Religion, M.A.

The M.A. is an advanced degree for persons interested in furthering their theological and ministerial education. The M.A. is the better choice for students who plan to enter graduate study in a university setting. The M.A. is offered to supplement degree programs at seminaries. Some M.A. courses at Wayland may be accepted into degree programs at some seminaries. The M.A. is offered to assist students in gaining additional theological training while actively serving in a local Christian ministry. Many students serve congregations and other ministries where no accredited seminaries are accessible.

The M.A. gives students the background necessary for work on more advanced degrees such as the Ph.D. or Th.D. Therefore, the M.A. emphasizes theological, biblical, and philosophical areas of study. It includes the thesis, which requires students to demonstrate the ability to do independent research. Students considering a career teaching at the college or seminary level should understand that the M.A. is a step toward the academic credentials required for college or seminary teaching positions.