The Master of Arts (Theological Studies) (MATS) is designed to provide the academic background and skills needed for engaging in advanced theological studies. The program seeks to provide the spiritual, intellectual, biblical, historical, and theological tools for sound theological research and teaching. The program is designed for students who wish to become better equipped for a focused ministry of teaching and/or research either in church, mission, or academic settings. The MATS is also well-suited for students who wish to go on for doctoral programs in Old Testament, New Testament, or theology.
Credit Hours: 60
I. Core (12 credit hours)
In consultation with the program coordinator, students will choose one course from each of the following disciplines:
Personal Formation for Ministry *
New Testament
Old Testament
Theology Elective **
II. Theological Studies
BLST 717 The Former Prophets
OR BLST 719 The Latter Prophets
BLST 721 Studies in the Gospel of Matthew
OR BLST 722 Studies in the Gospel of Luke
THEO 761 The Patristic Fathers
Concentration requirements: ***
BLST 602 Introduction to Biblical Interpretation
OR Hebrew Language (9 credits)
OR Greek Language (9 credits)
III. Research
RD 701 Theological and Ministry Research
RD 808 Thesis ****
OR
RD 806 Reading Course
IV. Electives
Concentration electives ***
Communication elective (for thesis and reading tracks)
Specialization electives: 12 credit hours of guided electives for specialization track, or 3 credit hours of open electives for thesis and reading tracks
V. Non-Credit Requirements
RD 700 Experiential Integration
PRT 800 Learning Portfolio and Interview
THEO 891 MATS Comprehensive Exam
* Must include one of the following: CM 600 Spiritual Formation for Ministry; CM 601 Philosophy and Foundation for Ministry; LE 605 Personal and Service Development.
** If a student does not have sufficient background in theology, he or she should take THEO 601 Christian Theology Overview.
*** See Program Sheets for track and concentration details.
**** Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.50 and have the approval of the program coordinator in order to qualify to write a thesis. Students who do not qualify or wish to opt out of the thesis must include RD 806 Reading Course (in the area of their concentration) and two electives (6 credits) typically in the area of their concentration.
