Study the Bible, Christian theology, church history, and the practice of ministry in an interdisciplinary and ecumenical setting with a distinctive Anabaptist-Mennonite perspective. Explore current scholarship and examine contemporary issues. Interact with faculty and students from diverse academic disciplines in a small classroom setting. Test ideas. Develop skill and self-understanding in internships. Experience the support and expertise of faculty and fellow students.
What is the Master of Theological Studies?
The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) is a two-year degree offered conjointly by the University of Waterloo and Conrad Grebel University College. It is open to persons from a range of academic backgrounds and is designed for those who may be exploring vocations of ministry and service, those preparing for pastoral ministry, chaplaincy, or further graduate studies, and those seeking personal enrichment.
Why MTS at Grebel?
We strive to create a stimulating learning environment where people from many different backgrounds and beliefs can learn from each other. The perspectives that students bring because of their race, class, age, sex, gender, ability, culture and origins (and other dimensions of identity that live within us) all contribute to the rich theological dialogue we seek to foster. Because the oppression of Indigenous peoples and the racism we see in society today have a long history in the Christian tradition, we are committed to examining issues of power, privilege and abuse in our program. Similarly, since the church has long discriminated against 2SLGBTQIA+ people, it is important for us to claim as a theological practice the public, intentional and explicit welcoming of people with diverse genders and sexual orientations. We strive to create leaders who will advocate for justice and inclusion of all God’s people in the church and our world. This is difficult soulful and communal work to which we are committed.
Our program allows for frequent interaction with faculty, access to extensive library resources, study and social spaces, and opportunities for participation in a wide range of activities. Theological Studies students are able to enrich their experience by taking courses in other programs at UWaterloo and at nearby universities and theological schools.
MTS students may choose from three program options: coursework, applied studies, or thesis. These options enable students to tailor their degree to their specific interests and vocations.
Plus, all full-time Canadian/permanent resident MTS students are eligible for full-time tuition scholarships.
News
Enriching Ministry Skills through MTS
There are many paths that lead to the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) program at Conrad Grebel University College. For MTS alum Peter Haresnape, it started with learning goals for pastoral work.
Young Voices in Worship
Think about a time when you attended a worship service in a community that was new to you. What stood out as different? What is most important about worship for you? Now imagine you’re 13-29 years old. Would you answer differently?
Two Grebel alumni, Sarah Kathleen Johnson (BA 2007, MTS 2008) and Mykayla Turner (BSC 2020, MTS 2024), are asking these very questions through a collaboration on the Young People and Christian Worship study. This research project aims to shape better conversations about teenagers, emerging adults, and Christian worship by valuing their experiences as an important theological voice. “Young people can enrich the theology and practice of all worshipers,” explained Sarah, a principal investigator. Sarah and her co-principal investigators Nelson Cowan and Emily Snider Andrews plan to publish a book to share their research with scholars, pastors, and worship leaders.
Sampling of Scholarship from MTS Faculty
Grebel faculty are experts in Theological Studies, Music, Church Music and Worship, Peace and Conflict Studies, History, Mennonite Studies and Religion, Culture, and Spirituality. Not only are they dedicated professors, but they are esteemed scholars in their respective fields, working on a wide variety of research projects. The following page details TS Faculty's recent and current projects.