Master of Arts in
Ministry
The Master of Arts in Ministry program will equip you with the practical skills you need for ministering in the 21st century. Students learn to engage the wider culture with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and lead relevant, effective church and non-profit ministries. The course of study includes a range of Bible, theology, and ministry leadership classes so graduates can feel confident in a well-rounded degree program that can be tailored to their own specific ministry context.
Online Graduate Start Dates
February 18, 2025
Refine & Extend Your Calling as You Continue to Make an Eternal Impact
With Grace Christian University’s online master’s degrees, you can further your education no matter where you are. Our online programs are designed to help you become equipped for the Lord’s calling on your life, while working through your classes anytime, anywhere.
Grace’s online master’s degrees offer a high-quality level of education aiming to develop passionate servants of Jesus that emphasize the integration of character transformation, ministry experience, and biblical truth. No matter what track you choose, you’ll graduate with a deeper knowledge of God and His Word, prepared to make an eternal impact wherever you go.
Experience an Education with a biblical foundation
Develop Godly Friendships that will last a lifetime
Feel Confident and Prepared for your ministry career
Learn from instructors who really care
What to Expect
Excellence in Ministry, Grounded in Faith
At Grace, our curriculum goes beyond conventional education, weaving biblical principles into every facet of learning. We aim to develop passionate servants of Jesus that emphasize the integration of character transformation, ministry experience, and biblical truth.
2024–25 Tuition Cost
An Affordable Ministry Degree
Explore the pathway to an affordable yet exceptional Master of Arts in Ministry. With a range of financial aid options and competitive tuition rates, we’re dedicated to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to excel in the pursuit of their calling without the burden of overwhelming student debt.
$495
Master Degree Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour
$250
Master Degree Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour
Military Personnel (active duty, veterans, spouses, dependents 23 or under)
$0
Online Application Fee
(Wavied for Adults Students)
$150
Online Resource Fee per 3-Credit Course
(Covers all textbooks and other resources required for Grace Online students)
20
Months*
36
Credit Hours
6
Week Courses
* Taking one six-week, three-credit course at a time on a year-round rotation, students typically complete 6 courses per year. Depending on the student’s transfer credit status, completing a Master’s degree generally takes less than two years.
Career Paths
Ministry Career Paths
Ministry students will be equipped with a versatile skill set that opens doors to a variety of career opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to pastoral ministry, youth ministry, worship leading or beyond, the possibilities are vast.
Here are just a few examples of the diverse paths our alumni have pursued after completing their studies:
- Pastor
- Missionaries
- Para-church Ministry
- Youth Ministry
- Children’s Ministry
- Family Ministry
- Small Business
- Worship Leaders
- Urban Ministry
- Helping Professions
- Camping Ministry
- Non-profit Leadership
- Church Planters
Faculty
Our dedicated faculty members are the heart of our ministry program, embodying qualities of care, mentorship, and a steadfast commitment to Christ-centered education. Each member brings a wealth of professional expertise, ensuring that our students receive top-notch instruction grounded in real-world experience.
Phillip J. Long, PhD
Professor of Bible & Ministry
Matthew Loverin, PhD
Dean and Professor, School of Bible & Ministry
Timothy Rumley, PhD
Assistant Professor, Graduate Program Champion
Scott Shaw, PhD, EdD, D.Min.
Dean and Professor, School of Business Innovation & Public Service
Benefits of Our Online Master Programs
Students in the online master’s degree programs:
- Attend classes on a flexible schedule that allows for work and family responsibilities
- Expand career and ministry opportunities with a degree that opens doors
- Obtain an affordable, high-quality education
- Gain collaboration skills through working with classmates and professors
- Achieve an educational goal
Course Descriptions
Ministry Courses
Our courses are designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary for successful careers in ministry. Our program covers an in-depth study of Scripture, theology, and church history with practical training in areas such as preaching, counseling, and administration. We emphasize spiritual formation and character development, recognizing that effective ministry requires not only intellectual intuition but also personal integrity and a deep commitment to serving others.
The Master of Arts in Ministry is a fully online, 36-credit graduate degree designed to refresh the student’s biblical and theological outlook and hone the practical skills needed for ministry in 21st-century church and culture. It is designed to provide an excellent context in which students can pursue advanced study in order to further their calling and enhance their effectiveness in their God-given vocations.
Required Texts
As a Graduate student, your textbooks are automatically provided to you via two platforms: Slingshot and Perlego. Sources that are fulfilled via Slingshot will be shipped to you or accessible as an eBook through your Slingshot student portal. Books that are accessible via Perlego can be accessed through Perlego’s eLibrary.
The cost of textbooks is covered by the resource fee for each course. Students are able to opt out of these services, but the resource fee will still be fully charged. Please refer to the Steps for Graduate Success course in Blackboard for more information.
GEN 501M – Graduate Writing and Research
- Burns, J. S., Shoup, J. R., Simmons Jr., D. C. (2014). Organizational leadership: Foundations and practices for Christians. InterVarsity Press. 978-0830840502 (accessible via Perlego)
- Neuman, J. W. (2016). A professor’s guide to writing essays: The no-nonsense plan for better writing (2nd ed.), Self-Published. 978-0692822524 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
- Williams, V. K. (2016). I’m Not a Writer…I’m Just in Graduate School: A Guide to Writing Critically, Clearly and Coherently. Chrysalis Consulting 978-1533392916 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
BIB 525 – Galatians & Romans
- Moo, D. J. (2014). Encountering the book of Romans: A theological survey. (2nd ed.). Baker. 978-0801049668 (accessible via Perlego)
- Long, P. J. (2019). Galatians: Freedom through God’s grace. Wipf & Stock. 1532671202 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
- Barry, J.D., & Wentz, L. (Eds). (2016). The Lexham Bible Dictionary. Lexham. (Available at no cost through Logos Bible software)
BIB 540 – Isaiah
- Beyer, B. E. (2007). Encountering the book of Isaiah: A historical and theological survey. Baker. 978-0801026454 (accessible via Perlego)
- Davis, A. M. (2017). Exalting Jesus in Isaiah. In Platt, D., Akin, D. L., & Merida, T. (Eds.). Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary. B&H Publishing Group 978-0805497380 (accessible via Perlego)
LEA 545 – Leading with Cultural Intelligence
- Livermore, D. (2015). Leading with cultural intelligence. AMACOM Publishing. 9780814449172 (accessible via Perlego)
- Elmer, D. (2002). Cross-Cultural Connections: Stepping Out and Fitting In Around the World. InterVarsity Press. 978-0830823093 (accessible via Perlego)
MIN 515 – Communicating for Transformation
- Collins, G. R. (2009). Christian coaching: Helping others turn potential into reality (2nd Ed.). NavPress. 978-1600063619 (accessible via Perlego)
- Koukl, G. (2009). Tactics: A game plan for discussing your christian convictions. Zondervan. 978-031028292 (accessible via Perlego)
- Schultze, Q. J., & Badzinski, D. M. (2015). An essential guide to interpersonal communication. Baker Academic. 978-0801038945 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
- Shaddix, J. (2003). The passion driven sermon: Changing the way pastors preach and congregations listen. B&H Publishing Group. 978-0805427226 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
MIN 520 – Dynamics of Counseling
- Thomas, J. C., & Sosin, L. (2011). Therapeutic expedition: Equipping the Christian counselor for the expedition. B&H Publishing. 978-1433672361(accessible via Perlego)
- McGervey, M. & Cosby, T. (2011). Coaching based ministry: Transforming ministry through empowerment coaching. Credo House Publishers. B0066AKOO0 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
MIN 530 – Transformational Leadership
- Kotter, J. P. (1996). Leading change. Harvard Business School Press. 978-1422186435 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
- Malphurs, A., & Penfold, G. E. (2014). Re:Vision: The key to transforming your church. Baker Books. 978-0801016820 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
- Northouse, P. G. (2021). Leadership: Theory and practice (9th Ed). SAGE. 978-1544397566 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
- Rath, T., & Conchie, B. (2008). Strengths based leadership: Great leaders, teams, and why people follow. Gallup Press. 978-1595620255 (Be sure to buy the text new so that you have access to the inventory.) (fulfilled via Slingshot)
MIN 540 – Ministry & Culture
- Hunter, J. (2010). To change the world: The irony, tragedy, and possibility of Christianity in the late modern world. Oxford University Press. 978-0199730803 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
- Smith, J. K. A. (2009). Desiring the kingdom: Worship, worldview, and cultural formation. Baker Academic. 978-0801035777 (accessible via Perlego)
- Vanhoozer, K. J., Anderson, C. A., & Sleasman, M. J. (2007). Everyday Theology: How to Read Cultural Texts and Interpret Trends. Baker Academic. 978-0801031670 (accessible via Perlego)
MIN 550 – Practical Application of Pauline Theology
- Gorman, M. J. (2015). Becoming the Gospel: Paul, participation, and mission. Eerdmans. 978-0802868848 (accessible via Perlego)
- Piper, J. (2019). Why I love the Apostle Paul: 30 reasons. Crossway. 978-1433565045 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
- Wilhoit, J. C. (2008). Spiritual formation as if the Church mattered: Growing in Christ through community. Baker Academic. 978-0801027765 (accessible via Perlego)
THE 540 – Contemporary Theology Perspectives
- Smith, D. L. (2014). Theologies of the 21st Century: Trends in contemporary theology. Wipf & Stock. 978-1625648648 (accessible via Perlego)
- Kinnaman, D. & Lyons, G. (2016). Good faith: Being a Christian when society thinks you’re irrelevant and extreme. Baker Books. 978-0801075445 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
THE 560 – Studies in Dispensational Theology
- Showers, R. E. (1990). There really is a difference: A comparison of covenant and dispensational theology. The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry. 978-0915540501 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
CAP 595 – Graduate Studies Capstone
Blanchard, K., Hodges. P., & Hendry, P. (2016). Lead like Jesus revisited: Lessons from the greatest role model of all time. Thomas Nelson. 978-0718077259 (fulfilled via Slingshot)
Master of Arts in Ministry
The Master of Arts in Ministry will equip you with the practical skills you need for ministering in the 21st century. Students learn to engage the wider culture with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and lead relevant, effective church and non-profit ministries. The course of study includes a range of Bible, theology, and ministry leadership classes so graduates can feel confident in a well-rounded degree program that can be tailored to their own specific ministry context.
Graduate Writing and Research
GEN 501MDesigned to give students the skills they need to complete successful written projects and research in graduate-level courses within the context of a biblical worldview. Students who pass this course will demonstrate proficiency in critical thinking, expressed through solid research and clear writing, which serves as the foundation for further studies in the University’s graduate programs. Includes research tools and methods for biblical and theological research. The successful completion of GEN 501M is considered a prerequisite for all other graduate courses. Students who are unable to earn a minimum grade of B- in GEN 501M after three attempts will be administratively dropped from their next session and must appeal to be allowed to re-enter the Graduate program. |
3Credit Hours |
Galatians and Romans
BIB 525Explores Pauline theology by way of an in-depth study of the Apostle Paul’s letters to the Galatians and Romans. Consideration will be given to theological questions generated by the New Perspective on Paul and relevant concerns of Dispensational Theology. |
3Credit Hours |
Isaiah
BIB 540Explores the historical circumstances, literary features and theology of the book of Isaiah. Attention will be given to contemporary approaches to the book and use of the book in the New Testament. |
3Credit Hours |
Leading with Cultural Intelligence
LEA 545Cultural Intelligence (CQ) is the capability to function effectively in a variety of cultural contexts. Students will examine literature and perspectives from the fields of anthropology, sociology, and organizational leadership as well as study cultural engagement in light of the biblical narrative. |
3Credit Hours |
Contemporary Theology Perspectives
THE 540Equips the student to respond biblically to a range of theological issues facing the 21st-century church. Issues include (but are not limited to): soteriology, biblical interpretation and authority, and the emergent/missional church, as well as differing theological perspectives that are influential in culture today. |
3Credit Hours |
Studies in Dispensational Theology
THE 560Presents the student with an intensive summary of the historic theological position of Grace Christian University, including critical examination and evaluation of the biblical, theological, and practical interests of dispensational theology. |
3Credit Hours |
Transformational Leadership
MIN 530Introduces the biblical foundations, principles, and practices of effective leadership. Students will further develop personal leadership skills, as well as create a working model of how to inspire change within a variety of ministry settings. |
3Credit Hours |
Communicating for Transformation
MIN 515An analysis of the skills, resources, methods, and spiritual dynamics of communication. The course will equip leaders with an understanding of various ways to communicate more effectively and persuasively, in order to facilitate life transformation. |
3Credit Hours |
Dynamics of Counseling
MIN 520Offers theological, psychological, and practical perspectives on the care of others. It includes analysis and application of principles related to beginning counseling skills, as well as an exploration of the strengths and challenges the student brings to the counseling process. |
3Credit Hours |
Ministry and Culture
MIN 540Provides a theoretical and practical background for engaging culture. It examines a number of historic models of Christian cultural engagement and explores the validity of traditional and emerging models for ministry and mission. |
3Credit Hours |
Practical Application of Pauline Theology
MIN 550A study of Pauline theology with an emphasis on practical theology for spiritual formation, church practice, evangelism, and the mission of the church. Attention will be given to current trends in Pauline theology, as well as the importance of Paul’s letters for dispensational theology. |
3Credit Hours |
Choose One
Graduate Capstone
CAP 595The Graduate Capstone is a six-week course with assignments that include discussions and reflections on the scope of the student’s discipline, reviews of recent literature on leadership, and the creation of a final essay of 10 pages in which students write about guiding principles such as life purpose, core values, goals, and vision, as well as identifying key principles of leadership gleaned throughout their courses of study they plan to apply in the future. Prerequisite: Completion of all degree requirements with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00. |
3Credit Hours |
Graduate Capstone Experience
CAP 596The Graduate Capstone Experience is a six-week course that is built on the foundation of a hands- on experience in the student’s chosen discipline. The experience will reflect the scope of the degree studies, reviews of recent literature on the topic, and will demonstrate an area of the student’s specific passion in the discipline. The experience will be described in a final essay of 20 pages in which the student describes the experience in detail and how the understanding gained through the experience will be applied in future work and ministry. Prerequisite: Completion of all degree requirements with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 and approval of the Provost or designee. |
3Credit Hours |
Graduate Capstone Thesis
CAP 597The Capstone Thesis is a 12-week course that highlights the student’s independent scholarship in investigating and developing a chosen topic, integrating a biblical worldview and theoretical base with a comprehensive literature review. Students will work directly with a faculty thesis advisor to produce a 40 – 80 page scholarly work. Prerequisite: Completion of all degree requirements with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 and approval of the Provost or designee. |
3Credit Hours |
Testimonials
What Our Students Are Saying
We believe education is more than just academics. Check out firsthand accounts from students like you who have been impacted by our vibrant community, transformative education, and unwavering commitment to faith.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Master's Program for?
Anyone who has completed a Bachelor's degree and is seeking quality Christian Higher Education. We offer tuition discounts for military personnel, alumni scholarships, and payment plans for cash paying students. Our program is excellent for those receiving tuition reimbursement from an employer as well as anyone seeking to utilize Federal Financial Aid.
What is the Grace Christian Difference?
Academic Rigor
The program will teach and develop graduate-level research, writing, critical thinking, leadership and communication skills. Beginning with the Program Seminar, the program is designed to acclimate students to graduate-level work and prepare them for the kind of reading, writing, and thinking skills they will need for the remainder of the program.
Student-Centered
The application of constructivist learning theory puts the responsibility of learning in the hands of the students. Whenever possible, students will be allowed to choose what they will learn, how they will learn, and how they will assess their learning in terms of their ministry and professional goals.
Best Practices
As a fully online program, Graduate Studies at Grace Christian University adheres to the best practices of online education, including, but not limited to: online presence, creating a supportive online community, a variety of individual, small group, and large group learning experiences, and clear communication in the online environment.
What Can I Expect from the Professors of this Program?
Your professors have first hand knowledge working in their areas of instruction, along with advanced degrees and higher education experience. They are eager not just to instruct, but to guide you on your faith journey and pray for you throughout your time here. Their desire is to help you succeed and equip you for where God has called you.
What are the Benefits of the Program?
Students in the Online Master's programs will be able to:
- Complete a Master's degree in as few as 20 months
- Attend class asynchronously online and minimize interference from work schedules and family responsibilities
- Improve writing skills through our university Writing Center at our virtual Academic Center for Excellence.
- Enhance virtual presentation and technology skills to maximize ministry effectiveness and/or leadership skills
- Meet in a collaborative format and benefit from the varied experiences and ideas of classmates
- Obtain a degree that opens a wide range of opportunities, including pursuing doctoral studies
- Attend small virtual classes with the same students, developing teamwork skills and mutual support
- Receive individualized instruction and specific attention
- Gain satisfaction by fulfilling an educational goal
What Flexibility Does the Master’s Program Offer?
One course at a time, on your own time, in as little as 20 months. Students may enroll full-time or part-time and complete their coursework throughout the week at a time of day that is convenient for them.
Why Should I Study Online at Grace?
Advance your career from the comfort of your own home.
Our online master’s degrees are designed for busy professionals who desire to advance their careers. Through our flexible classes, our professors will encourage and mentor you as you expand your current pursuits.
Experience a caring community.
Connect with professors and students who will come alongside you as you pursue higher education and growth in Christ. At Grace, we’re passionate about equipping and supporting you to serve the Lord and others in all that God has called you to do.
Strengthen your biblical foundation.
At Grace Christian University, the Word of God is taught, valued, and celebrated. Deepen your knowledge of God’s Word as you receive an education grounded in objective Biblical truth.
The Grace Experience.
As closely as possible, the Graduate Studies program will reproduce the experience of undergraduate students (On Campus and Online) in an authentic Grace Christian University experience, expressing the ethos, core values, and historic mission of the University. This includes the University’s commitment to being a Bible-centered institution, committed to our historic Grace theological position, which values transformative relationships and service to church and society.
What Sets Our Master's Programs Apart?
Our Enrollment Advisors are there for you.
One-on-one coaching through the admissions process and the first class with your assigned Enrollment Advisor. Your advisor will want to know:
- Your passion
- Your path and goals
- Life circumstances that could help or hinder your success
- How can they pray for and with you
Your advisor will take this information seriously and provide tailored care as you get started with your degree.
We Prioritize You
Your goals and giftings are prioritized so they drive your success; this is opposed to a one-size fits all mentality & communication.
We take care of all class registration and your personalized education plan is created when you begin your program, so you are able to see all courses required until your graduate date.
One Class at a Time
No required log-in time (you log in throughout the week when it works best for your schedule!)
Students finish their online degrees in the same period as if they were attending an on-campus program.
Our Professors Care
Staff and faculty care about each student's eternal impact, which influences the care and resources we provide. Professors care and are easily accessible.
Low professor-to-student ratio:
- Online Undergraduate - 9.3 students per course section
- Online Graduate - 7 students per course section
The Bible is Central
All classes are taught from a biblical foundation, regardless of subject, with weekly devotions.
Low Cost Quality Education
Low tuition for a private Christian education.
Take the Next Step
Your Calling to the World Awaits
Join the Grace community and embark on a transformative journey of faith, learning, and personal growth as you pursue your calling in the ministry field.