By CSF and Voice staff

SAN FRANCISCO – The University of San Francisco is ending its masters program in theology to focus its resources on undergraduate theology and religious studies classes. The Jesuit-run university said it will continue classes for all current students in the Master’s program in theology but will not accept any new students.

This semester, there was demand for only three courses, with an average of six students in each, according to USF spokesman Gary McDonald.

USF said it is working with both Santa Clara University and the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley to help accommodate any student who may be interested in pursuing an advanced degree in theology.

But opponents of the decision say the unique nature of the USF program, namely its weekend classes in a cohort format, is not available at Santa Clara or JSTB, thus making it difficult for working adults to earn a degree in theology.

Sandra Jewett, a graduate of the USF program who coordinates the consortium of Catholic schools in the Oakland Diocese, said the cancellation will have a detrimental effect on Catholic education.

“As teachers and administrators we serve as role models of faith and service to our students. However, merely desiring to teach theology or directing community service learning projects does not give us the intellectual and academic preparation to be fully successful in our practice,” she said. “If we are truly committed to evangelization and the transformation of future leaders, we need to provide them with firm theological grounding.”

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