The Master of Arts in Christian formation is designed to help you gain critical competencies in the study of the Bible, Christian theology and best practices for ministry, all while striving to build a stronger foundation for your own faith.
As a ministry leader, you need to be prepared to navigate complex environments with grace and truth. The M.A. in Christian formation prepares you for this challenge. By integrating biblical interpretation with practical ministry training, this program teaches you to think deeply about the theology, history and the text of Scripture so that you can teach faithfully.
Through this program, you will learn how to interpret and apply Scripture from the English Bible texts, state a basic understanding of the foundations of Christian theology and demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the values and principles necessary for wholehearted spiritual formation, both in yourself and in others. Your professors will lead you through rigorous course work that will help you communicate sound biblical truth with knowledge and clarity.
An M.A. in Christian formation will provide a wide range of opportunities for employment—whether you want to work in a church, para-church ministry, nonprofit or other Christian organization.
Grand Rapids Theological Seminary is committed to serving Christ’s church by developing ministry leaders. Our Ministry Residency program is strategic and essential in this endeavor as it provides avenues for students to connect with ministry mentors and to serve in local churches and other ministry sites. Students put their classroom learning to practice, gain important ministry experience, and learn valuable lessons in this unique experience.
Of M.A. in Christian formation alumni surveyed reported being vocationally employed within six to 12 months of graduation. The additional 25% continued for further study beyond the M.A. in Christian formation degree.
Of M.A. in Christian formation students take classes part-time.
Of M.A. in Christian formation students achieved the highest outcome (i.e., making good progress in readiness for ministry) at their mid-point and exit assessments.
At Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, Jesus Christ is central in everything we do. That’s why all of our faculty are believers with a personal relationship with Him. That’s why we challenge our students to think deeply about their own faith walk. And that’s why we inspire our graduates to follow our Lord’s example of leadership: rather than a pursuit of power and influence a posture of self-giving and humble service.
Timothy Bassett (’19)The diversity at GRTS has caused me to be slower to speak and quicker to listen. I’ve learned that my perspective is not always the majority, nor is it the correct one. I’ve appreciated that element to my education here.
Our faculty are driven by uncompromising Christ-like values in everything they do, both inside and outside the classroom. Through their expertise and mentorship, you will be inspired to dig deeper and to grow as a follower of Jesus.
Grand Rapids Theological Seminary offers several programs designed to feed your spiritual formation. Take a look at some of the additional programs we offer.
