Diploma in Pre-Theology Studies
The Diploma in Pre-Theology Studies (PTS) is a two-year non-degree program comprising mostly of philosophy, but also basic theology and language courses required for admission to the graduate-level first cycle ecclesiastical degree program, the Baccalaureate in Theology (ThB). The curriculum is grounded on the principle that “reason, when open to the mystery of God and directed to Him, allows a solid acceptance of Revelation, seeks a deeper understanding of its contents, and offers instruments and language for its proclamation to the world” (Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis Sacerdotalis 2016, n. 116).
The program thus aims to lead students towards a deeper understanding and interpretation of the human person, and of the human person’s freedom and relationships with the world and with God, doing so from a pastoral perspective, i.e., giving attention to the necessary connection between philosophy and the true problems of life (cf. Pastores dabo vobis, n. 52, Optatam totius, n. 15).
REQUIREMENTS / PREREQUISITES
Admission Requirements
Those with at least a high school diploma or its equivalent may be admitted to the Program. The following application requirements should be submitted online through the LST application portal (click here to apply):
1. Duly accomplished LST Application Form (click here to download the form)
2. One ID picture (2 in. x 2 in.)
3. One photocopy of original Transcript of Records from previous school and its English translation if the Transcript is in a foreign language
4. One page single-spaced Personal Essay introducing oneself and indicating one’s motivation in applying to the Diploma Program
5. Letter of Recommendation from the Religious Superior, Bishop or Official of the applicant’s institution
6. Application Fee (PhP 225.00)
7. For International Applicants, photocopy of passport and visa
Online Entrance Examination
An online application examination will be administered to applicants of this program. The LST Academic Secretary will contact the applicant via email to set the date and time of the exam. The results of this exam will also be used to evaluate the applicant if he/she subsequently applies for the ThB after successfully completing the PTS program. It does not, however. guarantee admission to that degree program.
Tuition and Fees
A semester for a new student taking 21 units in the Diploma program will cost around PhP 63,134.00 or USD 1,100/EUR 960. Computation is based on tuition and fees for AY 2025-2026. Conversion to USD and EUR equivalent is based on the current market conversion rate as of June, 2025.
For complete information regarding admission procedures to the various academic programs of the Loyola School of Theology, click here.
Curriculum
The Diploma in Pre-Theology Studies requires sixteen (16) philosophy courses, one (1) seminar course, four (4) basic undergraduate theology courses, two (2) semesters of Latin, two (2) semesters of a Modern Language and a Synthesis course. These are 3-unit courses totaling 81 credit units wherein students fulfill the course requirements and receive marks at the end of the semester. The students will be required to write a synthesis paper at the end of the two years. Being basic philosophy and theology courses, they are considered propaedeutic, i.e., preparatory for higher degree studies in theology or pastoral ministry. Applicants who need to upgrade their English language skills will be required to take two (2) semesters of Expository Writing and Research Methods.
The choices for the required two semesters of a Modern Language include Spanish, French, Italian, and German.
The program allows for the validation of previously-taken basic theology, philosophy and language courses up to a maximum of twenty-seven (27) units or nine (9) courses.
First Year (2021 curriculum)
| First Semester | Second Semester | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat. No. | Cat. No. | ||
| BPM 102 | Introduction to the Old Testament | BPM 106 | Introduction to the New Testament |
| Philo 201 | Introduction to Philosophy | Philo 208 | Ethics |
| Philo 202 | Philosophy of the Human Person | Philo 203 | Metaphysics |
| Philo 211 | Ancient Philosophy | Philo 212 | Medieval Philosophy |
| Philo 217 | Logic Philo | Philo 248.3 | Asian Philosophies: Confucianism, Hinduism, Buddhism |
| Latin 201 | Latin I | Latin 202 | Latin II |
Second Year
| First Semester | Second Semester | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat. No. | Cat. No. | ||
| BPM 101 | Introduction to the Mystery of Faith | BPM 105 | Church and Sacraments |
| Philo 219 | Political Philosopy (or Soc Sci) | Philo 220 | Philosophy of Religion |
| Philo 213 | Modern Philosophy | Philo 223 | Philosophy of Culture and Aesthetics |
| Philo 215 | Philosophy of Nature | Philo 214 | Contemporary Philosophy |
| Philo 218 | Reason and Christian Faith/ Epistemology and Hermeneutics | Philo Syn | Writing Seminar (Synthesis Paper with Oral Presentation and Conversation with a Panel) |
| Modern Language Sem 1 | Modern Language Sem 2 | ||
Students who lack only one (1) or two (2) pre-theology courses may be admitted directly to ThB provided they complete these courses within their First Year STB. Those who are deficient in three (3) or more courses should complete them all before admission to the ThB Program.
Click here for the course descriptions.