The Master of Arts (Theological Studies) offers specialized study in biblical, historical, and systematic theology, apologetics, and intercultural studies. The MATS is a two-year program consisting of 60 credits.
Program Outcomes
At the completion of the MATS program students will be able to:
- Articulate and defend their ethical and theological system.
- Have a basic awareness of the history of Christian theology and spirituality, and respectfully engage traditions other than their own.
- Demonstrate a capacity for constructive theological reflection.
- Perform scholarly independent research.
- Produce and defend scholarly research papers and/or a thesis.
Vocational Options
This program of concentrated theological study prepares students for a variety of vocations in ministry and theological education. The MATS is suitable for:
- Senior and solo pastors, associate pastors and program staff, and church planters with significant ministry experience who desire further education in Bible and theology.
- Adult ministry leaders in local churches.
- Campus and parachurch ministry leaders.
- Teachers in Christian primary and secondary schools.
- Future doctoral students in theology, intercultural studies, or the humanities.
- Persons engaged in speaking and writing ministries.
For further details and information on admission and graduation requirements, please download our catalog, call 877.251.6560, or contact Admissions.
Program of Studies
| MATS - Standard Track |
| Spiritual Formation |
|
| SF 511 Principals of Spiritual Formation I |
2 |
| SF 512 Principles of Spiritual Formation II |
2 |
| English Bible |
|
| Bib 509 Biblical Interpretation |
3 |
| Bib 747 Methods of Theological Research |
2 |
| Select 3 courses from the following: |
|
| Bib 501 Genesis-Song of Solomon |
4 |
| Bib 502 Isaiah-Malachi |
3 |
| Bib 503 Acts, Pauline Epistles |
4 |
| Bib 504 Gospels, Hebrews-Revelation |
4 |
| Theology/Biblical Theology/Ethics |
|
| Th 507 Christian Theology 1 |
4 |
| Th 508 Christian Theology 2 |
4 |
BTh 633 Methods in Biblical Theology
OR
BTh 733 NT Use of the OT (3) |
3 |
Th 717 Contemporary Theology and Ethics
OR
Th 720 Readings in Ethics (2)
and
Th 628 Contemporary Theologies (2) |
3 |
| Th 722 Studies in Ecclesiology |
2 |
Th 742 Colloquium in Christian Theology
OR
Th 840 Thesis (4) |
3 |
HTh 703 Patristic and Medieval Theology
OR
HTh 704 Reformation and Post-Ref Theology |
3 |
Electives (choose 5-9 units)
|
|
HTh 704 Reformation and Post-Ref Theology
OR
HTh 703 Patristic and Medieval Theology |
3 |
| HTh 715 Traditions in Christian Spirituality |
2 |
| IS 642 Theology of Cultural Engagement |
2 |
| IS 701 Christian Theology and World Religions |
3 |
| BTh 738 John and Johannine Theology |
2 |
| General Electives |
10 |
TOTAL Required
|
60 |
Advanced Standing Option
Graduates from an accredited Bible college or Christian university may be eligible for advanced standing with credit. A total of up to 18 units may be waived from the program, leaving 42 units to complete. Courses that may be waived are: Bib 501, Bibe 502, Bib 503, Bib 504, Bib 509, and either Th 507 or Th 508. See the Seminary catalog for more information about advanced standing.
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