personal statement for masters in theology

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Theology Personal Statement Examples

Below are two perfectly written Theology personal statement examples . Use it as a motivation and inspiration for your academic work and university application. 

Theology Personal Statement

The origami crane sits on my desk as a reminder of the theological questions that unfold before me. When I was 10 years old, I folded this paper crane in the hospital chapel where my mother had been admitted for cancer treatments. 

As I struggled to understand why a benevolent God would allow such suffering, the chaplain helped me find spiritual meaning in hardship through this ancient art of paper folding. Origami transforms a two-dimensional sheet into a sculpture full of contours, shadows and depth – much like how spiritual perspectives can transform situations of grief into opportunities for growth. 

Just as that little crane helped my young mind grasp concepts beyond my years, I now hope to guide others wrestling with existential questions and provide perspectives allowing them to see life anew. This childhood experience sparked a commitment I carry to this day – to advance my theological understanding so I can lift the spirits of those enduring life’s darkest nights.

Within the classroom, Religious Studies quickly emerged as my favourite A-Level subject. I was particularly captivated by modules on the philosophy of religion , ethics and the nature of God across Abrahamic faiths. Comparing ontological arguments from Anselm and Descartes highlighted to me the complexity of reasoning for God’s existence across history. Studying Kantian ethics and its application to issues like embryo research opened my eyes to moral nuance. By achieving an A grade in my RS A-Level alongside strong grades in complementary subjects like English Literature (B) and History (A), I have demonstrated both an aptitude for and commitment to theological study needed to excel at the university level.

Beyond prescribed curriculums, I have taken it upon myself to expand my theological knowledge substantially. Reading texts by modern thinkers like Richard Dawkins and Reza Aslan has exposed me to new perspectives on topics like science-religion compatibility and textual criticism of scriptures. I also had the privilege of visiting Israel and Palestine last summer, deepening my understanding of interfaith relations and conflicts in sacred land. From volunteering at a local church soup kitchen to engaging in debates on my school’s Philosophy Society, I have continually sought new ways to actively advance and apply my theological learning rather than pursuing it as a purely abstract, intellectual exercise.

Looking ahead, I feel strongly called to not only further my understanding through advanced theological study but also help guide others in their personal relationships with the divine. As an empathetic yet analytical thinker, I believe I possess the ideal traits to serve in roles like chaplaincy and spiritual counselling. 

By pursuing expertise in theological ethics as well as psychological models of faith development, I hope to provide specialised support for those in crisis moments of faith – whether they be teenagers struggling to square their sexuality and upbringing or hospital patients facing end-of-life questions about the afterlife. Wherever I land professionally, university theology programmes will provide me with the advanced knowledge and critical thinking abilities to make meaningful impacts on people when spiritual guidance matters most.

With a lifelong fascination for the theological paired with a calling to help guide others spiritually, I am confident further study at university represents the next profound step on my path. The chance to substantially deepen my expertise whilst preparing for real-world application in fields like chaplaincy truly excites me. I look forward to all the intellectual, ethical and philosophical revelations studying Theology has to offer.

The stage lights illuminate the barren set piece – a simple wooden cross. As I step forward to deliver my monologue wrestling with the mystery of Jesus’ sacrificial death, the theatre fades away until only the cross remains. 

This crucifix simultaneously embodies the profound questions at the heart of Christ’s suffering as well as the deeper spiritual longings within each audience member. Why must purity be rooted in pain? How does undeserved agony transform into redemption? In those heavy moments of silence, it feels as if all humanity holds its breath awaiting answers. 

Though the director yells “Scene!” breaking the spell, for me the lights stay dimmed as the theological queries continue churning within. That perennial quest to unpack doctrine and comfort and disturb through drama is what calls me to the formal study of God and the human condition we call theology.

Beyond just an intellectual curiosity in religious issues though, my motivation also stems from a desire to provide thoughtful spiritual counsel. My grandmother’s inspiring model demonstrated the power of faith even amidst deep grief – as I helped care for her through my grandfather’s long illness, her steadfast belief in redemptive suffering provided comfort. Inspired by her grace, I wish to similarly guide others wrestling with questions of theodicy and loss from a place of compassion. A degree in Theology would equip me with the expertise to potentially serve communities as a hospital chaplain, hospice visitor or even bereavement counsellor.

I recognise advanced engagement with philosophical debates around God, morality and the meaning of life requires strong critical thinking abilities. As an avid member of my school’s Philosophy Club, I regularly dissect complex theological arguments and have undertaken my own analysis on topics like the compatibility of divine omniscience and human free will. 

Achieving an A on my Religious Studies A-Level demonstrated my skill in interpreting biblical texts and assessing truth claims. I also further honed my logic through an interdisciplinary Extended Project Qualification exploring the intersection of law, ethics and technology.

Though eager to test boundaries of dogmatic thought, I believe fruitful theological exploration also requires empathy – an openness to varied lived experiences of the divine. As such, I have sought first-hand encounters with diverse religious traditions beyond just academic study. 

From attending a Hindu puja ceremony to volunteering at a local mosque’s Eid festival, these exposures have enriched my interfaith literacy. If selected for theology programmes, I am particularly interested in modules examining communities like liberation theology and feminist approaches to reimagining God through marginalised voices.

With equal parts intellectual rigour and compassion for the human condition, I believe I possess the essential foundations to thrive in university-level theological inquiry. By combining critical philosophical perspectives with the needs of spiritual counselling, I feel called to not only advance discourse but transform lives. Just as the most moving theatrical performances integrate layered meaning with emotional resonance, an effective theological practitioner must seamlessly blend intellect and empathy. I am eager to enact this model, bridging ideological complexities around faith with sensitive guidance to uplift people in their darkest moments of doubt.

• Personal Statements
• Theology personal statement

Theology Personal Statement Example

Sample statement.

Studying Theology will give you an in-depth insight into many different faiths and cultures from around the world. However, no matter which subject you’re applying for writing a personal statement can be tricky.

Here is an example of a Theology personal statement to point you in the right direction:

Having been raised as an atheist but attending a Roman Catholic school I have always been interested in different religions and how belief systems shape people’s lives and even a country’s laws.

I enjoy the challenge that the ethical and moral debates surrounding religion bring, as well as exploring the historical context of how religion has developed through the centuries. My favourite subjects at school were Religious Studies and Ethics which led to me continue these subjects at A Level.

I also picked up Critical Thinking at A Level which allowed me to develop my analytical skills and learn how to construct a concise and logical argument. I look forward to the many debates I will have during my time at university on the subject of Theology.

Outside of school I am a regular runner and charity fundraiser. This year I have completed multiple sponsored runs to raise money for charity and I hope that this is something I will continue to do whilst at university.

As well as my sporting responsibilities I also work part time in my local supermarket which has helped me build on my already good communication and teamwork skills. It has also encouraged me to develop better organisational and time keeping skills as my responsibilities increased.

I look forward to the new challenges that life at university will bring and to learning more about the fascinating subject of Theology. I am considering a career in teaching after graduating and feel that my time at university will help me gain the experience, skills, and qualifications I need to become a good teacher.

I plan to complete a work placement during the summer with a local play scheme to give me an understanding into the daily life of working with children.

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Sample Personal Statement in Religious Studies

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following personal statement is written by an applicant who got accepted to several top MA programs in religious studies. Variations of this PS got accepted at Columbia, Harvard, and Colorado University. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in religion should look like.

Example Personal Statement in Religion

In our society, it’s natural and encouraged to accept without questioning; given this cultural norm of blind following, we accept without thinking about the social and spiritual contract we enter once we are of sound mind. However, reason can only stay unconscious as long as it doesn’t actively think, but when it does, everything we once did robotically becomes a question of why.

Something similar happened during my first year when a professor started questioning religion on philosophical grounds. Although shattered because nothing I said or thought defended my religious beliefs, my mental state became what James Baldwin once said. “The paradox of education is precisely this – that as one begins to become conscious, one begins to examine the society in which he is being educated.” Thereon, I started questioning everything in our community, including religion.

Although being a full-time Finance major momentarily distracted me from my undeniable thirst for knowing the reasoning behind the following religion, a mandatory course during my fourth semester brought the interest boiling back to the surface. I enrolled in the socio-economic-political philosophy of Islam (SEPPI) offered by the same professor I mentioned previously. My intention was solely to settle my mind, which ruthlessly questioned why I followed Islam, particularly when there were so many other religions too.

However, we didn’t start there; we began with metaphysics – the ever-live debate about the existence of God. Then, as a class, we went out to study every other major religion in the world, critically analyzing everything from Judaism to the concept of the social trinity down to the very purpose of Islam. This class overshadowed every other course I took that semester to the point that even while studying financial management, all I could think about was our class discussions. And at the end, it drove me to my professor’s office, currently also my research advisor, where I told him that this was what I wanted to study.

Next semester, I was recruited as his research assistant and started my research on the most discussed event connecting Judaist and Christian theology – The trial of Jesus (PBUH).  

Another significant development occurred during the fourth semester when I started teaching English as part of my social internship. Though my weekends got occupied, I slowly discovered my love for teaching. It was the most challenging job I had taken; I had to prepare underprivileged students for college entry exams designed to test the privileged ones. But the entire experience moulded me, and I immediately signed up for another semester to teach.

In time I realized that I felt comfortable teaching, which gave me a sense of purpose. I was finally giving back to my community, and what better way was there than to impart knowledge? So, it was no surprise when I said in my speech, upon receiving the best intern award, that I wanted to be a teacher, and at the back of my head, I knew exactly what I wanted to teach.

In the next two years that I worked as a research assistant, my research and analytical skills improved because I was constantly reading historical books and journals on Jesus. I critically viewed every stance that an author would take on his trial. As an aspirant student hoping to publish one day, my paper focused on defending Jesus’s (PBUH) position when he was accused of blasphemy and charged with crucifixion upon his claim to be the messenger of God. And while it was one experience to research it, it was another to present and teach it in a live class.

As the content of my research was part of the SEPPI curriculum, I got the opportunity to teach in the university classroom. The sophomore students not only commented but also questioned my position and thus drove me further to defend it logically. Consequently, those classes became crucial feedback to improve my research work and only confirmed my zeal for studying and teaching religious studies.

In my four years of undergrad, living away from home, finding an academic route amidst batch mates aspiring to meet corporate heights and realizing that the young generation silently thirsts for justification has inspired me to decide resistance. It’s neither dazzling nor lucrative but teaching religious studies to strengthen reasoning is a social change I would like to start.

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Boston University School of Theology

745 Commonwealth Avenue

Boston, MA 02215

How to Apply

Once you have determined which degree program is right for your academic interests and vocational goals you may begin the online application through the application portal. Our system allows you to begin an application and save, review, and change it at your leisure until you are ready to submit it. Any questions about the application process can be directed toward our Admissions Office ( [email protected] or 617-353-3036 Monday through Friday, 9am – 5pm Eastern Standard Time).

Access the online application portal here:

Application Deadlines

The School of Theology matriculates students into its programs twice a year, in the fall and spring semesters. Applicants should have all materials (online application, transcripts, references, etc.) submitted by the deadlines below to be considered for admission. The School of Theology utilizes three types of application deadlines:

• Early Decision Deadlines – Applications by this date are decided before January, and eligible applicants are considered for tuition and merit scholarships.
• Priority Admissions Deadlines – Eligible applicants are considered for tuition and merit scholarships.
• Final Deadlines – This is the final date one can complete an application and be considered for matriculation in the following semester. While tuition scholarships are still likely for those who apply by the final deadline, merit awards are typically no longer available.

Application Checklist

Transcripts – frequently asked questions.

What constitutes an unofficial transcript?

• A scan or photocopy of your paper transcript, which was sent to you by the Registrar of your institution
• An unofficial transcript that you have downloaded from your institution’s online student system (ex. StudentLink at Boston University)

What if I’ve transferred between several institutions? Do I need to send unofficial copies of all my transcripts?

• name of the transfer institution (ex. Africa University)
• semester in which each course was taken (ex. Spring 2016)
• the names of each course (ex. “Introduction to Philosophy”)
• the grades you received in each of your transferred courses
• If your final transcript does not include all of the above information (ex. if your transfer courses are marked on your final transcript as “pass” with no letter grade) then you will need to provide an unofficial copy of your transcript from the institution from which you transferred.

Do I need to complete the WES (World Education Service) transcript evaluation as part of my application if I took courses at a school outside of the United States?

• Probably not. If the institution you attended can provide a transcript in English that includes the full names of each course and the grades received then you do not have to complete the WES evaluation.
• If your previous institution cannot provide a transcript in English then you may either complete the WES evaluation or have a certified professional translation made of the transcript from its original language into English. If you choose to have a certified professional translation made, you need to provide our Admissions Office copies of both the translation and the original transcript

Transfer Students

The Boston University School of Theology welcomes transfer students from other institutions. Applicants for transfer into a degree program are evaluated on the same basis as other applicants. Applicants may also be eligible for consideration for merit awards based on the same criteria as other applicants for admission.

Students may transfer credits from any graduate theological school accredited by the ATS or other comparable accrediting agency if transferring from outside of North America. In every instance, course equivalents are determined on an individual basis, by petition, and only when that coursework is demonstrated to be relevant to the course of study being pursued in the School of Theology, as determined by the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, operating on behalf of the faculty. Applicants for transfer must include in their personal statement the reasons they are seeking a transfer, and must provide a recently-issued letter of good standing from their previous institution. Please see the School of Theology’s Academic Bulletin for the latest Admissions Transfer Policy .

Advanced Standing

Incoming first-level master’s students who have taken previous courses in religious studies may be able to earn advanced standing in certain academic disciplines by sending a petition to the Office of the Registrar, where it will then be forwarded to the Academic Dean for review. Advanced Standing is different from transfer credit in that it does not reduce the number of credit hours one must earn toward a master’s degree program. However, if an incoming student is granted advanced standing in an academic discipline, that person is able to take an advanced course in the discipline rather than the introductory course. Advanced Standing in New Testament, for example, allows an incoming student to take an upper-level New Testament course such as “Letter to the Romans” or “Gospel of John” rather than the “Introduction to the New Testament” class.

Advanced Standing permission is only applicable to required, introductory-level core courses. Those disciplines are:

Please note: this does not reduce the number of credit hours you must take in your program, but rather allows you to customize your curriculum toward more advanced coursework. The advanced course, moreover, must be taken at the School of Theology (not through the BTI or by transfer).

Advanced Standing is only granted when the coursework previously taken is sufficiently rigorous, employing critical scholarship in the relevant discipline. The course grade on the transcript must be a B or above. To petition for Advanced Standing, you must complete a General Petition Form , selecting “Advanced Standing” as the type of petition. (Please note: you will need your BU email address and kerberos password to complete this form.)  (1) You must stipulate explicitly the course or courses in which you are requesting advanced standing and (2) attach the syllabi of all the coursework you have completed in a discipline. (3) You must also provide the transcripts from all relevant prior coursework. Your syllabi and transcripts will be reviewed by the Registrar and Academic Dean, and a decision will be communicated to you prior to registration for your first semester. Any questions about Advanced Standing should be addressed to the School of Theology’s Registrar’s Office .

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Writing Your Personal Statements

Your personal statement must demonstrate to the admissions committee that you have considered graduate school and their specific program seriously. It’s your opportunity to summarize your academic and research experiences. You must also communicate how your experiences are relevant to preparing you for the graduate degree that you will be pursuing and explain why a given program is the right one for you.

The personal statement is where you highlight your strengths. Make your strengths absolutely clear to the reviewers, because they will often be reading many other statements. Your self-assessments and honest conversations with peers and advisors should have also revealed your strengths. But you must also address (not blame others for) weaknesses or unusual aspects of your application or academic background.

Your personal statement should focus on two main aspects: your competence and commitment.

1. Identify your strengths in terms of competence that indicate that you will succeed in the grad program and provide examples to support your claims. Start your statement by describing your strengths immediately. Because faculty will be reading many statements, it’s important to start off with your strengths and not “bury your lede.” Consider traits of successful graduate students from your informational interviews, and identify which of these traits you have. These traits could involve research skills and experiences, expertise in working with techniques or instruments, familiarity with professional networks and resources in your field, etc.

• Check your responses from the exercises in the self-assessment section. You may wish to consult notes from your informational interviews and your Seven Stories . Write concise summaries and stories that demonstrate your strengths, e.g. how your strengths helped you to achieve certain goals or overcome obstacles.
• Summarize your research experience(s). What were the main project goals and the “big picture” questions? What was your role in this project? What did you accomplish? What did you learn, and how did you grow as a result of the experience(s)?

My research examines the interplay between U.S. domestic politics and foreign policy during the Cold War. As a native New Yorker, I saw firsthand how dramatically my city changed after 9/11, which prompted my early interest in U.S. policy at home and abroad. As an undergraduate at the City College of New York, I planned to study international relations with a focus on U.S. foreign affairs. I also quickly became involved in student activist groups that focused on raising awareness about a wide range of human rights issues, from the Syrian refugee crisis to asylum seekers from Central America.

The more I learned about the crises in the present, the more I realized that I needed a deeper understanding of the past to fully grasp them. I decided to pursue a PhD in history in order to gain a clearer understanding of human rights issues in the present and to empower young student-activists like myself.

— Vannessa Velez, PhD candidate in History

Addressing weaknesses or unusual aspects

• Identify weaknesses or unusual aspects in your application—e.g., a significant drop in your GPA during a term; weak GRE scores; changes in your academic trajectory, etc. Don’t ignore them, because ignoring them might be interpreted as blind spots for you. If you’re unsure if a particular issue is significant enough to address, seek advice from faculty mentors.
• Explain how you’ll improve and strengthen those areas or work around your weakness. Determine how you will address them in a positive light, e.g., by discussing how you overcame obstacles through persistence, what you learned from challenges, and how you grew from failures. Focusing on a growth mindset  or grit  and this blog on weaknesses might also help.
• Deal with any significant unusual aspects later in the statement to allow a positive impression to develop first.
• Explain, rather than provide excuses—i.e., address the issue directly and don’t blame others (even if you believe someone else is responsible). Draft it and get feedback from others to see if the explanation is working as you want it to.
• Provide supporting empirical evidence if possible. For example, “Adjusting to college was a major step for me, coming from a small high school and as a first-generation college student. My freshman GPA was not up to par with my typical achievements, as demonstrated by my improved  GPA of 3.8 during my second and third years in college."
• Be concise (don’t dwell on the issues), but also be complete (don’t lead to other potentially unanswered questions). For example, if a drop in grades during a term was due to a health issue, explain whether the health issue is recurring, managed now with medication, resolved, etc.

2. Explain your commitment to research and their graduate program, including your motivation for why you are applying to this graduate program at this university. Be as specific as possible. Identify several faculty members with whom you are interested in working, and explain why their research interests you.

• Descriptions of your commitment should explain why you’re passionate about this particular academic field and provide demonstrations of your commitment with stories (e.g., working long hours to solve a problem, overcoming challenges in research, resilience in pursuing problems). Don’t merely assert your commitment.
• Explain why you are applying to graduate school, as opposed to seeking a professional degree or a job. Discuss your interest and motivation for grad school, along with your future career aspirations.

I am definitely not your traditional graduate student. As a biracial (Native American and white), first-generation PhD student from a military family, I had very limited guidance on how best to pursue my education, especially when I decided that graduate school was a good idea. I ended up coming to this PhD in a very circuitous manner, stopping first to get a JD and, later, an MFA in Young Adult Literature. With each degree, I took time to work and apply what I’d learned, as a lawyer and as an educator. Each time, I realized that I was circling around questions that I couldn’t let go of—not just because I found them to be fascinating, but because I did (and still do!) feel that my research could help to bridge a gap that desperately needs bridging. Because my work is quite interdisciplinary, I strongly feel that I wouldn’t have been able to pursue this line of research without the degrees and life experience I gained before coming to this program.

— Jamie Fine, PhD candidate in Modern Thought and Literature

Statement of Purpose: subtle aspects

• Think in terms of engaging faculty in a conversation rather than pleading with them that you should be admitted. Ask reviewers to read drafts with this concern in mind.
• With later drafts, try developing an overall narrative theme. See if one emerges as you work.
• Write at least 10 drafts and expect your thinking and the essay to change quite a bit over time.
• Read drafts out loud to help you catch errors.
• Expect the "you' that emerges in your essay to be incomplete. . . that’s OK.
• You’re sharing a professional/scholarly slice of "you."
• Avoid humor (do you really know what senior academics find funny?) and flashy openings and closings. Think of pitching the essay to an educated person in the field, but not necessarily in your specialty. Avoid emotionally laden words (such as "love" or "passion"). Remember, your audience is a group of professors! Overly emotional appeals might make them uncomfortable. They are looking for scholarly colleagues.

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Master of Arts in Theology Master of Arts in Biblical Studies Masters in Theology

Admission requirements.

• A complete online application form and $65 application fee
• A personal statement of no more than three pages in length that discusses: 1. Reason for pursuing graduate study 2. Personal and academic background 3. Assumed responsibility for your own personal growth
• Official transcripts of undergraduate and graduate course work
• Two letters of reference
• 18 credits in theology with minimum B average
• Interview with the Program Director
• Approval by the Committee on Admissions

Admission Deadlines – Domestic

Admission is rolling, but domestic applicants must complete their applications at least one week before the start of class.

Summer 1, 2023: May 23 Summer 2, 2023: June 26 Fall, 2023: Late August (exact date TBD) Spring, 2024: Mid-January (exact date TBD)

Admission Deadlines – International

Summer, 2023: January 1 Fall, 2023: April 1 Spring, 2024: September 1

To learn more about the international graduate application process and requirements, please see the International Graduate Admission page.

Please reference the following application process steps for international applicants:

• Apply for academic admission and ensure you meet the minimum requirements by visiting your academic department’s website.
• Complete the  Graduate Application  and submit your transcripts to the  credential evaluation service .
• Complete the  International Graduate Student Supplement Forms .
• Submit all documents, including a copy of your letter of academic admission, to the Program Director of the degree program for which you are applying,  Graduate Program Contacts . Electronic copies are sufficient for I-20 issuance, but originals must be submitted upon arrival to the United States.

Financial Aid

Graduate assistantships are available to students who have been admitted into a graduate program at Providence College. Once students complete their application and are admitted into a program, they are invited to apply to graduate assistant positions.

To learn more about graduate assistant positions and benefits, please visit the Graduate Assistantships page. 

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How to write a personal statement

How to approach writing your personal statement for graduate applications.

If you’re applying for a grad course that requires a personal statement (sometimes also called a ‘statement of purpose’), it can be difficult to know where to start and what to include. Read on for tips from some of our masters’ students about their process and what they found helpful.

1. Before you start

The academic work is the most important reason why we’re here, but that also translates into work experiences, internships, volunteering. I think a big part of the personal statement is crafting that narrative of academic self that fits alongside your professional experiences, to give that greater picture of who you are as an academic. Lauren (MSc Modern Middle Eastern Studies)

Start by thinking about the skills, knowledge and interests you’ve acquired over time and how the course at Oxford will take them forward.

Your statement is the story you want to tell about yourself and your academic work to the department you are applying to.

Most of your application and its supporting documents communicate plain facts about your academic career so far. Your personal statement is your best opportunity to put these facts into context and show assessors how you’ve progressed and excelled.

Make sure you highlight evidence of your achievements (a high grade in a relevant area, an award or scholarship, a research internship).

Presenting yourself

When I was writing my personal statement, I went onto my course website. I looked at what they emphasised and what kind of students they were looking for, and I wrote about my experiences based on that. Kayla (MSc in Clinical Embryology)

Make it easy for an assessor to see how you meet the entry requirements for the course (you can find these on each course page ).

Don’t make any assumptions about what Oxford is looking for!

Get to know your department

You want to study this particular subject and you want to study at Oxford (you’re applying here, so we know that!) but why is Oxford the right place for you to study this subject? What interests or qualities of the academic department and its staff make it attractive to you?

Use your academic department’s website for an overview of their research, academic staff and course information (you'll find a link to the department's own website on each course page ).

I said, ‘why do I actually want to be here? What is it about being at Oxford that’s going to get me to what I want to do? Sarah (Bachelor of Civil Law)

Talk it out

Talking to others about your statement can be a great way to gather your ideas and decide how you’d like to approach it. Sarah even managed to get benefit out of this approach by herself:

“I spent a lot of time talking out loud. My written process was actually very vocal, so I did a lot of talking about myself in my room.”

2. The writing process

Know your format.

Make sure you’ve read all the guidance on the How to Apply section of your course page , so you know what’s needed in terms of the word count of the final statement, what it should cover and what it will be assessed for. This should help you to visualise roughly what you want to end up with at the end of the process.

Make a start

When it comes to writing your personal statement, just getting started can be the hardest part.

One good way to get around writer’s block is to just put it all down on the page, like Mayur.

First - write down anything and everything. In the first round, I was just dumping everything - whatever I’ve done, anything close to computer science, that was on my personal statement. Mayur (MSc Computer Science)

You’ll be editing later anyway so don’t let the blank page intimidate you - try writing a little under each of the following headings to get started:

• areas of the course at Oxford that are the most interesting to you
• which areas you’ve already studied or had some experience in
• what you hope to use your Oxford course experience for afterwards.

3. Finishing up

Get some feedback.

Once you’ve got a draft of about the right length, ask for feedback on what you’ve written. It might take several drafts to get it right.

This could involve getting in touch with some of your undergraduate professors to ask them to read your draft and find any areas which needed strengthening.

You could also show it to people who know you well, like family or friends.

Because they’re the first people to say, ‘Who is that person?’ You want the people around you to recognise that it really sounds like you. It can be scary telling family and friends you’re applying for Oxford, because it makes it real, but be brave enough to share it and get feedback on it. Sarah (Bachelor of Law)

Be yourself

Finally - be genuine and be yourself. Make sure your personal statement represents you, not your idea about what Oxford might be looking for.

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Anonymous samples of my work in religious studies and related areas.

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Masters Theology Degree Program, Drug and Alcohol Recovery, Venezuelan Applicant

I have my heart set on earning my MTH Degree at XXXX because of the long and noble history of XXXX, defending oppressed peoples, thinking and reflecting globally, and celebrating both liberation and diversity. In addition to the vast resources available at Harvard, I appreciate and share your mission of building a world in which people can live and work together in harmony. Born in Venezuela and raised in Brooklyn, I have made my permanent home in Los Angeles where I am in the process of becoming credentialed as a Minister in the United Methodist Church. I will also be completing an AA Degree and Certificate Program in Drug and Alcohol Studies this coming May and I hope to make my principal professional mark in addictions counseling, therapy, and recovery from a faith-based perspective. I hope to be accepted to the THM Degree at XXXX so as to be inspired and empowered as a visionary from a faith-based perspective of liberation from addiction. I plan to devote much of my energy in the future to helping people to free themselves from the chains of addictions and to fully recover, to heal with the help of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I ask for admission to the XXXXDS, so that I can become the finest minister and pastor possible, and hopefully a professor of theology at some point as well. Recovery from addictions will be my personal and professional mission as a Christian and a leader of a faith-based community. In addition to my Certificate in Drug and Alcohol Studies, I will also complete two degrees simultaneously this coming May, 2017, my MDIV from XXXX Theological Seminary as well as my MA in Theological Studies from Liberty Baptist Seminary. Given my commitment to the proposition that ‘faith without works is dead’, I have completed numerous internships for both the M.DIV degree and for the AA in Alcohol and Drug Studies. A veteran with a monthly pension from the Veterans Administration for compensation due to my service-connected disability, I have been a full time student now for several years and very active as a volunteer. I hope to serve as the Director of a Drug and Alcohol facility which is faith-based.

I have spent extensive time as a volunteer and now have several close friends and colleagues who are on the staff of the Union Rescue Mission here in Los Angeles. I have learned a great deal from them, and from our clients, the homeless men of Los Angeles, at the Mission. I could not be more engaged with issues of faith-based and inspired recovery. At Union Rescue Mission, they preach the gospel and harness its power to recover from addictions, preaching abstinence born from faith and hope in tomorrow, one day at a time.

While raised in the USA, my parents are both Venezuelan; thus, while they tried to talk to me mostly in English growing up, Spanish has always been a big part of my life. I understood it very well long before I spoke it well myself. Now, I use my Spanish everyday in my interactions with the Chicano and other Spanish-speaking immigrant populations in my volunteer position as a Social Justice Advocacy Counselor. One of my long term goals is to serve as a faculty member at either a university or Christian college teaching Theology while at the same time managing an Addictions Recovery Program open to all members of my community who are facing life crisis situations due to the consequences of substance abuse.

I have always been deeply spiritual and gravitated to the Lord. In Venezuela we attended Mass regularly at the local parish, observed all of the Catholic holidays and we volunteered as a family in a variety of church events which were held in our village. Then one day, my father came home and announced to us all that his company was relocating him to its world headquarters in New York City and was providing an apartment in the heart of the city for all of us to live in.

As an undergraduate student at XXXX State University working towards my BA in Religious Studies (2008), I became fully immersed in the study of Theology and social issues and continue this immersion until today, seeking to cultivate it as a permanent lifestyle. Both Hebrew 1 and 2 as well as Greek 1 and 2 are required language courses for the completion of the M.DIV degree at XXXX Seminary in Pasadena. At HDS, doing something like assisting Dr. Giovanni Bazzana with his research on the study of ancient writings relating to magic and witchcraft and their connections with sociocultural practices would be a dream come true. It would also be a profound honor to assist with the Religious Literacy Project at XXXXDS, perhaps engaging with Venezuela in this regard, the land of my birth now in deep crises and in need of our support and moral encouragement in the North.

I appreciate the broad array of course offerings within and through the XXXX Divinity School’s THM Program. XXXX seems to me to be the optimal platform for a theologian and minister seeking to excel as the Director of a faith-based Drug and Alcohol Program; especially since the greater Boston area also offers a plethora of internships and faith-based resources devoted to drug and alcohol recovery.

I want to give my life to spiritual leadership and to do everything that I can to reduce and prevent the suffering that results from substance abuse. A Chess player and a member of several reading clubs, I currently serve as the Secretary of a Veterans Support Group called "XXXX" based out of Los Angeles Temple Street Veterans Hospital. As well traveled as I am read, I have spent many months each exploring Germany, France, Italy, and Greece in addition to Venezuela and the USA.

I thank you for considering my application to XXXX Divinity School.

I help as many people as I can in the area of Religious Studies or Religion, Divinity, Theology, etc. - the field in which I earned my own Masters and doctoral degrees.

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I want to help you get accepted to a graduate program in Religious Studies, Divinity, or Theology

I finished my Masters Degree in Religious Studies at Indiana University in 1988 and my PHD in Religion was granted by the University of Southern California in 1995. I have spent my life studying religion and now I am an old man who helps others to achieve the profound satisfaction that I have found in life. While I help people to get accepted to graduate school in all areas, Religious Studies will always be special for me since it is the field of my own studies. I am quite familiar with world cultures and world religions and I often do research on behalf of my clients to help them make their Statement as effective as possible.

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How To Write A Personal Statement For Masters (17 PDF Sample Examples)

Published: 14 Mar 2022 Study Abroad 102,358 views

A personal statement for masters program is one of the most important parts of your college application and writing a good one is what’s the exception between receiving an offer and being rejected.

If you’ve been tasked with presenting a personal statement, you should keep in mind that whatever you submit must put you forward as the right candidate for the course. Additionally, it should convince the admissions officers that you deserve a place on your program of study.

Achieving the above, is a skill most postgraduate students are yet to acquire but thankfully this article on How To Write A Personal Statement For Masters covers everything you need to know on doing this.

In this article you’ll learn:

• What is a personal statement?
• Tips for making your personal statement for masters stand out
• How to write a personal statement for masters
• Personal statement for masters sample
• Examples of personal statement for masters
• Conclusion – things to avoid when writing a personal statement for masters

Read:  Admission Interview Tips .

What Is a Personal Statement?

A personal statement AKA admissions or application essay or statement of purpose is a type of essay or written statement a candidate presents to a college, university, or graduate school they are applying to, explaining why they want to attend that school, study a particular course, and why they would be a perfect fit for these things.

A personal statement for masters is an essay you submit specifically for your postgraduate application. Writing one presents the opportunity for you to promote yourself to a school and show the admissions teachers that you are the perfect candidate for a course.

Tips For Making Your Personal Statement For Masters Stand Out

Before we get into how you should write a statement of purpose for masters, we would first like to share with you certain tips to include in your essay to make it stand out from that of other applicants and be convincing enough to any admissions officer that reads it. The tips we have mentioned here, cover general things like starting and ending your personal statement, timing, length, and what to include and what not to include in the essay, etc.

1. Starting And Ending A Personal Statement

When starting a personal statement, you would want to right off the bat grab the reader’s attention. To do this, start the statement by writing about your degree of choice, next why you want to study it and then how you got interested in it.

The next 2 sentences after that should cover a summary of your background in the chosen field, and you conclude by saying what you plan to do once you acquire your graduate degree.

Also start with that the evaluators reading want to hear first, then every other information should come second. You will notice we’ve used in the sop examples for masters we will share with you later in this article.

2. Plan Ahead

A personal statement is not something you rush while writing, which means if you want to get something good before you application then you must start to decide things like the length and how long it should take to complete.

Let us throw more light on this…

For length, a personal statement should be brief ranging somewhere between 500 -700 words, although schools often detect how long it should be. So, this is dependent on the institution you are applying to.

In terms of what to say in a statement, you could include personal experiences like why you were driven to apply for the program, an experience you had with a scholar in your chosen discipline, a course you took that inspired you to pursue masters, or a key moment during your studies which further motivated you.

No matter what you decide to write, just keep in mind that you need to take your time to craft something good even if it means creating several drafts before the real thing and do not forget to proofread the statement for errors.

3. Research Your Program Of Study

Researching your program of study is one way to establish that you truly understand the discipline you’re getting into and prove to the admissions officer that you thoroughly thought about it before applying.

And because you want to put yourself forward as a serious candidate, one way to make you research easier is for you to visit the website of the department you are applying to. This page will contain information about faculty members, their specialisation, and publications.

From the intel, you gathered there you can now identify which professors match your interests and which ones you will benefit the most from learning under. After you’ve found this out, relate the same in a sentence or two in your statement of purpose for masters.

Example: “I would be honoured to study under the tutelage of Professor Nadia whose work I found resonated strongly with my beliefs and intended projects in this course”.

4. Avoid Clichés, Junks, And Many Details

When writing a statement of purpose for master degree try to avoid clichés, junks, and unnecessary details so that you don’t lose or bore your readers in between. Be as concise as possible, even if it’s your chance to express yourself.

A personal statement is an opportunity for the admissions committee to get information that tells the that you are suitable for the course. So, when you overpower your statement with too many words, stories, and useless details, you come off as someone who is just trying to meet the word count.

5. Include Your Personal History Only If It Adds To The Statement

Do not include your personal history in your statement of intent for masters if it is not relevant to your purpose of study. This means no need for you to tell that story about that time you helped someone treat a cut and immediately realised that you wanted to be a doctor or nurse or how you developed a taste for reading at a very young age.

We can guarantee you that the hundreds of other applications competing for the same spot you are felt the same way, so saying those things really doesn’t make you unique.

On the other hand, if you are going to add personal history to your statement, you can put in things like an internship you did and the experience you got from the job, a major research project you ran by yourself, publications you’ve read or published, conferences you’ve attended or presentations you’ve done. These experiences are more concrete and are directly related to your program of study. They also set you apart from other applicants.

6. Don't Use The Same Personal Statement For All Your Applications

One common mistake applicant make that you shouldn’t is using the same statement of purpose for master degree for all your applications. Using the same information repeatedly even if you are going to change the university names is risky and could land you in a big mistake on a day you forget to be thorough.

All programmes have their own unique set of questions they want to see answered and information they need in your personal statement.

And even if some of them like extracurricular activities, proposal for project, why you are applying to the school, your unique qualities, and research works you’re doing might appear the same, do not use one statement to respond to all of them.

Write a new unique personal statement every time you want to apply.

Check out:  How to Write a Good CV for Students - Resume Examples for Students (PDF).

How To Write A Personal Statement for Masters

When writing a personal statement for masters there are several steps and ground rules you need to follow to ensure that it comes out good enough to impress the admissions team of a school, and ultimately convince them to give you a spot on your program of study.

If writing one is something you are currently struggling with and can’t seem to get down the process of it right no matter what, this section on how to write a personal statement for masters, discusses in detail everything you need to get help with yours.

There are 4 parts to consider when writing your personal statement and we have listed them below:

1. Planning A Personal Statement

A personal statement is a piece of writing showing your academic interests and is only for application purposes which means there is no room for any autobiographical information in it about your personal life. Be as to-the-point as possible when writing it and stick to telling the school why you are the right person for the course, plus any other extra information detailing your achievements.

Before You Start:

Allot plenty of time to write your msc personal statement so that you don’t rush it. Remember, this simple piece of writing is your one shot at convincing a school that you are the best applicant they’ve seen and as such can either make or break your application.

Read the information expected of you from the university, rules and guidelines given, selection criteria and understand what they mean. Also research the institution.

Do a thorough research on the course you are applying for; this will help you explain better why you want to study it. The tutors interviewing you can tell when you are lying and presenting yourself as uninformed can cost you the admission.

Ensure that you don’t use the same personal statement for all your applications.

When Writing:

When writing the statement there are some questions to ask yourself that can help you plan it better. Those questions are:

• Why you want to study a master’s and how does it benefit you in future?
• How does the course you have chosen fit into your pre-existing skill set?
• How do you stand out from the crowd as an applicant - e.g., work experiences you’ve had in the same field you are applying for?
• What do you aspire to do or be as a future career and how will the course help you achieve that?
• How can your work or skillsets contribute positively to the department/ university you are applying to, or society at large?

On the other hand, if you are applying for the masters to change from the field you studied in your undergraduate to another field, you should tell the school why you decided to take a different path in your studies.

Questions to ask yourself for this include:

• Your reason for deciding to change your discipline.
• How your undergraduate degree will be material for bringing fresh insights into your masters course.
• How changing your study path will help you attain your future career.

2. Structuring A Personal Statement

Having good structure for your personal statement for master degree is important because it ensures that everything from the beginning, middle, and ending of the statement is written and equally falls in place perfectly.

We’ve left some tips for you below to help you:

Start your personal statement with an attention-grabbing introduction that is not dramatic or cliché. That means you should not begin with any of these over-used phrases we’ve listed out below:

For as long as I remember…

Since my childhood…

I want to apply to this course because I’ve always felt a strong connection to it…

All my life, I have always loved…

My interest in (course) always ran deeper than…

I’ve always been zealous about…

Ever since I was a child, I’ve always wanted to pursue a career in…

My past educational experiences have always…

You would want to be as snappy as possible with your opening because the admission officer has over a hundred applications to read and can’t waste all their time on yours. This means you should avoid overpowering it with unnecessary facts, quotes, and stories from your life.

The middle part of your ma personal statement is where the main content of the write-up should be. This is where you show your dedication to the course you’ve chosen, what motivated you to choose it, and why you are the right candidate for it.

When writing the middle part of a graduate personal statement, you should:  

• Give concrete reasons why you want to study a course at the University. The reason could be because of how the course is aligned to your future career or the University’s reputation in teaching that program.
• Mention relevant things like projects, dissertations, or essays you’ve done, and any work experience you have.
• Show proof of your core skills like and how they can contribute to the department.
• Prove what makes you a unique candidate.
• Discuss who your main influences for wanting to study the course are and why.
• Add experiences like memberships to clubs that are related to your field, papers you’ve written before, awards, scholarships, or prizes.
• Draw focus to how the course links to your past and future.
• Mention your academic and non-academic skills and how they fit the course.

For Formatting:

• Keep the statement length between 250 -500 words or as directed by the school.
• Sentences should be no more than 25-30 words.
• Use headings to break up the content – Why this university? Why this subject? Etc.
• Make claims and provide evidence to back each of them up. This can be done by discussing your work experience and academic interests.

Language and tone to use:     

• The tone for your masters application personal statement should be positive and enthusiastic, to show you eagerness to learn and so that you convince the evaluators that you have what it takes to succeed.
• Use exciting and refreshing language, and an engaging opening line.
• Ensure you grammar, punctuations, and spellings are accurate.
• Avoid exaggerated claims you cannot backup.
• Don’t use cliché generic terms and keep your focus on the course.

Keep the ending of your essay for master degree application concise and memorable, leaving no doubt in the admission officers mind that you deserve a spot on the program.

To create the best ending summarise all your key points without dragging it our or repeating yourself. The ending should be simple, end on a positive note and make it clear that the school will be lucky to have you on their program.

Personal Statement for Masters Sample

In this section, we have left a masters personal statement example for you, which you can use as material to write yours for any course of study you are applying to a school for.

Personal Statement PDF

You can also download this statement of purpose sample for masters degree pdf here and take your time to read it later – Personal Statement For Masters Sample .

See Also:  Student CV Template .

Examples of Personal Statement for Masters

We have taken the time to source for some of the best postgraduate personal statement examples, which you can use in addition to the personal statement for masters program example as a template to write yours.

While you scroll through our list, you will find the perfect masters essay example for any field you wish to apply for, from business administration, to Psychology, to information technology, and lots more.

1. msw personal statement

We have found one of the best msw personal statement examples out there for you.

social work masters personal statement .  

2. personal statement for masters in public health

mph personal statement examples

3. personal statement for masters in management

Personal statement for master degree sample for masters in management .  , 4. personal statement for masters in education example.

personal statement for masters in education example

5. psychology masters personal statement

psychology masters personal statement example

6. sample personal statement for masters in data science data science masters personal statement

7. speech and language therapy personal statement statement of purpose for masters sample: speech and language therapy

8. business administration personal statement personal statement for masters in business administration

9. personal statement for masters in cyber security pdf masters degree personal statement examples for cyber security

10. personal statement for masters in finance msc finance personal statement examples

11. statement of purpose for masters in information technology pdf msc personal statement examples for information technology

12. international development personal statement statement of purpose for masters example

13. msc international business management personal statement international business management personal statement examples

14. computer science masters personal statement

statement of purpose for masters in computer science pdf

15. personal statement for masters in economics statement of purpose sample for masters degree in economics

16. mha personal statement statement of purpose format for masters in health administration    

Conclusion – Things to Avoid When Writing A Personal Statement For Masters When writing a personal statement for university masters, there are some things you should avoid, so that you don’t ruin your essay. We have listed out those things below: •    Avoid negativity. •    Following an online template blindly. •    Do not include unnecessary course modules, personal facts, or extra-curricular activities in your personal statement. •    Do not lie or exaggerate an achievement or event. •    Do not include inspirational quotes to your statement. •    Avoid using clichés, gimmicks, humour, over-used word such as 'passion' or ‘driven’. •    Do not make pleading statements. •    Avoid mentioning key authors or professors in your field without any explanation. •    Avoid using sentences that are too long. •    Avoid flattering the organisation or using patronising terms. •    Do not repeat information in your statement that you have already listed in your application. •    Avoid waffling i.e., writing at length. •    Don’t start writing your personal statement at the last minute.  

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PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Theology and Religion Personal Statement

Submitted by Anna

Theology and Religion Personal Statement

Religion has the potential to both unite humanity but also deeply divide it. I am captivated by how a set of ideologies and beliefs could bring suffering and pain through conflict but also peace and harmony. Through studying Theology at University I wish to be able to systematically tackle existential questions using my enthusiasm and admiration for Christian patristic theology.

Existential questions about the purpose of our lives have always fascinated me, leading me to read Peter Vardy’s ‘The Puzzle of God'. The assumption that we know what believing in God means is not straightforward and upon closer examination, there is a multifaceted view about the meaning of God; why God is rejected or accepted and where our ideas about God and their origins originate. Grappling with the effects of ideas on religious belief and morality intrigues me and I enjoy debating moral and philosophical views as there are often many contradictory views contributing to a seemingly simple explanation.

Reading Peter Vardy's 'The Puzzle of God' has developed my interest in philosophy of religion, morality and ethics, as it prompts questions for consideration such as does it matter if a religious believer holds fast to a set of religious beliefs if these are true? I am particularly interested in the origin of truth and what constitutes 'truth'. Are statements true based upon a transcendental realm of value which makes moral statements either true or false? Is there a set of ultimate values independent of our existence and society in which they are expressed? Alternatively, is the anti-realist perception of morality an accurate translation of truth, where the contextual setting is considered; hence there are no absolutes? These questions and others about the nature of truth and reality intrigue me both in an academic and scholarly sense and when applied to our contemporary world. The moral arena is never without a hotly debated contemporary issue where the very foundations of morality are brought into question.

Plato's (427 BCE) allegory of an underground chamber depicting a group of bound men who only ever see dancing shadows like puppeteers on the wall of the cave, mistake these images as truth and reality. The philosopher is akin to the freed man who is unbound and freed from the supposed reality or the 'dance of shadows'. As Plato's allegory illustrates, I believe it is necessary and essential for the healthy development of human society to debate and question supposed truths and beliefs and grapple with the very nature of human existence and moral purpose. Plato does not depict this to be an easy or straightforward journey and he predicts many misunderstandings and sometimes painful realisations will be made; however, I firmly believe questions about the very existence and purpose of our being should be addressed to further our understanding of society.

Studying A Level Religious Studies has enabled me to further explore New Testament Theology. I have been interested in particularly interested in questions regarding the purpose and authorship of John’s Gospel. Frank Morison presents various possible ideas as to why the stone of Jesus’ grave was moved, through reading his novel ‘Who moved the stone?’, I have had an insight into the various theories about the disappearance of Christ’s body allowing me to critically assess the story from all four of the Gospel’s perspectives. My studies of the New Testament have allowed me to have a greater understanding of the Bible and given me the knowledge to be able to use when critiquing various ethical or philosophical dilemmas.

Last year I was fortunate enough to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau and I was profoundly moved by the whole experience; additionally, witnessing extreme poverty whilst on a cultural and charity trip to Bangalore, India. Both experiences offered me an opportunity to explore different understandings and interpretations of humanity, truth and our implicit values. These trips highlighted the importance of History to mankind, allowing us to have the opportunity to learn from our mistakes as others may not have previously done so.

I have completed my Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh award, which has enabled me to develop my leadership skills in the field. I am a founding active member of my school Debating and Philosophy society and regularly volunteer as a LAMDA teaching assistant with students in Year two. I also run a book club for younger students in the school and am an editor of the school magazine. I believe the above demonstrates both my ability to work in a team and my commitment.

My love of Theology was rewarded when I gave the Sixth Form Theology Prize, having being selected as the top achiever of the subject in my year.

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Submitted by Emily

Religion and Theology Personal Statement

Studying religion has made me question contemporary Britain and the religious influences that have formed ...

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The Personal Theology Statement (Part 1)

I lived for years with a distorted view of God and some really poor theology, in part, because I never really confronted what I truly believed and what I didn’t.

And now it’s become a burden as I see the same thing in others all the time. People stay away from God because He didn’t meet their expectations. Even though they’ve never thought about what they can or should expect from Him.

It’s true of committed Jesus-followers as well. We pray, but we’ve never really thought about what happens on the other end of our prayers. We see something good happen and say, “that was a God thing,” with little thought or conviction about it.

So, I came up with the idea of writing a Personal Theology Statement . . . writing down what I believe right here, right now. No right or wrong, just real. To guide the process, I came up with some questions. It’s not an exhaustive list, there’s plenty more you could ask or even another format you could use . . . if you take a stab at this, do what makes sense to you.

• Why are you here? Why do you exist?

For a long, long time, the trite answer has been “to glorify God.” But what does that really mean to you ? Is our whole existence about a theological concept to which we haven’t put much thought? It’s easy to slip into a performance-based mindset, working hard to glorify God at the expense of living in the Grace provided by Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. What do you really believe about your existence? Right now.

• What do you believe about God’s involvement in your everyday life?

Is He driving everything all the time? Or did God set things in motion and give His creation free will to do what it’s made to do? Or maybe something in between, like miracles now and then? Does He intervene in the free will of people and creation? Or does He just let things happen and stand by us as they do?

• Does prayer work and if so, how?  

Do you believe prayer works? When does it work and when does it not work? Is there a specific set of words or circumstances that bring God’s attention and help to a crisis? Or does prayer only change you and me because it forces us to admit that He is God and we are not?

• What do you believe happens when you die?

Everyone has a set of beliefs about heaven and hell. Are they real? Here on earth someday or somewhere far, far away? What will it be like? Is it worth thinking about every day, or is it just a big maybe?

Every Christian believes something about these questions. But it’s really scary to put your personal beliefs in writing. What if I’m wrong? What will my wife think if I believe something she doesn’t? What if one of my beliefs can’t be supported by a black and white Scripture verse? What if there’s something I just don’t believe that Scripture says I should?

It’s been helpful for me to write down my answers to these questions . To read the words and ask God to take me toward the beliefs I need to examine. To discuss my beliefs with others I know, love, and trust. And to come to a place of peace about what I believe.

Challenge: Sometime over the next week, take a stab at writing your Personal Theology Statement. You don’t have to show it to anyone. Just sit down and write out an honest list of the things you believe. Don’t preach. Don’t quote Scripture unless it’s essential. Just be real and put it down in black and white and ask God to help you get clear and solid on His truth.

Comment here.

Breathe New Life Into Your Discipleship

Small group mentoring can help you engage your people, build your core group of leaders, and transform your church. Our free resources equip you with all the tools you need to launch a sustainable mentoring program.

Regi Campbell was an experienced investor and entrepreneur by trade. But his real passion was mentoring younger men. In 2007, Regi founded Radical Mentoring to help encourage and equip mentors and churches to launch mentoring groups. He has written four books: About My Father’s Business , Mentor Like Jesus , What Radical Husbands Do , and Radical Wisdom . Regi passed away in January 2020 but his legacy lives on through Radical Mentoring.

Responses (3)

Regi, this is so timely. I try to spend Fridays (it’s already Friday here!) working on vision through dreaming and designing and writing.

I’ve been working on a manifesto related to my vocation but this set of questions will be excellent for helping me clarify my personal beliefs. I look forward to writing these out! Thank you!

[…] In my last post, I challenged you to write a Personal Theology Statement for yourself. I’m going to put myself at great personal risk and share mine here. Please . . . I don’t intend to create a theological battle here. I’m not trying to convince you that my theology is “right.” I’m just sharing my mind and heart on some key questions about life, God, and eternity as of today. Here goes . . . […]

Regi….this is such a needed exercise for all believers. Thanks for prompting me and sharing.

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As Marketing Coordinator, Chandler Gilliam works with both Radical Mentoring and Known Collective , managing social media channels, creating graphics, editing videos, helping with other marketing projects.

Chandler was an athlete at Arizona State University before transferring to the University of South Carolina after an injury his freshman year. At South Carolina, Chandler volunteered his free time as a YoungLife leader. After graduating, Chandler served as an intern in East Africa for a season. He moved back to the states to work at Woodstock City Church, where he served as the men’s groups director and social media coordinator for Woodstock City’s college ministry, The Living Room.

Originally from Alpharetta, GA, he currently lives in Smyrna, GA. When not working hard for Radical Mentoring, Chandler loves traveling, watching sports or Food Network, hiking, or enjoying a cup of coffee.

Eugene Wallace exists to glorify God by leading, inspiring, and serving alongside others as they become biblical thinkers in every phase of their lives and aim to reach their God-given potential, promise, and purpose as Jesus-followers.

As Radical Mentoring’s Marketplace Mentoring Manager, Eugene consistently interfaces and collaborates with various businesses and organizations that are seeking to implement or in the process of launching the Radical Mentoring model to shape their workplace culture.

Eugene is a native Mississippian but has lived in the Atlanta area for more than twenty years. He holds a Ph.D. in organizational leadership and is a business school and seminary graduate. This background equips him to lean into his passions for leadership, business, and helping people apply God’s Word to every area of their lives. Eugene loves the Lord and enjoys telling others about His goodness. In his spare time, you might find Eugene listening to smooth jazz or stand-up comedy, watching sports, or most likely, spending valuable time with his family.

Cam Washington loves coming alongside others so they can live whole and holy lives. Which means he’s right at home as Church Relationships Manager at Radical Mentoring. This role allows Cam the privilege of guiding churches as they launch life-altering mentoring movements for their men.

Before joining Radical Mentoring in 2020, Cam spent seven years working in vocational ministry with an emphasis on discipleship and teaching. He grew up in North Atlanta, earned his undergrad in Psychology from Georgia Southern University, and his Masters in Divinity from Metro Atlanta Seminary (making him our resident theologian!).

When Cam is off the clock, you’re likely to find him getting in a workout, trying to make the perfect cup of coffee, devouring a good book, or spending quality time with his wife, Kiley.

As Director of Women’s Mentoring at Radical Mentoring, Kristen Brady provides leadership and execution for our women’s mentoring platform, Known Collective . Her passion for mentoring stems from a belief in the life change that occurs when people sit toe-to-toe and share their stories, letting others know who they really are and encouraging them to do the same.

Before joining the Radical Mentoring team, Kristen served in leadership roles at Lighthouse Family Retreat, The reThink Group, and on staff at a church.

Born and raised in Dunwoody, GA, she is married to her husband of 24 years, Bruce, and is Mom to Tucker, Claire, Jack, Ellie. In the Brady house, family dinners are a priority, which usually leads to a lot of laughter. When not laughing with her crazy crew, Kristen enjoys talking with friends and running through her South Forsyth community, where she does her best thinking and dreaming.

As President of Radical Mentoring, Kevin Harris sets the vision and strategy. He also serves as an evangelist to new audiences and an invaluable resource to churches who have incorporated small group mentoring into their disciple-making strategy.

As a part of Regi Campbell’s 2nd Radical Mentoring group in 2002, Kevin experienced a radical change as a husband, father, and Jesus-follower, leading him to craft the purpose statement that has guided him since . . . “I exist to glorify God by helping others unlock and apply their God-given talents and strengths.”

Kevin grew up in Durham, NC and attended Furman University before moving to Atlanta. Before joining Radical Mentoring, he led a sales team at Wells Real Estate Funds and served in sales positions at CNL and Atlas Energy. He and his wife Susan have two boys, Thomas and Bo. Kevin enjoys coaching his sons, cooking a good meal, reading a good book, and watching a good game.

• To contact Kevin Harris, call (678) 365-0272 , send an email using the form below or schedule a time to connect here .
• Name * First Last

Trey Brush exists to glorify God by coaching, serving, and encouraging others to live up to their leadership potential, in life, and as Jesus-followers.

As Radical Mentoring’s Church Relationships Manager, Trey is on the frontlines, interacting with the hundreds of churches exploring small group mentoring, and guiding those in the process of launching.

Originally from the Atlanta area, Trey was raised in the shadow of Stone Mountain. Before joining Radical Mentoring in 2017, Trey was the Events Manager for Connect Ministries and a part of the Leadercast team at Giant Impact. He is passionate about the local church, specifically about the impact churches can have on the local community when their men are fully engaged.

When not working or hanging out with his wife and family, you will probably find Trey out on the roads running. Trey, his wife, and their two boys currently live in Jefferson, GA.

• To contact Trey Brush, call (678) 365-0433 , send an email using the form below or schedule a time to connect here .

As Radical Mentoring’s Director of Marketing & Operations, Jackson Beetler develops or works with our team and creative partners to develop much of what you see from Radical Mentoring . . . website, emails, blogs, social media, mentoring content, you name it!

Jackson began working for Radical Mentoring in 2014 after graduating from the University of Georgia. Originally from Marietta, GA, he currently lives in Atlanta, GA. When not operating as Radical Mentoring’s digital wizard, you’ll probably find Jackson watching a movie, cooking a meal, or enjoying time with his family and friends, preferably over a cup of coffee (just don’t ask him to go to Starbucks!)

• To contact Jackson Beetler, call (678) 365-0270 or send an email using the form below.
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Regi Campbell was an entrepreneur, author, and mentor. He was involved in founding 15 companies and served as CEO four times. He wrote four books:  About My Father’s Business ,  Mentor Like Jesus ,  What Radical Husbands Do , and  Radical Wisdom .

But Regi’s passion and calling was mentoring younger men to become all-in Jesus-followers. Through his 19 mentoring groups, he personally invested in 155 men and indirectly, in their marriages and families. The success of his mentoring groups led Regi to found Radical Mentoring to equip and engage men and their churches in launching intentional men’s small group mentoring. Through the investments of those churches and mentors, over 11,000 men have been mentored.

Regi was married to Miriam for 50 years. Their two adult children are happily married (with five grandkids between them) and live only a couple of hours away. Regi went home to be with his Heavenly Father on January 24, 2020.

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• Dual Master of Arts (M.A./M.A.) in Theology and Ministry and Mental Health Counseling

Dual Master of Arts (M.A./M.A.) in Theology and Ministry and Mental Health Counseling

Counseling, Developmental, and Educational Psychology

The Dual Master of Arts (M.A./M.A.) in Theology and Ministry and Mental Health Counseling program is designed for individuals who wish to pursue graduate studies that combine theories and practice in counseling and psychology with studies in religion and exploration of the pastoral dimensions of caregiving.

At a Glance

The 84-credit track meets the educational requirements for licensure as a Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts.

The 78-credit track prepares students for further studies, including doctoral study.

Full-time students typically finish in three years.

You can begin the program only in the fall semester.

By the Numbers

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Dual-degree students couple their study of counseling psychology with the study of pastoral care and spirituality and can seek licensing as professional mental health counselors. Such licensed counselors are well equipped to seek positions in mental health agencies, shelters, pastoral placements in parishes, campus ministry programs, prison work, and youth and young adult programs. Graduates will bring the strength of solid counseling skills and exposure to spiritual direction work to their positions.

Dual degree students will complete the curriculum in the Master of Arts (M.A) in Mental Health Counseling and the Master of Arts (M.A.) in Theology and Ministry. 

Mental Health Counseling M.A.

Theology & Ministry M.A.

Requirements

• Credits: 78 or 84
• Comprehensive Exam

Program of Study

Financial Aid

Education should level the playing field. we feel the same way about financial aid..

The Lynch School of Education and Human Development provides more than $11.4 million in financial aid to students each year. As a result, the quality of BC’s instruction, the benefit of our alumni network, and the impact a BC degree will have on your employment options is both affordable and invaluable. 

More About Financial Aid

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• Substance Abuse Clinician

Organizations

• Our Lady of Victory Catholic School
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• Massachusetts General Hospital
• Bay State Community Services
• Veterans Health Administration
• Christiana Care Health System
• Italian Home for Children
• Brain Excel
• Community Substance Abuse Centers

Application & Deadlines

A non-refundable application fee of $75 is required. The fee is waived for select applicant s.

• Priority Deadline: January 4 Rolling Admission: Until May 1

To be uploaded to your online application. In addition to your academic history and relevant volunteer and/or work experience, please include any licenses currently held, any social justice-related experience, any language skills other than English, and any research experience or publications.

Personal Statement

To be uploaded to your online application. In 1,000-1,500 words, describe your academic and professional goals, any experience relevant to this program, and your future plans, expectations, and aspirations.

Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required, with at least one preferably coming from an academic source. Applicants may submit one additional recommendation of their choice.

Transcripts

Transcripts from all college/university study are required. Applicants who have received degrees from institutions outside the United States should view the ""International Students"" section for additional credential evaluation requirements. Please begin your online application before submitting your transcripts. Details on how to submit transcripts and international credential evaluations can be found  within the application . In order to ensure your transcript reaches our office, it is important to review and follow the instructions.

Standardized Tests

Submitting GRE test scores is optional for this program for the 2023 entry term(s). If you wish to send GRE scores, the Lynch School GRE code is 3218. Please view the "International Students" section for information on English Proficiency test requirements.

Writing Sample

Not required.

International Students

Applicants who have completed a degree outside of the United States must have a course-by-course evaluation of their transcript(s) completed by an evaluation company approved by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) . Submission of falsified documents is grounds for denial of admission or dismissal from the University. Applicants who are not native speakers of English and who have not received a degree from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction must also submit a TOEFL or IELTS test result that meets the minimum score requirement. Please click the link below for full details on these requirements.

Requirements for International Applicants

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Theology personal statement example 4.

400 years ago, it was accepted as universal truth that the sun orbited the earth. Now, however, as a result of Galileo's telescope, this is no longer a truth. This raises profound questions regarding the nature of truth. Will commonly accepted truths in our generation be disproven in the future? Is there such a thing as objective truth or is it subjective, true only to the individual?

It is the nature of such philosophical enquiry that draws me to the subject: asking the ultimate questions, trying to discover the seemingly unattainable answers. Thus, it is this same search for meaning that has led me to the study of Theology, as it too requires one to question established norms in order to uncover the shifting phenomenon that is truth. The theoretical side of ethics appeals to me because I am fascinated by the conflicting opinions about how we determine moral 'truth', while the practical dimension is attractive because of its relevance to daily life.

As a Christian, I feel naturally drawn to Theology but unquestioned faith is fragile and vulnerable, so to challenge my beliefs is something I regard with the utmost importance. In Religious Studies lessons I have been captivated by the arguments used to confront Christianity as well as the apologetics.

The Philosophy of Religion became my key source of interest, and the problem of evil in particular provoked threatening yet fascinating questions such as, can suffering coexist with an omnibenevolent, omnipotent God?

Also, I became deeply intrigued by the Psychology of Religion; it appealed to my desire to engage with the arguments against the existence of God and introduced curiosity about the philosophical nature of the mind.

I pursue my interest in Theology by having discussions with the chaplain and other theologians (who speak at Christian Union) to discover different perspectives on thought-provoking issues. By dipping into books such as Alister McGrath's 'Christian Theology an Introduction', I have furthered my knowledge in areas such as the problem of evil and found interest in other topics such as Soteriology.

Debating outside the classroom, by being involved in the House Debating Competition and the Clark Society (a more select debating society), is something I have found particularly enjoyable and beneficial to my arguing skills.

Having done Religious Studies at AS/A2 level, I have developed a passion for areas such as ethics, the philosophy of religion and biblical theology. Being able to argue logically is a vital skill which I have improved through History, Critical Thinking and English Literature, all of which have also enhanced my essay writing skills and have taught me to critically analyse writers' interpretations, helping me in making sound conclusions. English Literature has familiarised me with grasping dense texts while Latin has developed my logical thinking and given me a grounding in ancient languages.

I play a wide range of sports such as rugby, hockey, football, cricket and I find being part of a team rewarding; being captain of a cricket XI has helped to develop my leadership qualities. My participation in badminton, squash and judo has improved my self-reliance.

I have passed Grade 5 on the trumpet and I am head of the Big Band and a member of the Concert Band. Teaching myself to play the acoustic guitar has become a real passion of mine and I relish playing rhythm guitar for the Christian Union band. My role as house co-ordinator in the House Music Competition has developed my ability to perform well under pressure and motivate others, as well as improving my own organisation and decision-making skills.

School has laid down the foundations of my curiosity for both Philosophy and Theology and has provided me with a basic knowledge of areas which I am eager to explore in more depth at university. I am attracted by the opportunity to study in an environment with like-minded people.

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Master of Theology

Build on your MDiv, MTS, or other approved theological degrees and engage deeply with your faith. The Master of Theology (ThM) is an advanced degree that gives you insights into a focused area of study and lays a strong foundation for future doctoral studies or a lifetime of spiritual learning and practice.

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At a glance.

January 15 – Final deadline – merit scholarship applicants, international applicants

April 15 – Final deadline – US citizens and residents

Is the Master of Theology for Me?

• Already have an MDiv, MTS, or other theological graduate degree?
• Want to immerse yourself in a focused area of study?
• Feel called to prepare for advanced research and scholarship?

Building on the foundation of your previous theological graduate work, the ThM degree program deepens your intellectual engagement with your chosen area of interest and sharpens your research and scholarship skills. Whether you plan to pursue a career in research, ministry, or another field, you develop advanced competency to support a lifetime of learning and service.

What You’ll Study

As a ThM student, focus your coursework on one of five specializations, creating a program of study in consultation with your faculty advisor. A faculty advisor may approve you to take classes in other areas, but your primary focus is on your chosen specialization. In general, introductory-level courses do not count toward the ThM degree.

What You’ll Do

Choosing a specialization to match your specific career goals, you may dive into topics such as Biblical theology and history of religion to pastoral care and traditions of Christian worship. In addition to your coursework, you have the option of completing a thesis with the approval and support of an advisor.

Throughout your experience, you encounter a variety of theological voices and perspectives on campus and in the community. Coursework emphasizes the development of your own individual spiritual life and goals while preparing you with the leadership skills and academic preparation you need to thrive.

ThM Program Details

Specializations.

Choose an area of study from five specializations:

• Biblical Studies
• History and Ecumenics
• Practical Theology*
• Religion and Society

*To specialize in Practical Theology, you must have an MDiv degree.

Curriculum Components

The ThM degree program requires you to complete 24 credits of courses in your chosen specialization, although you may be able to take courses in other topics with your advisor’s approval. You may also fulfill three or six credits with an optional thesis.

Sample Courses

• Reformed Theologies and Public Life
• Pastoral Care and the Life Cycle
• Holy Scripture and Modern Criticism
• Philosophies of Practical Reason

Application Requirements

To qualify for admission, you need to have:

• An undergraduate degree (typically a BA or BS) from a school accredited by one of the accrediting agencies recognized by our faculty
• A Master of Divinity degree or first graduate theological degree providing equivalent theological background, such as the MTS from an approved institution, and evidence of aptitude for advanced theological study (the MDiv degree is required for admission to the specialization in Practical Theology)

To apply, please submit the following:

• A completed admissions application
• Unofficial transcripts from all postsecondary institutions previously attended
• Three letters of recommendation: one pastoral endorsement, one academic, and one additional
• Academic writing sample
• Application fee of $50

Outcomes with a Master of Theology Degree

The Master of Theology degree program provides opportunities to specialize a professional pathway, shape advanced research skills, deepen spiritual practices, and engage the theological disciplines with uncommon depth through a rigorous curriculum. Complete the ThM program poised to pursue PhD studies or advance your career.

Many of our graduates go on to lead traditional congregations, while others lead new forms of ministry in the nonprofit sector, entrepreneurial space, and other vocations, such as education and government. Still others influence and inspire the next generation of church leaders by teaching and serving at institutions around the world.

In Their Own Words

Ben Immanuel

Take the next step beyond your first graduate theological degree and pursue advanced research in your chosen area of specialization. Request more information about the Master of Theology degree, schedule a visit, or apply today.

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AP Indianapolis newsman Ken Kusmer dies at 65 after a short illness

This April 2, 2009 photo shows Indianapolis Newsman Ken Kusmer. Kusmer, whose long award-winning career with The Associated Press, included exposing flaws in efforts to privatize Indiana’s welfare system, died Thursday, May 9, 2024, at his Indianapolis home after a short illness. He was 65. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

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Ken Kusmer, whose long award-winning career with The Associated Press included exposing flaws in efforts to privatize Indiana’s welfare system, died Thursday at his Indianapolis home after a short illness. He was 65.

Kenneth Doyle Kusmer began his AP career as a reporter and writer in Indianapolis in August 1984.

He was the Society of Professional Journalists’ 2010 Indiana Journalist of the Year for his 2009 coverage of Indiana’s botched attempt to privatize and automate the processing of the state’s applications for food stamps, Medicaid and other benefits through a $1.3 billion contract with IBM Corp. and other companies. Under the weight of bad publicity, then-Gov. Mitch Daniels canceled the contract in October 2009.

In 2000, Kusmer earned the AP’s Dale W. Burgess award for outstanding performance by an Indiana AP staffer. He led AP’s coverage of Eli Lilly & Co.’s legal battle to block generic competition for its antidepressant Prozac. He had also covered the Indianapolis Baptist Temple’s fight against the Internal Revenue Service over its refusal to withhold federal income taxes from its staff.

“He was a great storyteller and also a persistent interview,” said his former wife, Jodi Perras. “He epitomized the value of a free and independent media. He pursued the truth about leaders in government and business and religion who were accused of violating the public trust.”

Kusmer in recent years had his news eyes at night on stories from Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin, and at times elsewhere in the U.S. In March, those eyes were on tornadoes striking southern and eastern Indiana.

“I saw media reports of three deaths. But they had less than reliable sourcing,” said Roger Schneider, assistant news director for AP’s Great Lakes region. “Ken checked them out quickly, stayed calm and ultimately verified no deaths. His attention to detail and accuracy made all the difference.”

Kusmer, a devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers and Neil Young, was able to get interviews with people faced with not-so-positive stories. “They would talk to him knowing he would treat them fairly,” said Perras, a former AP reporter.

“He was just a real social being, quick with the one-liner,” she said. “He was the kind of guy you wanted to have a beer with and he had a lot of beer with a lot of people.”

Kusmer “was a sharp editor with a love of baseball, music, and good writing,” said John Strauss, a former news editor for the AP in Indianapolis. “Ken was unflappable on the busy Indianapolis news desk, handling everything from breaking national news to hectic Friday night prep sports.”

“He had a love of a good line,” Strauss added. “Sometimes at the end of a shift, when we were all saying good night, he would grab a line from somewhere — including a favorite of his from Bob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man.” ‘Well,’ Ken would say. ‘Time for my boot heels to be wanderin’.”

“Ken trained me on the overnight shift when I began in the Indianapolis bureau,” said Chris Grygiel, AP deputy director of U.S. text production. “He was very patient showing a rookie the ropes on what was then a very complicated routine. He helped many staffers hone their skills and was always ready to talk football with friends.”

In 2001, Kusmer took a sabbatical to attend Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, where he earned a master’s degree in Theological Studies.

“There was a time when he considered becoming a deacon in the Catholic church,” Perras said. “He grew up Catholic. He was deeply interested in theology.”

Kusmer was born on Aug. 31, 1958, to Doyle and Marian (Mayle) Kusmer in Fremont, Ohio. He worked in his father’s corner grocery story as a boy and graduated from Fremont St. Joseph High School in 1976.

He studied at Ohio University and worked at The Post, the school’s independent student newspaper. During the summer, he worked at the Fremont Foundry to help pay for his education. Kusmer dropped out of school briefly in 1979-80 to work for the Springfield (Ohio) News-Sun, covering the police and fire beat until an uncle persuaded him to return to college.

He graduated in 1981 from Ohio University with a degree in journalism and English, winning a fellowship to work for the AP in Tel Aviv, Perras said.

A short-term assignment there turned into a two-year stint after Israel invaded Lebanon and the AP needed extra help. While in Israel, Kusmer spent time on a kibbutz, covered Christmas Eve celebrations in Bethlehem and witnessed Palestinian protests in the West Bank.

Kusmer’s survivors include his son, Kevin, and daughter-in-law, Alyssa, of Carmel, Indiana. His parents preceded him in death.

Funeral services were incomplete Friday.