Master of Theological Studies (MTS) at Emory University

Programme overview

A two-year master's degree for academic exploration of theology and religion, designed for teaching and research, nonprofit or public policy work, and preparing students for doctoral study.

Faculty: Candler School of Theology | Duration: Normally two years full-time; 48 credit hours | Study mode: full-time | Location: Atlanta, GA, United States

What you will study

Core of 6 hours in each of three areas, a professional development elective, 18-21 hours in a chosen area of focus (Christianity; Modern Religious Thought; or Global Religions), MTS520 Research Methods, MTS600 Capstone and a portfolio or thesis. Certificates and dual degrees in Bioethics, Business Administration, Law and Public Health are available.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Bachelor's or equivalent degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

USD 28,324 a year (2026-27). Candler School of Theology tuition for MDiv, MRL, MRPL, MTS, ThM and ThD ($14,162 per fall and spring term). Tuition only; excludes fees, housing, health insurance and living costs. Emory publishes one tuition rate for all students. Source

The Laney Graduate School is accepting applications for all PhD and master's programmes for Fall 2027.

Laney Graduate School application fee is $75 (non-refundable, paid by credit card online; limited fee waivers available). Deadlines are set by each programme and fall at midnight US Eastern time on the programme's deadline date.

Goizueta One-Year MBA deadlines: Early September 2, 2026; Round 1 September 30, 2026; Round 2 January 6, 2027; Round 3 March 3, 2027. Two-Year MBA deadlines: Round 1 September 30, 2026; Round 2 January 6, 2027; Round 3 March 17, 2027. The Full-time, Executive and Evening MBA application fee is $175.

Nursing (MN pathway to MSN or DNP): Round 1 August 1, 2026; Round 2 October 1, 2026; Round 3 December 1, 2026. CRNA: Round 1 June 1, 2026; Round 2 September 1, 2026. Application fee is $50.

Anesthesiologist Assistant MMSc: rolling review with application deadline on or before December 1, 2026 (4:59 p.m. EST); applications go through CASAA with a $65 Emory administrative fee.

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