A two-year program for the degree of Master of Arts (Theological Studies) enables students to possess baseline knowledge and judgment appropriate to an initial graduate level degree in theological studies. The MA(TS) program includes basic studies in Bible, theology, church history, and practical theology with a specialization in one of the disciplines of theological scholarship.
Fifty-two credits are required for the Master of Arts (Theological Studies) degree. Specific requirements include:
OT2101 Orientation to Old Testament Studies | 3 credits |
NT2101 Introduction to the New Testament | 3 credits |
History and Ecumenics (two courses) | 6 credits |
TH2100 Introduction to Systematic Theology and one additional course | 6 credits |
Practical Theology (An introductory course in one of three areas: Preaching, Pastoral Care, or Education and Formation and one additional course) | 6 credits |
Speech | 2 credits |
Field Education (May be in a non-congregational setting, supervision provided through the Office of Field Education) | 2 credits |
Electives (not in area of specialization) | 6 credits |
Specialization (A proposed area of specialization shall be submitted to the Master's Studies Committee for approval by November 1 in the first year of residency) | 18 credits |
Total Credits | 52 |
The area of specialization for the Master of Arts (Theological Studies) degree is chosen from one of the following areas, which are organized under five broad categories:
All students in the MDiv, Dual (MDiv/MACEF), and MA(TS) degree programs are required to complete a Capstone Project during the senior or final year. This does not apply to those in the ThM program. Courses designated as capstone courses have “capstone course” listed in the course description, following the credits. A capstone course may be a one, two, or three credit course.
Definition
A capstone project is a constructive work in which students demonstrate integration, particularly with an eye toward implications for some form of ministry. A capstone project should be “integrating” in at least one of the following four ways:
A capstone project is subject to the instructor’s approval and may take a variety of forms including but not limited to the following: an essay; a sermon or series of sermons; a lesson plan or unit of curriculum; a plan of response and action for a congregation or institution; a website/social media; a drama; a work of art; a dance production; or a video series posted on the internet. The course catalogue will indicate courses that are eligible to meet this requirement.
“Preaching is one of the most important things we do as pastors. You get to challenge people’s minds and hearts, as the gospel challenges all of us. ”