Practical Theology
Master of Arts
Designed for Real Life and Ministry
The Practical Theology program blends rigorous theological study with hands-on ministry training, giving students the tools to think deeply and serve effectively. Designed for church and ministry leaders, those exploring a call to vocational ministry, and graduates seeking to strengthen their theological foundation, this program offers the flexibility of online learning paired with live, real-time sessions. Students benefit from guided interaction with professors and classmates while enjoying an accessible format that fits into real-life ministry rhythms.
Built around a trimester calendar with 12-week courses and scheduled breaks, the program allows students to choose their pace by completing the degree in two years full time or four years part time. With three possible start dates each year and an affordable tuition structure that includes digital access to most textbooks, Practical Theology is designed to be both flexible and attainable. Whether students begin in fall, winter, or spring, they’ll step into a program that supports their calling and equips them for faithful, practical ministry.
Degree
- Master of Arts
Location
- Online
Coursework
- Advanced Biblical Study
- Advanced Introduction to the New Testament
- Advanced Introduction to the Old Testament
- Biblical Theology of Power and Leadership
- Christian Thought from the First Century to Today
- Discipleship and Spiritual Formation
- Preaching and Teaching from a Two Testament Bible
- Reading the Bible Theologically
- Theology of Christian Mission
- Electives
Requirements for a Master’s in Practical Theology
- Required Courses – 27 hours
- Electives – 9 hours
- Total Hours – 36 hours
Graduates completing this degree will be able to:
- Use advanced biblical, theological, and historical resources to address contemporary ministry challenges and shape effective Christian leadership.
- Formulate a holistic theology of Christian witness, cultural engagement, and practical ministry.
- Develop biblically grounded approaches to discipleship, spiritual formation, and the pedagogical skills needed to guide others.
- Build lasting relationships with fellow kingdom leaders, fostering mutual encouragement and lifelong ministry partnership.
Graduate Certificates
Details for a Graduate Certificates
- Four courses per certificate – 12 credits total
- Choose from five specializations
- Credits can be applied to a master’s degree
Graduate Certificate in Old Testament Studies
- Advanced Biblical Study
- Advanced Introduction to the Old Testament
- Another Advanced OT Course
- Elective
Graduate Certificate in New Testament Studies
- Advanced Biblical Study
- Advanced Introduction to the New Testament
- Another Advanced NT Course
- Elective
Graduate Certificate in Theological Studies
- Christian Thought
- Theology of Mission or Theology of Church & Culture
- Biblical Theology of Power & Leadership
- Elective
Graduate Certificate in Ministry
Choose 4 of the following:
- Preaching & Teaching
- Theology of Mission
- Discipleship & Spiritual Formation
- Biblical Theology of Power & Leadership
- Theology of Church & Culture
- Theology of Worship
Graduate Certificate in Applied Biblical Studies
- Applied Biblical Studies
- Either Applied Intro to OT or Applied Intro to NT
- An Applied Course: Moral Vision, Preaching & Teaching, Theology of Mission, Discipleship & Spiritual Formation, Theology of Church & Culture, or Theology of Worship
- Elective
Our Graduates Possess These Traits:
- Critical Thinking
- Interpersonal Skills
- Kingdom Mission
- Cultural Humility
- Self-Understanding
- Written Communication
Our Mission
Great Lakes Christian College, an institution of higher education affiliated with Christian Churches/Churches of Christ, seeks to glorify God by preparing students to be servant-leaders in the church and world.
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Start Anytime
Graduate students can begin the program at any trimester – fall, winter, or spring. Start your journey today!
