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Master of Arts in Specialized Ministry (M.A.) Program

Degree Requirements
The M.A. in Specialized Ministry degree is conferred upon the attainment of certain personal and academic requirements. In addition to the general seminary requirements outlined on pages 30-31, degree candidates must (1) give evidence of a genuine Christian character, orthodox belief, and conduct consistent with a God-given call to a position of leadership; (2) complete all courses in the prescribed M.A. in Specialized Ministry curriculum with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5, and 3.0 grade point average within ministerial studies (core and specialization). By careful planning, students may complete their studies in four semesters

Ministry Specialization Options
To prepare for their particular ministry area, students will choose one area of ministry specialization. In consultation with their advisor, they will choose eight hours of course work in this area of ministry emphasis. The courses will be chosen in order to build on their previous education and experience and allow them to prepare for excellence in ministry in that specific area. Current specializations include Chaplaincy, Children and Youth at Risk, Coaching, Evangelism and Equipping, Pastoral Care to Women, Youth Ministry, and Youth & Family Ministry. Other areas of potential specialization (e.g., worship, church planting, etc.) may be formulated by academic petition, contingent upon the availability of appropriate courses to support adequately that specialization.

In-Ministry Schedule Option
Western Seminary offers the in-ministry schedule option for the M.A. in Specialized Ministry degree. This track is designed to make fulfilling the 30 hour residential requirements for an accredited master’s degree more accessible for students significantly involved in ministry roles. Three or four weeks per year, two 2-credit courses will be offered in intensive formats (each spanning 2 ½ days), enabling students to complete the “class time” requirements for up to four units in one week. Pre- and post-residential homework assignments will be designed for maximum integration into one’s current ministry responsibilities. The remainder of the program’s course work can either be completed through distance education or normal residential courses. Eligibility for this track will ordinarily require being at least half-time in paid ministry for the prior year (and maintaining at least this level of involvement for the duration of the program) and receiving the endorsement of one’s ministry supervisor. This is a limited-enrollment program and will require making consistent annual progress towards degree completion. For more information, please contact the Admissions Office.

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