Systematic Theology

Credential: Master of Arts (M.A.)

Degree Level: Master's Degree

Credits: 60 total, with up to 45 transfer credits accepted

School: School of Divinity

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Systematic Theology trains students to construct doctrine, not merely to repeat it. Graduate work begins with method — what counts as evidence in theology, how Scripture governs, what weight tradition and reason carry — and then moves through the full range of Christian teaching with primary sources open. Students read Athanasius, Augustine, Aquinas, Calvin, and modern theologians in their own words, and they learn to state a doctrine, defend it, and locate its pastoral stakes. The degree is intended for pastors who teach doctrine regularly, seminary and institute instructors, denominational readers who evaluate doctrinal statements, and students preparing for doctoral research. Coursework pays sustained attention to the confessional traditions and to the global church, where doctrinal questions often arrive in unfamiliar form. The capstone thesis requires an original constructive argument on a doctrinal question, defended before faculty. Graduates leave able to teach systematic theology, to write with doctrinal precision, and to serve churches and institutions that need theological judgment rather than theological opinion.

Core Courses

  • SYS 501 — Method and Sources in Systematic Theology (4 credits)
  • SYS 510 — Theology Proper and the Triune God (4 credits)
  • SYS 520 — Christology and Soteriology (4 credits)
  • SYS 530 — Pneumatology, Ecclesiology, and Eschatology (4 credits)
  • SYS 540 — Confessional and Historical Theology (4 credits)
  • SYS 560 — Graduate Research and Doctrinal Argument (4 credits)
  • SYS 590 — Capstone Thesis in Systematic Theology (6 credits)

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent preparation from a recognized institution
  • Personal testimony of Christian faith and active church involvement
  • Statement of purpose describing calling, academic goals, and intended service
  • Current resume or ministry profile
  • Official transcripts from prior institutions when available
  • Short writing sample, teaching sample, or sermon manuscript when requested

Degree Levels in Systematic Theology