Master of Arts in Christian Practice (M.A.)

Curriculum

The program’s core course sequence is designed to deepen students’ knowledge and appreciation of the Bible and Christian theological tradition.

Program courses, both online and on campus, are taught by regular Duke Divinity faculty and give students the opportunity to engage in a world-class education no matter where they are located. In addition to their classes, students participate in an ongoing seminar in Christian formation that seeks to integrate learning with spiritual practice.

The M.A. program offers two tracks of study:

One track is aimed at general theological education. See sample paradigm:

A second track is for students pursuing deacon ordination or other congregational leadership positions. See sample paradigm:

Specialized Electives

Specialized electives build upon the core curriculum, engaging students in contemporary practices of ministry. Each student will work towards a certificate in their own field of specialty by assembling electives, which may include a selection from, but are not limited to, this sample list of course offerings:

• Missio Ecclesiae (Missional Church and Evangelism)
• Black Church Studies (multiple electives)
• Christian Education (multiple electives)
• Pastoral Care through Anxiety and Depression
• English Exegesis of the Book of Revelation
• A Digital Rule of Life
• Theological Bioethics
• Visual Art as Theology
• Listen, Organize, Act
• Bible Study Programs for the Local Church
• Cultivating Thriving Communities
• Preaching
• Christian Leadership and Administration

Graduation Requirements

The Master of Arts in Christian Practice is normally completed in two years. Requirements for graduation are:

• Twelve courses completed in no less than two academic years, plus satisfactory participation in an ongoing spiritual formation seminar
• Student portfolio: compile a portfolio to be reviewed by a faculty advisor
• The maintenance of a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0
• Completion of all degree requirements for the degree within a four-year period

Please note that students enrolled in the M.A. cannot apply transfer credits from another institution to their program.

An education from Duke Divinity School is worth your investment, and you do not have to figure out the finances alone.

All M.A. students receive funding.

Duke Divinity School is investing in you, too. It is an investment in your education, the church, and our shared future. All M.A. students receive scholarship support from Duke Divinity School that will cover 25% of tuition, and there is no separate application needed in order to be considered. Many other internal and external scholarships, as well as federal financial aid in the form of work study and loans, make it possible for students to afford Duke Divinity. FAFSA should be completed for external aid. More information can be found in our Financial Aid section.

Ready for the Next Step?

Duke Divinity School accepts applications for the Master of Arts in Christian Practice program beginning in September and concluding with the application deadline in April.

Requirements include:

• Currently employed/aspire to be employed in a congregation or in a profession and committed to lay ministry, ordination as a deacon, or to professional service as a lay vocation; OR a professional in any field looking to learn more about Christian theology and spiritual growth
• Minimum GPA of 2.75 in a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university prior to the intended date of enrollment