Master of Arts in Christian Ministry

Do you want to broaden your biblical knowledge, deepen your faith, and sharpen your gifts? The Master of Arts in Christian Ministry will prepare you to teach, counsel, care, pursue justice and tell the good news of Jesus to everyone, everywhere. 

Flexible.

The Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (MACM) is our most flexible degree program. Fully half of the 48 credits needed to earn this degree are electives. That means YOU decide what interests you and where you want to focus your learning.

The MACM is designed to provide men and women with the resources for thoughtful and competent Christian leadership in a broad range of ministry settings.  It is grounded in integrated reflection on Scripture, systematic theology, and core Christian practices.

• Requirements

  Sixteen distance learning courses (48 academic credits) are required to earn this degree.  Eight required courses provide a general theological foundation. These are the core requirements:

  • Old Testament Foundations
  • New Testament Foundations
  • Systematic Theology I
  • Systematic Theology II
  • Practice of Counsel and Care
  • Practice of Discipleship
  • Leadership
  • Integrative Capstone

   

  Eight elective courses provide students the flexibility to focus on their learning interests. Take a look at the various courses available.   

  WTS welcomes transfer students and transferred coursework.  Up to half of the coursework required to complete the MACM may be completed at another ATS accredited seminary. 

   

• Distance Learning

  Western Theological Seminary’s highly effective and relationship-rich distance learning environment makes coursework available wherever you are and whenever you want.  Some courses are delivered completely online.  Some use a hybrid design, blending online learning with two weeks per semester of face-to-face instruction on the WTS campus. 

  Three Distance Learning Semesters Annually

  Fall: August–October, 9 weeks, coursework completely online

  Winter: November–March, 14 weeks, hybrid courses blending online learning with a campus residency

  Summer: March–June, 14 weeks, online 

• Are you a distance learner?

  How do you learn best?  What environment do you prefer? Before signing up for any online course or stepping into a classroom, it is important to discern your own learning style.

  In-Residence Learner

  • Prefers the physical environment of the classroom
  • Enjoys regular face-to-face interaction with professors and peers
  • Needs a consistent class schedule and structured learning formats
  • Learn more about our In-Residence M.Div.

  Distance Learning Learner

  • Self-motivated, independent learner
  • Wants flexibility of organizing his or her own learning schedule
  • Disciplined, can set aside 15-20 hours per week to study and participate in an online setting
  • Prefers to continue in current ministry or home situation
  • Can travel twice a year for 2-week classroom-based intensives on campus in Holland, MI