College of Graduate, Online & Adult Learning

Theological Studies

Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Graduate
Online

36 credits

Required for Program

Degree available online

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Learn advanced principles of biblical interpretation from internationally recognized professors and how to apply them to central theological issues. The theological studies graduate degree examines biblical studies, systematic theology, apologetics, and ethics. This degree prepares you to teach in a church or academic setting.

14:1

Class size ratio

Stable

career outlook for theology graduates

Option

to earn Graduate Certificate in Christian Studies after five select courses

Why do theological studies at Northwestern?

The Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) is offered either fully online or on-site (meets one night a week for 4 hours). This degree can be completed in as little as 18 - 22 months. Our program also fulfills the requirements for 36 credits of the Master of Divinity (MDIV) degree.

Grow in your faith with individualized classes and study with renowned Christian professors who have expertise in areas including the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Old and New Testaments, minor prophets, and more.

If you desire to gain a deep understanding of the rich theological truths found in Scripture and to guide others in leadership roles or professional ministry, explore how our MATS degree can set you on your path.

What will you learn?

You will explore church history, develop critical thinking skills in theology, and learn to communicate effectively.

Some classes include:

Spiritual Formation
Biblical Hermeneutics
History of Christianity
Apologetics
Theological Prolegomena

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I have been very impressed by the quality of scholarship present here at Northwestern, some among the top in their field in the world...And not only the faculty’s dedication to excellence in their fields, but to engaging their expertise with students. It has been a privilege to discern unique viewpoints from each of my professors from their specialized knowledge and life experience.

Kyle Otto, MATS Graduate

Program Highlights

View highlights, career paths and courses related to the MATS program.

View Mats Program Guide

Related Programs

- Divinity
- Ministry Leadership
These related graduate degrees will further prepare you for leadership.

Meet your professors

Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.

Meet the entire department

Bradley L. Sickler, Ph.D.

Interim Department Chair of Biblical & Theological Studies
Associate Professor of Philosophy
Program Director for Master of Arts in Theological Studies

Dr. Sickler has been teaching at University of Northwestern since 2008. Prior to that, he was Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Ouachita Baptist University. Besides his teaching ministry, he...

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Michael O. Wise, Ph.D., Ph.D.

Scholar-in-Residence
Professor of Hebrew Bible and Ancient Languages

As Scholar-in-Residence, Dr. Wise's area of focus is ancient Judaism as a background to the rise of Christianity. He has studied the Semitic languages in order to immerse himself in rabbinic texts...

Kenneth N. Young, D.Min., Ph.D.

J. Edwin Hartill Endowed Professor (2018-20)
Professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ministries

Ken Young has been teaching at University of Northwestern since 1994. His areas of expertise include systematic theology, ministry, education ethics, race and ethnicity, and biblical counseling...

Contact Information

Graduate Admissions

Nazareth Hall, N2122
3003 Snelling Avenue North
St. Paul, MN 55113

651-631-5200

gradstudies@unwsp.edu