ND MTS vs. MA/Theology

[toby42]

I'm applying to the ND MTS program for '14 but am going to apply for the MA in Theology program as well as a backup. One particular appeal of the MA is that I could stay here in CO (near friends, family, church, etc) and travel out there for part of the summer. So if I get accepted to both, I'll have to make a choice, and there are great benefits to both programs for me. But one of my main reasons for selecting the MTS program (and pursuing grad studies at all) is that it's intended to move one right on toward their doctorate, which is my intention. So the question is... is anyone familiar enough with ND's MA in Theology program to say how it might be received by addcomms for my Ph.D? At this point, the two main places I'm looking at applying is ND and Wheaton.

 

Thanks for the input.

Edited January 30, 2014 by toby42

[MBIGrad]

It is my understanding that ND's MA program is in no way designed to prepare students for doctoral programs, whereas the MTS is. Their MA is designed for continuing ed, whereas their MTS and Early Christian MA are language heavy, etc... things one needs for PhD programs.

 

But of course, I've been on their campus only once ... as a tourist. This may not be so.

Edited January 30, 2014 by MBIGrad

[theotokos1]

The Notre Dame MA is definitely not designed to be doctoral preparation.  If you want to go to Notre Dame for PhD work, then you definitely need the MTS.  If you want to go elsewhere for PhD work, then the MA may work.

 

I'm a staff member at Notre Dame, and I can say that the MA is looked at as a way to make money and do outreach, not to engage in rigorous academic studies. I disagree with this approach and reputation, but still, it is there.

[toby42]

Thank you, that info is just what I was looking for (and expected). Well, fingers crossed for MTS, then!

 

Thanks!