In Order To Enter The M.a. Program, A Student Must Have Completed The First Three Years Of Seminary Course Work With A Grade Point Index Of At Least 3.0. This Index Must Be Maintained Throughout The M.a. Year. Four Areas Of Specialization Are Available: Sacred Scripture, Dogma, Moral Theology, Or Church History. The Three Elective Courses Available To Fourth-year Students Must Be Chosen From The Field Of Specialization. In Addition To The Fourth Year Course Work Of Twenty-nine Credits, A Two-credit Master's Seminar In Research Methodology Must Be Completed During The First Semester, And A Thesis Of Not Less Than Fifty Pages Must Be Submitted To The Office Of The Academic Dean By April 30 Of The Second Semester. The M.a. Candidate Will Be Required To Work Under The Direction Of A Faculty Member Who Will Approve His Thesis Topic And Direct The Research And Thesis Preparation. A Reading Knowledge Of Latin Is Required For Entrance To The M.a. Program. Reading Knowledge Of Hebrew Is Required For Research In The Old Testament. Reading Knowledge Of Greek Is Required For Research In The New Testament. Doctrine. . .so That They Can Live In Accord With That Doctrine, Announce It, Defend It When Necessary, And Be Enabled To Assume Their Role In Exercising The Apostolate" (code Of Canon Law, Canon 229). degree(s):m.a.- Theololgy;m.a.- Religious Studies;m.div.