Find Your Calling Through the Master of Arts in Theological Studies Program

Considering pursuing a graduate degree in theology? At UNW, we offer the Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS). This graduate program is designed to equip students with biblical knowledge and training for effective ministry. Offered fully online, our MATS program is built to fit into your busy schedule. If you’re desiring a more in-depth journey through Scripture, craving a flexible online format, and/or seeking a foundation to further your theological studies, our MATS program may be the right fit for you.

Our online Master of Arts in Theological Studies program is designed to be attainable and valuable. Faith-infused curriculum is taught by expert faculty currently active in their academic fields, with accelerated coursework that can be completed in under 2 years. You can customize your studies with three unique concentrations: Biblical Studies, Cultural Engagement, or Ministry Leadership. With 36 credits of program coursework, your MATS credits can be 100% applied toward our Master of Divinity degree. A MATS degree can also prepare you for doctoral research.

Though online, our MATS program holds weekly virtual meetings for networking, discussion, and encouragement. Connect with fellow students to build community, engage in dynamic discussions in a non-denominational setting, and receive unwavering support from our professors. Our discussion format allows students to explore the Bible more deeply with fellow students and professors.

By pursuing an online graduate degree in theology, expect to delve deeper into God’s Word, expand your understanding of Christianity, and strengthen your ability to minister to others. Our MATS program features courses like Apologetics, Biblical Hermeneutics, History of Christianity, and Biblical Theology of the Old and New Testaments. Through a variety of engaging courses, students will increase their biblical and theological knowledge and learn to apply a Christian worldview to their profession.

Our MATS curriculum is designed to help students succeed in their professional endeavors. MATS graduates will be prepared to take on a variety of roles, such as pastoral ministry, Christian education, Christian leadership, mission work, and more. Zach S., a UNW MATS graduate and pastor, felt the MATS program helped “prepare him for ministry” and “equipped [him] to understand and do ministry through many cultural dynamics.” Another MATS graduate, Candace W., was “challenged and stimulated by the [MATS] coursework.” Candace felt the program strengthened her ability “to oversee other leaders through better understanding and shepherding.” Our MATS students are better prepared for ministry, better equipped to answer theological questions, and better able to lead and shepherd others.

To be eligible for our MATS degree, students will need to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. If you don’t currently have a bachelor’s degree, UNW offers two accelerated pathways that allow you to take MATS courses during your undergraduate degree: the Biblical and Theological Studies program (on-campus) and the Ministry program (on-campus or online). Both undergraduate programs give students the option to take graduate-level courses that will count towards their bachelor’s degree and the MATS program. Collin C., a UNW alum, earned his MATS degree through the accelerated Biblical and Theological Studies/MATS program. In the time it takes to earn a bachelor’s degree, Collin earned both his B.A. and MATS degrees. Students who choose this accelerated option will save both time and tuition by integrating two existing programs.

If you have a bachelor’s degree but aren’t sure if you want to commit to a full MATS program, UNW also offers an online Graduate Certificate in Christian Studies. This certificate covers four key courses from the MATS program. Students who complete this certificate can continue their studies with the full MATS degree.

At UNW, we understand that continuing your education is more than just a degree. Whether your aspirations are to seek a career in ministry, gain deeper biblical knowledge, or progress spiritually, a graduate degree in theology can lead to new opportunities and personal growth. If you are interested in our MATS program, you can check out our website for more information, schedule a meeting with an admissions counselor, or start an admissions application. We are here to offer support and prayer in your academic endeavors.