The Master of Arts degree is offered for the student who wishes to concentrate in a specific area of studies. 

The Master of Arts degree with emphasis in some areas may require additional hours in order to meet the students needs and objectives.

The Master of Arts degree will be awarded upon the recommendation of the faculty to persons who have demonstrated general fitness for ministry and maturing gifts in ministry and who have completed a comprehensive and integrated program of study including the specific requirements listed below. The seminary does not perform the functions of church bodies charged with the examination and recording or ordination of ministerial candidates, nor of boards of certification in various specialties, but does recognize and accept its responsibility for judgment and recommendation in such matters.

The Master of Arts degree must be completed within four calendar years from the date of first enrollment, except for extenuating circumstances to be approved by the Dean of the Faculty.

The last full year of work toward the Master of Arts degree must normally be taken in residence at Houston Graduate School of Theology.

No more than fifteen semester hours of work will be allowed as transfer credit toward the Master of Arts degree. All transfer credits are subject to evaluation by the Dean of the Faculty as to applicability toward HGST degree credit and must be from accredited Master of Arts or equivalent level Master's degree programs.

When required courses have been taken on the baccalaureate level, other courses from the same field may be substituted. There may be some adjustment to the course area requirements to meet individual needs and objectives in consultation with the advisor and with the approval of the Dean of the Faculty.