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 LGBTQ+ 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
Further Your Learning: MTS-MDiv Sequential Degree
Conrad Grebel University College has partnered with two Mennonite institutions to provide an opportunity for sequential degrees. With this arrangement, Master of Theological Studies (MTS) students at Grebel can transfer their credits and proceed to complete a Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree at either Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) in Indiana or Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) in Manitoba.
Toronto Mennonite Theological Centre activity ends
Toronto Mennonite Theological Centre (TMTC) will end its operations this spring, following a decision of the Conrad Grebel University College Board of Governors at its February meeting.
Mennonite Institutions Work Together to Offer Cross-Listed Graduate Courses
This year, Conrad Grebel University College and Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) came together to explore new pathways for learning by offering cross-listed graduate courses in which students from both institutions could enrol.