Theological Studies, M.A.T.S.
Master’s
Online
Adult & Graduate Studies (AGS)
Bethel’s Master of Arts in Theological Studies deepens your understanding of Scripture, theology, church history, and spiritual formation. A rigorous 60-credit curriculum with extensive electives equips you for Christ-centered leadership, ministry and further academic study.
7
week sessions
6
start dates each year
Aug 23
next start date for AGS programs
Theological Studies, M.A.T.S.
Bethel’s Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) prepares you to live out your calling through deep engagement with Scripture and Christian thought. The 60-credit program includes 27 credits of required coursework in biblical studies, theology, spiritual formation and church history, plus 33 credits of related electives tailored to your ministry or academic interests. You’ll gain a richer understanding of biblical and theological concepts to provide thoughtful, Christ-centered leadership.
Required Courses (27 Credits):
- BBST 531: Interpreting the New Testament (3)
- BBST 532: Interpreting the Old Testament (3)
- CHMN 516: Spiritual Formation (3)
- CHMN 522: Dynamics of Multicultural Ministry (3)
- THES 523: History of Christian Thought (3)
- THES 531: Systematic Theology (3)
- THES 534B: Biblical Theology Seminars – Old Testament Theology (3)
- THES 534C: Biblical Theology Seminars – New Testament Theology (3)
- THES 535/536: Christian Apologetics/ Philosophy of Religion (3)
Related Course Electives (33 Credits):
- CHMN XXX: Select a minimum of 3 credit hours (3-15)
- BBST XXX: Select a minimum of 3 credit hours (3-15)
- THES XXX (1-15)
Future Careers Graduates are prepared for roles such as:
- Pastor or Associate Pastor
- Bible Teacher (church, school, parachurch)
- Theology/Bible Professor (with further study)
- Nonprofit or Ministry Leader
- Christian Education Director
- Discipleship/Spiritual Formation Pastor
- Missions or Outreach Coordinator
- Christian Writer, Researcher, or Apologist
You’ll experience:
- Foundational study in Old and New Testament interpretation
- Systematic and biblical theology to integrate faith and practice
- Spiritual formation for personal growth and pastoral care
- History of Christian thought to trace doctrinal development
- Preparation in apologetics and philosophy of religion
- Engagement with multicultural ministry dynamics
- Elective pathways in Bible, theology and ministry to shape a personalized focus
- A supportive Christian learning community guided by dedicated faculty
Still deciding?
Meet Our Faculty
Keith Koteskey, B.A., M.A., M.Div., D.Min.
Chair, Religion & Philosophy; Associate Professor of Christian Ministries
Take the Next Step
Take the first step toward your Bethel University master’s degree in theological studies.