Health + Care
At Cornerstone University, you’ll get the full college experience with a Christ-centered worldview. Learn more about the undergraduate experience below.
Transform + Achieve
Persevere in what you know you’re capable of. Our programs for adults provide a creative approach to learning anchored in Christ-centered virtues as you follow your unwavering purpose.
Transform + Achieve
Go further as an influencer in your work and community. Our graduate programs prepare you to open new doors as you reach your God-given potential.
Grand Rapids
Theological Seminary
At Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, we're dedicated to learning, serving and leading through rigorous scholarship and a humble approach to Scripture.
Admissions
Learn more about applying to Cornerstone and what degree programs are best for you.
Academics
Discover what programs you can engage in at CU that align with your God-given passions.
Plan A Visit
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Alumni
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News & Events
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About
Discover more about who we are as a university—our history, values and everything in between.
Grand Rapids Theological SeminaryA Degree as Unique
As your call
M.A. in Christian Studies
The Master of Arts in Christian studies degree is designed to give you flexibility in adapting your program to your particular ministry calling. You’ll be equipped with essential skills for a variety of ministry vocations. At the same time, you’ll have the freedom to tailor nearly 25% of the degree to your particular ministry goals.
0%
Of M.A. in Christian studies students achieved the highest outcome (i.e., fully affirmed/making good progress in vocation readiness) at the mid-point assessment and 100% at the exit assessment.
0%
Of M.A. in Christian studies students take classes part-time.
0
Different Ministry Residency sites where GRTS students served between 2017-20.
Grow in your relationship
with Jesus Christ
The M.A. in Christian studies program develops students’ competencies in Bible, theology and ministry leadership. The program requires 62 credits, 15 of which are electives. Students use these electives to hone in on a specific area of interest. Graduates of the M.A. in Christian studies program are equipped with basic skills in biblical interpretation and application, with an understanding of the primary elements of Christian theology and with the knowledge required for effective ministerial leadership.
This program typically takes two to four years to complete. Most students work part or full-time. While working academically toward your degree, you’ll also be fed spiritually and challenged to grow your relationship with Jesus Christ inside and outside the classroom.
Careers
An M.A. in Christian studies 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.
Opportunities
- Pastoral ministry
- Para-church ministry
- BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
- CHRISTIAN PUBLISHING
- CHURCH PLANTING
- SPIRITUAL DIRECTION
- D.MIN. STUDIES
- YOUTH MINISTRY
Ministry Residency
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.
- Select a ministry setting that fits with your career goals
- Invest four semesters in the context you choose
- Learn from a ministry mentor
- Earn eight credits toward your ministry degree
Opportunities
- CHURCH MINISTRY
- HIGHER EDUCATION
- INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS
- CAMP MINISTRY
- TEACHING ASSISTANT
- RESEARCH ASSISTANT
Flexibility for
your calling
At Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, our students joyfully pursue rigorous training for God’s calling on their life. For that reason, as a community, we strive to know our Lord more fully and to follow his example in all that we do.
Program Learning Outcomes
Program learning outcomes are the foundation of a GRTS degree. Explore how our M.A. in Christian studies program prepares you to learn, serve and lead for a lifetime of ministry.
Jennifer McCormick-Bridgewater (’20)At GRTS, I learned that true discipleship requires courageous curiosity.
Faculty
Whether you are online or in the classroom, our faculty are dedicated to bringing you a rigorous education while mentoring you toward a closer relationship with Christ.
Related Programs
Grand Rapids Theological Seminary offers a variety of flexible programs that can be done online or in the classroom. Take a look at some of the other degree options we have available.
Admissions Office
Contact
- P:
- 800.697.1133
Office Location
3000 Leonard Street NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525Hours
MON - FRI: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
SAT & SUN: Closed