The Master of Arts in Process Theology at Claremont School of Theology offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary approach to theology within the liberal theological tradition, grounded in the process-relational philosophy of Alfred North Whitehead and further developed by theologians such as John B. Cobb Jr. The program explores the nature of God, the world, and human experience through a relational framework that emphasizes creativity, interdependence, and ecological responsibility. Students engage classical theological questions alongside contemporary issues—such as environmental crisis, social justice, and interreligious dialogue—while developing constructive theological perspectives for today’s world. Ideal for those preparing for ministry, teaching, or further academic study, the program cultivates both intellectual rigor and practical application in a rapidly changing global context.
Available Modalities:
Students in the LA Area modality must take at least one class with weekly on-campus meetings each semester. Students in the Low Residency modality must take at least three in-person intensive courses throughout their program. Students studying under an F-1 visa or with VA benefits should be aware of the in-person requirements of their status and choose courses accordingly. See the Program Delivery and Learning Modalities page for more details.
Curriculum:
| Program Requirements | Semester Offered | Semester
Taken/Planned |
| Core Courses | 12 credits | |
| TCG 3020 Intercultural Studies | Spring | |
| Ethics Course | ||
| TES 3074 Learning with the Marginalized | Fall | |
| Phil/Theo Course | ||
| Track Courses | 12 credits | |
| TPS 3093 Introduction to Process Theology | ||
| TPS 3086 Eco-Process Theology | ||
| TPS 3064 Deep Religious Pluralism | ||
| TPS 3003 Whitehead Research Seminar: Process and Reality | ||
| Electives | 12 credits | |
| Summative Courses (take 1) | 1–3 credits | |
| TIS 3063 Masters’ Summative Exercise (Thesis) | Fall | |
| TMC 3100 MA Colloquium (Non-Thesis) | Spring | |
| TOTAL | 37–39 credits |
Electives
The student should choose electives that prepare them for a planned thesis topic or other academic or professional goals.
Summative Courses
The student will choose between the Thesis and Non-Thesis options. Students planning to apply for PhD programs should strongly consider the Thesis option. Further details about the thesis and its requirements and deadlines can be found in the catalog. The Non-Thesis option will include a portfolio of major assignments from the student’s coursework as well as short reflective papers on the student’s learning and experience in their program.
Thesis students take TIS 3063 Master’s Summative Exercise in the final Fall semester before graduation.
Non-Thesis students take TMC 3100 MA Colloquium in the final Spring semester before graduation.
