2023-2024 University Catalog

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Master of Arts in Applied Theology

PROGRAM COORDINATOR, DR. GREG DUEKER

The Master of Arts in Applied Theology is a two-year equivalent program (42 SH credits) offering specialization in leadership for church staff, parachurch organizations, and non-profit organizations. The program provides a framework for such leadership through basic biblical and theological studies, spiritual formation, and cultural engagement. The program offers two tracks for the development of leadership skills for specialized settings through course work, practicums, and in-ministry learning opportunities.  Students focus their studies on one of these ministry areas: Collaborative Leadership in a Changing Culture, or Global Evangelism.  Almost all assignments are directly leveraged into the student's current ministry context. 

Vocational Options

This program prepares students for a variety of vocations in both church and non-profit settings, including:

  • Parachurch organizations and mission agencies
  • Community development organizations
  • Social justice and advocacy groups
  • Non-governmental organizations
  • Humanitarian aid and relief agencies
  • Program staff and vocational ministry at local churches
  • Church planters

Program Structure

Framework Studies – 18 credits
Program Concentration – 24 credits

Students select a ministry track upon admission. In some tracks, framework studies must be completed before starting ministry development courses (see requirements for the specific Ministry Development Track).

Framework Studies courses are available on-line or on-campus during the Fall and Spring semesters.

The plan and schedule for Concentration courses varies by track. Students in the Collaborative Leadership in a Changing Culture track normally complete Framework Studies courses before starting with the cohort.

Courses in the Ministry Development Studies are offered on a semester schedule, but in a cohort model. The Collaborative Leadership in a Changing Culture, and Global Evangelism tracks combine DMin students with MAAT students so the dialogue and learning environment are enriched.

Program Outcomes

At the completion of the MAAT program, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate responsible biblical interpretation that flows from a basic understanding of the contents of the English Bible.
  • Acquire a working knowledge of the basic issues in Christian theology.
  • Exhibit a growing relationship with God through Christ that is grounded in scripture and nourished by the Holy Spirit through the commonly accepted practices of the spiritual life.
  • Evidence a capacity for cultural exegesis and ministry leadership that engages culture redemptively .
  • Graduates will demonstrate Christ-like servant leadership skills in their specific ministry contexts, including a theological understanding of ministry strategies and best practices in their field.

Admission

  1. Meet general admission requirements as listed in the “Admission and Financial Information” catalog section.
  2. Possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum 2.5 grade point average (4.0 scale), with a minimum of 32 semester credits in general studies, including such courses as English composition, speech, history, psychology, and sociology.
  3. Submission of several short essays on topics spelled out in the application.
  4. Submission of three references, two of which are from a “ministry context,” one completed by a peer or colleague in ministry and one by a board member or elder from the applicant’s organization. The third reference may be a “personal” reference.
  5. Through the submission of a professional resume, demonstrate at least five years of ministry leadership experience.
  6. As a cohort-based program, admission to the cohort is limited and requires a permission of the cohort supervisor. All applicants must be approved by the cohort supervisor.
  7. Must believe and affirm the essential doctrines of the Christian faith.

Note: enrollment in some tracks is limited (see individual track requirements below).

Graduation Requirements

  1. Complete all general graduation requirements as listed in this section.
  2. Complete required program credits with at least 21 credits earned at Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
  3. Earn a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 (4.0 scale).
  4. Affirms the essential doctrines of the Christian faith.
  5. Normally, complete the program within four years from the date of matriculation.