Theologian11

HDS students can take classes at any of the Harvard schools. There really isn't a limit on how much you can cross-register. However, whether or not the course counts toward your divinity school requirements is up to the registrar. Many courses are already cross-listed between HDS and another school, but sometimes you can make a case for something not cross-listed to count.

I would say absolutely! A lot of people who study historical theology have went to Yale for the masters and loved it. Also, a lot of theology professors at top universities have PhDs from Yale.

Yes, back when I applied, Notre Dame took only 20 students per year for the MTS and put another 20 on the wait-list. I think the preference is not so much for Catholic applicants, but applicants from Catholic schools. I've known of a couple Jewish students from Catholic undergrads who got offers from Notre Dame. They do give everyone free funding. When I turned them down, they offered a stipend but said they couldn't match other offers I'd received because the cost of living is cheaper in Indiana. That being said, I've heard Notre Dame has become increasingly conservative in recent years (and is a much more conservative environment than Fordham, Georgetown, and BC), so probably not the best fit for some of our theological interests.

I definitely would wait and before sending anything, talk it over with professors at your current school. Some professors actually prefer not to hear from prospective students. I was just accepted to a program with amazing funding having never contacted any of my POIs. So, more important than contacting professors is making sure you have a fantastic personal statement ready for next year!

You could also do a dual degree with HDS and the Kennedy School of Government (though I will warn you that HKS does not give as good of financial aid packages as HDS does) With three years of Arabic, it sounds like you would have a good chance at getting a job in government after graduation.