Degrees

PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS

Master’s Degrees Overview

Students may enroll in any one of four masters-level graduate programs:

Master of Arts (Theological Studies; 52 credits)
Master of Arts in Theology and Social Justice (52 credits)
Master of Arts in Transformational Leadership (52 credits)
Master of Divinity (92 credits)

Master of Arts (Theological Studies) (Hegis Code 2301.00)

The Theological Studies M.A. at Northeastern is a two and a half-year program that provides a solid foundation in biblical studies, history of the Church, theology, and personal and spiritual formation. Primarily intended for persons who do not seek ordination, the Theological Studies M.A. is the degree of preference for those going on to Ph.D. studies or a teaching profession. A capstone research project is required of all persons enrolling in this degree program, with a thesis option available by faculty approval. Students choosing the thesis option must submit the thesis in its final form no later than March 30 to participate in May Commencement. (ATS Standard D)

Master of Arts in Theology and Social Justice (Hegis Code 2301.00)

The M.A. in Theology and Social Justice is a two-year program designed to equip people for Christian service in the areas of local church mission, global justice ministries, and various arenas of social involvements through the church. Students in this program are prepared to work for social change on both micro and macro levels of church and society. An emphasis on theological reflection and practical application is at the core of the program. Students have opportunity to work in the area of social justice in a variety of settings, including local parishes, parachurch organizations, and community centers. (ATS Standard B)

Master of Arts in Transformational Leadership (Hegis Code 2301.00)

The M.A. in Transformational Leadership is a two-year program designed to prepare Christian leaders for effective, faithful ministry to the church and the world. Built upon the foundation of a deep, sustained engagement with biblical and historic Christian thought, the program equips leaders who are thoughtful, reflective practitioners. In addition to studies in Scripture, theology, and spiritual formation, students learn models for leadership that are truly transformational. Best practices in Christian ministry and the business world are explored, and students have the opportunity to put their learning into practice in a full-year internship experience. (ATS Standard B)

Master of Divinity (Theological Professions) (Hegis Code 2301.00)

The Master of Divinity degree provides the premier theological and vocational preparation for those preparing for ordained Christian ministry. Students are immersed in Scripture, theology, history, and spiritual formation as the essential foundation for Christian ministry. In addition, the M.Div. curriculum prepares persons with the broad array of skills and competencies necessary for effective service to the church and the world. Those who wish to focus their studies in a particular discipline may choose one of four areas of concentration: Transformational Leadership, Theology and Social Justice, Spiritual Formation, and Biblical Interpretation for Preaching and Teaching. Normally a four-year program, students may petition for an accelerated program that will allow completion in as few as three years. (ATS Standard A)