Master of Arts in Theological Studies

Online | Deerfield, IL | Columbus, OH | Milwaukee, WI | Miami, FL | North Lauderdale, FL

The Master’s in Theological Studies is our most flexible program both in focus and delivery method. Because the MA/TS is so flexible, who you are and what you do determines where this degree will take you. This program relates the broad field of theological studies to the work of the church, with plenty of opportunities to focus on particular subject areas of interest. It can be completed remotely, at extension sites, or on our Deerfield campus.

If you are thinking about pursuing an MDiv, starting with the MA/TS could be the right place to start. You can decide later to transfer to the MDiv or after completing it apply up to 21 credits towards an MDiv at Trinity.

SEE COURSES

BIBLICAL / THEOLOGICAL / HISTORICAL CORE: 21–23 HOURS

Biblical Studies: 7–12 hours
Recommended:
Course Title Credits
OT 5000 Introduction to the Old Testament 4 hours
NT 5000 Introduction to the New Testament 3 hours

Theological Studies: 9–12 hours
Recommended:
Course Title Credits
ID 5000 Biblical Theology and Interpretation 3 hours
ST 5201 Theology I: The God of the Gospel 3 hours
ST 5202 Theology II: The Gospel of God 3 hours

Historical & Global Studies: 5–9 hours
Recommended:
Course Title Credits
CH 5051 History of Christianity I 3 hours
CH 5052 History of Christianity II (or CH 5060: American Church History) 3 hours
ID 6500 Understanding Social and Cultural Contexts of Ministry 3 hours
ME 6410 History of the Expansion of Christianity 3 hours
ME 6760 Theology of Mission & Evangelism 3 hours
ME 7710 Contextualization 3 hours

ELECTIVES: 5–17 HOURS
Custom:
These courses may focus in a department or area of interest, or you can select courses from across the curriculum. This is one of the main strengths of the MA/TS: it is very customizable depending on whether you want a broader or more focused program.

Required:
Course Title Credits
PT 5100 Spiritual Formation for Ministry 2 hours
Select One of the following options:
Course Title Credits
PT 5090 Option 1: Field Education (Two Semesters) 0 hours
PT 5090 & IT 5080 Option 2: Field Education (One Semester) & Formation Group (Two Semesters)  0 hours
Required:  
ID 7468 MA/Theological Studies Capstone Project 2 hours

“I loved working with TEDS online and taking a couple of classes at extension campuses! The professors who teach and facilitate the coursework are amazing. I am really grateful for Emanuel’s guidance in the process. As a Young Life Regional Director, I want to encourage all of our Young Life staff to continue their theological studies. Not only do we grow personally in our knowledge and understanding of God, but the coursework undoubtedly helps our ministries in which we serve! Also, the MATS degree is really attainable after completing the first 2 years of Young Life training requirements – it’s a no brainer! I loved the online class format because everything was laid out clearly in terms of expectations and easy to navigate. I think for most of our full-time staff taking an extra class a semester is NOT too much to ask on top of the rigors of Young Life staff, and I would encourage all staff to look into TEDS!”

Christopher Kessick ’20

Learn From The Best

Experience a classroom setting like none other. At Trinity, you will study under leading theologians, experts, and renowned authors in their specific field. Our professors will not only teach you but invest in your life.

WHY TEDS?

Trinity has been entrusted with the Gospel since 1897, and every day we are called to live with purpose. Our purpose as a divinity school is to know the Gospel, live the Gospel and make the Gospel known. In today’s ever-changing culture, Trinity immerses students in a community of biblical orthodoxy and practical living. The Trinity faculty is among the most widely published in evangelical academia and has deeply influenced the leaders shaping the present and future of evangelical Christianity across the globe.

“Over 80% of our MATS students come to the program with significant part-time or full-time ministry experience. Now, the ministry has this unique ability to expose our weaknesses and shortcomings quickly and efficiently. This is why we empower our MATS students to use their programs to address areas in need of further growth and develop their skills and expertise in the contexts of their ongoing ministries. They already know what they need and what skills and knowledge they would like to obtain. This is where we as faculty-practitioners come alongside the student-practitioners and assist with wise counsel and theological education, and spiritual formation. As a result, our MA/TS students and graduates serve successfully in all types of church and parachurch settings throughout the US and overseas.”

Emanuel D. Naydenov
Director of Masters Programs

PREREQUISITES

In addition to the requirements for general admission, you’ll need the following:

  • A baccalaureate degree, or the educational equivalent, from a recognized accredited institution. In some cases, admission with deficiencies is possible with fulfillment of those deficiencies at Trinity.
  • A minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. However, GPA isn’t always an accurate indication of a student’s abilities, so those with a lower GPA are encouraged to talk to an admissions counselor. Scores from the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) are required if your GPA is less than 2.5.

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THEOLOGICAL STUDIES FACULTY

John M. Monson, PhD
Harold A. Netland, PhD
Fellipe do Vale, PhD
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