The Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology is a graduate degree designed to provide theological training and ministry preparation for individuals serving in pastoral, associate, or support roles within the local church.
The program emphasizes pastoral theology and ministry foundations while remaining accessible for those actively engaged in ministry.
The MAPT is well-suited for students seeking graduate-level theological education without the broader scope of the Master of Divinity.
Delivered in an online-first format, the program allows students to pursue advanced ministry training while maintaining vocational, family, and church commitments.
The Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology is designed for students serving in pastoral or ministry-support roles who desire graduate theological education focused on ministry practice.
This includes:
Associate pastors and ministry staff
Lay leaders serving in teaching or leadership roles
Bivocational ministers seeking advanced theological training
Individuals preparing for increased ministry responsibility within the local church
Most students complete the program part-time while remaining actively involved in ministry and employment.
The MAPT curriculum is structured to provide theological grounding and practical ministry preparation. Students complete coursework across key areas of pastoral theology and ministry practice.
Students engage Scripture with an emphasis on interpretation and application within pastoral and ministry contexts.
Coursework explores core Christian doctrines and theological reflection, helping students develop a coherent pastoral theology rooted in Scripture and historic Christian faith.
This area emphasizes practical ministry preparation, including pastoral leadership, disciple-making, preaching, and ministry care within the local church.
A defining feature of the MAPT program is its integration of theological study with real-world ministry experience.
Students are encouraged to apply what they learn directly within their church and ministry settings and will be given opportunities to do so during the program..
Through ministry-focused coursework and guided reflection, students develop pastoral insight and ministry effectiveness alongside academic growth.
The MAPT program is intentionally structured to support students balancing multiple responsibilities:
Courses are delivered online
Most part-time students take one to two classes per semester
Live interaction is supported by recorded content for flexibility
This format allows students to pursue graduate theological education without stepping away from ministry or vocational responsibilities.
Admission to the Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology requires a completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. Applicants are evaluated based on academic preparation and ministry involvement.
Specific admission requirements and prerequisite coursework are outlined in the academic catalog.
If you’re considering the Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology and want to understand how the program fits your calling and schedule, our admissions team is ready to help.