Frequently Asked Questions: Lay Programs

Graduate Programs in Theology

Where do I obtain the application forms? 

You may download the application form, information questionnaire, and recommendation forms from the website at www.stthomas.edu/spssod/admissions/default.html or you may call or write to our registrar:

Registrar

                                                                        The Saint Paul Seminary School of Divinity

2260 Summit Ave.

St. Paul, MN 55105-1094

Phone: (651) 962-5770

How do I register for the Graduate Record Exam or the Miller Analogies Test?

You may register for the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) at www.gre.org, or you may call Prometric Testing Center in Edina (952-820-5010), Woodbury (651-702-6791) or University of Minnesota (612-624-5520).  You only need to take the general exam, which includes a written component.  There are practice tests available through the website or most libraries also carry GRE exam preparation books.  It may take a couple weeks to get an appointment time and another two to four weeks for the results to get to the registrar’s office, so you need to plan ahead for this component of your application. 

The Miller Analogies Test is given at UST Testing Services.  For further information and to register visit www.stthomas.edu/personalcounseling/testing/mat/default.html.

Instruct the testing location to send results to The Saint Paul Seminary School of Divinity.

How do I know what prerequisites I need and where can I complete the prerequisites?

Prerequisites are required for Master of Arts in Theology (MAT) and are listed in the course catalog.  These courses were identified as appropriate preparation for prospective students who have not studied theology or philosophy at the undergraduate level.  Prospective students work directly with the MAT director to determine what prerequisites, if any, they will need for admission to the program.  Although you can take       at any accredited academic institution, we have a special arrangement with the University of St. Thomas so that you can take them through our undergraduate programs on a tuition-free basis, if you prefer.

Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry (MAPM) and Master of Arts in Religious Education (MARE) do not have prerequisite requirements.

What is the cost of the program?

Tuition for 2009-2010 is $589 per credit hour or $1767 for one 3-credit course per semester. 

What about scholarships and financial aid?

We have several opportunities for scholarships and financial aid.  See our scholarship and financial aid fact sheet for further information.

How long does it take to complete the program?

Our programs are designed for full-time or part-time study, and the majority of our students do attend on a part-time basis, taking one or two courses per semester.  A full load is three courses per semester.  With full-time study, the MAT can be completed in two years and the MAPM and MARE degrees within three years.  Students are required to complete the degree within eight years.  Most of our courses are scheduled in the evenings, one night per week, to accommodate part-time students.  In addition, some MAT courses are also available during the day program.  Courses are offered in fall and spring semesters, as well as summer session.