Master of Arts in Theological Studies
ACU’s Master of Arts in Theological Studies is a flexible degree program designed for those who wish to deepen their theological foundation and gain greater competence in selected areas of religious knowledge. This 100% online ministry degree is ideal if you’re seeking personal enrichment.
With many elective hours, you can personalize the degree to match your particular passions and interests. The coursework equips you for graduate-level work and provides advanced study of theological disciplines for those whose aspirations aren’t (or do not include) professional ministry.
We understand the cost of graduate school can be overwhelming, which is why ACU offers a variety of financial assistance to qualifying students. Learn more about scholarships and other financial aid options.
Meet the Program Director
Dr. Mindi Thompson is an Associate Professor and Director of Distance Education. She joined the Graduate School of Theology in 2011. Dr. Thompson received her Ph.D. from Luther Seminary where she focused on the Old Testament. She holds an M.A. from Emmanual Christian Seminary, and her B.A. and A.A. are from Minnesota Bible College. She earned the honor of Outstanding Faculty of the Year for the College of Biblical Studies at ACU in 2015. She is the co-author of the book, To the Ends of the Earth: Cultural Considerations for Global Online Theological Education and author of the publication, Reading Leviticus 19: Issues for Interpretation.
“One of my favorite scripture passages is the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30, Luke 19:11-27). As a woman with leadership gifts serving in a church tradition that doesn’t always welcome those gifts, it can be a challenge to find ways to use my talents. I’m convinced, though, that when I stand before the Lord and he asks me to give an accounting for how I used the gifts he gave me, ‘They wouldn't let me!’ won’t be a good excuse. My calling is to remain faithful with the little I’ve been given, trusting that God will grow it into something useful for his purposes.”
What outcomes can you expect from an online graduate degree program for ministers?
- Foundations: Students will demonstrate general competence in fundamental biblical, historical, theological, and related disciplines.
- Focus: Students will demonstrate competence in a particular concentrated area of study.
- Application: Students will demonstrate how their coursework has enriched their application of biblical and theological disciplines.
Admission Requirements
- A completed application and application fee.
- An official transcript of all previous colleges attended. The transcript must indicate an earned bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university or equivalent.
- A cumulative undergraduate approximate B average or above in the area of focus or related area and evidence of an overall productive GPA.
- Two letters of recommendation (may be submitted through the online application).
- Personal statement of interest.
- Writing assessment
Degree Highlights
Timeframe
Credit hours: 36
Program length: 24 months
Example Coursework
Biblical Exegesis
Systematic Theology
History of Christianity
Department
Graduate School of Theology
Upcoming Start Dates
January 11, 2021
