Pastoral Studies, MA
What Will I Study?
The Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Studies is designed for those who wish to enter the ministry as a youth pastor or an assistant to a senior pastor. The degree in pastoral studies is also an excellent preparatory program for those wishing to pursue the master of divinity degree, the standard seminary degree for those preparing for the pastoral ministry. This degree can be completed during the regular semester or in three summers. This degree may also be earned on Mondays only through modular courses during six consecutive semesters. This program requires 33 hours.
Program Outline
First Year
- Biblical Hermeneutics
- Old Testament Introduction
- Church Leadership & Administration
- Ministry of Preaching: History & Philosophy
- Systematic Theology
- Christian Family Elective
- MA Comprehensive Exam - Required
Summer
What Will My Career Options Be?
The Office of Extension Ministries assists qualified BJU alumni and current students nearing graduation with church ministry opportunities. Many churches contact this office in search of prospective candidates for the positions of pastor, assistant pastor, youth pastor, and music director. A personal profile may be obtained from the office, and related issues may be discussed with the Director of Ministerial Training. Pastors, camp directors, mission board directors, and other recruiters often visit the campus to find personnel for their ministries.