The Master of Arts in Religion is an academically focused graduate degree designed for students seeking advanced study in theology, church history, and religious scholarship.
The program emphasizes critical thinking, theological depth, and disciplined study rather than vocational ministry training.
The MAR is well-suited for students preparing for teaching, research, or further graduate and doctoral study, as well as those seeking a deeper academic engagement with Christian theology.
Delivered in an online-first format, the program allows students to pursue rigorous theological study while balancing professional, academic, and personal commitments.
The Master of Arts in Religion is designed for students seeking graduate-level theological education with an academic emphasis.
This includes:
Students preparing for doctoral or post-graduate theological study
Individuals pursuing teaching or academic roles
Ministry leaders seeking deeper theological understanding
Scholars interested in theology, church history, or religious studies
Most students complete the program part-time while balancing academic, vocational, or ministry responsibilities.
The MAR curriculum is structured to provide depth and rigor in the academic study of religion. Students complete coursework across core areas of theological scholarship.
Students engage Scripture with an emphasis on interpretation, theological reflection, and academic analysis.
Coursework explores Christian doctrine and theological systems, encouraging critical engagement with historic and contemporary theological thought.
Students study church history and broader religious contexts, developing an informed understanding of Christianity’s development and influence.
A defining feature of the MAR program is its emphasis on academic study and scholarly development. Coursework is designed to strengthen research, writing, and analytical skills essential for advanced theological work.
Students are encouraged to engage primary texts, develop coherent theological arguments, and pursue disciplined study that prepares them for further academic pursuits.
The MAR program is structured to support students pursuing advanced theological education alongside other commitments:
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-level scholarship without relocation or full-time enrollment.
Admission to the Master of Arts in Religion requires a completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. Applicants are evaluated based on academic preparation and readiness for graduate-level theological study.
Specific admission requirements and prerequisite coursework are outlined in the academic catalog.
If you’re considering the Master of Arts in Religion and want to understand how the program fits your academic goals and schedule, our admissions team is ready to help.