Master of Arts Degree (Theological Studies) Course Requirements

M.A. (General Academic)

The general academic track presupposes no prior study in theological disciplines. This track is designed to provide exposure to all the major academic disciplines in the study of theology. It is a generalist form of the M.A.

Course of Study
27 Hours Prescribed, 24 Hours Electives
Prescribed courses:
BIB510, Introduction to the Bible 3 hours
LNG 510, Introduction to Biblical Languages 3 hours
BIB550, Biblical Hermeneutics 3 hours
THE610 & THE620, Integrative Theology I & II 6 hours
PHL610, Philosophy of Religion 3 hours
CHS660 & CHS670, History of Christian Thought I & II 6 hours
MTS810 Seminar: Theological Method and Research 2 hours
MTS880, Senior Colloquy 1 hour
Elective courses:
Old Testament/New Testament 6 hours
Theology/Philosophy of Religion/Christian Ethics 3-6 hours
Electives with Advisement 12 hours


M.A. (Research)

This program presupposes prior study in theological disciplines, preferably an undergraduate degree in religion. The research track provides for advanced specialized education in either biblical studies or Christian thought and history. This program is designed to equip teachers and/or to be foundational for doctoral studies.

Major in Biblical Studies

AWhere the transcript supports this, enhanced standing will apply. Otherwise, evidence of this must be shown in either the passing of a competency exam or successful completion of BIB520 (credit will not apply to the degree program).

Course of Study
36 Hours Prescribed, 12 Hours Electives
Prescribed courses:
BIB550, Biblical Hermeneutics 3 hours

Biblical Exegesis
(At least 6 hours in each testament and 12 hours of in the original languages)

18 hours
Biblical Theology (1 OT, 1 NT) 6 hours
THE640, Doctrine of Christian Holiness 3 hours
MTS810 Seminar: Theological Method & Research 2 hours
MTS880, Senior Colloquy 1 hour
MTS885, M.A. Thesis 3 hours
Elective courses:

Theology/Philosophy of Religion/Christian Ethics/
History of the Christian Church

3 - 6 hours
Electives with Advisement 6 hours

Major in Christian Thought and History

A basic grounding in systematic theology is a prerequisite for this track. Where the transcript supports this, enchanced standing will apply. Otherwise, evidence must be shown in either the passing of a competency exam(s) or successful completion of THE520 and THE530 (credit will not apply to the degree program).

Course of Study
34 Hours Prescribed, 14 Hours Electives
Prescribed courses:
THE640, Doctrine of Christian Holiness 3 hours
CHS660 & CHS670, History of Christian Thought I & II 6 hours
Theology/Philosophy of Religion/Christian Ethics/
History of the Christian Church
12-18 hours
THE610 & THE620, Integrative Theology I & II 6 hours
MTS810 Seminar: Theological Method & Research 2 hours
MTS880, Senior Colloquy 1 hour
MTS885, M.A. Thesis 3 hours
Elective courses:
Biblical Studies 6 hours
Electives with Advisement 9 hours