Master of Arts in Religion

The Master of Arts degree in Religion is an academic degree building on an appropriate undergraduate foundation with study on a more advanced level. The degree may lead directly into ministry, be applied to a seminary degree, or prepare one for further graduate study in religion. Two concentrations are available: Theology and Biblical Studies.

Vision Statement

The purpose of this degree is to provide an academic program immersed in the classic disciplines and texts of the Christian faith. The ability to do responsible, independent research, to think theologically in critical and constructive terms, and to interpret and integrate data, are targeted outcomes. The program aims at credibility in the three public arenas of church, society, and the academy. It encourages responsible engagement in nurturing Christian community in contemporary society in a manner that is academically accountable. This degree prepares a student for ministry, public service, or entrance to doctoral or seminary programs.

Graduation Requirements

1. A completed Application for Degree Candidacy (on-line or in the Office of Records, main campus);
2. Test scores: Graduate Record Exam minimum raw scores: 400 verbal and 400 quantitative or the Miller Analogies Test. Students may not continue enrollment after the first semester without the minimum score;
3. An acceptable thesis written under the supervision of a committee appointed by the Dean. Four units of credit are earned for the thesis;
4. An oral examination on a syllabus of books assigned for the core courses. The exam will also cover the subject of the thesis. The exam will be graded either Pass with Distinction, Pass, or Fail. A failed examination may be retaken; and
5. All accounts paid in full.

Students who, in the opinion of the Dean, lack an adequate undergraduate background for graduate study in Religion will be required to take remedial courses as necessary.

Admission Requirements to Master of Arts in Religion

• A completed application for admission to the program;
• An undergraduate upper-division grade-point average of 3.000;
• All official transcripts from accredited institutions, one of which must indicate the completion of an undergraduate degree;
• A minimum of two recommendations from appropriate persons who have knowledge of the applicant's character and professional performance;
• A writing sample which indicates graduate-level ability;
• Test scores: Graduate Record Exam minimum raw scores: 400 verbal and 400 quantitative or the Miller Analogies Test; and
• An interview with the appropriate graduate director or coordinator.

CORE COURSES
COURSE	TITLE	UNITS
THE 645	History of Christian Thought I	3
THE 646	History of Christian Thought II	3
THE 695	Seminar in Wesleyan Theology	3
BIB 495*	Seminar in Biblical Literature	3
GRE 600	Research Methods and Bibliography	3
GRE 690	Special Studies in preparation for the thesis	1-2
GRE 699	Thesis	4
*Offered both for graduate and undergraduate credit

Concentration in Theology

• Core courses in Religion
• The balance of courses to be taken from 400-level courses in the School of Theology and Christian Ministry

COURSE	TITLE	UNITS
THE 647	Contemporary Theology and Ethics	3
	Total Units	36

Concentration in Biblical Studies

• Core courses in Religion
• Competency in a Biblical language
• One course outside of Bible taken from 400-level courses in the School of Theology and Christian Ministry
• The balance of courses to be taken from 400-level courses in Bible

 Courses