M.A. in Theological Studies

The Houghton College Master of Arts in Theological Studies is a 48 hour degree comprised of 18 hours of core courses (six classes), another 18 hours of Theological and/or Biblical electives (six classes), and 12 hours of electives in a student’s chosen area of interest (e.g. Pastoral Studies, Global Christianity, etc.) There is a six hour thesis option than reduces by two the number of required courses.

This program will benefit men and women, clergy or laity, who desire to connect theological study with the issues of culture and human well-being. Students will be equipped to serve more effectively in their chosen ministries by coming to deeper understandings of the religious experience of humankind, utilizing the context of Christian theology.  This will be communicated from the deep conviction of the church’s mission in the world. The personal faith journeys of students will be developed through a rigorous academic life and vital connection to a Christian learning community.

Program Goals  

This degree provides graduate level education in order to

1. Offer high quality biblical and theological training to interested men and women whether clergy or laity.
2. Continue Houghton's service to its sponsoring Church and to the Churches of Western New York state and the surrounding regions
3. Afford an opportunity to area clergy to secure more suitable credentials for ministry.
4. Facilitate the academic progress of promising theological students by enabling them to move into terminal degree programs.

Course Descriptions

• Core courses
• Bible electives
• Theology electives
• Special electives: Parish Ministry
• Special electives: Global Studies