Theological Studies (M.A.T.S.)

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The master of arts in theological studies (M.A.T.S.) is an academic master of arts degree designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of the content of the Christian faith. The M.A.T.S. program is ideally suited for persons wishing to gain a foundational understanding of the core theological disciplines for personal enrichment and growth, for the enhancement of their ministries in non-ordained capacities, and/or as an introductory graduate theological degree. This degree is also offered in tandem with several other graduate degrees in other schools of the university. The M.A.T.S. degree does not provide the breadth and depth of preparation expected or required by most churches and denominations for pastoral ministry roles or for ordination.

The requirements for the M.A.T.S. degree can be completed in two years of full-time study. The program requires at least 37 credit hours, with a minimum of 24 credit hours being completed at Beeson Divinity School. The degree must be completed within four years. In extenuating circumstances, a student may request an extension. A letter justifying such a request must be addressed to the associate dean.

Theological Studies: 37 Credits

Theological Studies Core: 25 Credits

DVBF 502 - Old Testament Theology (3)
DVBF 503 - New Testament Theology (3)
DVHD 501 - Patristic History and Doctrine (3)
DVHD 502 - Medieval and Reformation History and Doctrine (3)
DVHD 601 - Reformation and Early Modern History and Doctrine (3)
DVHD 602 - Later Modern History and Doctrine (3)
DVOT 721 - Special Topics in Old Testament (3)
or DVOT 722 Exposition Book Study (OT) (3)
DVNT 721 - Special Topics in New Testament (3)
or DVNT 722 Exposition Book Study (NT) (3)
DVTH 701 - Faith and Vocation (1) **

Electives: Track Options: 12 Credits

Students should choose one of the track options below:

General Studies: 12 Credits

12 free elective credits

Biblical Studies: 6 Credits

6 credits in DVOT or DVNT (6)
6 free elective credits (6)

History and Doctrine Studies: 6 Credits

DVHD 600/700 level (6)
6 free elective credits (6)

Greek Studies: 12 Credits ***

Total Required Credits: 37

*Old Testament Theology must be taken in the first semester, regardless of entry.
**Faith and Vocation must be taken in the final 4 credit hours of the degree, i.e., after 33 earned credit hours.

***NOTE: Students in the M.A.T.S. program may not take DVPM courses, DVML courses, or DVHD 605 without permission of the associate dean. Students may take Greek or Hebrew language courses as electives but should be advised that the faculty has set the biblical languages curriculum in a building, sequential manner. Thus, if students take fewer than four courses in a language, they may not gain the facility they desire in that language.

*This program is under review and subject to change.