36 credits
required for program
- Available online
Cost
$570 per credit
Timeframe
18–22 months
Considering a master’s degree in theology? With a Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS), receive biblical and theological training to equip yourself for effective ministry or work in academic settings. Study hermeneutics, biblical and systematic theology, and apologetics as you prepare for advanced ministry roles or build a foundation for further theological studies toward a Master of Divinity or doctoral degree.
Our online master’s in theological studies may be the right fit if you…
- Desire to gain a deep understanding of the rich theological truths found in Scripture
- Want to guide others in leadership roles or professional ministry
- Appreciate an online format that fits your busy life
- Value faith-infused curriculum that interlocks faith and purpose
- Crave an interactive and supportive community
Why study theological studies at Northwestern?
Our online master’s degree in theology is intentionally designed to be both realistically attainable and undeniably valuable. Discover an MATS program designed to spark growth as a more informed individual in your God-given ministry. Experience it all within a supportive Christian community to encourage you as you live out your calling.
Program Highlights
- Engaging coursework that can be completed in under two years
- Dynamic discussions and exploration in a rich, non-denominational setting
- Expert faculty who are active in their ministry fields
- Customizable theology program with three unique concentrations
- Courses optimized for quality and user experience
- Online learning format
- Fulfills 36 credits toward theMaster of Divinity (M.Div.) degree.
A graduate certificate in Christian Studies can transfer credits toward our MATS, MAML or MDIV degrees.
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Concentrations
Leverage your master’s degree based on your unique goals by pinpointing your area of study. Customize your online program by selecting one of three concentrations:
- Biblical Studies
- Cultural Engagement
- Ministry Leadership
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about earning our online MATS degree? Check out a few of our most frequently asked questions!
Will I be able to successfully juggle coursework with my other responsibilities?
Definitely. We know it can be nerve-wracking to take the next step toward your ministry goals, especially as you consider how pursuing a degree will fit into your busy life.
That’s why we’ve created a value-packed master’s degree in theology that provides a manageable workload for a busy adult. Experience flexible education and student-friendly courses all within a convenient online format.
Is it affordable?
Yes! It is a top priority to make quality education affordable so that you can fulfill your calling right here at UNW. You can expect competitive tuition that’s actually less than the cost of most state undergraduate programs.
More than our commitment to an affordable education, though, is our commitment to a valuable one. Invest in an education at UNW that offers faith-infused learning, a highly interactive community, courses taught by actively practicing faculty, and a student-friendly course design.
Will I have access to support resources?
Absolutely. We believe students of all ages thrive in a learning environment where they feel known, supported, and encouraged. Our online MATS program, firmly rooted in biblical principles, offers access to free tutoring and coaching resources, personal academic advising, career development, optional live-learning sessions , and—of course—our highly interactive virtual community.
What can I do with an MATS degree?
Our curriculum is designed to provide you with a foundation for success in the real world. A master’s degree in theology, like our MATS degree, can open doors to many careers in a variety of settings.
UNW alumni have taken on roles in pastoral work, chaplaincy, Christian education, church planting, higher education, mission work, research, writing, and more.
Is this an accredited degree?
Yes, UNW’s MATS program is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. In addition, University of Northwestern – St. Paul is an Associate Member of the Association of Theological Schools.
How will faith be incorporated into the curriculum?
We recognize that faith plays an important role in one’s professional life. Experience a master’s in theology that combines biblical and theological training with Christian ministry to fully prepare you to step into your unique calling.
Grow in your spiritual walk and develop strategies for effective ministry or work in academic settings. Wherever you feel called, graduate with a deepened level of confidence as a faithful servant leader in the Kingdom of God.
After a forty-year absence from the classroom, I felt called by the Holy Spirit, to go back to school and pursue a Masters of Arts Degree in Theological Studies (MATS). Schooling has changed a lot in 40 years. Studying theology draws one closer to God. As a result, I have a much deeper understanding of the Bible, God, the Holy Spirit, and God's love for His creation. I started the MATS program over 22 months ago and, at age 65, I will be graduating this May. Thanks to all who supported me in prayer— we did it!
My MATS degree prepared me for the work I'm doing now by establishing solid values for an organization; that’s extremely important. How to research hermeneutics; how to defend my stance through apologetics. How to utilize history and provide context. Prepared me to be quite a people person. I’m very thankful for attending the program.
Career Opportunities
What types of work are related to this degree?
What types of work are related to a master’s degree in theology?
- Chaplaincy
- Christian education
- Church planting
- Executive Director
- Higher education
- Historian
- Lay leadership
- Lecturer/speaker
- Ministry leadership
- Mission work
- Research
- Pastoral Counselor
- Seminary
- Writer
Note: Roles in some settings may require additional education or training.
What will I learn?
As you pursue an online master’s degree in theology at UNW, you will think deeply about God and the Scriptures, broaden your understanding of Christianity, and strengthen your ability to communicate its teachings. Take a deeper dive into hermeneutics, biblical and systematic theology, church history, apologetics, and more.
BIA 5021
Apologetics
A study of apologetics, the defense of the Christian faith, with emphasis on critical thinking, theistic arguments, and the problem of evil. Students will also be introduced to Christian approaches to ethics and ethical issues.
BIA 5015
Biblical Hermeneutics
An advanced course in hermeneutics in which students will learn about the formation of the Bible, the history of biblical interpretation, modern critical methods, and current challenges to biblical interpretation.
BIB6312
Biblical Theology of the Old and New Testaments
A study of current methods and issues in the field of Biblical Theology, with emphasis on application to Old and New Testament books. Students will develop theological categories from the text and identify the variety and unity of theological themes.
BIB 6313
Systematic Theology I
The advanced study of the doctrines of bibliology, theology (proper), angelology, anthropology, and hamartiology.
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