The Master of Arts degree is predicated upon the same general objectives of the school as is the Master of Divinity. Within the general field of Christian ministry, the Master of Arts selects certain areas for special study and research.
As offered by Houston Graduate School of Theology, the Master of Arts
degree is a general theological degree, a research degree focused on a general
theological understanding. Additional
course work may be used to build on the selected theological disciplines (as
noted below) toward concentration in selected areas of ministry.
The
person who completes the Master of Arts degree
program will be competent to:
1. Study and review the range of theological disciplines, with emphasis
on one discipline or an interdisciplinary selection within the context of the
broader theological disciplines.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the essential content of Holy Scripture, or significant
portions thereof, as it relates to Christian theology, history, and contemporary
Christian life and the ability to utilize appropriate exegetical and
hermeneutical methods in order to obtain this knowledge.
3. Analyze, relate, and evaluate the major concerns of selected
theological disciplines in the context of a biblical and historical
understanding of Christian life.
4. Use effective oral and written communication skills with appropriate
documentation to examine and present significant aspects of selected theological
disciplines relevant to modern Christian life.
5. Provide analysis and synthesis of a significant issue of one of the theological
disciplines chosen as the student’s area of emphasis.
6. Exemplify faith, integrity and maturity in all aspects of seminary and community
life.