Master of Arts in Religion

Master of Arts in Religion

The Master of Arts in Religion (30 graduate hours) provides a strong academic foundation in Bible, Christian history, and theology. These subjects offer essential preparation for Christian ministry and/or doctoral study in religion.

The Master of Arts in Religion provides a unique blend of religious theory and practical studies that can meet the needs of students with a variety of learning objectives. The classes in the program will be offered in different formats (three-week residential sessions, semester-long evening courses, and/or on-line via the Internet). The faculty is composed of scholars and professionals in the field of religion with the academic and applied backgrounds to make the study of religion stimulating and worthwhile.

Program Admission

1. For admission: bachelors degree or equivalent. Students with GPA below 3.00 will need to demonstrate ability to do work at the graduate level.
2. Students must complete an Application for Admission and submit official transcripts for review.
3. Three letters of recommendation from persons who can attest to the applicant’s promise for graduate study.

Participation Requirements

1. A student must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA and cannot submit more than nine semester hours of C for graduation. Students will be required to repeat courses in which C grades were earned above the maximum and must repeat any course in which a D or F has been received.
2. Students must complete the requirements for the degree in no more than three years.
3. A minimum of one residential session (three-week focus or semester-long evening) is required.
   NOTE: Not all required courses are available on line; attendance at several residential sessions may be needed to complete all required courses. Be sure to monitor Seminary course schedules when planning enrollment and when selecting courses for graduation.
4. Students who choose not to complete a thesis are required to make a portfolio presentation at the end of their program. See the Student Handbook for specific parameters.
5. The following curriculum (30 semester hrs.) must be completed:

   RELG5011 Christian Theology 3 s.h.

   RELG5020 Hebrew Scriptures I 3 s.h.

   RELG5030 Hebrew Scriptures II 3 s.h.

   RELG5040 New Testament I 3 s.h.

   RELG5050 New Testament II 3 s.h.

   RELG5090 Survey of the History of Christian Thought 3 s.h.

   RELG**** 3-4 couses as electives 9-12 s.h.

   RELG6010 Optional Integrative Thesis 3 s.h. or Portfolio Presentation 0 s.h.

Transfer of Credits

Students transferring from other graduate institutions may request the transfer of a maximum of nine hours of credit, provided that the courses transferred have equivalents in the Master of Arts in Religion curriculum and the grades in those courses are “B” or above. The request must be accompanied by an official transcript from the institution where the credit was earned.