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Embarking on Intensive Training in Theological Studies

Our Master of Arts (MA) program has been carefully created to give students the education, resources and means to grow and thrive in a variety of roles. With courses available on campus or online, the program’s curriculum has been thoughtfully designed to combine biblical studies, theology, spirituality, history, philosophy, literature, adventure and religion, as well as ministry training.

Choose YTI for Your Theology Studies

At YTI, our MA program is made up of a 55-hour curriculum that gives students the means to change the conversations about God in the community. We strive to keep tuition affordable (for example, see our subscription plan), and our professors have years of real-world ministry experience to equip their students to lead in an evolving world and diverse society.

MA Degree

MA Degree

The Master of Arts will serve graduates in many career roles, including ministry, church leadership, teaching, social work, writing, and counseling.

55 Total Hours
7 Areas of Concentration

Requirements

The MA program consists of 55 hours of courses, which are generally offered as 10-week classes during each academic term (with occasional week-long intensive classes and weekend classes.) Classes are delivered in person in Bozeman, with online attendance available for most classes as well. Additional course requirements include reading, assignments, projects, and interacting with the program’s professors.

Engaging Course Offerings

There are a variety of courses offered for students pursuing an MA degree, including the Old and New Testaments, Spiritual Practice, Historical Theology, and Cultural Studies. Coursework is capped off with a mentored ministry project or thesis depending on the concentration you choose. ​

Concentrations

The MA program provides students with the ability to identify and focus on an area of concentration chosen from the options included below.

Biblical Studies

The Biblical Studies concentration in the MA program is designed for the student who wants a deeper understanding of the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. This concentration allows the student to study not only the overall trajectory of scripture, but also develop advanced historical, linguistic, theological, and contextual insights into the texts.

Format

  • Most courses are offered in-person in Bozeman, Mont., with a selection offered in Bellingham, Wash. Most may be also be attended online via live video.
  • Classes generally meet for 10 weeks, 3 hours per week, in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
  • Each academic year consists of three terms: fall, winter, and spring.
  • Remote students must attend one in-person meeting in Bozeman each year.
  • Some courses are offered only as residential courses; see course descriptions for details.

Foundations Sequence

(21 hours total)

Each relevant Foundations course is the prerequisite for 6000 or 7000 level courses in that subject area.

  • BIB 5301Biblical Foundations

    The Bible is holy scripture for the Christian and the theological guide for the church. Biblical Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the background, context, and overview of the biblical narrative, as well as basic interpretive skills in order to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of biblical and theological study. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 5302Hermeneutics Foundations

    As human beings, we automatically interpret many things every moment of every day: gestures, news stories, speeches, actions, novels, music, weather, etc. in order to discover meaning. Hermeneutics is the study of interpretation. BIB 5302 answers the question, “how do we interpret properly?” This course is designed to give students the fundamental principles and processes of interpretation, and how they apply to interpreting the Bible, theology, philosophy, history and contemporary culture. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • THEO 5301Theological Foundations

    Theological Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the principles, nature, and purpose of Christian theology, and to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of theology. (3 credit hours)

  • SPR 5301Spiritual Foundations

    SPR 5301 is an introduction to spiritual formation and discipleship. It is meant to give the student a basis to begin to reflect on their own spiritual journey and formation as well as consider what practices and actions might further their journey toward being formed into the image of Christ. (3 credit hours)

  • CUL 5301Foundations for Culture and Mission

    This foundations course examines the nature of the church and its interaction with the world. The vocation of the church will be discussed, especially the mission of the church (missio ecclesia) in light of the mission of God (missio Dei), and the concepts of worldview and cultural hermeneutics will be introduced as means to help understand the culture in which we are immersed as well as the specific individuals around us. Throughout the course, the emphasis will be on how the church as the people of God can effectively engage and bring the life of Christ to bear on its community. (3 credit hours)

  • COM 5301Communication and Pastoral Foundations

    This course is designed to give students a fundamental understanding of the theological and biblical foundations of homiletics and pastoral ministry and prepare them for further study in practical theology. This course cross-lists as MIN 5301. (3 credit hours)

  • LED 5301Leadership Foundations

    LED 5301 explores a shared form of leadership, one that combines the servant leadership paradigm modeled in the New Testament with a contemporary approach that considers the various ways in which leaders communicate appropriately with their teams. (3 credit hours)

Languages

(3 hours)

  • LAN 5301Biblical Languages: Overview and Tools

    The Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic. Today there are abundant computer programs available to the Bible student, so the need to master the biblical languages seems superfluous. However, an overview of the biblical languages is crucial for a basic understanding of interpreting Scripture accurately. LAN 5301 provides the overview and introduces several accessible computer programs. (3 credit hours)

BIB Old Testament Electives

Select 3 from the following (9 hours):

  • BIB 6301Pentateuch

    The Pentateuch, consisting of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, is foundational for the rest of the Hebrew scriptures and for the Christian New Testament scriptures. In this course, students will engage these first five books of the Old Testament in deep and intensive reading, learning the basics of biblical, theological, and cultural interpretation. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 6302The History of Israel

    BIB 6302 reads the narratives of the history of Israel as presented in the Old Testament with an eye both to the particularities of the narratives and to their overarching canonical arc. Along the way, students will examine the special literary forms, characters, and theological problems inherent in the text. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 6303Wisdom Literature

    The wisdom literature of the Old Testament provides insight into how the ancient Israelites understood how they were to live unto God in their own time and place, which in turn provides a wealth of resources for contemporary students to think through how we are to live unto God in our time and place. BIB 6303 is designed to lead the student into this treasure house of the past by deep readings of these texts. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 6304The Prophets

    The prophets were sent by God as covenant prosecutors, exposing to the Israelites where they had failed to keep the terms of the covenant they had made with their God. They were also sent by God as ambassadors of the saving grace of God, announcing the Messiah who was to come. The prophetic writings of the Old Testament form an integral part of the overarching story of the Israelites and of the economy of God’s salvation in Christ. BIB 6304 is designed to provide the student with a deep understanding of these Old Testament prophetic writings and their implications for our understanding of the Messiah of God. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 6305The Psalms

    The Psalms has been described as “the little New Testament.” Basically the hymn book of the ancient Israelites, the Psalms have their own history of formation, reception, and canonization, as well as a rich theology and theological worldview. In BIB 6305, students will read the Psalms, learn of their history and reception, and contemplate their potency for Christian life and prayer today. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 6306Old Testament Apocalyptic and Intertestamental Literature

    After the rebuilding of the temple in the time of Ezra and Nehemiah, Judaism’s anticipation for the coming Messiah continued to build. BIB 6306 is designed to introduce and work through the major writings of Judaism spanning from a couple hundred years prior to Jesus of Nazareth through the first couple centuries of the Common Era. These texts are very important for understanding the various ways that Judaism thought about the Messiah and his coming, and so for understanding the New Testament as well. (3 credit hours)

BIB New Testament Electives

Select 3 from the following (9 hours):

  • BIB 6307The Gospels

    The New Testament continues and consummates the drama begun in the Old Testament. In particular, it focuses on Jesus of Nazareth as the solution to the cosmic problem originating in Genesis 3. This course focuses on the person, work, and teaching of Jesus provided for us in the four Gospels. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 6308The Acts of the Apostles

    After his resurrection, Jesus of Nazareth instituted his church to continue his mission of reconciling fallen humanity to God. BIB 6308 focuses on the instituting of the church by the power of the Holy Spirit as recorded in the book of the Acts of the Apostles and their subsequent carrying out of that mission. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 6309Pauline Epistles

    The majority of the New Testament was written by the early Christian convert, Saul of Tarsus, who became Paul. The Pauline Epistles not only make up the majority of the New Testament in terms of word count, they also represent some of the most profound and significant theological reflection on the mystery of Christ, God with us, in those first few decades of the Christian church. BIB 6309 takes a deep dive into these writings from Paul. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 6310General Epistles

    The General Epistles of the New Testament comprise Christian teaching on God, Christ, the Spirit, Salvation, and the Consummation, as well as practical teaching on church, leadership, Christian living, and more. In BIB 6310, students will engage these important biblical texts, covering their context and content in depth. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 6311The Book of Revelation

    The book of Revelation is known for its seemingly obtuse and even fantastical use of imagery and symbols. It has proven to be one of the more difficult of the New Testament books to understand. Yet its title in the Greek, the Apocalypse, indicates an unveiling, specifically, the unveiling of Jesus Christ. In BIB 6311 explore this fascinating book, paying close attention to context, genre, and biblical allusions in order to come to a deeper understanding of the apocalypse of Jesus Christ. (3 credit hours)

THEO Electives

Select any THEO course (3 hours).

General Elective

Select any 2 courses from any section (6 hours).

Capstone

  • CSC 5101Research Methods and Prospectus

    The art and process of conducting research for a post-graduate degree is an important aspect of the degree program. CSC 5101 is a 1 credit course in which the student will learn the basics of formulating a research program, thesis statement, organization and structuring of the research findings (in the thesis or project report), and how to use databases in research. For guidelines and schedules for the prospectus and thesis, please consult “the Manual for Research Theses and Ministry Project Reports,” which students can attain through their advisor. Required for all MA students. (1 credit hour)

Select from the following (3 hours):

  • CSC 7301Thesis

    Students in the Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Christian Theology, and Visionary Leadership concentrations in the MA program are required either to submit a thesis between 15,000-25,000 words, not including bibliography or footnotes, or pursue a research ministry project (see CSC 7302 below). The thesis is to be submitted to the academic dean no later than one month before the faculty committee defense. The student must enroll in CSC 7301 during the two terms before he or she intends to submit his or her thesis. CSC 5001 Research Methods Colloquy is a prerequisite for this course. (3 credit hours)

  • CSC 7302Mentored Ministry Project

    Students in the Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Christian Theology, and Visionary Leadership concentrations in the MA program are required either to submit a thesis or pursue a research ministry project (see CSC 7301 above). Students in the Christian Ministries concentration are required to pursue a research ministry project. The student will submit a research proposal to his or her advisor. This proposal will outline the nature of the intended study and give some indication of how research research will be conducted. Once the proposal is approved, the student will begin the qualitative and quantitative research required for the project. The research ministry project may be written from various perspectives and use various methods depending on the research topic and purpose of the study. Projects take the form of a case study in an area of applied theology, which must include theological reflection on the implications of the study. Projects are 3 credit hours and must be 5,000-10,000 words in length (inclusive of footnotes/endnotes, but exclusive of bibliography). CSC 5001 Research Methods Colloquy is a prerequisite for this course. (3 credit hours)

Christian Ministries

“Ministry,” in its most basic form, is service done for the sake of the “other” — which in this sense includes God, neighbor, family, and even enemy. In Christian circles — including the church proper, as well as para-church ministries — ministry includes pastoral ministry, worship ministry, family ministries, as well as ministries to children, youth, and senior adults. In the Christian Ministry concentration, a student can prepare for traditional church ministry, including pastoral care, preaching, teaching, administration, and leadership. The student can also take specialty courses in areas they wish to pursue in greater depth.

Format

  • Most courses are offered in-person in Bozeman, Mont., with a selection offered in Bellingham, Wash. Most may be also be attended online via live video.
  • Classes generally meet for 10 weeks, 3 hours per week, in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
  • Each academic year consists of three terms: fall, winter, and spring.
  • Remote students must attend one in-person meeting in Bozeman each year.
  • Some courses are offered only as residential courses; see course descriptions for details.

Foundations Sequence

(21 hours total)

Each relevant Foundations course is the prerequisite for 6000 or 7000 level courses in that subject area.

  • BIB 5301Biblical Foundations

    The Bible is holy scripture for the Christian and the theological guide for the church. Biblical Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the background, context, and overview of the biblical narrative, as well as basic interpretive skills in order to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of biblical and theological study. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 5302Hermeneutics Foundations

    As human beings, we automatically interpret many things every moment of every day: gestures, news stories, speeches, actions, novels, music, weather, etc. in order to discover meaning. Hermeneutics is the study of interpretation. BIB 5302 answers the question, “how do we interpret properly?” This course is designed to give students the fundamental principles and processes of interpretation, and how they apply to interpreting the Bible, theology, philosophy, history and contemporary culture. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • THEO 5301Theological Foundations

    Theological Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the principles, nature, and purpose of Christian theology, and to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of theology. (3 credit hours)

  • SPR 5301Spiritual Foundations

    SPR 5301 is an introduction to spiritual formation and discipleship. It is meant to give the student a basis to begin to reflect on their own spiritual journey and formation as well as consider what practices and actions might further their journey toward being formed into the image of Christ. (3 credit hours)

  • CUL 5301Foundations for Culture and Mission

    This foundations course examines the nature of the church and its interaction with the world. The vocation of the church will be discussed, especially the mission of the church (missio ecclesia) in light of the mission of God (missio Dei), and the concepts of worldview and cultural hermeneutics will be introduced as means to help understand the culture in which we are immersed as well as the specific individuals around us. Throughout the course, the emphasis will be on how the church as the people of God can effectively engage and bring the life of Christ to bear on its community. (3 credit hours)

  • COM 5301Communication and Pastoral Foundations

    This course is designed to give students a fundamental understanding of the theological and biblical foundations of homiletics and pastoral ministry and prepare them for further study in practical theology. This course cross-lists as MIN 5301. (3 credit hours)

  • LED 5301Leadership Foundations

    LED 5301 explores a shared form of leadership, one that combines the servant leadership paradigm modeled in the New Testament with a contemporary approach that considers the various ways in which leaders communicate appropriately with their teams. (3 credit hours)

BIB Old Testament Elective

Select any BIB course (3 hours).

BIB New Testament Elective

Select any BIB course (3 hours).

Communications Elective

Select any COM course (3 hours).

Ministry Electives

Select any 2 MIN courses (6 hours).

Leadership Electives

Select any 2 LED courses (6 hours).

Theology Elective

Select any THEO course (3 hours).

Worship Elective

Select any WOR course (3 hours).

Cultural Studies Elective

Select any CUL course (3 hours).

Capstone

    (4 hours)

  • CSC 5101Research Methods and Prospectus

    The art and process of conducting research for a post-graduate degree is an important aspect of the degree program. CSC 5101 is a 1 credit course in which the student will learn the basics of formulating a research program, thesis statement, organization and structuring of the research findings (in the thesis or project report), and how to use databases in research. For guidelines and schedules for the prospectus and thesis, please consult “the Manual for Research Theses and Ministry Project Reports,” which students can attain through their advisor. Required for all MA students. (1 credit hour)

  • CSC 7302Mentored Ministry Project

    Students in the Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Christian Theology, and Visionary Leadership concentrations in the MA program are required either to submit a thesis or pursue a research ministry project (see CSC 7301 above). Students in the Christian Ministries concentration are required to pursue a research ministry project. The student will submit a research proposal to his or her advisor. This proposal will outline the nature of the intended study and give some indication of how research research will be conducted. Once the proposal is approved, the student will begin the qualitative and quantitative research required for the project. The research ministry project may be written from various perspectives and use various methods depending on the research topic and purpose of the study. Projects take the form of a case study in an area of applied theology, which must include theological reflection on the implications of the study. Projects are 3 credit hours and must be 5,000-10,000 words in length (inclusive of footnotes/endnotes, but exclusive of bibliography). CSC 5001 Research Methods Colloquy is a prerequisite for this course. (3 credit hours)

Christian Studies

The Christian Studies concentration provides maximum flexibility in designing a personalized master’s program. Along with standard courses from the Foundations Sequence, students have the option to select a number of electives in Biblical Studies, Theology, Spirituality, and Cultural Studies, in addition to general electives from other fields including Ministry, Communications, Leadership, Arts, and Adventure. The concentration allows for an educational experience tailored to the student’s own interests and ministry objectives.

Format

  • Most courses are offered in-person in Bozeman, Mont., with a selection offered in Bellingham, Wash. Most may be also be attended online via live video.
  • Classes generally meet for 10 weeks, 3 hours per week, in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
  • Each academic year consists of three terms: fall, winter, and spring.
  • Remote students must attend one in-person meeting in Bozeman each year.
  • Some courses are offered only as residential courses; see course descriptions for details.

Foundations Sequence

(21 hours total)

Each relevant Foundations course is the prerequisite for 6000 or 7000 level courses in that subject area.

  • BIB 5301Biblical Foundations

    The Bible is holy scripture for the Christian and the theological guide for the church. Biblical Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the background, context, and overview of the biblical narrative, as well as basic interpretive skills in order to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of biblical and theological study. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 5302Hermeneutics Foundations

    As human beings, we automatically interpret many things every moment of every day: gestures, news stories, speeches, actions, novels, music, weather, etc. in order to discover meaning. Hermeneutics is the study of interpretation. BIB 5302 answers the question, “how do we interpret properly?” This course is designed to give students the fundamental principles and processes of interpretation, and how they apply to interpreting the Bible, theology, philosophy, history and contemporary culture. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • THEO 5301Theological Foundations

    Theological Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the principles, nature, and purpose of Christian theology, and to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of theology. (3 credit hours)

  • SPR 5301Spiritual Foundations

    SPR 5301 is an introduction to spiritual formation and discipleship. It is meant to give the student a basis to begin to reflect on their own spiritual journey and formation as well as consider what practices and actions might further their journey toward being formed into the image of Christ. (3 credit hours)

  • CUL 5301Foundations for Culture and Mission

    This foundations course examines the nature of the church and its interaction with the world. The vocation of the church will be discussed, especially the mission of the church (missio ecclesia) in light of the mission of God (missio Dei), and the concepts of worldview and cultural hermeneutics will be introduced as means to help understand the culture in which we are immersed as well as the specific individuals around us. Throughout the course, the emphasis will be on how the church as the people of God can effectively engage and bring the life of Christ to bear on its community. (3 credit hours)

  • COM 5301Communication and Pastoral Foundations

    This course is designed to give students a fundamental understanding of the theological and biblical foundations of homiletics and pastoral ministry and prepare them for further study in practical theology. This course cross-lists as MIN 5301. (3 credit hours)

  • LED 5301Leadership Foundations

    LED 5301 explores a shared form of leadership, one that combines the servant leadership paradigm modeled in the New Testament with a contemporary approach that considers the various ways in which leaders communicate appropriately with their teams. (3 credit hours)

Biblical Studies Electives

Select any 3 BIB courses (9 hours).

Must include at least 1 Old Testament selection and at least 1 New Testament selection.

Theology Electives

Select any 2 THEO courses (6 hours).

Spirituality Elective

Select any SPR course (3 hours).

Cultural Studies Elective

Select any CUL course (3 hours).

Worship Elective

Select any WOR course (3 hours).

General Electives

Select any 2 courses from any section (6 hours).

Capstone

  • CSC 5101Research Methods and Prospectus

    The art and process of conducting research for a post-graduate degree is an important aspect of the degree program. CSC 5101 is a 1 credit course in which the student will learn the basics of formulating a research program, thesis statement, organization and structuring of the research findings (in the thesis or project report), and how to use databases in research. For guidelines and schedules for the prospectus and thesis, please consult “the Manual for Research Theses and Ministry Project Reports,” which students can attain through their advisor. Required for all MA students. (1 credit hour)

Select from the following (3 hours):

  • CSC 7301Thesis

    Students in the Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Christian Theology, and Visionary Leadership concentrations in the MA program are required either to submit a thesis between 15,000-25,000 words, not including bibliography or footnotes, or pursue a research ministry project (see CSC 7302 below). The thesis is to be submitted to the academic dean no later than one month before the faculty committee defense. The student must enroll in CSC 7301 during the two terms before he or she intends to submit his or her thesis. CSC 5001 Research Methods Colloquy is a prerequisite for this course. (3 credit hours)

  • CSC 7302Mentored Ministry Project

    Students in the Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Christian Theology, and Visionary Leadership concentrations in the MA program are required either to submit a thesis or pursue a research ministry project (see CSC 7301 above). Students in the Christian Ministries concentration are required to pursue a research ministry project. The student will submit a research proposal to his or her advisor. This proposal will outline the nature of the intended study and give some indication of how research research will be conducted. Once the proposal is approved, the student will begin the qualitative and quantitative research required for the project. The research ministry project may be written from various perspectives and use various methods depending on the research topic and purpose of the study. Projects take the form of a case study in an area of applied theology, which must include theological reflection on the implications of the study. Projects are 3 credit hours and must be 5,000-10,000 words in length (inclusive of footnotes/endnotes, but exclusive of bibliography). CSC 5001 Research Methods Colloquy is a prerequisite for this course. (3 credit hours)

Christian Theology

The Theological Studies concentration in the MA program is designed for the student who wants to gain a deeper understanding of how human beings understand God, and specifically how Christians have constructed their theological positions over the last 2000 years. Additionally, the Theological Studies concentration provides students with tools for constructing faithful theological systems for their own contemporary context.

Format

  • Most courses are offered in-person in Bozeman, Mont., with a selection offered in Bellingham, Wash. Most may be also be attended online via live video.
  • Classes generally meet for 10 weeks, 3 hours per week, in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
  • Each academic year consists of three terms: fall, winter, and spring.
  • Remote students must attend one in-person meeting in Bozeman each year.
  • Some courses are offered only as residential courses; see course descriptions for details.

Foundations Sequence

(21 hours total)

Each relevant Foundations course is the prerequisite for 6000 or 7000 level courses in that subject area.

  • BIB 5301Biblical Foundations

    The Bible is holy scripture for the Christian and the theological guide for the church. Biblical Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the background, context, and overview of the biblical narrative, as well as basic interpretive skills in order to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of biblical and theological study. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 5302Hermeneutics Foundations

    As human beings, we automatically interpret many things every moment of every day: gestures, news stories, speeches, actions, novels, music, weather, etc. in order to discover meaning. Hermeneutics is the study of interpretation. BIB 5302 answers the question, “how do we interpret properly?” This course is designed to give students the fundamental principles and processes of interpretation, and how they apply to interpreting the Bible, theology, philosophy, history and contemporary culture. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • THEO 5301Theological Foundations

    Theological Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the principles, nature, and purpose of Christian theology, and to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of theology. (3 credit hours)

  • SPR 5301Spiritual Foundations

    SPR 5301 is an introduction to spiritual formation and discipleship. It is meant to give the student a basis to begin to reflect on their own spiritual journey and formation as well as consider what practices and actions might further their journey toward being formed into the image of Christ. (3 credit hours)

  • CUL 5301Foundations for Culture and Mission

    This foundations course examines the nature of the church and its interaction with the world. The vocation of the church will be discussed, especially the mission of the church (missio ecclesia) in light of the mission of God (missio Dei), and the concepts of worldview and cultural hermeneutics will be introduced as means to help understand the culture in which we are immersed as well as the specific individuals around us. Throughout the course, the emphasis will be on how the church as the people of God can effectively engage and bring the life of Christ to bear on its community. (3 credit hours)

  • COM 5301Communication and Pastoral Foundations

    This course is designed to give students a fundamental understanding of the theological and biblical foundations of homiletics and pastoral ministry and prepare them for further study in practical theology. This course cross-lists as MIN 5301. (3 credit hours)

  • LED 5301Leadership Foundations

    LED 5301 explores a shared form of leadership, one that combines the servant leadership paradigm modeled in the New Testament with a contemporary approach that considers the various ways in which leaders communicate appropriately with their teams. (3 credit hours)

Biblical Studies Electives

Select any 3 BIB courses (9 hours).

Must include at least 1 Old Testament selection and at least 1 New Testament selection.

Theology Electives

Select any 4 THEO courses (12 hours).

Spirituality Elective

Select any SPR course (3 hours).

General Electives

Select any 2 courses from any section (6 hours).

Capstone

  • CSC 5101Research Methods and Prospectus

    The art and process of conducting research for a post-graduate degree is an important aspect of the degree program. CSC 5101 is a 1 credit course in which the student will learn the basics of formulating a research program, thesis statement, organization and structuring of the research findings (in the thesis or project report), and how to use databases in research. For guidelines and schedules for the prospectus and thesis, please consult “the Manual for Research Theses and Ministry Project Reports,” which students can attain through their advisor. Required for all MA students. (1 credit hour)

Select from the following (3 hours):

  • CSC 7301Thesis

    Students in the Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Christian Theology, and Visionary Leadership concentrations in the MA program are required either to submit a thesis between 15,000-25,000 words, not including bibliography or footnotes, or pursue a research ministry project (see CSC 7302 below). The thesis is to be submitted to the academic dean no later than one month before the faculty committee defense. The student must enroll in CSC 7301 during the two terms before he or she intends to submit his or her thesis. CSC 5001 Research Methods Colloquy is a prerequisite for this course. (3 credit hours)

  • CSC 7302Mentored Ministry Project

    Students in the Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Christian Theology, and Visionary Leadership concentrations in the MA program are required either to submit a thesis or pursue a research ministry project (see CSC 7301 above). Students in the Christian Ministries concentration are required to pursue a research ministry project. The student will submit a research proposal to his or her advisor. This proposal will outline the nature of the intended study and give some indication of how research research will be conducted. Once the proposal is approved, the student will begin the qualitative and quantitative research required for the project. The research ministry project may be written from various perspectives and use various methods depending on the research topic and purpose of the study. Projects take the form of a case study in an area of applied theology, which must include theological reflection on the implications of the study. Projects are 3 credit hours and must be 5,000-10,000 words in length (inclusive of footnotes/endnotes, but exclusive of bibliography). CSC 5001 Research Methods Colloquy is a prerequisite for this course. (3 credit hours)

Visionary Leadership

Today’s church often suffers from a lack of visionary leadership. Caught between long-held assumptions about ministry and mission and a rapidly changing culture, the church often finds itself in steep numerical decline, both lacking vision and the means by which to plot a new course. The MA concentration in Visionary Leadership gives the ministry student an advanced education in contemporary leadership models and trends, as well as a method by which to create church transition models for the “turnaround” congregation that seeks to be relevant to the changing culture.

Format

  • Most courses are offered in-person in Bozeman, Mont., with a selection offered in Bellingham, Wash. Most may be also be attended online via live video.
  • Classes generally meet for 10 weeks, 3 hours per week, in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
  • Each academic year consists of three terms: fall, winter, and spring.
  • Remote students must attend one in-person meeting in Bozeman each year.
  • Some courses are offered only as residential courses; see course descriptions for details.

Foundations Sequence

(21 hours total)

Each relevant Foundations course is the prerequisite for 6000 or 7000 level courses in that subject area.

  • BIB 5301Biblical Foundations

    The Bible is holy scripture for the Christian and the theological guide for the church. Biblical Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the background, context, and overview of the biblical narrative, as well as basic interpretive skills in order to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of biblical and theological study. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 5302Hermeneutics Foundations

    As human beings, we automatically interpret many things every moment of every day: gestures, news stories, speeches, actions, novels, music, weather, etc. in order to discover meaning. Hermeneutics is the study of interpretation. BIB 5302 answers the question, “how do we interpret properly?” This course is designed to give students the fundamental principles and processes of interpretation, and how they apply to interpreting the Bible, theology, philosophy, history and contemporary culture. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • THEO 5301Theological Foundations

    Theological Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the principles, nature, and purpose of Christian theology, and to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of theology. (3 credit hours)

  • SPR 5301Spiritual Foundations

    SPR 5301 is an introduction to spiritual formation and discipleship. It is meant to give the student a basis to begin to reflect on their own spiritual journey and formation as well as consider what practices and actions might further their journey toward being formed into the image of Christ. (3 credit hours)

  • CUL 5301Foundations for Culture and Mission

    This foundations course examines the nature of the church and its interaction with the world. The vocation of the church will be discussed, especially the mission of the church (missio ecclesia) in light of the mission of God (missio Dei), and the concepts of worldview and cultural hermeneutics will be introduced as means to help understand the culture in which we are immersed as well as the specific individuals around us. Throughout the course, the emphasis will be on how the church as the people of God can effectively engage and bring the life of Christ to bear on its community. (3 credit hours)

  • COM 5301Communication and Pastoral Foundations

    This course is designed to give students a fundamental understanding of the theological and biblical foundations of homiletics and pastoral ministry and prepare them for further study in practical theology. This course cross-lists as MIN 5301. (3 credit hours)

  • LED 5301Leadership Foundations

    LED 5301 explores a shared form of leadership, one that combines the servant leadership paradigm modeled in the New Testament with a contemporary approach that considers the various ways in which leaders communicate appropriately with their teams. (3 credit hours)

Leadership Electives

Select any 4 LED courses (12 hours).

Biblical Studies Electives

Select any 2 BIB courses (6 hours).

Theology Elective

Select any THEO course (3 hours).

Spirituality Elective

Select any SPR course (3 hours).

Communications Elective

Select any COM course (3 hours).

General Electives

Select any course from any section (3 hours).

Capstone

  • CSC 5101Research Methods and Prospectus

    The art and process of conducting research for a post-graduate degree is an important aspect of the degree program. CSC 5101 is a 1 credit course in which the student will learn the basics of formulating a research program, thesis statement, organization and structuring of the research findings (in the thesis or project report), and how to use databases in research. For guidelines and schedules for the prospectus and thesis, please consult “the Manual for Research Theses and Ministry Project Reports,” which students can attain through their advisor. Required for all MA students. (1 credit hour)

Select from the following (3 hours):

  • CSC 7301Thesis

    Students in the Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Christian Theology, and Visionary Leadership concentrations in the MA program are required either to submit a thesis between 15,000-25,000 words, not including bibliography or footnotes, or pursue a research ministry project (see CSC 7302 below). The thesis is to be submitted to the academic dean no later than one month before the faculty committee defense. The student must enroll in CSC 7301 during the two terms before he or she intends to submit his or her thesis. CSC 5001 Research Methods Colloquy is a prerequisite for this course. (3 credit hours)

  • CSC 7302Mentored Ministry Project

    Students in the Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Christian Theology, and Visionary Leadership concentrations in the MA program are required either to submit a thesis or pursue a research ministry project (see CSC 7301 above). Students in the Christian Ministries concentration are required to pursue a research ministry project. The student will submit a research proposal to his or her advisor. This proposal will outline the nature of the intended study and give some indication of how research research will be conducted. Once the proposal is approved, the student will begin the qualitative and quantitative research required for the project. The research ministry project may be written from various perspectives and use various methods depending on the research topic and purpose of the study. Projects take the form of a case study in an area of applied theology, which must include theological reflection on the implications of the study. Projects are 3 credit hours and must be 5,000-10,000 words in length (inclusive of footnotes/endnotes, but exclusive of bibliography). CSC 5001 Research Methods Colloquy is a prerequisite for this course. (3 credit hours)

Adventure Studies

“Adventure” is an area of human experience which enriches human life and growth. Adventure studies and outdoor leadership are growth areas for today’s churches. The ability to utilize our natural surroundings as a means of communicating the gospel, the Christian faith, and, bringing a depth of meaning to life, as well as leading others in this quest is at the heart of the adventure studies program.

Format

  • Most courses are offered in-person in Bozeman, Mont., with a selection offered in Bellingham, Wash. Most may be also be attended online via live video.
  • Classes generally meet for 10 weeks, 3 hours per week, in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
  • Each academic year consists of three terms: fall, winter, and spring.
  • Remote students must attend one in-person meeting in Bozeman each year.
  • Some courses are offered only as residential courses; see course descriptions for details.

Foundations Sequence

(21 hours total)

Each relevant Foundations course is the prerequisite for 6000 or 7000 level courses in that subject area.

  • BIB 5301Biblical Foundations

    The Bible is holy scripture for the Christian and the theological guide for the church. Biblical Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the background, context, and overview of the biblical narrative, as well as basic interpretive skills in order to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of biblical and theological study. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 5302Hermeneutics Foundations

    As human beings, we automatically interpret many things every moment of every day: gestures, news stories, speeches, actions, novels, music, weather, etc. in order to discover meaning. Hermeneutics is the study of interpretation. BIB 5302 answers the question, “how do we interpret properly?” This course is designed to give students the fundamental principles and processes of interpretation, and how they apply to interpreting the Bible, theology, philosophy, history and contemporary culture. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • THEO 5301Theological Foundations

    Theological Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the principles, nature, and purpose of Christian theology, and to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of theology. (3 credit hours)

  • SPR 5301Spiritual Foundations

    SPR 5301 is an introduction to spiritual formation and discipleship. It is meant to give the student a basis to begin to reflect on their own spiritual journey and formation as well as consider what practices and actions might further their journey toward being formed into the image of Christ. (3 credit hours)

  • CUL 5301Foundations for Culture and Mission

    This foundations course examines the nature of the church and its interaction with the world. The vocation of the church will be discussed, especially the mission of the church (missio ecclesia) in light of the mission of God (missio Dei), and the concepts of worldview and cultural hermeneutics will be introduced as means to help understand the culture in which we are immersed as well as the specific individuals around us. Throughout the course, the emphasis will be on how the church as the people of God can effectively engage and bring the life of Christ to bear on its community. (3 credit hours)

  • COM 5301Communication and Pastoral Foundations

    This course is designed to give students a fundamental understanding of the theological and biblical foundations of homiletics and pastoral ministry and prepare them for further study in practical theology. This course cross-lists as MIN 5301. (3 credit hours)

  • LED 5301Leadership Foundations

    LED 5301 explores a shared form of leadership, one that combines the servant leadership paradigm modeled in the New Testament with a contemporary approach that considers the various ways in which leaders communicate appropriately with their teams. (3 credit hours)

Adventure Courses

(12 hours)

  • ADV 5301Introduction to Adventure Studies

    ADV 5301 introduces the student to the fundamental nature of “adventure” ministry or “outdoor” ministry. It defines “adventure,” then touches on the biblical backgrounds for adventure ministry. It investigates the human understanding of adventure and why humans actually need adventure. Finally, the course discusses the physical issues of adventure and how adventure can negatively or positively influence mind and body. (3 credit hours)

  • ADV 5302A Theology of Adventure: Doing and Being

    ADV 5302 provides a theological base for Christian adventure. Drawing from sources as early as Plato and Aristotle, as well as more contemporary theologians, philosophers, psychologists, and anthropologists, ADV 5302 seeks to reconfigure the very idea of adventure from a daring, somewhat hazard-laden activity, to a way of being-in-the-world. Students will create their own theology of adventure with implications for ministry. (3 credit hours)

  • ADV 6302Leadership and Adventure Ministry

    ADV 6302 is a leadership course specifically designed for the unique context, rigors, and hazards of adventure ministry. (3 credit hours)

  • ADV 6304Creation Care and Adventure Ministry

    The natural environment is the primary context for adventure ministry. This environment is living, and requires extraordinary preparation and care in order to protect the pristine “wildness” of the environment for future activities. ADV 6304 examines the issues surrounding creation care or environmental protection for adventure ministry. (3 credit hours)

Adventure Practicum

(6 hours)

2 credit course (take 3x).

  • ADV 5201Adventure Practicum

    The adventure practicum details two-to-four-day adventure experiences for the student requiring study preparation and execution. At least three practicum courses are required for the MA in Adventure Studies degree. Sample practicum courses include, but are not limited to: whitewater rafting; mountain biking; distance biking; hiking and camping; rock and mountain climbing; bungee jumping; ballooning; hang gliding; gear maintenance and repair; first aid; hunting and firearms; fishing; Nordic skiing; alpine skiing; backcountry skiing; kite skiing; and team sports. (3 credit hours)

BIB Old Testament Elective

Select any BIB course (3 hours).

BIB New Testament Elective

Select any BIB course (3 hours).

Cultural Studies Elective

Select any CUL course (3 hours).

Leadership Elective

Select any LED course (3 hours).

Capstone

    (4 hours)

  • CSC 5101Research Methods and Prospectus

    The art and process of conducting research for a post-graduate degree is an important aspect of the degree program. CSC 5101 is a 1 credit course in which the student will learn the basics of formulating a research program, thesis statement, organization and structuring of the research findings (in the thesis or project report), and how to use databases in research. For guidelines and schedules for the prospectus and thesis, please consult “the Manual for Research Theses and Ministry Project Reports,” which students can attain through their advisor. Required for all MA students. (1 credit hour)

  • ADV 7302Final Project

    Adventure studies concentrations in the MA program are required to submit a final project of between 15,000-20,000 words, not including bibliography or footnotes. The project will contain: 1) a theology of adventure (7,000-10,000 words); 2) two different adventure projects; and 3) an adventure project for the disabled (see student handbook for details). The project is to be submitted to the academic dean no later than one month before the faculty committee defense. The student must enroll in ADV 7302 during the two terms before he or she intends to submit his or her project. (3 credit hours)

Arts & Theology

Music, art (painting, ceramics, sculpture), theatre, dance, film, literature, and poetry serve the creative side of the human soul, enabling expression where words often fall short. Since the earliest days of the church, Christ followers have used the arts extensively to communicate the message of Scripture. MA students in Arts and Theology will be equipped to lead arts ministries in the church, as they develop a deeper understanding of the important relationship between the arts and our Creator.

Format

  • Most courses are offered in-person in Bozeman, Mont., with a selection offered in Bellingham, Wash. Most may be also be attended online via live video.
  • Classes generally meet for 10 weeks, 3 hours per week, in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
  • Each academic year consists of three terms: fall, winter, and spring.
  • Remote students must attend one in-person meeting in Bozeman each year.
  • Some courses are offered only as residential courses; see course descriptions for details.

Foundations Sequence

(21 hours total)

Each relevant Foundations course is the prerequisite for 6000 or 7000 level courses in that subject area.

  • BIB 5301Biblical Foundations

    The Bible is holy scripture for the Christian and the theological guide for the church. Biblical Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the background, context, and overview of the biblical narrative, as well as basic interpretive skills in order to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of biblical and theological study. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • BIB 5302Hermeneutics Foundations

    As human beings, we automatically interpret many things every moment of every day: gestures, news stories, speeches, actions, novels, music, weather, etc. in order to discover meaning. Hermeneutics is the study of interpretation. BIB 5302 answers the question, “how do we interpret properly?” This course is designed to give students the fundamental principles and processes of interpretation, and how they apply to interpreting the Bible, theology, philosophy, history and contemporary culture. BIB 5301 and 5302 are prerequisites to all 6000 -7000 level Biblical studies courses. (3 credit hours)

  • THEO 5301Theological Foundations

    Theological Foundations is designed to give the student a fundamental understanding of the principles, nature, and purpose of Christian theology, and to prepare the student for further study in particular areas of theology. (3 credit hours)

  • SPR 5301Spiritual Foundations

    SPR 5301 is an introduction to spiritual formation and discipleship. It is meant to give the student a basis to begin to reflect on their own spiritual journey and formation as well as consider what practices and actions might further their journey toward being formed into the image of Christ. (3 credit hours)

  • CUL 5301Foundations for Culture and Mission

    This foundations course examines the nature of the church and its interaction with the world. The vocation of the church will be discussed, especially the mission of the church (missio ecclesia) in light of the mission of God (missio Dei), and the concepts of worldview and cultural hermeneutics will be introduced as means to help understand the culture in which we are immersed as well as the specific individuals around us. Throughout the course, the emphasis will be on how the church as the people of God can effectively engage and bring the life of Christ to bear on its community. (3 credit hours)

  • COM 5301Communication and Pastoral Foundations

    This course is designed to give students a fundamental understanding of the theological and biblical foundations of homiletics and pastoral ministry and prepare them for further study in practical theology. This course cross-lists as MIN 5301. (3 credit hours)

  • LED 5301Leadership Foundations

    LED 5301 explores a shared form of leadership, one that combines the servant leadership paradigm modeled in the New Testament with a contemporary approach that considers the various ways in which leaders communicate appropriately with their teams. (3 credit hours)

Arts Courses

(12 hours)

  • ART 5301Introduction to Theology and the Arts

    Why do human beings experience attraction to the fine and performing arts? Why is art such a powerful representative of the human experience, including the experience of the divine? ART 5301 presents a history of the integration of belief and artistic creation. In this process, the student will come to understand the role of the imagination as the conduit for aesthetics in human understanding and the role of the arts in social commentary and social justice and develop a rudimentary theology of the arts. (3 credit hours)

  • ART 5302Theology of the Arts: Making and Being

    Of all the animal beings in creation, human beings are “artists” – admirers and makers of meaningful beauty. Indeed, quite often human beings find it easier to articulate a feeling, a belief, a love, a beautiful experience, or unpleasantness through artistic rendering, rather than simply through words. ART 5302 explores a theology of the arts that enables the student to understand why humans are profoundly influenced by art and how art has a greater connection to the divine than previously realized. Students will study the topics of imagination, creativity, art forms, and theologies of beauty. (3 credit hours)

  • ART 6301Christian Art History I

    ART 6301 covers Christian art history from its beginnings in the New Testament era through the high medieval period in the late 15th century. The course covers the contexts and artistic substance of the fine and architectural arts during this period. From the Roman catacombs to the great cathedrals of Europe, and from rudimentary drawings to the great stained-glass windows, ART 6301 seeks to broaden the student’s understanding of the meaning of the arts for the church. (3 credit hours)

  • ART 6302Christian Art History II

    ART 6302 covers Christian Art history from the Protestant Reformation to the modern period. The course covers the contexts and artistic substance of the fine and architectural arts during this period. Emphasizing the rejection and evolution of the arts through the Reformation, to the great rediscovery of the arts in the 20th century, ART 6302 seeks to broaden the student’s understanding of the meaning of the arts for the church. (3 credit hours)

Arts Practicum

(6 hours)

2 credit course (take 3x).

  • ART 5201Arts Practicum

    The arts practicum consists of two-to-four-day creative experiences for the student, which requires study preparation and execution. At least three practicum courses are required for the MA in Arts & Theology degree. Practicums are offered in the fine arts (drawing, painting, mosaics, etc.); performing arts (music, dance, etc.); and art history. (3 credit hours)

Arts/Culture Electives

Select 2 from the following (6 hours):

  • ART 7301Advanced Theology and the Arts

    This course examines advanced trends in theology and the arts studies with relevance for the contemporary church. (Course may be repeated with content changes.) (3 credit hours)

  • WOR 7303Advanced Worship Ministry: Curating, Organization, and Leadership

    WOR 7303 introduces the student to the ways in which the performing arts can be utilized in formal church worship as well as in exhibitions and public performances. The course studies the biblical and secular backgrounds of worship arts, as well as the structural components that make-up a meaningful worship service. Finally, the course provides models of leadership that are unique to the worship leader. (3 credit hours)

  • ART 7304Advanced Arts Ministry in the Church and Community

    ART 7304 introduces the student to the ways in which the fine arts and performing arts can be utilized in the church – discipleship, worship, outreach – or in the community – public relations, exhibitions and informative performances, etc. The course studies the biblical and secular backgrounds of the arts, as well as the varieties of documented contemporary usage. Finally, the course enables the student to design and execute a plan for a fine art showing or performance of a work. (3 credit hours)

  • CUL 6302Theology and Culture

    Culture is the context in which theology is written, explored, and practiced, as well as the milieu in which all spirituality is perceived. The good news of Jesus must be contextualized and communicated in ways that makes sense to the receiving culture. How do we practically apply Christian theology in a healthy manner within different cultural expressions? This course examines the essentials of cultural engagement and contextualization: how to interpret, understand, and witness within various cultural models and contexts. (3 credit hours)

BIB Old Testament Elective

Select any BIB course (3 hours).

BIB New Testament Elective

Select any BIB course (3 hours).

Capstone

    (4 hours)

  • CSC 5101Research Methods and Prospectus

    The art and process of conducting research for a post-graduate degree is an important aspect of the degree program. CSC 5101 is a 1 credit course in which the student will learn the basics of formulating a research program, thesis statement, organization and structuring of the research findings (in the thesis or project report), and how to use databases in research. For guidelines and schedules for the prospectus and thesis, please consult “the Manual for Research Theses and Ministry Project Reports,” which students can attain through their advisor. Required for all MA students. (1 credit hour)

  • ART 7302Final Project

    Students in the Theology and the Arts study concentration in the MA program are required to submit a final project of between 15,000-20,000 words, not including bibliography or footnotes. The project will contain: 1) a theology of the imagination, beauty, and the arts (10,000-15,000 words); 2) two different arts projects – to be chosen from painting, poetry, sculpture, music, dance and story (chose one of each category); 3) an arts project for the disabled (see student handbook for details). The project is to be submitted to the academic dean no later than one month before the faculty committee defense. The student must enroll in ART 7302 during the two terms before he or she intends to submit his or her project. (3 credit hours)

“Change the way you see
things and the things
you see will change.

-Dr. Wayne Dyer

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