Degrees
PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS
Master’s Degrees Overview
Students may enroll in any one of six masters-level graduate programs:
- Master of Arts Theological Studies (44 credits)
- Master of Arts in Ministry Practice (44 credits)
- Master of Arts in Spiritual Formation (44 credits)
- Master of Arts in Theology and Social Justice (44 credits)
- Master of Arts in Transformational Leadership (44 credits)
- Master of Divinity (80 credits)
Master of Arts Theological Studies (Hegis Code 2301.00)
The Theological Studies M.A. at Northeastern is a two-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.
Master of Arts in Ministry Practice (Hegis Code 2301.00)
Built on the Seminary’s advanced certificate in Scripture, Theology, and Ministry, the Master of Arts in Ministry Practice allows denominations and other ministry partners of the Seminary to create customizable degree plans that meet the educational requirements of their denomination. It serves as a credentialing pathway for denominations who do not require a Master of Divinity degree for ordination but do require a seminary degree. The Seminary will work with partner denominations and organizations to develop course plans that meet the targeted educational requirements and emphasize both broad theological frameworks and practical skill in the arts of ministry. Students who complete the Master of Arts in Ministry Practice will grow as reflective ministry practitioners through integrative coursework in Scripture, Theology, and Ministry.
Master of Arts in Spiritual Formation (Hegis Code 2301.00)
The MA in Spiritual Formation prepares students as pastors, teachers, mentors and leaders of formational ministries in churches and other organizations. Students in the MA in Spiritual Formation program may also complete the requirements for the Certificate in Spiritual Direction as a part of the program. Through the program, students become wise spiritual guides who attend to God’s formative activity in their own lives, the lives of others, and the world. Students complete fieldwork in formation leadership within a church or organizational context.
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 the opportunity to work in the area of social justice in a variety of settings, including local parishes, parachurch organizations, and community centers.
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.
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 necessary for effective service to the church and the world. Those who wish to concentrate their studies in a particular discipline may choose one of six focused elective competencies: Advanced Biblical Studies, Chaplaincy, Spiritual Direction, Spiritual Formation, Theology and Social Justice, and Transformational Leadership. Normally a four-year program, students may accelerate program completion by maximizing semester loads; for onsite students this will require attendance two nights per week or combining onsite and online modalities.