M.A. in Early Christian Studies
The M.A. in Early Christian Studies at The Catholic University of America is an interdi...
M.A. in Church History
Washington, D.C
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Church History at The Catholic University of America, offered within the School of Theology and Religious Studies, provides students with an in-depth understanding of the history of Christianity from its origins to the twenty-first century. The program focuses on the internal life of the Church, including the development of its doctrine, discipline, polity, worship, spirituality, and missionary efforts, as well as its charitable and educational activities. It aims to develop critical thinking about how the Church has been studied over centuries and to prepare students for careers in religious education or for advanced doctoral studies in Church History.
Curriculum: The M.A. in Church History typically requires 24 credit hours of coursework in Church History, with the possibility of taking up to 6 credits outside the area with permission. A core requirement is TRS 724: Methods in Church History and Historical Theology. Courses are normally taken at the 700 or 800 level, with some 600-level courses approved. Students receive an additional 6 credits upon completion and approval of a thesis, which must be between 25,000 and 35,000 words, present original research, and utilize sources in their original languages. Language requirements include proficiency in Latin (demonstrated by examination, ideally by the end of the first semester) and reading ability in either French or German (also by examination or approved coursework). Depending on the area of concentration, a reading course or examination in biblical or patristic Greek may also be required. The program culminates in two four-hour written comprehensive examinations: one on general Church History (covering Early, Medieval, Renaissance, Early Modern, and American Church History) and another on the student's area of concentration.
Research Focus: The Church History program at Catholic University is focused on providing students with the tools to conduct rigorous research in the primary texts of Christian history. The research emphasis is on the internal life of the Church across all periods, including its doctrine, discipline, polity, worship, spirituality, and expansion through missionary work. Faculty research interests are diverse, encompassing areas such as early Christianity, patristics, medieval Church history, the Reformation, and American Catholicism. The program encourages students to critically analyze the historiography of the Church and apply these insights to their own research. It is strengthened by interdisciplinary faculty in historical theology, liturgy, spirituality, and canon law within the School of Theology and Religious Studies, and further supported by departments like History, Semitics, and Greek and Latin in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Access to extensive archives and library collections, including those at the university, the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Dumbarton Oaks, and the Folger Shakespeare Library, provides rich resources for in-depth research.
Industry Engagement: As a specialized academic program housed within a theological school, the M.A. in Church History primarily prepares students for careers within academia, religious education, and church-related institutions. Direct "industry engagement" in a commercial sense is not a central component. However, the rigorous training in historical research, textual analysis, critical thinking, and advanced writing cultivates highly transferable skills. Graduates are well-prepared for roles that require analytical precision, archival research, and the ability to articulate complex historical narratives. These skills are valuable in various non-profit organizations, cultural heritage institutions, and educational settings. The program's location in Washington, D.C., offers unique opportunities for research at major libraries and archives, indirectly supporting professional development in fields related to history and religion.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Church History at The Catholic University of America inherently offers a strong global perspective by tracing the history of Christianity from its earliest days to the present across diverse geographical and cultural contexts. The curriculum covers the expansion of the Church through missionary work and its charitable and educational activities worldwide, encompassing the history of the Church in Europe, the Americas, and beyond. The interdisciplinary approach, drawing from various departments and institutes, allows for a comprehensive understanding of how the Church interacted with different societies and intellectual traditions globally. The study of various historical periods, from Early Christianity to the Byzantine era, the Reformation, and American Church History, ensures a broad and interconnected global understanding of this influential institution.
Location
Washington, D.C
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 18400
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
The Catholic University of America (CUA) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, making CUA an attractive destination for talented students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: CUA provides merit scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements and overall profile. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable each year, provided students maintain satisfactory academic performance. Scholarships are awarded automatically during the admission process or through a separate application depending on the program.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While need-based financial aid for international students is limited due to federal regulations, CUA offers institutional grants and assistance based on demonstrated financial need. International students are encouraged to provide comprehensive financial documentation to be considered for these awards.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within CUA offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields such as theology, law, engineering, or music. These awards often recognize outstanding talent or the discipline and may include research stipends or assistantships.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate international students have access to assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative support. These opportunities not only help finance education but also provide valuable professional experience.
External Scholarships and Resources: CUA encourages international students to seek scholarships from external organizations, foundations, and government programs in their home countries. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such opportunities.
Graduates of The Catholic University of America's M.A. in Church History acquire a profound understanding of historical methodologies, theological development, and the intricate evolution of a major global institution. Their expertise in archival research, critical analysis of primary sources, and sophisticated communication skills makes them well-suited for a variety of specialized roles.
Religious Educator/Teacher: Teaching Church history, theology, or religious studies at secondary schools, Catholic colleges, seminaries, or in adult faith formation programs.
Archivist (Religious Institutions/Universities): Managing, preserving, and providing access to historical records, manuscripts, and documents for diocesan archives, religious orders, university special collections, or denominational historical societies.
Church Administrator/Historian: Serving in administrative roles within dioceses, religious orders, or Vatican departments, often with responsibilities for institutional history, records, or heritage.
Academic Editor (Theology/History): Working for academic presses or journals specializing in theology, religious studies, or Church history, ensuring scholarly accuracy and clarity of published works.
Researcher (Religious Think Tanks/Institutes): Conducting in-depth research on historical theological issues, the impact of religion on society, or the history of specific religious movements for specialized research organizations or foundations.
Museum Curator/Exhibit Developer (Religious Art/History): Contributing to the development and interpretation of exhibits related to religious art, artifacts, and historical periods in museums or cultural institutions.
Writer/Content Creator (Religious/Historical): Producing articles, books, online content, or educational materials for religious organizations, publishing houses, or general audiences interested in Church history or religious topics.
Librarian (Theology/History Collections): Working in academic or research libraries, specializing in theological or historical collections, and assisting scholars with research.
Doctoral Studies Candidate: Continuing academic pursuits towards a Ph.D. in Church History or related fields, aiming for a career in university-level teaching and research.
Genealogist/Family Historian (with Religious Focus): Conducting in-depth historical research for individuals or organizations tracing family lineages with significant religious historical connections, often utilizing church records.
