Master of Arts in Theological Studies

Earn Your Master's Degree in Theological Studies

The Master’s in Theological Studies is designed to help you gain a better understanding of your part in God’s mission, whether you’re seeking advanced theological knowledge or to enhance your career. The program is rigorous and interdisciplinary, emphasizing biblical studies, church history, intercultural studies, and theology. In it, you’ll build a solid theological foundation that will help inform the career and life decisions you make after graduation, bringing you closer to your goals — and to Him.

What You’ll Learn

• How to engage in high-level, publishable critical research, analysis, and writing about theology and its related disciplines
• Methods of biblical interpretation and how to apply it in different contexts
• Techniques and tools for explaining and evaluating Bible doctrine

Program Length 

Depending on your academic background, 1.5 to 2 years

What Can I Do with This Degree?

A theological studies degree can enrich any career and open doors to many new opportunities, especially those involving church and missionary work.

• Academic Careers: Teaching at colleges, seminaries, and universities, or Ph.D. and research work
• Church & Ministry Work: Serving as a pastor or associate pastor, member of a church staff, or as a campus or parachurch ministry professional
• Missionary: Work cross-culturally both in the United States and abroad to help communities and draw people closer to God

Why Study Theology at CIU?

• Highly engaged, hands-on online classes with students from all over the world
• Professors who are practitioners of the subjects they teach
• Faculty and staff who are dedicated to getting to know you and providing both academic and spiritual support and guidance

Program Options That Fit Your Experience Level

We offer two program tracks: one for students with no previous studies in Bible or theology, and one for students who have at least 30 semester credit hours of Bible, theology, or Church history.

Read the program details and course requirements.