Our most flexible degree
The Master of Arts in Christian Studies (MA) is our most flexible degree program. Half of the 42 credits needed to earn this degree are electives. That means YOU decide what interests you and where you want to focus your learning.
42
Credit Hours
2-5
Years to Finish
In person or Online
Available in Spanish
What can I do with an MA in Christian Studies?
Work in non-profit or church ministry
Work in education either within a church or Christian school
Still undecided about your specific career pathway? This degree is a perfect place to start.
Course Sequence
Fourteen courses (42 academic credits) are required to earn this degree. Seven required courses provide a general theological foundation.
Core Requirements
These are the 21 credits of core requirements which can be taken in any order.
- New Testament Foundations
- Old Testament Foundations
- Systematic Theology I
- Systematic Theology II
- Church History I or Church History II
- Foundations of the Christian Life
- Christian Life and Mission
Elective Courses
Elective courses (21 credits) 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 27 credits may be completed at another ATS accredited seminary.
YOU CHOOSE: ONLINE OR IN-PERSON LEARNING?
Are you an In-Person Learner?
Courses taken primarily in-person at our Holland, MI campus. Students who take courses primarly in person tend to:
1
Prefer the physical environment of the classroom.
2
Enjoy regular face-to-face interaction with professors and peers.
3
Need a consistent class schedule and structured learning formats.
4
Be committed to completing the degree in 2 years.
5
Already live in West Michigan or are interested in moving to West Michigan.
6
Plan to work part-time or less.
Are you an Online Learner?
Online Learning is available to students in West Michigan and around the world. As an Online Learning student, you would typically:
1
Be a self-motivated, independent learner.
2
Want the flexibility of organizing your own learning schedule.
3
Need maximum flexibility to fit school around your other commitments.
4
Desire to stretch your degree out over many years.
5
Live more than 150 miles from Holland, MI.
6
Plan to work full time while in school.
Apply
APPLICATION PROCESS
Your application will be completed fully online. Once you complete your application be sure to watch your email. Some programs require additional interviews or follow up.
Have questions? Email us at admissions@westernsem.edu.
1.
Create an Account
2.
Fill out an application
3.
Upload written Materials
4.
Request letters
5.
Submit Your Application
6.
Watch your email
Only the MA in Christian Studies and Graduate Certificate in Christian Studies are available in Spanish.
Costs
AFFORDING sEMINARY
Tuition rates vary for different programs and degrees. At WTS, we understand that finances can be a major concern for prospective students. That’s why we offer a variety of scholarships and loan options.
Important Dates
For terms starting in 2024 - 2025
Fall Semester (starts late August)
Apply by:
January
Application fee waived for Fall semester MDiv and MA applications!
March
Deadline for international students
May
To ensure housing and best financial aid opportunities
August
Final application deadline for fall start
August
Call the admissions office for options!
Contact Admissions
spring Semester (starts Early January)
Apply By
December
For best financial aid opportunities
December
Call the admissions office for options!
Contact Admissions