Grace College
Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (Local Church Studies)
A 48-credit online MA combining biblical and theological study with practical training for local church leadership. Suited to those with some ministry experience or anyone seeking focused preparation for pastoral, para-church, or marketplace ministry roles.
What you'll study
The programme combines theory and practice, with coursework and practical assignments designed for church contexts. Core topics and example courses include:
- Expository Preaching and Teaching
- Advanced Preaching and Teaching
- Leadership in the Local Church
- Interpersonal Communication & Conflict
- Ministry Philosophy for the Church
- Spiritual formation and prayer, theology and hermeneutics, pastoral counseling, and intercultural studies
Course activities include sermon preparation methodology, reading and writing, pastoral interviews, reflection, and small-group experience focused on leadership styles, mentoring, volunteer and staff leadership, and healthy ministry systems.
Entry requirements
Applicants must normally hold a four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent for international students) from a recognized institution and provide official transcripts plus a spiritual life reference. Applicants with unaccredited pre-seminary education or a pre-seminary GPA below 2.5 may be admitted on academic restriction. Those without a bachelor’s degree but with ministry experience may be considered if they meet specific ministry and research/writing requirements; international applicants must submit TESOL scores and a financial certificate. Contact seminary admissions for details.
Career prospects
The programme is intended to strengthen preparation for a range of vocational ministries. Typical roles graduates pursue include:
- Senior Pastor
- Youth Pastor
- Spiritual Formation Pastor
- Educational Ministry roles
- Professor
- Parachurch ministry staff
- Sports ministry and other ministry-focused positions
Scholarships & funding angle
The seminary offers various financial aid options and many online students partner with their local church for financial support; some churches invest in staff development by subsidizing theological education. Prospective students should contact the seminary’s admissions or financial aid offices to explore available scholarship and partnership opportunities.
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