Julian144

Wow, I appreciate your thorough and honest response. You bring up a lot of excellent points. I'll be attending BC's admitted student days and I am trying to manage a trip to New Haven during the same trip. I've talked mainly with my own UG professors about different programs - some feedback from actual students is definitely something I should try to find. In response to some of your other questions: Yes, there is something appealing about the open-ended nature of BC's program. (Looking back on my applications, I realize that my list of programs doesn't exactly follow a trend. I love the study of theology and know that I want to engage in more of it, but I'm not certain where I want to go from a master's program... hence a mix of MDiv and comprehensive/concentrated programs.) Denominational affiliation isn't a strong factor for me, but I am Catholic and have wondered if, should I pursue a non-academic route, the STM might be a better fit. That said, I'm very interested in gaining some broader perspectives/experiencing other faith traditions. I did my undergrad at ND and absolutely loved it. The idea of going back is extremely tempting, but I'm beginning to feel that I should experience a new environment for my grad work. I haven't ruled it out yet, though. I'm hoping that visiting and, hopefully, talking with some students will help my decision process. I really want to leave the PhD route open (especially as it has been a consistent interest of mine for a substantial length of time). I am willing to consider spending a bit more money if it will make a difference later. Hmm... looks like I have more thinking/research to do. Thanks very much for sharing your thoughts/information. JDM -- thanks also for your helpful response! It's great to hear of success stories It's also great to learn of the flexibility re: taking classes. All things that I will consider!

I can't resist throwing my own dilemma out there for potential feedback I am deciding between the MARc at Yale and the MTS at BC. I have 50% tuition at Yale and full tuition + stipend at BC. I hate that funding is such a big factor in my decision, but I can't seem to separate my decision from money matters. I am giving the PhD route serious consideration but I also have a growing interest in other applications of the degree - perhaps some sort of ministry or nonprofit work or religious journalism. I imagine that the MAR concentrated would be a better fit for the PhD route (and I would love the opportunity to work closely with a few of the professors in my concentration) and BC might be better if I have diverging interests. Does anyone know how BC students fare in competition for PhD programs? Or if I might have difficulty applying a degree from a concentrated program like the MAR toward anything other than academia? General thoughts about either program and/or how you would rank funding when deciding between the schools? Any feedback much appreciated!

Does anyone else know how STM grads fare in admission to PhD programs? I am in a similar situation: considering the PhD route but open to other applications of the degree.

Thanks for the replies! I've been trying to get in touch with admissions offices but wanted to see what I could find out here, too. Funding will be a major consideration when choosing whether or not to defer... I heard from ND on Wednesday of last week for those wondering.

Hello! I'm wondering if anyone has any knowledge/experience with deferring admission to MTS programs. I'm currently involved with a service program in which I can serve an additional year, an option I am seriously considering. I have been admitted to BC (MTS), ND (MTS), and Yale (MARc). I believe that BC allows students to defer for at least one year. Does anyone know about ND or Yale? I am also curious about deferring scholarships/funding. As I understand, most schools require students to resubmit personal financial information/the FAFSA. What about fellowships/scholarship money? Any thoughts much appreciated! I haven't contributed much to these boards, but I am a frequent visitor and am always impressed with the support/excellent advice on them! Cheers.