MA IN Theological studies

Learn to articulate systeMATIC Theology

For Christian writers, teachers, or pastors who desire to deepen their theological and scriptural knowledge.

Western Theological Seminary’s Master of Arts in Theological Studies is designed to provide resources for you to be formed throughout Christian leadership and service as you deepen your theological knowledge. 

42

Credit Hours

2-5

Years to Finish

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In person or Online

What can I do with a Master of Arts in Theological Studies?

Teach in a church or Christian school

Work in Christian publishing or as a writer

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Satisfy your desire for a depth of theological knowledge and understanding 

Course Sequence

Graduating students will have deepened and broadened their biblical and theological knowledge and will be able to analyze questions and topics in field of theological studies using that knowledge.

Half of the 42 credits needed to earn this degree are theological elective courses that will help you articulate convictions through scripture and practice.

 

Core Requirements

These are the core requirements that can be taken in any order.

  • Old Testament Foundations
  • Foundations of the Christian Life
  • Church History 1 and 2
  • New Testament Foundations
  • Systematic Theology 1 and 2
  • Christian Life and Ethics
  • Christian Life and Mission
  • MA Capstone

View Course Details

View course descriptions and details by visiting our courses page. 

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    Elective Courses

    Customize your degree by choosing four electives: two from the theology field and two from any field.

    ACADEMIC OR PROFESSIONAL TRACK

    Students can select an Academic or Professional track.

    In the Academic track, students will take elective courses that lead to writing a thesis in the Master of Arts Capstone course.

    In the Professional track, students will substitute two semesters of mentored internship (1.5 credits each semester) for one 3-credit elective course. Students will then complete a ministry project in the Master of Arts Capstone course.

    WTS welcomes transfer students and transferred coursework up to 27 credits may be completed at another ATS accredited seminary.

    YOU CHOOSE: ONLINE OR IN-PERSON LEARNING?

    Are you an In-Person Learner?

    Courses are completed at our Holland, MI campus. Students who take courses primarly in person tend to:

    1

    Prefer the physical environment of the classroom

    2

    Enjoy regular face-to-face interaction with professors and peers

    3

    Need a consistent class schedule and structured learning formats

    4

    Be committed to completing the degree in 2 years

    5

    Already live in West Michigan or are interested in moving to West Michigan

    6

    Plan to work part-time or less

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    Are you an Online Learner?

    Online Learning is available to students in West Michigan and around the world. As an Online Learning student, you would typically:

    1

    Be a self-motivated, independent learner.

    2

    Wants the flexibility of organizing your own learning schedule.

    3

    Need maximum flexibility to fit school around your other commitments

    4

    Desire to stretch your degree out over many years 

    5

    Live more than 150 miles from Holland, MI.

    6

    Plan to work full time while in school. 

    Apply

    APPLICATION PROCESS

    Our application process is all online. Create an account, select your degree program, fill out the required form and wait for an email. Have questions? Email us at admissions@westernsem.edu.

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    1.

    Create an Account

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    2.

    Fill out an application

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    3.

    Upload  written Materials

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    4.

    Request letters

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    5.

    Submit Your Application

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    6.

    Watch your email

    Costs

    AFFORDING sEMINARY

    Tuition rates vary for different programs and degrees. At WTS, we understand that finances can be a major concern for prospective students. That’s why we offer a variety of scholarships and loan options.

    Important Dates

    2023–2024 Academic Calendar

    Fall Semester (starts late August)

    Apply by:

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    January

    Application fee waived for Fall semester MDiv and MA applications!

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    March

    Deadline for international students

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    May

    To ensure housing and best financial aid opportunities

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    August

    Final application deadline for fall start

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    August

    Call the admissions office for options!
    Contact Admissions

    spring Semester (starts Early January)

    Apply By

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    December

    For best financial aid opportunities

    one

    December

    Call the admissions office for options!
    Contact Admissions

    Have Questions?

    Our Admissions team is here to help!

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    Drew Brown

    Director of Admissions

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    Keith Reynolds

    Associate Director of Recruiting and Admissions

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    Krista Greendyke

    Recruiting and Admissions Operations Administrator