AND Program Handbook 2021-22 Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality - Martin Luther University College
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Program Handbook
2021-22
Master of Arts in Theology:
Public Faith and Spirituality
AND
Master of Arts in Theology (Public Faith
and Spirituality) and Master of Divinity
(MDiv) Double Degree
Please note that this handbook is subject to revisions.
Revised August 12, 2021.
Updated versions will be posted at https://luther.wlu.ca/
75 University Ave. West
Waterloo, ON N2L 3C5
September 2020
1Table of Contents
Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 3
Martin Luther University College History ................................................................................................. 4
Martin Luther University College Vision, Mission, and Values................................................................. 6
Faculty Advising ........................................................................................................................................ 8
Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality ......................................................................... 9
Degree Structure and Program Information .............................................................................. 10
Degree Outcomes ....................................................................................................................... 11
Degree Program Requirements Checklist................................................................................... 13
Options: Major Research Project or Thesis in Theology ............................................................ 15
Major Research Project - Proposal ............................................................................................. 18
Major Research Project – Assessment ....................................................................................... 19
Double Degree: Master of Arts (Public Faith and Spirituality) and Master of Divinity (MDiv) .............. 20
Master of Divinity Degree Outcomes ......................................................................................... 21
MA/MDiv Contextual Option ...................................................................................................... 22
Premature Ending of a Contextual Placement/Internship ............................................. 22
MA/MDiv Double Degree Coursework Option ........................................................................... 22
Program Requirement Checklist ................................................................................................. 23
Course Material Collection Acknowledgement Form ............................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
2Introduction Welcome to Martin Luther University College (Luther) and to the Master of Arts degree in Theology (Public Faith and Spirituality). Martin Luther University College (formerly, Waterloo Lutheran Seminary) has a long history of offering courses and degree programs in theology. At its inception, the school offered a BDiv (Bachelor of Divinity, usually undertaken after receiving the Bachelor of Arts degree), which eventually was offered as an Master of Divinity (MDiv). The Master of Theological Studies began in 1969 and has gone through many revisions over the years to become our current Master of Arts in Theology offered in two fields: Public Faith and Spirituality (PFS) and Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy (SCP). The MA (PFS) degree offers students the opportunity to develop capacities for engaging faith in public arenas, for exploring spiritual resources at a personal level and for developing skills needed for further academic work. All of this occurs in the context of Lutheran school hosting a rich ecumenical and inter-faith conversation. Learning at the Master’s level offers students the opportunity to integrate previous education and experiences with an ever-expanding awareness of a subject area. The MA (PFS) at Luther is unique in that it provides students with a significant amount of freedom to design the shape of their educational experience. Courses offered in this degree provide students with the opportunity to reflect on the teachings, values and practices of their belief system in conversation with a broad range of resources that will both support and challenge their views. Students who wish to explore theological themes creatively in a way that is more robust than single courses could offer can opt for the Major Research Project option. Students interested in further academic work or in a larger sustained written project may opt for the Thesis Option. Students will have opportunities to develop both personally and professionally through the degree program. 3
Martin Luther University College History Martin Luther University College, formerly named Waterloo Lutheran Seminary, was founded in 1911 as the Evangelical Lutheran Seminary and received its first charter on May 6, 1913.1 The Seminary was founded to provide theological training for pastors to serve the two Lutheran Synods in Canada. Lutherans have historically been committed to education generally and post-secondary education in particular. “In sixteenth century Germany, Martin Luther insisted that being able to read, interpret and understand the Bible was crucial for all Christians, and for living out their vocation in the world; in this sense and rather remarkable for that time, education was considered an obligation.” 2 There are more than 40 Lutheran Universities and Colleges in the United States and Canada mainly with liberal arts and professional programs. Lutherans in Eastern Canada followed a similar pattern of education that combined the need to be able to understand and comprehend a wide body of knowledge and put it into practice in order to be able to serve one’s neighbours and community. By 1924, the Waterloo College of the Arts was established to provide undergraduate liberal arts education and professional training. In its early days, Waterloo College was federated with the University of Western Ontario. In 1956, the Waterloo College Associate Faculties was created by community leaders, which ultimately became the University of Waterloo. In 1959, Waterloo Lutheran University (WLU) including the Waterloo Lutheran Seminary (WLS) was created as a degree granting institution. WLU continued to focus on the liberal arts and some professional programs emerged in church music, social work and business administration. WLU also was one of the few universities to engage in distance learning through “tele-college” and extension programs in centres like Barrie and Orillia. Many primary and secondary teachers were able to complete their undergraduate degrees through these programs. In 1973, the Eastern Canada Synod, the body responsible for electing the WLU Board, approved the “provincialization” of WLU, changing the name of the university to Wilfrid Laurier University. Waterloo Lutheran University became “known as” Waterloo Lutheran Seminary and was federated with the newly created Wilfrid Laurier University. During this time a “School of Religion and Culture” (SORAC) had been proposed between the Seminary and Laurier’s Religion and Culture Department. For most of a decade the two faculties worked together under the SORAC banner. By 1981 changing circumstances and accreditation issues resulted in the two faculties operating independently. While a functional relationship remains, divergent interests and approaches have resulted in two largely distinct programs. In 1982, WLS was 1 Oscar Cole Arnal, Toward An Indigenous Lutheran Ministry in Canada (Waterloo Lutheran Seminary, Waterloo, ON, 1988). 2 Karen L. Bloomquist and Martin Sinaga, Theological Education in Lutheran Churches, Handbook of Theological Education in World Christianity, edited by Dietrich Werner, David Esterline, Namsoom Kang and Joshva Raja (Regnum Books International, Oxford, U.K., 2010), 652. 4
accredited and became a member of the Association of Theological schools that now number over 270 Graduate Theological Schools. Clinical Pastoral Education traces its roots to the 1930s, when Anton Boisen placed theological students in a clinical setting so that they could learn from supervised pastoral counselling experience. During the 1960s, Delton Glebe led pioneering initiatives at WLS in the field of pastoral counselling. WLS was a leader in North America in developing an understanding of this field and methods for this kind of contextual learning. This also resulted in the development of a range of graduate academic programs: Master of Divinity and Diploma for ordination bound students, the joint Master of Divinity- Master of Arts program, the Master of Theological Studies for those interested in studying theology, the Master of Divinity-Master of Social Work as well as the Master of Theological Studies-Master of Social Work, again for non-ordained students, and the Master of Theology in Pastoral Counselling. Over the years the field of pastoral counselling has evolved into what today is called “spiritually integrated psychotherapy” and appeals to students from many different faith traditions. Graduates from the Master of Arts program in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy will be eligible to apply for membership in the Province of Ontario’s College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). As the programs at Waterloo Lutheran Seminary continued to evolve, it became clear that it was important to have an institutional name that reflected the diversity of programs. As a result, Waterloo Lutheran Seminary changed its name to Martin Luther University College (Luther) in June 2018 in order to better support its mission. The school continues to be an internationally recognized pioneer. An emerging theme that crosses all programs is that of “public theology” and “public ethics,” which “arises from inner personal convictions, communities of faith, voluntary associations” (Max Stackhouse), and “gets involved in the public affairs of society” (Jürgen Moltmann). Luther is a recognized leader in multi-faith education and building relationships among and between faith traditions. This “public approach” is reflected in the new programs developed at Luther. The school offers the field of “Public Faith and Spirituality” in its Master of Arts in Theology program. It has two fields in its PhD program: “Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy” and “Pastoral Leadership.” The term “Pastoral” is meant to designate the kind of “servant leadership” or accompaniment in community building that can be applied to both ordained and non-ordained leaders in faith communities. As well, Luther has initiated an undergraduate academic program, a Bachelor of Arts in the emerging field of “Christian Studies and Global Citizenship.” In addition, Luther offers several possible minors geared toward students taking undergraduate degrees at Laurier: Christian Studies and Global Citizenship, Spirituality and Global Music, Human Relations, and Judaism. 5
Martin Luther University College Vision, Mission, and Values
Vision
Where spirituality accompanies academic curiosity to inspire lives of meaning and service in God’s
world.
Mission
To be a diverse, multi-faith, and pluralistic community of learning, committed to teaching,
reflection, and scholarship within the university
To cultivate and nurture public leaders, whose Christian or spiritual values lead to
commitment and service to others and God’s creation
To encourage and challenge individuals in the discovery of their deepest passion and to
acquire professional competence for their life’s work
To strengthen community and well-being in a holistic way
To promote a healthy civil society, which values a diversity of opinion and culture
Values
Excellence in Academic Discipline and Spiritually Integrated Learning
Recognizing that the integration of knowledge and skills, faith and spirituality is a lifelong endeavour,
we strive to provide formative and integrative educational opportunities for university, graduate, and
post-graduate students.
Integrity in Public Faith and Ethics
Rooted in the Lutheran tradition of the Reformation and motivated by the message of God’s
boundless grace, we seek to develop leaders with the skills to serve God, neighbour, the community,
the church, and creation. Toward this end, we foster self-awareness and self-interrogative skills to
enable critical thinking, cultivate the skills for recognizing as well as engaging various “publics” and
doing public ethics on significant questions and issues, and nurture the capacity and confidence to
cross the borders of academic, economic, political, social, cultural, or spiritual differences.
Hospitality Amidst Diversity
Compelled by a vision of God’s inclusive community, we believe that reflecting theologically,
cultivating deeper spiritual awareness, nurturing ethical commitments, building character, gaining
skills, and developing intellectual disciplines is best undertaken in a diverse yet hospitable
community. As a result, we welcome people from any tradition and culture who seek theological
education within such a context.
Community Engagement
6Convinced that God works through civil organizations toward the building of a just society, we engage
local, national and global communities, subjects, and institutions, to more fully understand the issues
of our time and to nurture the capacity of students to provide responsible leadership.
Teamwork and the building of Sustaining Partnerships
Persuaded that we are co-workers with God in the healing of creation, we are committed to the
building of healthy, collaborative partnerships within the university and the wider community for the
purpose of learning with others, optimizing our capacities and identifying opportunities for future
collaborative efforts.
7Faculty Advising
Please contact the following advisor/director:
MA in Theology (Public Faith and Spirituality), and PFS components of MA/MDiv double degree
Dr. Mona Tokarek LaFosse: mlafosse@luther.wlu.ca, 519-884-0710 x3235, Rm. 214
Double degree: MA in Theology (Public Faith and Spirituality)/Master of Divinity
(MA PFS/MDiv)
Dr. Mary (Joy) Philip, mphilip@luther.wlu.ca, 519-884-0710 x3576, Rm. 212
All Faculty offices are at Martin Luther University College, second floor, located at the corner of
Bricker Avenue and Albert Street.
8Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith
and Spirituality
9Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality
Degree Structure and Program Information
The Public Faith and Spirituality field covers the Bible, church history, systematics, ethics and
practical theology. In this wide-ranging course of study, you can focus your studies on spiritual
growth and development, a comprehensive research project, or faith-based professional
development. The program offers enough freedom for developing a field of studies tailored to the
interest of the student. All students take three courses in a scripture cluster (Hebrew Scriptures,
New Testament, or the Abrahamic Faiths); five introductory theology/wisdom courses; seven
theology electives; and a research course.
From the academic calendar:
The Public Faith and Spirituality field explores the academic study of the continuum of
spiritual experiences ranging from personal faith to the communal nature of public faith,
wherein faith groups work for the common good in response to their deepest held
convictions regarding God, humanity and the cosmos. This field provides students with the
opportunity to focus their studies on spiritual growth and development, research in
preparation for further studies, or in service of faith-based professional development.
This program is designed such that required courses are generally rotated through the evening and
during the Spring term, making it an excellent choice for commuting or part-time students.
Note: For double degree information (MA/MDiv) see below.
10Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality
Degree Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the degree, students will have:
1) Capacity for critical and constructive theological reflection
a) An understanding of the genesis and content of Christian Scriptures and the ability to
use critical tools needed to interpret them.
b) An understanding of the skills required in order to compare religious texts and traditions
with integrity.
c) The ability to critically and theologically reflect on the Christian tradition and its
intersection with contemporary contexts.
2) Skill in the design, implementation, and assessment of both qualitative and text-based
research
a) The ability to locate a methodology appropriate for a given theological topic to be
researched.
b) An understanding of the current literature relevant to the areas under consideration.
c) An understanding of the ethical issues relevant to both research involving human
subjects and research focusing on literature review.
d) The ability to integrate knowledge of human and cultural diversity.
e) The ability to use effective professional communication.
3) An understanding of the role of vocation in religious life
a) The ability to appreciate the evolution of the notion of vocation in the Christian
tradition, including the call to the religious life of clergy, the call of laity and the call of
faith communities.
b) The ability to integrate a theological understanding of the role of vocation in religious
life both in and beyond the Christian tradition.
c) The ability to recognise and respond to ethical issues related to the religious
phenomenon of vocation.
4) An appreciation and understanding of the global character of Christianity;
a) An awareness of Christianity as a world religion in relationship to other expressions of
religious life.
b) An ability to relate the history of the Christian practice of mission to the various
paradigms operative in its manifestations.
c) The ability to articulate a public faith that recognizes the role of the church as a public
voice among other voices invested in the task of advancing human flourishing.
11Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality
d) An awareness of the many ways in which church and state have interacted in the course
of history.
5) An appreciation and understanding of the current multi-faith environment
a) An awareness of the need for public faith to be self-critical.
b) An ability to integrate inter-faith conversation as a theological resource.
c) An ability to articulate the core of one’s own religious faith in conversation with varied
faiths and cultures.
12Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality
Degree Program Requirements Checklist
Students take 16 half-credit courses, 9 required core courses and 7 theology electives, as
outlined below. Your advisor is Mona Tokarek LaFosse: mlafosse@luther.wlu.ca, 519-884-0710
x3235.
Luther courses are found on LORIS and on Luther’s webpage (schedules for Spring intensive
courses are found only on this website): https://students.wlu.ca/programs/luther/masters-and-
diploma-programs/course-offerings/index.html. Some courses are normally only offered in
Spring term (S), and some courses are normally only offered every other year (marked with *).
Name:
Student #:
Start date:
Full/part-time:
Taken Plan to take
Year/term year/term
Required theology/wisdom and sacred texts courses (8 courses)
Theological requirements (5 courses):
Required:
TH530A: Introduction to God and Theological Reflection
TH644A: Indigenous Wisdom and Methodology
TH645A: Intersectionality: Interfaith and Intercultural
Perspectives
Choose two of the following:
TH530B - Introduction to Jesus and Salvation
TH530C - Introduction to the Spirit and Community (S)
TH530D - Introduction to Discipleship and Ethics (S)*
Sacred texts requirements (3 courses): Choose one of the
following options
Option 1: Hebrew Scriptures focus
TH503A - Survey of the Hebrew Scriptures
TH503B - Themes of the Hebrew Scriptures (S)*
One of the following:
TH503C - Survey of the New Testament
TH503E - Reading and Interpreting the Qur'an (in
translation) (S)
13Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality
or RE643 - Islam and Muslims in the Contemporary
World
Option 2: New Testament focus
TH503C - Survey of the New Testament
TH503D - Themes of the New Testament (S)*
One of the following:
TH503A - Survey of the Hebrew Scriptures
TH503E - Reading and Interpreting the Qur'an (in
translation) (S)
or RE643 Islam and Muslims in the Contemporary
World
Option 3: Survey of Abrahamic Faiths
TH503A - Survey of the Hebrew Scriptures
TH503C - Survey of the New Testament
TH503E - Reading and Interpreting the Qur'an (in
translation) (S)
or RE643 Islam and Muslims in the Contemporary
World
Required: one of the following research courses (1 course):
TH664I - Qualitative Research
TH680A - Literature-based Research in Public Faith and Spirituality
TH502A - Critical Analysis of Biblical Texts: Introduction *
Electives (7 courses) – see note below
Selected in consultation with the Program Advisor
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
In consultation with their advisor, students may pursue one of the
following options (prerequisite: TH664I, TH502A or TH680A):
1. Major Research Project in Theology (TH698) = 1.0 credit (reducing
electives to 5 courses)
2. Thesis in Theology option (TH699) = 2.0 credits (reducing electives
to 3 courses)
14Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality Electives Students normally take at least 50% of their electives at Luther. Students interested in taking electives at other institutions must have these requests approved by the Academic Advisory Committee (AAC). Information concerning this (as well as other requests concerning exceptions to the course of study in the program) can be found at: https://students.wlu.ca/programs/luther/masters-and-diploma-programs/requests-and- appeals.html. 15
Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality
Options: Major Research Project or Thesis in Theology
In the MA in Theology in the field of Public Faith and Spirituality students are required to take a
total of 16 half-credits (8 full credits). There are three options for these credits:
1. 16 half-credit courses (9 required and 7 elective courses)
2. 14 half-credit courses and a full (1.0) credit Major Research Project (9 required, 5
electives, MRP)
3. 12 half-credit courses and a Thesis, which counts for 2.0 credits (9 required, 3 electives,
thesis)
An MRP or Thesis allows the student to develop a sustained piece of research in a particular
area of interest within their degree.
The following outlines the differences between these options.
Note:
MRP = Major Research Project (which may also be a “paper”)
FGPS = Faculty of Graduate and Post-Doctoral Studies
Thesis Major Research Project
Should consult with director of program before Should consult with director of program
beginning the process before beginning the process
Student must submit a thesis proposal to AAC Student must submit a proposal to AAC
(FGPS form) in cooperation with proposed (Luther form, outlined below), in cooperation
supervisor before the start of term when the with proposed supervisor before the start of
student is registered in the thesis: term when the student is registered in the
https://downloads.wlu.ca/downloads/academics/graduate- MRP
and-postdoctoral-studies/documents/masters-mrp-and-
thesis-proposal-approval-form.pdf
The committee consists of an advisor plus Supervisor + second reader who will confirm
committee members as per FGPS the final project is ready to be graded (see
below for “Assessment” parameters)
Two full credits = four half credits (2.0) Full credit (1.0), usually over two terms
alongside other coursework, or one term with
no other coursework
16Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality
Normally undertaken as the final credits in the Normally undertaken in the latter part of the
degree. Prerequisite research course needed degree. Prerequisite research course needed
(TH664I, TH502A or TH680A). (TH664I, TH502A or TH680A).
A larger sustained piece of research: Parameters of the project:
focused area of interest option of a paper or project
could include qualitative research, which focused area of interest
must go through the REB (Research Ethics normally does not involve qualitative
Board) research (but any research involving
coursework has normally provided a people must go through the REB)
foundation for the research undertaken
Length of 60-80 pages Paper: 40-50 pages
Project: project plus 25-30 page paper
Pass/fail Grade (standard letter grade)
Formal oral defense: Colloquium:
Open to Luther and Laurier community Open to Luther and Laurier
Examined by committee & external community
examiner (usually local, as per the Supervisor is normally present
guidelines of FGPS) Opportunity to engage the larger
Evaluated on the basis of both written community, present findings in a
thesis and oral defense public setting and field questions from
1.5 to 2 hours peers and faculty
Not evaluated, but required
1 hour for presentation and questions
Final product submitted to Scholars Commons in
the Library and Archives Canada for inclusion in
the Theses Canada Portal (as outlined by FGPS)
Further parameters found in Laurier’s academic
calendar:
“Regulations and Procedures Governing the
Master's Thesis”
17Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality
Major Research Project - Proposal
In consultation with a supervisor for the project, a student should create a 1-2 page document
with the following information to be submitted to the director of the program before the
beginning of term in which the student wishes to begin the MRP.
From the calendar:
TH698: “In consultation with their academic advisor, students prepare a major research paper
and make a presentation based on it in a colloquium.”
Credit: 1.0 (equivalent of two courses)
Student:
Supervisor:
Second reader:
Term:
Timeline (include chapters, first draft and/or final draft):
Proposed date for colloquium:
Identify:
Option 1: Paper
1. the main topic and research question to investigate
2. the methodology to be used in the paper
3. a preliminary core bibliography
Option 2: Project
1. a description of the medium/location/core substance for the project
2. an outline of where the project will be located in the literature, field of study and/or
community
3. a preliminary core bibliography
Indicate:
1. appropriate style guide (Chicago or APA)
2. expected intervals for meeting
18Master of Arts in Theology: Public Faith and Spirituality
Major Research Project – Assessment
The MRP should:
1. follow the style guide appropriate to the topic (Chicago or APA).
2. be an appropriate length (normally 40-50 pages for paper; 25-30 pages for project)
3. receive a standard letter grade
Objectives:
demonstrate independent inquiry, exploration and/or investigation of a specific topic or
issue in a field of study located within theological studies or a related field
situate the topic or issue within the relevant literature
utilize a methodology or approach that engages the topic or issue in an appropriate
manner
clearly state the argument and/or message of the study/project
demonstrate the relevance of the topic or issue in relationship to a defined context
and/or audience
identify the limitations of this study/project
explore how this study/project draws from and/or contributes to the field and/or the
student’s academic or vocation goals
19Double Degree: Master of Arts (Public
Faith and Spirituality) and Master of
Divinity (MDiv)
20Master of Divinity Degree Outcomes
Religious Faith and Heritage
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the genesis and content of the Christian Scriptures
and the ability to interpret them using a variety of methods, sources, and norms.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the development of Christian doctrine and ideas,
including the student’s own denominational history, polity, and authoritative
documents.
Culture and Context
3. Demonstrate critical self-awareness with regard to the student’s own personal,
theological, and social assumptions and their impact on ministry.
4. Demonstrate the ability to employ diverse methods of contextual analysis in service of
ministry.
5. Demonstrate the ability to identify, converse, and respect a diversity of theological
viewpoints and practices within an ecumenical, multi-faith, and multicultural context.
Personal and Spiritual Vocational Formation
6. Demonstrate an appreciation of the variety of callings and spiritual practices and an
ability to reflect critically on the student’s own sense of call to leadership and service.
7. Demonstrate faith that is evident in daily life, and a sense of call that reflects both
personal conviction and corporate confirmation.
8. Demonstrate growing competences for self-reflective and theologically integrated
ministry.
Ministerial and Public Leadership
9. Demonstrate academic and practical competencies in congregational and community
leadership, administration, preaching, worship, teaching, communication, evangelism
and stewardship, collaborative ministry, and spiritual care.
10. Demonstrate professional ethics and competency in public ethics.
21MA/MDiv Contextual Option The Contextual Option is for students who are preparing for professional ministry and whose judicatories require more extensive contextual placements. Such students are required to obtain, before the end of their first term, endorsement as acceptable ministry candidates by the church of which they are members. Continuance in the contextual component of the MDiv program after the first term is contingent upon the maintenance of such an endorsement. Students enrolled in the contextual option are required to be involved in field placements concurrent with their contextual coursework (TH560A, TH560B, TH560C, and TH560D). Placements are arranged through the supervisor of contextual education. Students must also complete an internship (1.0 credit) and two concurrent internship Seminars (0.5 credits each) that are normally taken after the completion of other coursework. The credits for the Internship (TH681*) and Seminars (TH665F and TH665I) are taken in lieu of four half credit electives regardless of the field of study in which they are enrolled. Premature Ending of a Contextual Placement/Internship Grievance Procedure Process First Level: Where there is a disagreement between the student and their on-site contextual supervisor, the parties should first strive to mutually resolve the issue among themselves. Second Level: If the conflict cannot be resolved between the initial parties, the department head Dr. Mary (Joy) Philip mphilip@luther.wlu.ca should be contacted to assist with mediating the situation. Third Level: Should a resolution still not be achieved the issue should be escalated to the office of the Principal-Dean, Kristine Lund (klund@luther.wlu.ca). The PD will meet with the parties involved in the dispute, individually and then together, with each party involved in the conflict having the opportunity to describe their understanding of the nature of the problem and the issues involved. The Principal-Dean will then work either directly with the parties involved, or by delegating such efforts to a restorative justice consultant, in order to seek resolution. MA/MDiv Double Degree Coursework Option The Coursework (non-contextual) Option is for students whom are either already working in a ministerial setting, preparing for non-congregational ministry, or members of a faith community that does not require contextual placements. This option does not include the Contextual Education placements, Internship, or the Internship Seminars that are required under the Contextual Option. 22
Program Requirement Checklist
Please indicate the courses you have already taken and those you plan to take during the
coming year. This is not an “official registration” but is for planning purposes only. Please
complete and take this to your advising appointments. Your advisor is Dr. Mary (Joy) Philip –
mphilip@luther.wlu.ca.
Name: Email: __________________________
Full-time ________________________ or Part-time_________________________
Note: Dates/times/locations for courses held in the winter and fall terms can be found on
LORIS. However, the dates/times of “INTENSIVE COURSES,” which most often run in the spring
term, can be found on the Luther website: https://students.wlu.ca/programs/luther/masters-
and-diploma-programs/course-offerings/index.html
Required Courses Taken Plan to Take
Term/year Term/year
TH502A - Critical Analysis of Biblical Texts: Introduction
TH502B - Critical Analysis of Biblical Texts: Advanced
TH503A - Survey of the Hebrew Scriptures
TH503B - Themes of the Hebrew Scriptures (runs every second year)
TH503C - Survey of the New Testament
TH503D - Themes of the New Testament (runs every second year)
TH530A - Introduction to God and Theological Reflection
TH530B - Introduction to Jesus and Salvation
TH530C - Introduction to the Spirit and Community
TH530D - Introduction to Discipleship and Ethics (runs every second year)
TH560A - Introduction to Worship (runs every second year)
TH560B - Introduction to Spiritual Care (runs every second year)
TH560C - Introduction to Preaching (runs every second year)
TH560D - Introduction to Nurturing Faith (runs every second year)
TH621E - Issues in Church History: Study of the Lutheran Confessions
(runs every second year)
TH652A* Supervised Pastoral Education: SPEII (1.0 credit - students can take
a clinical pastoral education (CPE).
23TH663A – Grief
TH644A - Indigenous Wisdom and Methodology
TH645A - Intersectionality: Interfaith and Intercultural Perspectives
Required: 3 Theology or Biblical Electives (pertaining to the MDiv) – see note Taken Plan to Take
below Term/year Term/year
Elective #1
Elective #2
Elective #3
In addition to the required courses above, students in the Public Faith and
Spirituality field must take the equivalent of 8 additional half-credit courses,
either within the Contextual Option or Coursework Option.
Contextual Option Coursework Option
Internship and related courses with eight open electives – see note below
four open electives – see note below
TH681 Internship 1.
(1.0 credit) 2.
TH665F Internship Seminar I 3.
TH665I Entry into the Parish 4.
1. 5.
2. 6.
3. 7.
4. 8.
In consultation with their advisor, students may pursue one of the following
options in place of open electives (prerequisite: TH664I, TH502A or TH680A):
1. Major Research Project in Theology (TH698) = 1.0 credit (reducing electives
for the Contextual Option to 2 courses and for the Coursework Option to 6
courses)
2. Thesis in Theology option (TH699) = 2.0 credits (no elective options remain
for the Contextual Option; a Thesis reduces electives to 4 courses for the
Coursework Option)
Total: 31 half courses (15.5 credits) are required (note: CPE/SPE = 2 courses)
Total
24Electives Students normally take at least 50% of their electives at Luther. Students interested in taking electives at other institutions must have these requests approved by the Academic Advisory Committee (AAC). Information concerning this (as well as other requests concerning exceptions to the course of study in the program) can be found at: https://students.wlu.ca/programs/luther/masters-and-diploma-programs/requests-and- appeals.html. 25
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