Master of Arts in Exegetical Theology (M.A.) Program
Program
Objectives
Western Seminary offers the Master of Arts in Exegetical Theology degree for students seeking specialized, graduate, theological education. In addition to the Seminary’s general educational goals, the M.A. in Exegetical Theology program endeavors to achieve the following objectives:
- Cultivate skills in the efficient study and interpretation of Scripture;
- Provide theoretical and practical skills in one area of focused specialization; and
- Promote growth in Christian maturity demonstrated through effective interpersonal relationships.
The M.A. in Exegetical Theology program focuses upon graduate level education in the biblical and theological disciplines. It is ideal for students with various academic goals including individuals with a Bible school background who have been in full-time ministry for five years or more and realize the need for graduate study in theological and biblical disciplines; persons seeking a solid theological education to enhance their chosen professions and prepare them to fill a vital lay ministry role; students building a solid academic foundation for doctoral studies; and for men and women serving with parachurch organizations or other specialized ministries who desire advanced biblical/theological competency.
The program is not recommended for those preparing for a ministry where ordination is expected or required (e.g., the pastorate, chaplaincy, evangelism, and church planting) or for those who anticipate subsequent Doctor of Ministry studies.
M.A.
in Exegetical Theology Core Outcomes
In addition to the Seminary’s general educational goals, the M.A.
in Exegetical Theology program attempts to achieve specific outcomes:
- Be a person whose Christ-like character and dependence upon the Holy Spirit are worthy of being emulated, and whose integrity imparts credibility to his/her ministry
- Be a person who understands his/her role in the furthering of God’s purposes
- Be a person who experiences interdependency with other believers
- Be a person with a global vision who thinks, acts and prays strategically
- Be able to engage in research in exegetical theological areas at an advanced level
- Be able to interpret and apply biblical texts using sound hermeneutical principles and the biblical languages
- Know the major themes and developments of God’s redemptive activity revealed in Scripture
- Know the historical tenets and contemporary significance of evangelical theology and practice
- Be able to think biblically and critically so that various truth claims can be effectively evaluated
- Be able to communicate God’s truth clearly, accurately, and convincingly
- Be a true life-long learner, building upon his/her seminary training
Admission
Requirements
The M.A. in Exegetical Theology is a limited enrollment program. In addition
to the general requirements for admission to the Seminary given on pages 18-19, applicants for the M.A. in Exegetical Theology program are expected to present an accredited baccalaureate degree (or its equivalent) with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale), including a breadth of liberal arts. Admission is generally provisional and requires that the student complete a year of Greek or Hebrew with a grade average of “B” (3.0) or higher. A recommendation from the applicant’s pastor and three personal recommendations regarding the applicant’s Christian character and leadership are required
Degree
Completion Options
Class scheduling permits individuals who commute long distances or who are employed in vocations or ministries to make significant academic progress. Students are recommended their first year to enroll in the weekend sequence as the initial seminary experience. This three term introduction to theological education provides a base of personal direction, biblical and theological foundation, and ministry orientation for subsequent advanced study and skill development.
Two Year Program. The two year program includes weekend classes as well as classes in Hebrew and Greek one or two evenings per week during all three terms of both years.
Four Year Program. The four year program begins with one day of weekend classes during each semester of the first year. Hebrew and Greek are taken during evenings of the second and third years. The degree program is completed with weekend classes during the fourth year.
Distance Learning. A number of required and elective courses are offered through the Center for Lifelong Learning. Students may enroll in CLL courses with program advisor approval
