Fall Semester (starts late August)
Apply by:
- Jan. 1 – Application fee waived for Fall semester MDiv and MA applications!
- March 15 – Deadline for international students
- May 30 – To ensure housing and best financial aid opportunities
- Aug 1 – Final application deadline
- After Aug 1 – Call the admissions office for options!
Spring Semester (starts mid January)
Apply by:
- Dec 10 – For best financial aid opportunities
- After Dec 10 – Call the admissions office for options!
Why an M.A. in Christian Ministry?
If you are a ministry practitioner, the Master of Arts in Christian Ministry will provide resources for you to be formed for thoughtful Christian service. This program is designed for ministry practitioners who wish to deepen their biblical and theological understanding, enhance their ministry skills, and be formed for ministry.
- You will increase your biblical and theological knowledge while selecting seven ministry-focused courses to customize your degree to your needs.
- You may complete this degree entirely online or choose to take courses on campus.
- Complete this MA in two years or take one class at a time to fit within your life and ministry.
Why Western Theological Seminary?
Requirements & Curriculum
Our Master of Arts in Ministry is designed for leaders who desire to enhance their knowledge of the Bible and Christian doctrine and gain ministry leadership skills.
The MA in Ministry allows you to choose seven ministry courses so you may focus on growing in the areas that will have the greatest influence on your ministry.
You can complete your master’s degree in two years or customize your course load to fit your schedule.
Distance Learning
Online Master of Arts
Western Theological Seminary’s highly effective and relationship-rich distance learning environment makes coursework available wherever you are and whenever you want. All core required courses are delivered completely online. Some electives may use a hybrid design, blending online learning with 5 days per semester of face-to-face instruction on the WTS campus.
Two distance learning semesters and two short online terms annually:
Fall Semester: 14 weeks, early September-December. Hybrid courses that blend online and classroom learning include a required 5-day on-campus intensive in Holland, MI in mid-October.
Spring Semester: 14 weeks, January-April. Hybrid courses that blend online and classroom learning include a required 5-day on-campus intensive in Holland, MI in mid-February.
Summer Term: 7 weeks, early May-late June, fully online courses
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
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 classroom-based intensives on campus in Holland, MI
Program Leader
Kristen Deede Johnson
Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs, G.W. and Edna Haworth Professor of Educational Ministries and Leadership
John Brogan
Associate Academic Dean, Professor of New Testament, Director of the M.Div. and M.A. Programs, Director of the GPCE
