Master of Arts in Theological Studies

Earn Your Master of Arts in Theological Studies

The master of arts in theological studies (MATS) is an academic-focused program intended for students who desire advanced study in the Bible, theology, and church history, but do not anticipate vocational ministry as a pastor or staff minister. MATS graduates often go on to pursue doctoral studies in a biblical or theological field leading to a career in academic scholarship. The program may also be a good choice for lay persons who desire greater theological knowledge in order to serve their local congregations.

Student Learning Outcomes

Tuition

Financial Aid

How to Apply

Course Areas

As an MATS student, you鈥檒l embark on intensive study of the Bible, Christian history, and theology, with focused study to help you become an expert in a major concentration area. This curriculum includes a prerequisite for Biblical languages if an Old or New Testament concentration area is selected.

Thesis

Completing a master鈥檚 thesis will help you develop advanced research skills. Working with a thesis director over the course of your second year, you will research and write a 60- to 90-page thesis, which may become a starting point for a doctoral program or dissertation. For valuable presentation, critique, and feedback practice, you鈥檒l defend your thesis to a faculty committee before graduation.

Vocational Development

Faithful service to the gospel as a scholar, teacher, lay minister, or full-time pastor requires vocational development alongside academic preparation. From the moment you enter North Park Theological Seminary, you will be immersed in a community that values discerning identity and call through spiritual formation coursework, psychological testing, and practical experience.

Community Life

A true Seminary education goes far beyond the classroom. North Park Theological Seminary offers numerous opportunities, including on-campus housing, community events, and worship services, all within the world-class city of Chicago.

Study On Campus or Virtually

The MATS is completed in three years of full-time study. Distance students join their classmates on campus twice a year for in-person intensive classes and participate in classes virtually across fall and spring semesters. For this degree, students must have access to a theological library during their thesis writing (either in their home location or by relocating to Chicago for those months).听

黑料吃瓜

Education encompasses everything from study of the Bible, theology, history, and ministry to mastery of the tools and understanding vocational and lay ministers need to be competent across cultural, economic, geographic, and gender boundaries.

Our Admissions Office will be glad to work with you personally to complete your application, arrange a campus visit, and estimate your costs. If you think the Seminary might be right for you, we urge you to get in touch. We will be glad to help you every step of the way.

North Park Theological Seminary offers 4 traditional degrees, 6 dual-degree combinations with Business and Nonprofit Management, and 8 graduate certificate programs. We interweave theology, bible, ministry, spiritual formation, and diversity courses into each degree.

Field Education is a companion to classroom work at 黑料吃瓜 Theological Seminary, that helps develop: Practical individual preparation for ministry Interpersonal and communication skills in a ministry context.

At 黑料吃瓜 Theological Seminary, we prepare you to answer your call to ministry through our academic curriculum and the spiritual and practical formation that comes with participating in the community here.

North Park Theological Seminary offers academic and formational events throughout the year, providing students with access to prominent scholarship, relevant conversations, and a full community experience.