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Master of Arts in Ministry

Master of Arts in Ministry Program

M.A. in Ministry Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Ministry is designed for those who want to grow in their ability to serve and lead in the church. With courses in biblical study, preaching, leadership, and counseling, this program helps students develop practical skills for real-life ministry. Whether you’re a full-time minister or serving in another role, this flexible program equips you to make a greater impact in your congregation and community.

Graduate Studies:

College of Biblical Studies

Director of Graduate Theology:

Dr. Richard A. Brumback
Ph.D.

Program Coordinator:

Dr. Josh Ketchum
Ph.D.

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Total Courses:

16

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Cost Per Credit Hour:

$680

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Time to Complete:

2 YEARS

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Format:

100% ONLINE

Learning at FHU

Why should you get an M.A. in Ministry at Freed-Hardeman University?

FHU’s MA in Ministry is designed for those who want to serve the church more effectively while staying grounded in scripture. Our program offers focused study in preaching, leadership, and counseling, guided by experienced faculty who care about your growth. With flexible online courses, you can strengthen your ministry without stepping away from it.

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A student holding a bible in their lap during chapel

Master of Arts in Ministry

The future is promising for those pursuing an M.A. in Ministry. This program has been meticulously crafted to cater to individuals seeking a career in all types of ministry including pulpit, involvement, youth, children’s, and more! Graduate students in this program gain the privilege of learning from and being mentored by terminally degreed faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. This mentorship serves to equip students with the necessary tools to elevate their ministry and contribute to the expansion of God’s Kingdom.

M.A. Ministry Degree Requirements

At Freed-Hardeman University, students enrolled in our M.A. in Ministry can expect a comprehensive journey through the world of ministry. Whether its preaching, mission work, or church leadership, you will gain the knowledge necessary to help others as they walk through their spiritual journey.

I. Required Courses: 30 hours
BIB One Old Testament Text Course 3
BIB Three New Testament Text Courses** 9
BIB 525 Communication in Ministry OR 3
BIB 526 Introduction to Homiletics (3)
BIB 535 Family Ministry OR 3
BIB 536 Pastoral Counseling OR (3)
BIB 575 Suffering and the Human Condition (3)
BIB 545 Spiritual Leadership OR 3
BIB 546 Education Program of the Church (3)
BIB 547 Missions & Church Growth, OR 3
BIB 555 Contemporary Ethics (3)
BIB 565 Internship 6
II. Electives (taken from other BIB Courses): 18 hours

Areas of Emphases (optional):

A. Preaching: 9 hours
BIB 526 Introduction to Homiletics 3
BIB 529/435 Expository Preaching 3
BIB 530 Inductive Preaching 3

 

B. Missions: 9 hours
BIB 547 Missions and Church Growth 3
BIB 548 Contextualization 3
BIB 550 Missionary Anthropology 3

 

C. Leadership: 9 hours
BIB 525 Communication in Ministry 3
BIB 545 Spiritual Leadership 3
BIB 535 Family Ministry OR 3
BIB 546 Education Program of the Church OR (3)
BIB 555 Contemporary Ethics (3)

See the director for a pattern of course offerings for the year.

**If the student is granted 12 hours of advanced standing due to completion of a bachelor’s degree in Biblical studies, this requirement will be reduced to two courses.

 Next Start Dates: January 21

(Apply by January 7)

 

Course Descriptions

Admission Requirements for the M.A. Ministry Degree

To be considered for admission into the M.A.-Ministry program at FHU, please submit the following:

Frequently Asked Questions About FHU’s M.A. in Ministry

Why should I get a M.A. in Ministry at Freed-Hardeman University?

Simply put, you will be better equipped to serve in your role as a minister. The advanced knowledge you will receive combined with the mentorship provided by the faculty will transform you in ways you never thought possible!

Additionally, you will be eligible to participate in our annual guided archeological dig in the Holy Lands at a subsidized cost. It’s great to study about the New Testament world, but it’s even better to see it with your own eyes!

Will an M.A. in Ministry help me advance my career?

A master’s degree in ministry can certainly make you more attractive to churches seeking to hire. However, the true impact is in the difference you can make with the knowledge you receive from the program. The M.A. in Ministry will make you a more effective minister, enabling you to lead others along their spiritual journeys.

How long will it take me to complete this degree?

The 48 credit hour master’s in ministry can be completed in as little as two years. However, you can pace yourself as you choose. You can finish quicker as a full-time student (9+ credit hours per semester) or you can slow it down and take 6 or less credit hours per semester.

Advanced standing of 12 credit hours can be given for those with an appropriate undergraduate degree in biblical studies.

Are there scholarships available?

We know pursuing a graduate degree can come with a significant cost investment. So, in an attempt to help you further your education without breaking the bank, we offer competitive scholarships to many of our students. If you’re interested, complete the online application as well as the scholarship application. Afterwards, the Director of the Graduate School of Theology will be in touch regarding your potential for a scholarship award.

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