For the ministry practitioner
For the ministry practitioner who wants to integrate focused biblical learning and intentional pastoral formation. Students will be prepared for a lifetime of faithful ministry within the church and in parachurch organizations.
42
Credit Hours
2-5
Years to Finish
In person or Online
What can I do with a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry?
Work as an ordained pastor in some denominational contexts
Work in education, either within a church or Christian school
Lead parachurch ministries and Christian non-profits
Course Sequence
Graduating students will have deepened and broadened their biblical and theological knowledge and will be able to analyze questions and topics in the field of ministry.
Core Requirements
These five required courses can be taken in any order:
- Old Testament Foundations
- Foundations of the Christian Life
- New Testament Foundations
- Church History 1 -or- Church History 2 -or- Systematic Theology 1
- MA Capstone
Elective Courses
Customize your degree by choosing seven ministry-focused electives such as:
- Worship Foundations
- The Practice of Counsel and Care
- Leading Christian Communities
- Christian Interior Life
- Preaching Foundations
ACADEMIC OR PROFESSIONAL TRACK
Students may select either a professional or academic degree track. For students who prefer more classroom work, the Academic track allows them to select an elective. Professional track students will complete three credits of field education.
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 are completed 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