Master of Arts in Theological Studies - Certificate

A Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) will prepare students to increase their biblical knowledge and to bring to their profession a Christian worldview.

The MATS program is a good choice for those interested in lay leadership or anticipating service in professional ministry, such as assistant ministers, worship leaders, Christian education directors, youth or campus ministry workers, or missionaries. The MATS is also excellent preparation for a teaching ministry, whether in ecclesiastical or academic settings, or for students pursuing additional graduate studies or doctoral work.

The MATS program is structured for those working in ministry or business settings and can be completed in 18–22 months. Courses are offered in a cohort, one-night-a-week format, with opportunities to collaborate on projects outside of class.

Five required core courses lay the foundation for all MATS students, through which you will:

• Develop biblical principles for spiritual formation and discipleship
• Learn advanced principles of biblical interpretation
• Study the socio-historical worlds that gave rise to the Old and New Testament
• Survey the history of Christianity
• Construct a personal theology of leadership

In addition to the core courses, you will choose an area of concentrated study in either Bible Exposition or Theology.