Master of Arts
Christian Studies


The 100% fully online Christian Studies program is designed to equip the minister for service to Christ in the local church, mission field, parachurch ministry, or denominational leadership. This program balances biblical and theological foundations with practical ministry training. Students will be well-rounded in biblical, systematic, and historical theology while also learning how to incorporate that theology into practical ministry leadership. Graduates of this program go on to become pastors, associate pastors, missionaries, denominational leaders, and parachurch ministry leaders.

The program is 36 credit hours long and is designed to be completed in 2 years (at one class per term).  Courses are asynchronous meaning students can complete the work for that week at any time that is convenient for their schedule. Classes are taught by terminally degreed professors who will provide personal mentoring for each student in every class. Students with an academic interest in Christian Studies may be invited to work alongside professors towards research and publication projects.
Biblical and Theological Foundations (18 CREDIT HOURS)
Course ID
Course Title
# Credit Hours
Term Completed
Final Grade
REL 5203
Old Testament Studies
3


REL 5303
New Testament Studies
3


REL 5603
Biblical Exegesis
3


REL 6203
Systematic Theology I
3


REL 6303
Systematic Theology II
3


REL 6503
Development of Christian Thought
3



Practical Ministry (18 CREDIT HOURS)
Course ID
Course Title
# Credit Hours
Term Completed
Final Grade
REL 5103
Transcending Leadership
3


REL 5403
Evangelism and Discipleship
3


REL 6403
Church and Community Ministry   
3


REL 5503
Cross-Contextual Missions
3


REL 6603
Biblical Counseling
3


REL 6103
Homiletics
3



Danny Kirkpatrick, PhD
Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Associate Professor of Christian Studies

Office: SML-110
Email: dkirkpatrick@usw.edu
Kirkpatrick CV


For inquiries regarding MA Christian Studies, please contact Brandon Rodriguez at 1-833-USW-GRAD (879-4723) ext. 714 or email brodriguez@usw.edu