MA_THEO - Theology (MA) (32-62 units)

NOTE: Students seeking ministerial certification in the LCMS will complete course.

NOTE: Students seeking ministerial certification in the LCMS will complete course.

The Christian Education Leadership emphasis engages students in theology, biblical education, methodology, and principles of leadership to prepare students to equip Christians for the work of ministry (Ephesians 14:12) within a variety of church-related ministries. Students seeking DCE certification within the LCMS should take the Director of Christian Education emphasis.

The Director of Christian Education emphasis engages students in theology, biblical education, methodology, and principles of leadership to prepare students to serve as DCEs within a variety of church-related ministries. The emphasis is open only to LCMS students seeking DCE certification. Students who successfully complete the program and a theological interview will be eligible for DCE certification in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Students not seeking DCE certification should take the Christian Education Leadership emphasis.

The Research in Theology emphasis invites students into an ongoing life of theological research and scholarship in a wide range of theological issues and topics and is designed to engage students in research and dialogue with distinguished faculty who are committed to Holy Scripture, the church's creeds, to life in Christ's Church, and to academic excellence.

The Servant Leadership emphasis is offered in cooperation with KINDLE (The Karpenko Institute for Nurturing and Developing Leadership Excellence), an institute that works to provide advanced leadership training for Directors of Christian Education. The KINDLE seminars make up this emphasis. Students must be recommended from KINDLE to be eligible for this emphasis.

NOTE: One Colloquium in Theology each in Theologies of Youth Ministry, Missional Youth Ministry, and Global Youth Ministry.

The Theology and Culture emphasis invites students into an engagement with the diverse and rich ethnic and cultural heritages so evident in the Pacific Southwest. Students learn alongside intercultural colleagues from Latino, African, Pacific Rim, Middle Eastern, and Anglo backgrounds. The curriculum also serves as part of the LCMS Pastoral Certification program.