admission to the course, an applicant must have completed a Bachelor degree in any discipline.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Overall score 6.5; Individual score of 6.0 in all tests 

Pearson Test of English (PTE) - 58 with a minimum of 50 in all four communicative skills

Test of English as a Foreign Language - Academic (TOEFL) - Internet based total of 79; minimum 21 in writing, 18 in speaking, 13 in reading and 12 in listening

ACU English Language Test - B (65-74%) 

Cambridge Advanced English (CAE) -Overall CAE of 176; Minimum individual score of 169 in all tests 

Applicants who have completed the Bachelor of Theology (Honours), Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies, or Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies will be granted advanced standing into the Master of Theological Studies.

If you have already studied at university level and/or gained relevant skills, knowledge and/or competencies through pathways other than formal study (e.g. substantial work experience within the past 10 years), you may be eligible to receive some credit towards your course. Credited units replace units you would otherwise study, so you can finish your course earlier.