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Master of Arts Degree Programs

Students in Denver Seminary's MA program experience a holistic education founded in authentic life change and integrated ministry experiences. To learn more about Denver Seminary's Academic Divisions and the degree programs offered within these divisions, be sure to see the Academic Divisions page.

Who should pursue a Master of Arts degree?

The Master of Arts (MA) degrees at Denver Seminary are designed for students who are called to either ministries in teaching and apologetics, doctoral studies, or particular ministry roles and contexts. They combine a biblical and theological core with specialized work in a particular field of study. The biblical and theological core provides an integrative framework for each specialization.

While some of the Master of Arts degrees provide education conducive to general ministry, most are designed for students planning to enter a specific area of leadership or ministry, including, but not limited to: Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Philosophy of Religion, Theology, Counseling, Chaplaincy, Leadership, and Youth and Family Ministries. Please refer to "Master of Arts specializations" below for more details. Individual MA degree information is also available upon request. 

Master of Arts Specializations

There are two groupings of MA degrees at Denver Seminary. MA Academic and MA Professional.
Specific and detailed information about each of these degrees is available upon request.

Academic

MA Academic degrees can lead to ministries in teaching and apologetics, as well as prepare students for doctoral studies. These specializations include the following:

Professional

MA Professional degrees prepare students for particular ministry roles or contexts and are generally considered terminal degrees. These degrees include the following specializations:

* This is consistent with licensure with the state of Colorado requirements and the Community Counseling concentration also includes CACREP accreditation.

What makes Denver Seminary's Master of Arts program different?

Students in Denver Seminary's MA program experience a holistic education founded in authentic life change and integrated ministry experiences. Unlike other theological school MA programs, Denver Seminary offers both a strong academic education with our accomplished and caring faculty and practical ministry experience through our individualized training and mentoring program. In addition, Denver Seminary's emphasis on globalization provides unique opportunities for cross-cultural experiences and missions-related activities. At Denver Seminary, you'll find that your educational experience includes your mind, soul, heart and strength. 

Master of Arts Core

The MA core is required of all MA students and comprises the equivalent of one year of fulltime coursework. With minor variations in some programs (outlined in Denver Seminary's academic catalog), core courses are taken in the following areas:

  • Biblical Interpretation

  • Old Testament

  • New Testament

  • Theology

  • Church History

  • Christian Formation

  • Public Communication or Teaching Practicum

  • Mentored Christian Formation and Ministry Experience

How long does it take to complete a Master of Arts degree?

The degree can be completed in two years. However, some students choose to take a slightly lighter course load and extend the program by a semester or two in light of work, ministry and family commitments.

Entrance Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited undergraduate institution

  • Cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 (2.5 for Christian Studies, Counseling Ministries, Youth and Family Ministry, Leadership, and Christian Formation and Soul Care)

  • Completion of the application for admission and all required application documents