Master of Arts in Ministry Studies

The Master of Arts in Ministry Studies is a 36-credit program, available fully online or in a hybrid format, which engages you to think critically and creatively about the church and Christian faith. The program is grounded in Scripture and committed to spiritual formation and personal growth in both the mind and soul. It is designed as an entry level degree for specialized ministries in the church, non-profit institutions, and personal development.

The MAMS has suggested concentrations in Biblical Studies, Theology and Public Policy, Ministry in the Church, and Prophetic Urban Ministry. Students can select a concentration or create a curriculum to meet their unique ministry needs. With six foundational courses, the five remaining electives allow you to customize your program based on your ministry needs and vocational interests. You become the architect of your education and professional development. The Integrative capstone project will provide an opportunity to apply your acquired knowledge and skills to a project in your ministry context. 

Why pursue a MAMS at NBTS?

Examples of suggested concentrations

Biblical Studies Concentration: All the required courses (18 credits), Biblical Research and Writing (BS520), Intro to Christian Education (CE510) or Public Proclamation (Preaching) (PR510), 3 courses of Bible electives, and the Integrative Capstone Project (3 credits).

Theology and Public Policy Concentration: All required courses (18 credits), Christian Experience and Witness (IN520), Contextualized Ministry and Public Faith (IN521), Christian Ethics and Social Justice (ET520), 2 elective courses, and the Integrative Capstone Project (3 credits).

Ministry in the Church Concentration: All required courses (18 credits), Introduction to Pastoral Care (PC510), Introduction to Worship (WP510); Public Proclamation (PR510), Called and Equipped (MS520), an elective course, and the Integrative Capstone Project (3 credits).

Prophetic Urban Ministry Concentration: All the required courses (18 credits), Introduction to Urban Ministry (UM510), Pastoral Care in Three Worlds (PC532), 2 Urban Ministry electives, 1 elective course, and the Integrative Capstone Project (3 credits).

Individualized Concentration: All the required courses (18 credits), 5 elective courses, and the Integrative Capstone Project.

Course Curriculum

*MA515 is taken the semester prior to MS693

Admission Requirements

Application deadlines:
Spring semester – November 30
Fall Semester – May 31
Please click here for detailed deadline information.

Applications received after the deadline will be considered for admission in the following semester. Each applicant must:

• Hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a grade point average of 2.5 or higher (4.0 scale);
• Provide Official transcript(s) of all undergraduate and graduate work pursued to date;
• Complete Application Form with $75 non-refundable application/background check fee;
• Complete a statement of purpose following the instructions on the application;
• Two letters of recommendation;
• Students with additional master’s credits may receive transfer credits (see the transfer credit policy);
• Photo ID (state-issued driver’s license, state identification card, or Passport) to verify identity
• A select number of students can be admitted without a baccalaureate degree; please contact our admissions team to explore the requirements for non-traditional students.

Learning Outcomes

Click here to see the learning outcomes for this program.

Side-by-side Comparison: Master’s Degrees

MDiv, MATS, and MAMS students take the same introductory courses in Bible, History, and Theology, which provide a solid theological foundation. MAPCC students take some of the foundational courses. The focus of this degree is in pastoral care and counseling.

The Master of Divinity degree is required for ordination or promotion in some denominations. You should check your denomination or church requirements during the application process. Our admissions team can help you determine requirements. Many chaplaincy programs require an MDiv instead of a MA.

* Students should check on their denominational requirements during the application process. Our admissions specialists can help you determine how this is done.