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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.
“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
Instructional Faculty
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.
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.
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 2025
10 weeks | March 24 - May 31
June
June Term 2025
10 weeks | June 17- Aug 24
Jan
January Term 2025
10 weeks | January 6 - March 15
Sept
September Term 2025
10 weeks | Sept 16- Nov 23
contact us to apply
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.
learn more
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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