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
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.
TS Alumni Scholar Inspired by Curiosity - Allison Murray (MTS 2012)
Not only does Grebel have a long legacy of talented and engaged professors, but many students in Grebel courses and dorm rooms have gone on to become distinguished scholars in their own right. We were delighted to hear from alumni studying very diverse topics - reflective of the conversations students might have around the lunch table. We asked them to explain their scholarship to a non-expert and to share a question that is the basis of their work right now. We wanted to know if their work today relates to what they studied as an undergraduate student and how Grebel might have influenced their career path. The profile of Allison Murray (MTS 2012) is just a glimpse into the scholarship inspired by curiosity in her work.
Practical Placements in Ministry Settings
Students in the Applied Studies stream of the Master of Theological Studies degree at Grebel find Supervised Experience in Ministry (SEM) courses to be highly rewarding aspects of the curriculum. With two required placements, students explore ministry in a practical setting. Under the guidance of a local supervisor, students set learning goals, develop a reading list, and write a summative paper.
MTS student Sarah Weber is combining her SEM with a Clinical Experience Placement, done under the umbrella of Luther College at Wilfrid Laurier, and the Waterloo Region Health Network.