This program educates and prepares the student for service in a teaching capacity. It can be used as a terminal degree for those who desire a theological background and training for various callings other than full-time, ordained gospel ministry. It can also be used as a transitional degree to additional graduate studies, particularly a PhD program in religion or theology. Students may choose one of four emphases: Old Testament, New Testament, Historical Theology, or Systematic Theology studies. In either case, the program provides a thorough grounding in the Scriptures, in Reformed theology, and in church history.
To begin your online application for the MAR, please fill out this form.
The goal of the MAR is for students to:
- Exegete individual passages of Scripture accurately, employing their knowledge of the original languages, historical circumstances, and literary and theological relationships;
- Understand the major issues in faith and life that the church has confronted throughout its history, and the system of truth revealed in the Scriptures;
- Systematize exegetical, historical, and theological data into a consistent and coherent theology, and explain how that theology applies to personal beliefs and behavior; and
- Respond with discernment to contemporary trends in biblical interpretation and to contemporary and cultural movements.
The MAR requires a total of 67 credits, including Greek and Hebrew, and must be completed in five years or less (two is possible). The program requirements for the four emphases can be found by clicking on the following links:
- Master of Arts – Old Testament Emphasis
- Master of Arts – New Testament Emphasis
- Master of Arts – Historical Theology Emphasis
- Master of Arts – Systematic Theology Emphasis
