Critically examine Catholic theology, philosophy, and the human sciences with our Catholic Applied Theology MA.
You will apply theological principles, thinking, and skills to practical situations across a range of contexts. You’ll also develop the research skills to contribute individually to the field of theology.
During your online Catholic Applied Theology MA, you’ll cover subjects like:
- Christian anthropology
- contemporary apologetics
- ecclesiology
- marriage and family
- spiritual formation and psychology
- systematic theology.
We focus on student experience, combining academic study, prayer life, and support to ensure successful outcomes. Within 15 months of graduation, you’ll join the 96% of SMU graduates in employment, vocation, or further study (HESA, 2024).
We welcome students of all religions and none.
Forerunners in online and Catholic education
We have a long and distinguished history as a Catholic institution. Our Institute of Theology and Liberal Arts is highly respected and houses the Mater Ecclesiae College, established in 1614.
Additionally, we’ve specialised in distance learning since 1990, teaching students across a range of careers, callings, and continents.
Led by experts, shaped by students
Academic experts design course content. You’ll also learn from an exceptional academic team that make us Top 5 for Teaching Quality (Good University Guide, 2024).
We review feedback from students and staff every year to ensure our course meets your needs and expectations.
Our students love:
- our clear explanations of key ideas
- the detailed lecture notes
- our informal seminars that help them feel at ease
- that lectures are enriching, informative, and connect well with course materials.
A supportive community
SMU is warm, welcoming, and inclusive. You’ll also get personalised support from tutors committed to your growth.
One of our students said, “I have been humbled by the grace and patience shown to me by staff and students alike.”
Another student added that “the interaction with the tutors and fellow students has been delightful and very helpful; I have met some wonderful and inspiring people.”
It’s no surprise we’re Top 10 for Student Experience (Good University Guide, 2024).
A spiritual experience
One of our students said that our Catholic Applied Theology master’s “has greatly educated me, grown my faith and helped me to find my likely future path in faith ministry in my diocese.”
Similarly, another student expressed, “I have always loved learning, but what I did not expect was to develop so much on a faith and spiritual level.”
And a third student added, “I felt especially challenged by some of the […] ideas and concepts I came across, and this has instigated me to rethink many aspects of my life and faith. I am incredibly grateful to have had this opportunity.”
Online and flexible: study around your commitments
Since our Catholic Applied Theology degree runs online, you’ll study around your commitments. Alongside online content, you’ll take part in three online study weekends a year, which include:
- lectures over Zoom
- morning and evening prayer of the Church
- discussion and social time.
You can also complete a residential weekend in your first year.
Dr Catherine Knowles
Lecturer – Religion and Education
Upcoming webinars and events
Postgraduate events
Join us at a postgraduate event
Course content
Modules
You'll systematically cover core elements of Catholic theology. We offer detailed analysis of the essential themes in each theological subject and encourage you to engage with contemporary scholarship.
You will also build practical skills by reflecting on how best to communicate knowledge in:
- different pastoral
settings - the face of the challenges and opportunities in the contemporary world.
Each module is followed by a one-to-one tutorial and two seminars to ensure you’re confident with your progress.
Please note: it is possible that a module listed on the website will not be able to run due to reasons beyond our control. For more information please refer to our course information disclaimer.
Entry requirements
2:2
Previous degree
You'll need to have previously completed an undergraduate degree and achieved a 2:2 (or equivalent professional qualification).
International Requirements
International students should check our country-specific pages for equivalents. If English is not your first language you will need to achieve an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any section.
We now accept IELTS Indicator test results as proof of your English language level.
Further Information
For more information about entry requirements please email apply@stmarys.ac.uk.
Fees & funding
September 2025
Home
£8,580
International
£8,580
Additional costs
Your tuition fees will cover the cost of all mandatory elements of your programme. Additional costs could be incurred depending on optional modules chosen and other projects undertaken.
For further information about additional costs please see our additional costs webpage.
Alumni discount
A 20% tuition fee discount is available for our alumni (undergraduate and PGCE) planning to study this Master's degree. Those studying for a PGDip of PGCert are not eligible for the discount.
Funding
You can check on the UK government website to see if you may be eligible for a loan of up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate programme.
Home and international students may also be eligible for external sources of funding. International students should check their eligibility for our International Scholarship.
For more information, please look at our postgraduate funding page.
How the degree is taught
Assessment methods
We structure assessments to meet the Programme Learning Outcomes.
You will complete both formative and summative assessments.
Summative assessments include:
- written
assignments - including application to a pastoral setting
- oral exams
- a dissertation.
- seminars
- group discussion
- comprehensive and constructive
feedback from assignments.
Career opportunities
Our Catholic Applies Theology MA helps you build essential skills such as teamwork, reflection, and leadership.
Through our flexibility, dedication to students, and teaching, we ensure student success. Within 15 months of graduation, you’ll join the 96% of SMU graduates in employment, vocation, or further study (HESA, 2024).
And if you ever need advice, support, or guidance, we offer lifetime careers support. Please contact our Career Services at careers@stmarys.ac.uk for more information.
Some examples of job roles and areas of work for graduates of Catholic Applied Theology (Maryvale@StMary's) (Distance Learning) MA include:
Apply now
September
Make sure to check our step-by-step guide to application process.
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