Franciscan School of Theology | University of San Diego
Source: http://www.fst.edu
Archived: 2026-04-23 15:31
Franciscan School of Theology | University of San Diego
Now Open:
2026 Continuing Education Registration
!
Register Now
>
Find True and Perfect Joy in a
Life of Purpose
Learn to put theology to work in the world.
Apply Now
Request Info
The Franciscan Difference
Faith-Driven Learning for
Real-World Impact
At the Franciscan School of Theology, education and spirituality intersect to offer a hopeful, Christ-centered approach to life and work. Inclusive of all as brothers and sisters, this vibrant tradition forms the basis of the curriculum, from the study of Scripture and Systematic Theology to courses in Liturgy and Pastoral Ministry. Learn with us and become part of the Franciscan Difference.
Discover More
Student Experience
Learn in a
Vibrant Community
As an FST student, you are invited to immerse yourself in a strong academic tradition that fosters personal growth and provides opportunities to learn from diverse perspectives.
Learn More
Top 5
—
Most Beautiful Campus
The Princeton Review
10
:1
—
Small student-to-faculty ratio
91
%
—
Average retention rate
20
—
countries have been represented at FST
Degree Programs
Our Degrees
Transform Lives
On Campus
Master of Theological Studies (MTS)
A two-year graduate program that deepens your understanding of theology through the Franciscan tradition, designed for both professional and spiritual growth.
Learn More
On Campus
Master of Divinity (MDiv)
A three-year professional degree that prepares students for ministry through rigorous theological study and formation in the Franciscan tradition.
Learn More
On Campus
Master of Arts (MA)
A rigorous graduate degree offering advanced study and specialization in Franciscan theology, history, and spirituality. Ideal for students pursuing research, ministry formation, or preparation for doctoral work.
Learn More
On Campus
Concurrent MDiv and MTS Degree
A four-year dual-degree program that combines broad theological study with professional ministerial formation, preparing students for ordained or lay ecclesial service in the Franciscan tradition.
Learn More
Online
Online MTS – Franciscan Theology
A two-year fully online degree grounded in the Franciscan tradition, offering rigorous theological study for educators, ministry leaders, and those seeking deeper faith formation.
Learn More
Hybrid
Doctor of Education in Catholic Social Thought in Practice
A three-year professional doctoral program, offered jointly with the University of San Diego, grounds students in Catholic social teaching, forming ethical, faith-driven leaders across Catholic organizations.
Learn More
Online
Online Certificate in Franciscan Theology
A flexible online certificate grounded in the Franciscan tradition, designed for personal, spiritual, and professional growth. Learn from expert faculty in an asynchronous format while deepening your understanding of Franciscan theology and its relevance today.
Learn More
On Campus
Non-Degree Programs
FST provides flexible non-degree and personal enrichment courses designed for anyone wishing to grow in theological knowledge and spiritual depth.
Learn More
Online
Continuing Education
Discover affordable, high-quality summer courses in Franciscan spirituality, theology, and history, led by renowned scholars and open to anyone seeking spiritual renewal or intellectual growth.
Learn More
Hear from our
community of graduates
My experience at Franciscan School of Theology helped me integrate academic and pastoral dimensions of theology which has allowed me to serve the uniqueness of each person I encounter in my ministry. I am Grateful that God brought me to FST, where I cultivated a love for the Franciscan Tradition.
Fr. Anthony Jimenez
Concurrent Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies, Class of 2025
Studies at FST have equipped me to better serve God’s sacred creation, specifically as a Franciscan friar. Having studied with Franciscan scholars and begun to delve into the richness of the Franciscan tradition is a deep well I look forward to further exploring and sharing.
Adolfo R. Mercado, OFM
Concurrent: Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies, Class of 2025
My experience at the Franciscan School of Theology was not only one of intellectual development, but also one of community and spiritual growth within the Franciscan tradition. What I have gained from FST has already positively influenced my ministry work as Director of Religious Education at my parish, and most especially my own faith journey.
Pamela Smith
Master of Theological Studies, Class of 2022
Our mission is to prepare women and men for professional ministry in the Roman Catholic Church, for careers in theological education, and for living a life dedicated to solidarity with those on the margins of society and the Church in the knowledge of Christian faith.
How We Achieve
Our Mission
Academic Formation
Our students engage with classroom lectures and field education led by world-class faculty, ensuring a deep academic foundation in theology while developing critical thinking and reflection skills.
Professional Development Workshops
We offer workshops designed to enhance students’ communication and professional conduct, equipping them with the skills to serve effectively in ministry and related service careers.
Strong Support and Resources
With faculty advising and access to the University of San Diego’s resources, students receive continuous support in their academic and professional journeys.
Personal and Spiritual Growth
Opportunities for daily and weekly prayer, seminars, and retreats nurture students’ spiritual formation, guiding them to deepen their faith and grow as compassionate leaders.
Intercultural and Diverse Community
Our commitment to fostering an inclusive and intercultural Christian community invites students to engage with a variety of cultural perspectives and prepare for ministry on a global scale.
Social Justice and Service
Through social justice activities and community engagement, students put their faith into action, promoting equality, respect, and a commitment to the marginalized that reflects our core Franciscan values.
News
What’s Happening at FST?
FST and USD SOLES Present: The EdD in Catholic Social Thought in Practice
The Franciscan School of Theology (FST) is excited to announce its new academic partnership with the University of San Diego’s School of Leadership and Education […]
Read More
3
mins read
Franciscan School of Theology Names Keith Douglass Warner OFM President
Keith Douglass Warner OFM, has been named the next president of the Franciscan School of Theology, effective July 1, 2026. A longtime member of the […]
Read More
< 1
min read
Chaplain vs. Pastor vs. Priest: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to spiritual leadership, different roles offer distinct ways to serve and guide communities, both within and beyond a church setting. In the […]
Read More
10
mins read
Take The First Step on Your Journey to
Change the World.
Join a vibrant academic and spiritual tradition.
Apply Now
Request Info
Now Open:
2026 Continuing Education Registration
!
Register Now
>
Find True and Perfect Joy in a
Life of Purpose
Learn to put theology to work in the world.
Apply Now
Request Info
The Franciscan Difference
Faith-Driven Learning for
Real-World Impact
At the Franciscan School of Theology, education and spirituality intersect to offer a hopeful, Christ-centered approach to life and work. Inclusive of all as brothers and sisters, this vibrant tradition forms the basis of the curriculum, from the study of Scripture and Systematic Theology to courses in Liturgy and Pastoral Ministry. Learn with us and become part of the Franciscan Difference.
Discover More
Student Experience
Learn in a
Vibrant Community
As an FST student, you are invited to immerse yourself in a strong academic tradition that fosters personal growth and provides opportunities to learn from diverse perspectives.
Learn More
Top 5
—
Most Beautiful Campus
The Princeton Review
10
:1
—
Small student-to-faculty ratio
91
%
—
Average retention rate
20
—
countries have been represented at FST
Degree Programs
Our Degrees
Transform Lives
On Campus
Master of Theological Studies (MTS)
A two-year graduate program that deepens your understanding of theology through the Franciscan tradition, designed for both professional and spiritual growth.
Learn More
On Campus
Master of Divinity (MDiv)
A three-year professional degree that prepares students for ministry through rigorous theological study and formation in the Franciscan tradition.
Learn More
On Campus
Master of Arts (MA)
A rigorous graduate degree offering advanced study and specialization in Franciscan theology, history, and spirituality. Ideal for students pursuing research, ministry formation, or preparation for doctoral work.
Learn More
On Campus
Concurrent MDiv and MTS Degree
A four-year dual-degree program that combines broad theological study with professional ministerial formation, preparing students for ordained or lay ecclesial service in the Franciscan tradition.
Learn More
Online
Online MTS – Franciscan Theology
A two-year fully online degree grounded in the Franciscan tradition, offering rigorous theological study for educators, ministry leaders, and those seeking deeper faith formation.
Learn More
Hybrid
Doctor of Education in Catholic Social Thought in Practice
A three-year professional doctoral program, offered jointly with the University of San Diego, grounds students in Catholic social teaching, forming ethical, faith-driven leaders across Catholic organizations.
Learn More
Online
Online Certificate in Franciscan Theology
A flexible online certificate grounded in the Franciscan tradition, designed for personal, spiritual, and professional growth. Learn from expert faculty in an asynchronous format while deepening your understanding of Franciscan theology and its relevance today.
Learn More
On Campus
Non-Degree Programs
FST provides flexible non-degree and personal enrichment courses designed for anyone wishing to grow in theological knowledge and spiritual depth.
Learn More
Online
Continuing Education
Discover affordable, high-quality summer courses in Franciscan spirituality, theology, and history, led by renowned scholars and open to anyone seeking spiritual renewal or intellectual growth.
Learn More
Hear from our
community of graduates
My experience at Franciscan School of Theology helped me integrate academic and pastoral dimensions of theology which has allowed me to serve the uniqueness of each person I encounter in my ministry. I am Grateful that God brought me to FST, where I cultivated a love for the Franciscan Tradition.
Fr. Anthony Jimenez
Concurrent Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies, Class of 2025
Studies at FST have equipped me to better serve God’s sacred creation, specifically as a Franciscan friar. Having studied with Franciscan scholars and begun to delve into the richness of the Franciscan tradition is a deep well I look forward to further exploring and sharing.
Adolfo R. Mercado, OFM
Concurrent: Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies, Class of 2025
My experience at the Franciscan School of Theology was not only one of intellectual development, but also one of community and spiritual growth within the Franciscan tradition. What I have gained from FST has already positively influenced my ministry work as Director of Religious Education at my parish, and most especially my own faith journey.
Pamela Smith
Master of Theological Studies, Class of 2022
Our mission is to prepare women and men for professional ministry in the Roman Catholic Church, for careers in theological education, and for living a life dedicated to solidarity with those on the margins of society and the Church in the knowledge of Christian faith.
How We Achieve
Our Mission
Academic Formation
Our students engage with classroom lectures and field education led by world-class faculty, ensuring a deep academic foundation in theology while developing critical thinking and reflection skills.
Professional Development Workshops
We offer workshops designed to enhance students’ communication and professional conduct, equipping them with the skills to serve effectively in ministry and related service careers.
Strong Support and Resources
With faculty advising and access to the University of San Diego’s resources, students receive continuous support in their academic and professional journeys.
Personal and Spiritual Growth
Opportunities for daily and weekly prayer, seminars, and retreats nurture students’ spiritual formation, guiding them to deepen their faith and grow as compassionate leaders.
Intercultural and Diverse Community
Our commitment to fostering an inclusive and intercultural Christian community invites students to engage with a variety of cultural perspectives and prepare for ministry on a global scale.
Social Justice and Service
Through social justice activities and community engagement, students put their faith into action, promoting equality, respect, and a commitment to the marginalized that reflects our core Franciscan values.
News
What’s Happening at FST?
FST and USD SOLES Present: The EdD in Catholic Social Thought in Practice
The Franciscan School of Theology (FST) is excited to announce its new academic partnership with the University of San Diego’s School of Leadership and Education […]
Read More
3
mins read
Franciscan School of Theology Names Keith Douglass Warner OFM President
Keith Douglass Warner OFM, has been named the next president of the Franciscan School of Theology, effective July 1, 2026. A longtime member of the […]
Read More
< 1
min read
Chaplain vs. Pastor vs. Priest: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to spiritual leadership, different roles offer distinct ways to serve and guide communities, both within and beyond a church setting. In the […]
Read More
10
mins read
Take The First Step on Your Journey to
Change the World.
Join a vibrant academic and spiritual tradition.
Apply Now
Request Info