This programme brings together two complementary, interdisciplinary programmes, Theology (AST) and Religious Studies (SMU). 

Graduate students will experience a diverse and rich field of expertise in the study of religion.

Students will have a unique opportunity to explore and articulate the relationship between Theology and Religious Studies, especially as the fields have evolved both within Canada and internationally. 

The programme will focus on research on religious and theological issues and religious communities regionally, nationally and internationally to recognize the importance of the multicultural, religiously plural realities of Canada, the Americas, and many nations around the world. 

Students may also choose to study traditional religious studies and theological areas, such as comparative religions, comparative ethics, biblical studies, systematic theology and pastoral theology.

Two Streams available in the M.A.: Students may register in one of two streams within the M.A. in Theology and Religious Studies. 

Both of these streams may be completed either as full-time or part-time studies. 

Part-time: Part-time students will be subject to the same admission criteria and will be fulfilling all of the requirements for the M.A. in one of the thesis or course streams. Part-time students are not normally eligible for M.A. fellowships.

• Thesis Stream: Includes the completion of a traditional research-oriented thesis in preparation for Ph.D. studies. Students will be encouraged to do field-based research with religious communities or complete library-based theses. 

Over three semesters, students will complete nine (9) credit hours of required courses, nine (9) credit hours of elective courses, and a thesis (six [6] credit hours). 

Thesis proposal submission and thesis writing guidelines will be designed to enable students to complete their programmes within three (3) semesters.

• Course Only Stream: Over three semesters, students will complete nine (9) credit hours of required courses and fifteen (15) credit hours of elective courses. 

Students in this stream will be encouraged to include at least one practicum course (GTRS 6400, three [3] credit hours).

• Academic/Official Transcripts
• Language Proficiency (If Applicable)
• Passport or Visa Documents
• Supplemental Form
• Resume/Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Letter of Intent
• Sample of academic writing
• Letters of recommendation

• An Honours B.A. in Religious Studies or Theology, or a first degree in Theology (Masters in Divinity, for example), or an equivalent from an AUCC accredited university or a similarly recognized institution.
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.3 scale) over the last 60 credit hours or equivalent.