Religion Division

Master of Science in Ministry

The Master of Science in Ministry prepares students for various ministries in the churches. The curriculum designates specific courses, yet is broad enough to provide the basic insights necessary for participation in both the thought and life of the church. The M.S. is suitable for those who have a limited time for graduate study, or for persons who wish basic training for ministry.

Admission Requirements

Students entering the degree program must apply and be admitted according to the admission procedures set forth in conjunction with the M.A. in Religion. Since the M.S. is a professional degree, persons entering the program need not have majored in religion as an undergraduate. While work in the biblical languages is admirable, it will not be a deciding factor for admission to this program.

Course Requirements

While certain options exist within the course requirements for the M.S. in Ministry, each candidate will be required to take 12 units in each of the 3 categories listed below for a total of 36 units. These requirements will assure a well-rounded program in ministerial preparation.

(A) Biblical: 12 units, including at least one course in Old Testament and at least one course in New Testament.

(B) Ministry: 12 units, including REL 646 and two additional ministry courses.

(C) Theological and Historical: 12 units, including

1) REL 503 (Old Testament Theology) or REL 512 (New Testament Theology)

2) one course in church history

3) one course from the following:
REL 520 The Christian Faith (4)
REL 521 Modern Christian Thought (4)
REL 522 Contemporary Christian Thought (4)
REL 524 Christian Ethics (4)

Comprehensive Examinations: Each candidate must pass a written and oral comprehensive examination before receiving the degree.

M.S. in Ministry:  Program Learning Outcomes

Each student earning a M.S. in Ministry should be able to:

• apply and evaluate current methods for incorporating the teachings of a faith – especially the Christian faith – into the lives of individuals in a faith community, beginning with oneself.
• interpret biblical texts critically and competently, explaining the meaning of a given text within applicable contexts.
• explore interactions between significant historical developments in Christianity and discussions concerning the major and distinctive teachings of the Christian faith, discerning various factors that have shaped them.
• communicate coherently in professionally competent written form (following a standard style guide) and in effective oral form on matters of religion, illuminating historical, theological, and pastoral implications for contemporary societies.