Master of Arts in Practical Ministry

Master of Arts in Practical Ministry (MAPM)

The MAPM prepares graduates for specialized roles in churches or other ministries. Students from denominations that do not require the MDiv often use the MAPM to enhance their knowledge and ministry skills. The curriculum focuses on courses in the practice of ministry.

Program Director

Gore, R. J.

Professor of Systematic Theology
Dean Emeritus

Program Goals

The Seminary seeks to develop the following in students in this degree program:

Concepts. Graduates will interpret the Bible and draw on the church’s theological and historical heritage as they apply the Bible’s message to faith, life, and ministry in contemporary contexts.
Calling. Graduates will identify, develop, and use their abilities and spiritual gifts to advance the church’s mission to worship and serve Jesus Christ.
Character. Graduates will serve the church with evident Christian character and integrity in their personal and professional lives.
Competence. Graduates will serve the church effectively using skills required for lay and para-church ministry, especially teaching, leadership, and soul care.

Student Learning Outcomes

Make appropriate use of relevant (a) Bible passages and (b) confessional standards, as they integrate their course material to their (c) ministry contexts. (NT 601-602, ST 551)
Identify, develop, and use personal abilities, gifts, and gained knowledge to strengthen their church’s worship of and service to Jesus Christ. (PM 705)
Demonstrate growing Christ-like character through writing and practice of ministry. (PM 502)
Preach and teach the Bible clearly and passionately as to engage the mind and move the heart. (PM 507)

Program Requirements

Admission

Applicants must have completed a baccalaureate degree at an accredited institution with an acceptable grade point average. (See “Admissions” for details.) Students who lack an undergraduate degree may be awarded the Diploma in Practical Ministry by completing the same curriculum.

Graduation

Students must complete 36 hours of coursework as outlined below with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 to remain in good standing and maintain eligibility for financial aid. The program may be completed in as little as two years of full-time study. Students must normally complete the program within six years.

MAPM

Foundational Courses

BI 501 Bible Survey or BI 080 Bible Challenge Exam*
BI 502 Principles of Exegesis (required of first-year students)**
PM 502 Christian Vocation and Transformation

*BI 501 Bible Survey is required of first-year students who have not passed the Bible Challenge Exam.
**Students must have successfully completed BI 502 to earn “exegesis credit” for Bible electives and normally should have completed OT and NT survey courses.