Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Research preparation for academic theological work
Master of Arts in Theological Studies at North Park Theological Seminary
Prepare for doctoral study, teaching, or enhancing your service in the church. The Master of Arts in Theological Studies offers foundational courses in biblical studies, theology, history, and spiritual formation, alongside elective concentrations and a selected area of focus in Old Testament, New Testament, theology/ethics, church history, cross-cultural ministry, or a custom area of inquiry (with approval from the academic cabinet).
You’ll benefit from a vibrant seminary community and mentoring from doctoral faculty while writing a master’s thesis, a 60–90-page research project, which you will defend before a faculty committee and can later use as a foundation for doctoral work. The MATC is suited for future scholars and lay leaders seeking advanced theological training without ordination.
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Program length and modalities
This is a full-time program that students typically complete in three years. It consists of 60 credit hours—including a research thesis—plus two field-education credit hours. It can be completed as a distance, commuter, or residential student. Distance students work online during the spring and fall semesters and travel to campus for immersion experiences.
Plan your program
Featured courses
BIBL 5250 – New Testament 2: The Texts and Their Theology
The interpretation, context, and theology of the New Testament, with emphasis on major themes such as Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, ethics, and eschatology. Students will critically engage Gospel portrayals of Jesus, analyze Pauline theology, and reflect on the nature and mission of the church through Acts and other texts. The course develops skills in historically and theologically informed exegesis from a canonical perspective.
THEO 5102 – Research Methods in Theology
An introduction to the sources, methods, and communication of research in each theological field. The course focuses on research skills, the integration and synthesis of material, and the presentation of material primarily through writing. Faculty in all fields (Biblical, historical, theological, and ministry) will participate in the instruction and assignments.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Faculty spotlight
Dr. Sophia Magallanes-Tsang
Magallanes-Tsang is the Master of Arts in Theological Studies program director and an assistant professor of Old Testament. She describes herself as a relational educator who uses various teaching methods and is passionate about equipping God’s people for life and ministry.
Contact
Office of Seminary Admissions
Old Main, third floor
3225 W. Foster Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 244-6229
semadmissions@northpark.edu