The call to ministry can come in different ways and at any stage of life. Whether you serve God in full-time ministry, part-time ministry or simply want to further your education, the Master of Arts in ministry leadership degree can further prepare you for ministry service. This program can be completed in two years and provides a foundation in Biblical study, theological education and advanced ministry training.
The M.A. in ministry leadership program at CTS is a great supplement to years of ministry experience. We want to to support you and your church through accessible theological training. The program is ideal for those that are currently serving in ministry and desire advanced biblical, theological and ministry education. You will gain competency in disciplined biblical interpretation and application, learn to state a biblical understanding of the primary elements of Christian theology and exhibit basic knowledge, values and skills essential to effective ministerial and public leadership. You will journey through the program with other ministry professionals and immediately apply what you are learning.
Students have the flexibility to continue working full-time and focus on their current ministry efforts while working through course content. The program entails 12 courses and can be completed in as little as two years.
Careers
A M.A. in biblical studies is a great supplement for ministry experience and can open the doors for different employment opportunities.
Opportunities
Pastoral ministry
Church Planting
Non-Profit Ministry
Christian Publishing
Program Highlights
Ministry leaders who are serving in city contexts may be able to complete this degree as part of the Urban Cohort program. This program is highly scholarshipped and is a community-based cohort designed for individuals who desire to delve deeper into the heart of Scripture while being supported by their ministry peers along the way.
100%
Of M.A. in ministry leadership graduates have obtained professional employment.
80%
Of M.A. in ministry leadership and M.A. in biblical studies graduates are vocationally placed in ministry-related positions.
60%
Of M.A. in ministry leadership and M.A. in biblical studies graduates have obtained licensure and/or ordination as a minister.
A Quality Education, Wherever You Are
At Cornerstone Theological Seminary, we have found innovative ways to bring education to you—either online or in person. Both options are academically rigorous and structured in a student-friendly manner. This means that you can earn your degree and receive further training for ministry while working full time.
Course List and Learning Outcomes
The M.A. in ministry leadership degree requires 36 credits (12 courses) which can be completed either online or in person. Part of the 36 credit requirement includes nine credits of ministry elective courses.
All Cornerstone Theological Seminary programs share a 24-credit hour class core. Take a look at some of the courses you can expect to take.
Core Courses
BBL-501 Biblical Hermeneutics
An introduction to the process of determining the original meaning and contemporary significance of biblical texts.
THE-501 Program Introduction Seminar
This course prepares students for the rigors of graduate scholarship by honing the skills of graduate research, reading and writing.
BBL-514 Old Testament Foundations
BBL-515 New Testament Foundations
MIN-500 Spiritual Formation
An investigation into the meaning of biblical Christianity and its relationship to faith and practice within contemporary cultural contexts. Special attention is given to the corporate dimensions of spirituality and spiritual formation.
THE-540 Systematic Theology I
This course introduces and practices a metanarrative for doing theology. The biblical narratives and propositions are heard in the context of the story that begins with creation, is centered in Jesus’ first coming and reaches its culmination in the new heavens and earth.
THE-640 Systematic Theology II
This course continues our metanarrative theology by examining the Christian story of creation, fall, redemption and consummation, with special attention
Added: given to the nature and task of humanity, the distortion of the world through sin and the redemptive work and person of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.
THE-641 Systematic Theology III
This course will examine in detail the doctrine of salvation (soteriology), the church (ecclesiology), the basic elements of pastoral theology (internal and external call to the ministry, ordination, ministry of the word and sacraments, church discipline and pastoral spiritual formation) and the four last things (death, judgment, heaven and hell).
Program Learning Outcomes
With an emphasis on developing basic competencies essential to the study of the Bible and Christian theology, our Master of Arts in ministry leadership curriculum and course work requirements prepare you to achieve three learning outcomes.
Biblical Interpretation
Students will conduct disciplined biblical interpretation and application with reference to the English Bible text.
Basic Understanding of Christian Theology
Students will state a basic understanding of the primary elements of Christian theology.
Leadership
Students will exhibit basic knowledge, values, and skills essential to effective ministerial and public leadership.
Our faculty are dedicated to bringing you a holistic education whether you’re learning online or in person. Each of them has rigorous experience both in the classroom and in the field.
Cornerstone University offers several options for earning a graduate degree online. Take a look at some of the other programs related to ministry leadership.