Master of Arts in Ministry

Serving God Right Where You Are

The 30-credit Master of Arts in Ministry strengthens Christians for service in their chosen vocation, whether it is in the marketplace, lay ministry in a parish, or preparing for ordination. The degree meets the needs of the changing congregational landscape, providing students with a solid foundation in biblical interpretation, pastoral skills and personal spiritual formation, and giving them flexibility to take courses most helpful for their ministry context.

The degree prepares graduates to be pastoral leaders in local, regional, and missional contexts, especially those pursuing non-traditional pathways to ordained, lay ministry, and Christian formation positions.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and taught by UDTS faculty, the MA in Ministry provides a flexible 100% online, semi-synchronous curriculum with optional residency opportunities, and is ecumenically welcoming, biblically and theologically informed, practical in expression, and focused on serving the Church in its many contexts.

New 2026 Offering: MA in Ministry CRE Cohort

Join a community of leaders called to serve. The MA in Ministry CRE cohort is designed for current and future Commissioned Ruling Elders (CREs), bringing together peers who understand the unique opportunities and challenges particular to comissioned ministry leadership. Through the cohort experience, students move through the program alongside others engaged in similar ministry contexts, creating meaningful relationships, shared learning, and lasting collegial support.

Participants benefit from:

A built-in network of peers serving in ministry settings similar to their own
Collaborative learning and discussion grounded in real-world ministry experience
Networking opportunities with fellow church leaders and ministry practitioners
Expert panel discussions featuring experienced pastors, educators, and denominational leaders
Encouragement and accountability from a supportive ministry community

Prepare for faithful, effective leadership while building connections that strengthen both your ministry and your calling.

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Program Distinctive

Courses are taught by UDTS faculty who have extensive experience serving in local church contexts. The courses taught in the MAM are courses that are available across all MA/MDIV programs.
The degree can be completed in as little as one year, fully online, or with optional residency opportunities.
The degree is flexible and can be can be tailored to your ministry equipping needs and interests. Students on the path toward becoming a Presbyterian Church (USA) Commissioned Ruling Elder can complete their CRE training while pursuing an MA in Ministry.

Admission to Master of Arts in Ministry

For admission into the Master of Arts in Ministry program, we encourage a broad baccalaureate preparation. Studies in world history, philosophy, languages and literature, the natural sciences, the social sciences, music and other fine arts, and religion are recommended. In special cases, applicants to Master of Arts degree programs who do not meet all the academic qualifications, may be admitted on provisional student status.
Applicants will complete an application; submit required essays; provide documentation of work history, official transcripts, and letters of recommendation. A background check is required for all applicants. Applications for degree programs are reviewed without prejudicial regard to race, ethnic origin, sex, marital status, citizenship, physical handicap or age.