MATS

Master of Arts in Theological Studies

The online Master of Arts in Theological Studies equips non-vocational ministry professionals and ministry leaders with a strong reformed theological foundation, enabling them to serve with confidence and apply Scriptural truths to their life, work, and ministry.

Westminster’s integrated training will prepare you to:

Gain a holistic understanding of Scripture, the person and work of Christ, the characteristics of God, and the development of doctrine throughout church history.

Engage with foundational theological truths to understand the relationship of God, humankind, and creation.

Winsomely and effectively apply theological truths to personal, professional, or ministry contexts.

Demonstrate biblical principles of leadership in order to serve humbly and effectively.

at a glance

Credit Hours

36

Years To Complete

1.5–3

Average Cost per Term

$2,025

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“Invaluable to my experience at WTS is the combined effect of being taught by world-renowned theologians and studying at my pace through the various online platforms. My WTS education has equipped me with information and transformed me through the power of the Holy Spirit to biblically and effectively engage people of diverse cultures in the course of disciple-making for Christ."

Ogochukwu o, MATS Student
integrated training
The Master of Arts in Theological Studies program combines the study of theological foundations with practical application under the guidance of expert faculty and instructors.
Our Master of Theological Studies curriculum is crafted to be cumulatively sequential and thoroughly integrated.

Each discipline derives its content and methodology from Scripture and therefore necessarily draws on—and informs—all other disciplines.

Core Courses
9 Courses
  • Bible Survey

  • Principles of Biblical Interpretation

  • Introduction to Systematic Theology

  • Doctrine of God

  • Old Testament for Application

  • New Testament for Application

  • History of Christianity OR History of Christianity II

  • Union with Christ

  • Introduction to Apologetics

Electives
3 courses
  • Biblical Theology of Worship

  • Christianity and Culture

  • History of Christianity I or II

  • Science and Faith

  • Dynamics of Biblical Change

  • Theology and Secular Psychology

  • Helping Relationships

Note: Students are only required to take one of the two church history courses. With regard to the counseling courses, a maximum of one counseling course may be applied to the electives. First priority in these courses will be given to Master of Arts in Counseling students.

Students will demonstrate their knowledge of theological disciplines and their understanding of their importance for matters of life and ministry through the completion of a summative evaluation. Students may complete one of the following to fulfill this requirement for the Master of Arts in Theological Studies: Comprehensive Exam, Integrative Paper, Capstone Project.
Westminster’s expert faculty is made up of dynamic biblical scholars who are personally invested in mentoring and training the next generation of specialists in the Bible.

Lecturing Faculty

Nate Shannon
Apologetics
Iain Duguid
Old Testament
David Garner
Systematic Theology
Vern Poythress
Systematic Theology
Brandon Crowe
New Testament
Jonathan Gibson
Old Testament
Richard Gaffin
Systematic Theology
Mark Garcia
Systematic Theology
Sinclair Ferguson
Systematic Theology

Instructional Faculty

Nathaniel Sutanto
Apologetics
Jason Pickard
Church History
Ben Dunson
New Testament
Thomas Keene
New Testament
Peter Moore
New Testament
Stephen Fix
Old Testament
Stephen Lewis
Old Testament
Jeffrey Stivason
Systematic Theology
GET A TASTE OF OUR ONLINE master of arts in theological studies COURSES

Our online courses leverage innovative technology and high-quality production to deliver excellent content in engaging formats.

The Master of Arts in Theological Studies will prepare you to serve in a wide range of contexts.

MATS STUDENTS & ALUMNI SERVE as ministry leaders IN:

Business leadership

Non-profit administration

Pastoral & church ministry

K–12 education

Church deaconship & eldership

Cross-cultural missions

AVAILABLE 100% ONLINE

To better equip the global church, Westminster offers the Master of Arts in Theological Studies fully online.

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THE ONLINE EXPERIENCE:

A better way to learn online, for when you need to stay.

Greater flexibility that fits your life.

Engaging and innovative classroom environment.

Easy-to-use technology connects you to a global community.

Immediate application in life and ministry.

THE ON-CAMPUS EXPERIENCE:

Deep community and discipleship through shared daily life.

Programs intentionally crafted for ministry preparation and deep academic study.

Unparalleled access to expert faculty who are invested in your life and ministry.

Life-on-life fellowship in a diverse and like-minded community.

Communal rhythms of prayer and worship woven into all areas of campus life.

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FLEXIBLE PROGRAMS THAT FIT YOUR LIFE

Our online theology degree programs are designed to fit your schedule. Complete courses at your own pace and start your degree during any of our four entrance terms.

March

March Term 2024

10 weeks   |   March 18 - May 25

June

June Term 2025

10 weeks   |  Dates TBA

Jan

January Term 2024

10 weeks   |   January 2 - March 9

Sept

September Term 2025

10 weeks   |   Dates TBA

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Theological Studies Certificates

Not ready to commit to a full degree? Westminster now offers three distinct certificate options, with each certificate comprising three of our graduate-level courses from the MATS program.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will the MATS prepare me to become an ordained pastor?

This program is designed for Christians who are leaders within and outside of the church who want an introduction to the core aspects of their Christian faith and its relevance to their life and work. Those considering pastoral ordination should consider Westminster's MDiv degrees.

How long does it take to earn an MATS degree?

The degree timing is flexible, but most students finish in 1.5–3 years.

Is the MATS an accredited program?

The MATS is accredited by both the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Association of Theological Schools.

What scholarships are available for the MATs program?

A limited, needs based scholarship is available for students admitted into the Master of Arts in Theological Studies program. Learn more here.

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