Master's Degrees
MASTER'S DEGREES
AREA I – BIBLICAL STUDIES
Biblical revelation is the foundation and source of the Church’s message. As a church we affirm "that we accept and stand for the whole Bible rightly divided, and for the New Testament as our rule of faith and practice . . . (and that the New Testament is) . . . the only rule for government and discipline." The study of the Scriptures in the context of the history and culture of its own times prepares the student to understand and to interpret the Word of God for today’s world. The development of competence in exegesis and exposition furnishes the student with tools for his or her role as interpreter and proclaimer of the Word.
The objectives of the Seminary in the area of Biblical Studies are:
To aid the student in the acquisition of skills necessary to interpret and understand the Scriptures;
To instill in the student the importance of personal integrity and emphasize that integrity grows out of Biblical roots and is manifested in spiritually fruitful, interpersonal relationships; and
To encourage sensitivity to the Holy Spirit in all areas of life and ministry, especially in anointed preaching and teaching of the Word.
AREA II – HISTORICAL AND THEOLOGICAL STUDIES
The Word has come down to the present day through the mediation of the Church; and the Church’s understanding of the Word has influenced its own history and theology in each age. As students become acquainted with the history of the Church as an institution and with the historical development of Christian doctrine, they are given insight for evaluating various contemporary theologies, enabling them to develop a sound, biblical-theological position which will inform and undergird their ministry.
The objectives of the Seminary in the area of Historical and Theological Studies are:
To teach the faith and history of the Church, especially the deep Scriptural holiness and Pentecostal themes which for centuries have nourished the people of God and figured so prominently in the formation of the Church of God;
To promote a historically informed appreciation of the doctrines and ministries of the Church in today’s world;
To provide a theological foundation for a ministry of servant leadership and a commitment to an international, multicultural Church with a worldwide mission to all peoples, but especially to the poor; and
To model and inculcate a sense of the inner relationship of doctrine and spiritual formation and the way in which sound doctrine makes ministry practice truly good ministry when there is a proper integration of theology and practice.
AREA III – STUDIES IN THE LIFE AND MINISTRY OF THE CHURCH
The Church must live and minister in today’s world, with all of its cultural and ethnic variations, as well as its uncertainties, problems, and hurts. Through the insights of theology and the social sciences, the student is encouraged to come to grips with what it means to be the people of God in one’s own cultural context. The ministry of the Church in today’s world is studied from different perspectives, using different methods of teaching for the purpose of developing in the student the requisite ministry competencies.
The objectives of the Seminary in the area of Studies in the Life and Ministry of the Church are:
To facilitate the development of a theology and practice of ministry which is biblically sound, historically informed, and relevant to contemporary human needs; and
To impart a comprehensive and integrated vision of the human condition in order to enable one to minister to the whole person in his or her socio-cultural setting.
AREA IV – PERSONAL FORMATION FOR MINISTRY
At the core of preparation for ministry is one’s personal formation. The person who serves in Christian ministry must be above reproach in character, knowledgeable of the Scriptures, established in the faith, and disposed towards sacrificial service. This requires a lifelong commitment to personal discipleship, faithful union with the Church, obedience to the great commandment to love God and neighbor, and fulfillment of the Great Commission. The integration of personal faith with biblical-theological studies and ministry practices is an essential component of formation for Christian ministry.
The objectives of the Seminary in the area of Personal Formation for Ministry are:
To cultivate the development of a personal identity in Christ which integrates one’s personal story with that of the people of God, the Christian faith, and the mission of the Church;
To nurture commitment to lifelong discipleship characterized by unity with the body of Christ, stewardship in a local congregation, worship, and spiritual disciplines (including the intellectual love of God); and
To provide a community of faith and fellowship that will enrich the student’s life and family for ministry in the Church.
PRE-SEMINARY PREPARATION
Seminary work demands more than the singular pursuits of either academics or skill enhancement. Theological work requires an integration of head and heart that is biblically grounded, historically informed, theologically sound, and contextually relevant. It is therefore recommended that whenever possible, students at the undergraduate level obtain a good, general working knowledge of the Bible, church history, world history, the arts and sciences (including behavioral/social sciences), critical thinking, research and writing skills, philosophy, world religions, etc. One year of biblical Greek and/or Hebrew is strongly recommended for the Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies. Since the Seminary has established such a strong academic reputation, with many graduates having been admitted to the top doctoral studies programs, undergraduate students who desire advanced Seminary placement are urged to consult with the Vice President for Academics as early as possible during their undergraduate program. (See Advanced Standing with Credit)
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
The Seminary understands itself to be the church gathered for theological education. It is a community of faith, love, and learning. All programs of study are viewed from this perspective.
The Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry programs require the equivalent of a minimum of one year of residential coursework. This coursework may be completed at the Seminary main campus or at approved extensions. Transfer credit cannot count toward meeting this residency requirement. In addition to course requirements, students are expected to participate in a variety of programs which help to nurture the community of faith: Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study, Supervision and Assessment, Ministerial Development, Chapel, Community of Faith (Counseling Development Group for counseling students), Ministers Week, and Church of God History and Polity.
Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study (SA 801)
All students are required to successfully complete Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study within their first 12 hours of coursework. Offered during the Fall and Spring terms each year, this course makes it possible for the students to dialogue with various faculty members concerning the integration of theology, ministry, and life.
Supervision and Assessment
At various points in the students’ educational and ministerial development, they are given special occasions to assess their readiness for ministry. At the beginning of the Seminary experience, students are carefully assessed through an evaluation of their application for admission and the inventory/evaluation program, which is designed to assess intellectual abilities and psychological development. During the first semester, other assessments are given to determine readiness and aptitude for ministry. Students are thus encouraged to self-evaluate, and individual programs are designed accordingly. To aid in this initial assessment process, the students are required to take SA 801 - Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study. This three-hour course is team-taught and allows the students to assess in a very basic way their readiness for the study of theology and ministry.
Academic, formational, and ministry practice evaluation are part of a continuing program of student assessment. In addition to evaluation of the student’s course work by the course instructors, there is ongoing assessment of personal and ministerial formation throughout the student's Seminary experience. This process involves (1) various assessment instruments through participation in the Pentecostal Foundations course, (2) four semesters of participation in a Community of Faith and Ministry Development Group each of which will include reflection on ministry practice and personal formation, (3) the development of a portfolio and capstone project which demonstrate successful completion of degree program outcomes, (4) a mid-program review with a faculty advisor to assess progress in achievement of degree program outcomes, (5) a
final-program review including a public presentation of the student’s capstone project, and (6) assessment of supervised ministry experiences (an internship and/or practicum depending on degree program and student assessments).
Ministerial Development
The Ministerial Development Committee, comprised of faculty, staff, and students, has the responsibility to design and require specific ministry programs which will enhance student development. At any time during the course of one’s program, a student may be asked to appear before the Ministerial Development Committee to respond to one or more of the following areas: academic/ministerial difficulties, discipline issues, or personal crises and problems.
Chapel
The development of the spiritual life is of paramount importance to all Christians, especially to those who are called to, and in the process of preparing themselves for, Christian ministry.
Regular chapel services, which are held on
Tuesday and Thursday of each week, are designed to be meaningful worship experiences for the whole Seminary community, and attendance is required. It is our desire that these services be spiritually enriching and supportive of the Seminary’s process of ministerial preparation and formation.
Through regular chapel services and special services, Seminary students have the opportunity to minister to each other and to be ministered to by outstanding ministers from a broad and varied experience.
Community of Faith and Counseling Development Groups
All degree-seeking students are required to be part of a Community of Faith (COF) or Counseling Development Group (CDG) which meets weekly with a faculty facilitator or other approved leadership. The purpose of the COF and CDG is sharing one's testimony, receiving and giving care, and development in ministry practice. Students must earn four credit hours by participating in not less than four semesters of the COF or CDG.
Ministers' Week
Ministers' Week is an occasion for the Seminary community to join with representatives of leadership, various general departments, and other educational institutions of the Church to consider vital aspects of contemporary ministry from an interdisciplinary perspective, using various educational methods and in a manner which models the integration of faith and practice which is the hallmark of the Seminary.
Ministerial Credentials
Church of God students who are planning to enter full-time Christian service and who have not yet received ministerial credentials are encouraged to make application for ministerial credentials early in their seminary career, as this will assist in the formation of a ministerial identity. The credentialing process is overseen by the State Administrative Bishop of the state or territory where one is a member. Credentials are granted by the denomination through a process that includes a written application, endorsement by one’s State Administrative Bishop, one’s pastor, and the local congregation of one’s membership, and written and oral examinations administered by a duly appointed Examining Board. With the approval of a student’s State Administrative Bishop, ministerial exams may be administered by an Examining Board at the Seminary.
Also, it is the policy of the Church of God to allow a student at the point of graduation with a Masters degree from PTS to be exempt from the written examination for advancement in ministerial rank. This applies to the initial rank of Exhorter or advancement from Exhorter to Ordained Licensed Minister or Advancement from Ordained Licensed Minister to Ordained Bishop. Students wishing to take advantage of this program must be otherwise qualified for the advance and they must complete the normal application process through their respective State Offices.
All Church of God Students are strongly encouraged to take Church of God History and Polity (HS 650) if they have not already taken it at the undergraduate level. Successful completion of this course is a prerequisite for any student wishing to be examined at the seminary for ministerial credentials or advancement in ministerial rank. For more information contact the Ministerial Development Committee.
PLACEMENT
General. Assistance with placement in ministerial service is done after careful assessment of the student’s story/autobiography, talents, experience, and ongoing ministerial development needs. Students are encouraged to work through their denominational channels (state bishops, district overseers, departments, etc.) when inquiring about ministerial vacancies and needs.
Chaplaincy. The Seminary offers specialized training opportunities for students interested in military, prison, hospital, campus, industry, and other institutional chaplaincy programs. Candidates for authorized chaplaincy positions are screened and processed through the Church of God Chaplains Commission.
DURATION
All course credits applied toward degree requirements must be earned within ten (10) years of the awarding of the degree.
MASTER OF DIVINITY (74 - 80 Credit Hours)
The purpose of the Master of Divinity (MDIV) degree program is to prepare men and women for effective ministry as pastors, evangelists, missionaries, chaplains, counselors, or other ministries. The student is seen as an active learner who is growing while developing his or her own unique gifts and style for ministry.
The MDIV program is structured to give each student a balanced exposure to theological studies in three years. The program also provides for exibility in preparation according to personal calling and needs. A faculty advisor assists the student in selecting the courses most appropriate to the individual’s stage of development, interests, and emerging goals in ministry.
The MDIV degree requires the successful completion of 74 or 80 semester hours (depending on language requirements such as Hebrew or Greek) with a GPA of 2.0 or above on a 4-point scale. Up to 37/40 credit hours of work may be accepted by transfer of courses (from accredited schools with a grade of C or better) upon the approval of the Vice President for Academics.
MASTER OF DIVINITY LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon graduation, students will be able to:
Pentecostal Scholarship: demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary for the ongoing integration of theological study with life and ministry.
Formation: demonstrate an established testimony of personal and ministerial formation that bears evidence of commitment to live under the lordship of Jesus Christ.
Pentecostal Worship: articulate, practice, and lead others to practice Pentecostal Worship.
Holy Witness: articulate, practice, and lead others to practice Holy Witness.
Covenant Community: articulate, practice, and lead others to practice Covenant Community.
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
BIBLICAL LANGUAGE
The ability to use Greek or Hebrew for biblical exegesis is required. If the applicant has not had six hours of undergraduate study in one of the biblical languages, it is recommended that these courses be taken as early as possible (preferably, the summer before the student's first Fall semester). In order to be exempted from the six hour biblical language requirement, the student must complete a Course Waiver/Substitution Form located in the PTS Forms Site.
PORTFOLIO AND CAPSTONE
Prior to graduation, Master of Divinity students must present a portfolio that demonstrates successful attainment of each of the degree program desired outcomes. In keeping with the Seminary's commitment to prepare persons for ministry in today’s world, these portfolios are to be constructed in digital form. Students are expected to compile their portfolios as they progress through the program. The portfolio will be reviewed by the student’s faculty advisor at the time of the mid-program review. During the student’s final semester, the portfolio will be incorporated into the student’s capstone experience, which will include a public review of the portfolio.
During the student’s final semester prior to graduation, he or she will enroll in the Master of Divinity Capstone Course. This course will guide the student in the final preparation and public presentation of the portfolio.
ASSESSMENT
An extensive program of assessment of the student’s readiness for ministry is integrated into the Master of Divinity degree program. This program of assessment is designed (1) to assist the student in recognizing his or her personal ministry gifts and callings, (2) to assist the student in personal formation as a Christian minister, and (3) to guide the student into successful attainment of the degree program outcomes.
At the beginning of the Seminary experience students are assessed through an evaluation of their application for admission and various assessment instruments which are designed to indicate intellectual abilities and to assess psychological readiness for ministry. In addition, students are assessed for their need for supervised ministry. During the first semester other inventories are administered in conjunction with the Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study course to assist in this process.
MID-PROGRAM REVIEW
Near the midpoint of the degree program (during the third semester as a full-time student or during the semester following the completion of twenty-four hours) a student must complete a mid-program review. This review will be conducted with the faculty advisor and will focus on the student’s progress toward the five core outcomes of the degree. Specifically, the review will assess the student’s degree program portfolio as the primary indicator of progress toward graduation. Failure to demonstrate acceptable progress toward degree completion may result in referral to the Ministerial Development Committee for additional assessment and the formation of a personalized plan of study.
FINAL PROGRAM REVIEW
During the student’s final semester, he or she must complete an end-of-program review. This final review will be integrated into a capstone experience and will be comprised of two components. First, the student will defend his or her portfolio with his or her faculty advisor in order to assess the achievement of the degree program outcomes. Second, the student will make a public presentation of his or her portfolio along with other capstone requirements.
MINISTRY SUPERVISION AND INTERNSHIP
Successful completion of the Master of Divinity degree program requires the student to demonstrate the integration of knowledge and skills with both personal development and the practice of ministry. Supervised ministry experiences are essential to this process. Students should keep in mind that the purpose of these experiences is personal formation for ministry through experiences of ministerial activities and skill development. To this end, the Master of Divinity program requires the successful completion of a ministry internship. Students may elect or be required to also complete a practicum in a specialized area of ministry.
During the second academic year, or after completion of 39 hours, Master of Divinity students are required to meet with the Ministerial Development Committee to review and evaluate the student's seminary and ministry experiences. This meeting follows shortly after the mid-program review with the faculty advisor and will include a summary review of the student’s developing portfolio. The primary purposes of this meeting with the committee are to identify an acceptable internship for the student and to give direction to the student for the successful attainment of the degree outcomes. Prior to the meeting, the student will, in writing, project plans for the successful completion of the degree, including an internship that expands his or her ministerial development and affords appropriate supervision in the integration of ministry activity with personal formation. The committee may prescribe a curricular course of study including designated supervised ministry experiences. It is the responsibility of the student to schedule this meeting through the Office of Ministerial Development. The Office of Ministerial Development shall provide the requisite forms for the meeting.
A student who feels there are reasons to be exempted from an internship may, with the approval of his or her faculty advisor and Community of Faith leader, apply to the Ministerial Development Committee for an exemption from an internship.
DEGREE CONCENTRATIONS
The student has a choice of either declaring an area of concentration in his or her MDIV degree program or pursuing a "general" MDIV degree program. If the student does NOT declare an area of concentration and wishes to pursue the general MDIV degree, he or she should complete the remaining credit hours as "general electives." Concentrations require a minimum of 18 hours within a designated area of study in addition to required courses. However, up to 6 hours of the required courses in an area of concentration can be applied toward the concentration. When a student decides on a concentration, every effort will be made to assign the student to a faculty advisor in that concentration. Students may elect a concentration in one of the following areas.
CONCENTRATION IN BIBLICAL STUDIES (4 concentrations possible)
1. Concentration in Biblical Studies
Eighteen (18) hours that constitute this concentration may be chosen from any Biblical Studies course offerings as approved by a Biblical Studies advisor. Six (6) hours of the eighteen (18) may come from the required courses in Biblical Studies.
Ability to use Greek or Hebrew for biblical exegesis is required. A student who has not completed at least six (6) hours of undergraduate biblical language study must also complete either Hebrew I and II or New Testament Greek I and II. (First-year courses in Greek and Hebrew do not count toward the concentration.)
2. Concentration in Old Testament
Eighteen (18) hours that constitute this concentration may be chosen from any course offerings in Old Testament as approved by a Biblical Studies advisor. Six (6) hours of the eighteen (18) may come from the required courses in Biblical Studies.
Ability to use Hebrew for biblical exegesis is required. A student who has not completed at least six (6) hours of undergraduate Hebrew language study must also complete Hebrew I and II. (Hebrew I and II do not count toward the concentration).
3. Concentration in New Testament
Eighteen (18) hours that constitute this concentration may be chosen from any course offerings in New Testament as approved by a Biblical Studies advisor. Six (6) hours of the eighteen (18) may come from the required courses in Biblical Studies.
Ability to use Greek for biblical exegesis is required. A student who has not completed at least six (6) hours of undergraduate Greek language study must also complete Greek I and II. (Greek I and II do not count toward the concentration).
4. Concentration in Biblical Languages
Eighteen (18) hours that constitute this concentration may include six (6) hours from required courses in Biblical Studies.
At least twelve (12) hours can be drawn from Greek III, Hebrew III, Aramaic, New Testament Textual Criticism, Septuagint, Egyptian Hieroglyphics, Ugaritic, Akkadian and/or up to two additional book studies.
Ability to use Greek or Hebrew for biblical exegesis is required. A student who has not completed at least six (6) hours of undergraduate biblical language study must also complete either Hebrew I and II or New Testament Greek I and II. (First-year courses in Greek and Hebrew do not count toward the concentration).
CONCENTRATION IN HISTORICAL STUDIES
Students must complete at least six (6) hours from the following list of courses:
HS 610 The Early Church
HS 630 United States Church History: 1607-1820
HS 631 Church History in the United States: 1820-Present
Any twelve (12) hours from course offerings designated as Historical Studies (HS) and/or Historical Theology (HT) which may include two (2) of the following core courses:
HT 601 Historical Theology
HT 643 Historical and Theology of Wesleyan Holiness Pentecostal Movements
HS 650 Church of God History and Polity
CONCENTRATION IN THEOLOGICAL STUDIES
Six (6) hours may be applied to the concentration from:
HT 601 Historical Theology
HT 643 History and Theology of Wesleyan Holiness Pentecostal Movements
TS 602 Pentecostal Spirituality Theology
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine
TS 630 Theology of the Holy Spirit
CONCENTRATION IN CHAPLAINCY
Students should complete Clinical Pastoral Education (CO 760; 6 credit hours) as the MDIV internship. Choose 12 credit hours from the following list of courses:
CO 701 Counseling Skills
CO 702 Theories and Techniques of Counseling
CO 703 Human Growth and Transformation
CO 710 Marriage and Family Systems-Theories in Counseling
CO 730 Crisis Counseling
CO 731 Professional Issues and Ethics in Counseling
CO 736 Intercultural Counseling
CO 750 Conflict Ministry
CO 761 Community Service Ministries Basic Course
CO 763 Clinical Practicum in Institutional Ministries
CO 776 Human Sexuality
LC 702 Christian Ethics: Pentecostal Theology for Social Engagement
TS/LC 680 Christian Ethics: Pentecostal Theology for Social Engagement
WM 740 Contemporary World Religions
CONCENTRATION IN CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES
In the general Area III requirements, Foundations for Christian Formation (CF 701) must be completed instead of The Disciple Making Pastor (CF 722). The following four courses must also be completed:
CF 703 Human Growth and Transformation
CF 721 Formational Leadership
CF 741 Ministry with Families
CF 750 Children of the Kingdom
An additional three (3) credit hours of advisor-approved electives in Children's Ministry also must be completed.
CONCENTRATION IN DISCIPLESHIP AND CHRISTIAN FORMATION
In the general Area III requirements, Foundations for Christian Formation (CF 701) must be taken instead of The Disciple Making Pastor (CF 722). The following three courses must be completed in the concentration area:
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study
CF 720 Teaching the Word
CF 721 Formational Leadership
A 3-hour Christian Formation course in Children, Youth or Family Ministry, and an additional three (3) hours of Christian Formation electives must also be completed.
CONCENTRATION IN WORLD MISSION AND EVANGELISM
In addition to Foundations for World Mission and Evangelism (WM 701), the student should complete fifteen (15) credit hours from the following list of courses, chosen in consultation with his or her advisor:
LC 701 Religion and Culture
ML 724 Leadership Training Models
ML 740 Evangelism and Renewal
ML 741 Church Growth
ML 742 Church Planting
ML 760 Foundations for Wholistic Mission
ML 761 Cross-Cultural Ministries in North America
WM 708 Biblical and Contemporary Theology of Mission
WM 720 History of Missions
WM 730 Cultural Anthropology
WM 740 Contemporary World Religions
WM 750 Pentecostal Strategies of Missions
WM 751 Principles of Missionary Practice
WM 752 Issues in Pentecostal /Charismatic Church Growth
WM 761 Missions Travel Seminar
WM 795 World Mission Area Studies
WM 796 Global Pentecostalism and 21st Century Mission
Directed Study in World Mission and Evangelism
Research in World Mission and Evangelism
CONCENTRATION IN MINISTRY LEADERSHIP
In the Area 3 requirements, students with a concentration in Ministry Leadership are required to complete:
ML 701 Ministry of the Word or ML 702 Expository Preaching; and
ML 720 Pastoral Ministries or CO 701 Counseling Skills.
Eighteen (18) credit hours of ministry leadership electives (courses with a ML course prefix) are also required. Students should consult their academic advisor when selecting ministry leadership electives. With the approval of the advisor, students have the option of selecting other courses in, or relating to, pastoral ministries.
CONCENTRATION IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND URBAN CARE
It is recommended that students choose one (1) of the following for their core Bible book study:
NT 520 Matthew
NT 540 James
OT 542 Isaiah
OT 587 Wisdom Books
Students must take Christian Ethics-Pentecostal Theology for Social Engagement TS/LC 680 and one (1) of the following:
CF 722 The Disciple Making Pastor
CO 701 Counseling Skills
CO 703 Human Growth and Transformation
Students will choose four (4) of the following course options (12 credit hours):
CO 736 Intercultural Counseling
CO 761 Community Service Ministries or CF 761 Discipling Youth
ML 724 Leadership Training Models or ML 723 Multiple Staff Ministries or ML 722 Church Leadership or CF 721 Formational Leadership
ML 760 Foundations for Wholistic Mission or ML 742 Church Planting or ML 761 Cross-Cultural Ministries in North America
WM 708 Biblical and Contemporary Theology of Mission
WM 730 Cultural Anthropology
For the MDIV internship (SA 820), students must choose an internship experience with a community development/urban care context and focus in place of one of the four courses chosen above.
CONCENTRATION IN YOUTH AND FAMILY MINISTRY
In the general Area III requirements, Foundations for Christian Formation (CF 701) must be taken instead of The Disciple Making Pastor (CF 722). Twelve (12) credit hours of concentration electives must be completed from the list below:
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study
CF 703 Human Growth and Transformation
CF 720 Teaching the Word
CF 741 Ministry with Families
Three (3) hours of advisor approved electives in Youth Ministry must also be completed.
CONCENTRATION IN COUNSELING/MARRIAGE AND FAMILY
To earn a concentration in counseling/marriage and family, students must complete:
CO 701 Counseling Skills
CO 702 Theories and Techniques of Counseling; or
CO 710 Marriage and Family Systems
Plus 12 credit hours of counseling elective courses as approved by a concentration advisor. A counseling elective course is any course with a course number prefix CO.
If Clinical Pastoral Education (CO 760) is used as the MDIV internship, it will not be counted as part of the concentration.
MDIV REQUIRED COURSES
Area I – Biblical Studies
BH 501 Biblical Hermeneutics................................................................................. 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the New Testament ........................................ 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the Old Testament.......................................... 3
Area II – Historical and Theological Studies
HT 601 Historical Theology ......................................................................... ......... 3
HT 643 History and Theology of Wesleyan Holiness Pentecostal Movements ...... 3
TS 602 Pentecostal Spirituality-Theology ............................................................... 3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine .. ............................................................ 3
TS 630 Theology of the Holy Spirit or TS 641 Doctrine of Holiness........................ 3
Note: HS650 Church of God History and Polity is required for those students seeking credentialing or advancement in rank within the Church of God.
Area III – Studies in the Life and Ministry of the Church
CF 701 Foundations for Christian Formation or
CF 722 The Disciple Making Pastor ....................................................................... 3
ML 701 Ministry of the Word or ML702 Expository Preaching*................................ 3
ML 720 Pastoral Ministries or CO 701 Counseling Skills*....................................... 3
WM 701 Foundations for World Mission and Evangelism or
ML/WM 760 Foundations for Wholistic Mission....................................................... 3
*Students demonstrating five or more years of ministerial experience can substitute CO 701 (Counseling Skills) for ML 720 (Pastoral Ministries) and substitute ML 702 (Expository Preaching) for ML 701 (Ministry of the Word). In order to qualify for this substitution, five years of ministerial experience must be documented by the academic advisor and student through the completion of the Ministerial Experience Verification Form.
Note: HS650 Church of God History and Polity is required for those students seeking credentialing or advancement in rank within the Church of God.
Area III – Studies in the Life and Ministry of the Church
CF 701 Foundations for Christian Formation or
CF 722 The Disciple Making Pastor ....................................................................... 3
ML 701 Ministry of the Word or ML702 Expository Preaching*................................ 3
ML 720 Pastoral Ministries or CO 701 Counseling Skills*....................................... 3
WM 701 Foundations for World Mission and Evangelism or
ML/WM 760 Foundations for Wholistic Mission....................................................... 3
*Students demonstrating five or more years of ministerial experience can substitute CO 701 (Counseling Skills) for ML 720 (Pastoral Ministries) and substitute ML 702 (Expository Preaching) for ML 701 (Ministry of the Word). In order to qualify for this substitution, five years of ministerial experience must be documented by the academic advisor and student through the completion of the Ministerial Experience Verification Form.
Area IV – Personal Formation for Ministry
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study* ....................... 3
SA 802-805 Community of Faith and Ministry Development .................................. 4
MDIV Capstone ....................................................................................................... 2
SA 820-821 Ministerial Internship**......................................................................... 3 (6) *Pentecostal Foundations must be taken in the first term of enrollment.
**If Ministerial Internship does not have a "care component", SA 807 Care Practicum (2 hour) must also be completed.
Remaining Electives (depending on internship)....................................................... 17(20)
TYPICAL MASTER OF DIVINITY PROGRAM SEQUENCE (Full-Time Study)
First Year
HT 601 Historical Theology ..................................................................................... 3
HT 643 History and Theology of Wesleyan Holiness Pentecostal Movements…… 3
ML 720 Pastoral Ministries or CO 701 Counseling Skills......................................... 3
ML 701 Ministry of the Word or ML702 Expository Preaching ................................ 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the New Testament ........................................ 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the Old Testament ......................................... 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry .......................................... 3
SA 802 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ......................................... 1
SA 803 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ......................................... 1
WM 701 Foundations for World Mission and Evangelism or
ML/WM 760 Foundations for Wholistic Mission ...................................................... 3
J-Term Elective (January, June, or July) - Optional
Total Credit Hours First Year: 26
Second Year
BH 501 Biblical Hermeneutics ................................................................................ 3
CF 701 Foundations for Christian Formation or CF 722 Disciple Making Pastor … 3
SA 804 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ......................................... 1
SA 805 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ......................................... 1
TS 602 Pentecostal Spirituality-Theology ............................................................... 3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine................................................................ 3
TS 630 Theology of the Holy Spirit or TS 641 Doctrine of Holiness ....................... 3
Two Biblical Studies Electives with Greek and/or Hebrew Exegesis……................ 6
Course in Concentration or General Elective*......................................................... 3
*Students not declaring an area of concentration
J-Term Elective (January, June, or July) - Optional
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 26
Third Year
HS 650 Church of God History and Polity or Area II Elective.................................. 3
MDIV Capstone....................................................................................................... 2
SA 820-821 Ministerial Internship ........................................................................... 3 or 6
Courses in Concentration or General Electives*..................................................... 11-14
*Students not declaring an area of concentration
J-Term Elective (January, June, or July) - Optional
Total Credit Hours Third Year: 22
Note: Students who have not completed the biblical language requirement in an undergraduate program must complete an additional 6 credit hours of Greek or Hebrew. In this case, the total credit hours needed to complete the MDIV degree program is 80.
Total MDIV Degree Program Requirement: 74-80 Credit Hours
TYPICAL MASTER OF DIVINITY PROGRAM SEQUENCE (Part-Time Study)
First Year (Including the optional J-Term in January and June-July)
HT 601 Historical Theology ............................................................................................ 3
ML 720 Pastoral Ministries or CO 701 Counseling Skills................................................ 3
ML 701 Ministry of the Word or ML702 Expository Preaching ...............................……..3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the New Testament ............................................... 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the Old Testament ................................................. 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry .................................................. 3
SA 802 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ................................................. 1
SA 803 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ................................................. 1
Total Credit Hours First Year: 20
Second Year (Including the optional J-Term in January and June-July)
BH 501 Biblical Hermeneutics .........................................................................................3
CF 701 Foundations for Christian Formation or CF 722 Disciple Making Pastor …........3
HT 643 History and Theology of Wesleyan Holiness Pentecostal Movements……....... 3
SA 804 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ..................................................1
SA 805 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ..................................................1
TS 602 Pentecostal Spirituality-Theology ........................................................................3
Two Biblical Studies Electives with Greek and/or Hebrew Exegesis…….........................6
*Students not declaring an area of concentration
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 20
Third Year (Including Optional J-Term in January and June-July)
TS 630 Theology of the Holy Spirit or TS 641 Doctrine of Holiness ................................3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine.........................................................................3
WM 701 Foundations for World Mission and Evangelism or
ML/WM 760 Foundations for Wholistic Mission .............................................................. 3
Courses in Concentration or General Electives*.................................................. 11 or 14
*Students not declaring an area of concentration
Total Credit Hours Third Year: 20
Fourth Year (Including Optional J-Term in January and June-July)
HS 650 Church of God History and Polity or Area II Elective...........................................3
MDIV Capstone................................................................................................................2
SA 820-821 Ministerial Internship ............................................................................ 3 or 6
Course in Concentration or General Elective*..................................................................3
*Students not declaring an area of concentration
Total Credit Hours Third Year: 14
MASTER OF ARTS IN DISCIPLESHIP AND CHRISTIAN FORMATION (50 Credit Hours)
The Master of Arts in Discipleship and Christian Formation (MADCF) degree is a professional degree designed to prepare men and women for specialized ministries in the church’s mission of making disciples. The degree is intended for persons desiring to serve local congregations as an Associate Pastor, Minister of Education, Minister of Discipleship, Minister of Youth, Minister of Children, Minister of Families, Minister of Singles, or any combination of the above. It is also designed for persons who will be responsible for mentoring and training church leaders through theological education (including day schools, Bible Institutes, Christian colleges, and Theological Education by Extension) and for persons desiring to serve in denominational ministries for Youth and Christian Education. The program consists of courses in (1) basic theological education, (2) personal formation for ministry, (3) core studies in discipleship and Christian formation, and (4) an approved ministry focus.
The MADCF degree requires a minimum of fifty credit hours of prescribed graduate study. It is a two-year degree because it requires a minimum of two years as a fulltime student to complete the degree. The MADCF degree program is considered a professional degree in ministry leadership.
MADCF LEARNING OUTCOMES
The MADCF degree is designed to prepare women and men for professional ministry in the area of discipleship and Christian formation. Graduates of the program should:
Personal Formation
1. Have an established testimony of personal discipleship demonstrated in commitment to live under the lordship of Jesus Christ as expressed through the exercise of spiritual disciplines, submission to the authority of the Scriptures, surrender to the leading of the Holy Spirit, unity with the Body of Christ, and faithful stewardship in a local congregation.
2. Be able to "rightly divide the Word of Truth" through the proper application of the inductive approach to Bible study.
Steadfastness in the Traditions of the Faith
3. Be able to tell the story of the Christian people.
4. Be able to articulate the historic doctrines of the Christian faith and communicate the unique contributions of the Wesleyan-Pentecostal expression of that faith.
5. Be able to describe the origin, preservation, structure, and essential content of the Old and New Testaments.
Theology of Ministry
6. Be able to defend a biblically, historically, and doctrinally informed, understanding of:
a. Ministry;
b. the foundational processes of Christian discipleship and formation; and
c. the nature and mission of the Church.
Ministry Skills
7. Be able to lead others in direct study of the Scriptures in a small group context
8. Be able to describe the patterns of human growth and development throughout the stages of life and to apply that information to the interpretation of individual discipleship needs.
9. Be able to mentor others in Christian discipleship.
10. Be able to critically assess strengths and weaknesses of the discipleship ministry of congregations.
11. Be able to lead a congregation in the development and administration of a comprehensive program of discipleship ministries.
12. Be able to demonstrate competence in a chosen area of ministry focus.
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Persons entering the program should have an established testimony of commitment to Christ and personal discipleship demonstrated through faithful membership and service in a local congregation. They should also be able to demonstrate a general knowledge of the structure and content of the Scriptures. Entering students (a) should be able to demonstrate a general knowledge of the arts and sciences; (b) effectively express original ideas through written and spoken forms; and (c) have a critical awareness of contemporary world issues.
The MADCF degree requires the successful completion of 50 semester hours with a GPA of 2.0 or above on a 4-point scale. The program requires students to be active in a local congregation in their chosen area of ministry focus throughout the course of study. Credits may be transferred into this degree from other accredited graduate schools in accordance with the Seminary’s policies governing the transfer of credit. The transfer of credit into the area of discipleship studies is subject to review by the program chair.
MADCF CAPSTONE or THESIS
Each MADCF student is expected to complete a capstone experience that (1) demonstrates the student has achieved the degree outcomes, and (2) demonstrates the integration and application of his or her theology of discipleship ministry. Two capstone projects are available within this degree: (1) a ministry practicum in the student’s area of ministry focus, or (2) an integrative thesis.
Should the student choose to complete a practicum, the following standards and policies apply. The practicum must be completed at a site relevant to the student’s area of ministry focus and approved by the student’s faculty advisor and the director of the MADCF degree program. The practicum must include a component of care ministry. The student must make a public summative presentation of the practicum experience. That presentation must also include a presentation of the student’s portfolio demonstrating successful achievement of the degree outcomes.
For students who choose to write an integrative thesis, the MADCF Thesis provides the student the opportunity to demonstrate (1) a critical awareness of his or her personal call to ministry, (2) advanced knowledge and understanding of a chosen area of ministry focus, and (3) the ability to creatively project the practical application of scholarship. It is an exercise of theoria aimed at praxis. As such, it should establish the student’s ability to integrate his or her story of personal faith with scholarly research and to use that integration to creatively project ministry practice. Through this process the student will address a theoretical problem within discipleship ministry and offer a solution for the problem.
Students should consult with his or her academic advisor during the term prior to registering for the thesis regarding the thesis topic. The student must make a public summative presentation of the thesis. That presentation must also include a presentation of the student’s portfolio demonstrating successful achievement of the degree outcomes.
Students must register for their Thesis. A fee for binding the required three copies of the Thesis will be applied to the student's account at that time. This includes two copies for the library and one copy for the student. Additional copies may be bound for an additional fee. For students graduating in the spring, March 1 is the deadline for the student to submit the first draft to the advisor/reader. April 1 is the deadline for the student to submit the final revised copy to the advisor/reader. The grade may be affected if deadlines are missed. The professor may refuse to read the Thesis if it is submitted after the deadline, which could delay graduation. For students desiring to graduate in December the due dates are October 1 and November 1 respectively.
REQUIRED COURSES
Area I - Biblical Studies (6 credit hours)
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the New Testament ........................................ 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the Old Testament ......................................... 3
Area II - Historical and Theological Studies (9 credit hours)
HT 601 Historical Theology ..................................................................................... 3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine................................................................ 3
Area II Elective......................................................................................................... 3
Area III - Studies in the Life and Ministry of the Church (28 credit hours)
CF 701 Foundations for Christian Formation........................................................... 3
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study .................................................................................. 3
CF 703 Human Growth and Transformation ........................................................... 3
CF 713 Small Group Leadership ............................................................................ 1
CF 720 Teaching the Word ..................................................................................... 3
CF 721 Formational Leadership ............................................................................. 3
Ministry Focus Area Approved Courses ................................................................. 9
Practicum or Thesis................................................................................................. 3
Area IV - Personal Formation for Ministry (7 credit hours)*
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study ......................... 3
SA 802-805 Community of Faith and Ministry Development Groups...................... 4
*SA806 Care Practicum (1 credit hour) is also required if a care component is not included in the Discipleship Practicum.
TYPICAL MADCF PROGRAM SEQUENCE
Following is a typical course sequence and load. The planning of a student's program of studies should be done in consultation with the assigned advisor. Substitution of courses taken elsewhere for required courses must be approved by the Vice President of Academics and the MADCF Program Director.
Fall of First Year
CF 701 Foundations for Christian Formation........................................................... 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the New Testament......................................... 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry .......................................... 3
SA 802 Community of Faith and Ministry Development.......................................... 1
J-Term course in ministry focus (January or June).................................................. 3
Spring of First Year
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study .................................................................................. 3
HT 601 Historical Theology ..................................................................................... 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the Old Testament.......................................... 3
SA 803 Community of Faith and Ministry Development.......................................... 1
Area II Elective......................................................................................................... 3
Total Credit Hours First Year: 26
Fall of Second Year
CF 703 Human Growth and Transformation ........................................................... 3
CF 713 Small Group Leadership ............................................................................ 1
SA 804 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ......................................... 1
Course in ministry focus area ................................................................................. 3
J-Term course in ministry focus (July or January) ................................................... 3
Spring of Second Year
CF 720 Teaching the Word...................................................................................... 3
CF 721 Formational Leadership ............................................................................. 3
CF 799 MADCF Thesis (due March 1)* or Practicum ............................................. 3
SA 805 Community of Faith and Ministry Development.......................................... 1
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine................................................................ 3
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 24
* Student should consult with his or her academic advisor in the previous semester regarding the thesis topic.
Total MADCF Degree Program Requirement: 50 Credit Hours
TYPICAL MADCF PROGRAM SEQUENCE (Part-Time Study)
Fall of First Year
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the New Testament................................................ 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry .................................................. 3
SA 802 Community of Faith and Ministry Development.................................................. 1
J-Term course in ministry focus (January or June).......................................................... 3
Spring of First Year
CF 701 Foundations for Christian Formation................................................................... 3
HT 601 Historical Theology ............................................................................................ 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the Old Testament.................................................. 3
SA 803 Community of Faith and Ministry Development.................................................. 1
Total Credit Hours First Year: 20
Fall of Second Year
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study ......................................................................................... 3
SA 804 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ................................................. 1
Course in ministry focus area ......................................................................................... 3
J-Term course in ministry focus (July or January) .......................................................... 3
Spring of Second Year
CF 703 Human Growth and Transformation ................................................................... 3
CF 720 Teaching the Word.............................................................................................. 3
CF 799 MADCF Thesis (due March 1)* or Practicum ..................................................... 3
SA 805 Community of Faith and Ministry Development.................................................. 1
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 20
* Student should consult with his/her academic advisor in the previous semester regarding the thesis topic.
Fall of Third Year
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine........................................................................ 3
CF 721 Formational Leadership ..................................................................................... 3
CF 713 Small Group Leadership .................................................................................... 1
Area II Elective................................................................................................................ 3
Total Credit Hours Third Year: 10
Total MADCF Degree Program Requirement: 50 Credit Hours
MASTER OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES (48 - 60 Credit Hours)
The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) is a two-year graduate degree designed to give students an opportunity to acquire focused knowledge in a specific theological discipline. The distinctive approach and contributions of the Pentecostal Theological Seminary in the area of Pentecostal theology broadly defined have had a global impact within the tradition and beyond including the development of distinctive approaches to a variety of theological disciplines. Such approaches are brought to bear in this program of study in an intentional way, offering candidates for this degree the opportunity to study and research a specific theological discipline within a constructive Pentecostal context that fosters personal formation and holistic integration.
PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon graduation the student will be able to:
Rightly divide (interpret/discern) the Word of God by means of a Pentecostal approach to Scripture that utilizes critical appropriation of spiritual and academic resources.
Practice and foster community of faith relationships.
Reflect critically upon one’s story in light of the Christian story in order to form the individual and the community.
Practice personal and corporate spiritual disciplines (including prayer, fasting, Bible study, waiting upon God, and personal worship) supportive of Pentecostal spirituality.
Demonstrate knowledge of specific aspects of Pentecostal belief and practice.
PENTECOSTAL THEOLOGY CONCENTRATION (48 Credit Hours)
The Pentecostal Theology concentration in the Master of Theological Studies degree program is designed to give students the opportunity to acquire advanced integrative knowledge and skills in Christian theology, with particular focus on constructive theology in the Pentecostal tradition and understanding of the history of Wesleyan-Pentecostal theology and spirituality. A distinctive Wesleyan-Pentecostal hermeneutics is brought to bear in this degree program, offering candidates for this degree the opportunity to study, research, and construct within the Pentecostal tradition but with a view toward addressing the broader issues of the Christian church and the world in various global contexts.
CONCENTRATION LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon graduation the student will be able to:
Demonstrate a coherent understanding of the history of the Christian theological tradition in the light of Wesleyan-Pentecostal theology and spirituality.
Demonstrate theological knowledge and skills necessary for reading, constructing, and teaching theology in response to issues facing the church and the world in diverse contexts.
Interpret Scripture according to a Wesleyan-Pentecostal hermeneutical paradigm.
Appreciate and articulate the need for theology to remain rooted in, and in service of, the formational beliefs and practices of the community of faith.
Reflect critically on one's own story and the story of one's faith community in the light of biblical narrative and the church's history.
CONCENTRATION REQUIREMENTS
Candidates for the MTS with the concentration in Pentecostal Theology must complete 48 hours of prescribed coursework. This includes the successful completion of 9 hours of Biblical Studies Core, 16 hours of History & Theology Core, 7 hours of Pentecostal Formation, and 16 hours of electives either in theology or interdisciplinary as approved by the Concentration Coordinator. The candidate will produce a final project in the MTS Capstone Course.
REQUIRED COURSES
Area I - Biblical Studies
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the Old Testament.......................................... 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the New Testament ........................................ 3
BH 501 Biblical Hermeneutics or CF 702 Inductive Bible Study ............................. 3
Area II - Historical and Theological Studies
HT 601 Historical Theology ..................................................................................... 3
HT 643 History and Theology of Wesleyan Holiness Pentecostal Movements…… 3
HS 650 Church of God History and Polity or
HT 640 History of Holiness-Pentecostal Movement................................................ 3
TS 602 Pentecostal Theology and Spirituality ....................................................... 3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine……... ..................................................... 3
TS 689 Capstone-Pentecostal Theology ................................................................ 1
Area IV - Personal Formation
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study......................... 3
SA 802 Community of Faith and Ministry Development Group I ........................... 1
SA 803 Community of Faith and Ministry Development Group II .......................... 1
SA 804 Community of Faith and Ministry Development Group III.......................... 1
SA 805 Community of Faith and Ministry Development Group IV ......................... 1
Concentration Elective Courses in Theology or Interdisciplinary............................. 16
(The selection of these courses is in consultation with the Concentration Coordinator.)
TYPICAL MTS-PENTECOSTAL THEOLOGY SEQUENCE
FIRST YEAR
HT 601 Historical Theology...................................................................................... 3
HT 643 History and Theology of Wesleyan Holiness Pentecostal Movements....... 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the New Testament …………………………….. 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the Old Testament............................................ 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundation for Christian Ministry and Study .......................... 3
SA 802 Community of Faith I .................................................................................. 1
SA 803 Community of Faith II ................................... ……………………………….. 1
Electives................................................................................................................... 6
J-Term elective (January, June or July) - Optional
Total Credit Hours First Year: 23
SECOND YEAR
BH 501 Biblical Hermeneutics or CF702 Inductive Bible Study............................... 3
TS 602 Pentecostal Spirituality-Theology ............................................................... 3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine................................................................ 3
HS 650 Church of God History and Polity or
HS 640 History of Holiness-Pentecostal Movement................................................ 3
SA 804 Community of Faith III ................................................................................ 1
SA 805 Community of Faith IV ................................................................................ 1
TS 689 MTS Capstone ........................................................................................... 1
Electives .................................................................................................................. 10
J-Term elective (January, June or July) - Optional
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 25
Total MTS-Pentecostal Theology Program Requirements: 48 Credit Hours
TYPICAL MTS-PENTECOSTAL THEOLOGY SEQUENCE (Part-Time Study)
FIRST YEAR
HT 601 Historical Theology............................................................................................. 3
HT 643 History and Theology of Wesleyan Holiness Pentecostal Movements...............3
NT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the New Testament ……………………………..........3
OT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the Old Testament................................................... 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundation for Christian Ministry and Study .................................. 3
SA 802 Community of Faith I .......................................................................................... 1
SA 803 Community of Faith II ................................... …………………………………...... 1
J-Term Electives.............................................................................................................. 3
Total Credit Hours First Year: 20
SECOND YEAR
BH 501 Biblical Hermeneutics or CF702 Inductive Bible Study....................................... 3
TS 602 Pentecostal Spirituality-Theology ....................................................................... 3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine........................................................................ 3
HS 650 Church of God History and Polity or
HS 640 History of Holiness-Pentecostal Movement........................................................ 3
SA 804 Community of Faith III ........................................................................................ 1
SA 805 Community of Faith IV ....................................................................................... 1
J-Term Electives ............................................................................................................. 6
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 20
TS 689 MTS Capstone ................................................................................................... 1
Electives.......................................................................................................................... 7
Total Credit Hours Third Year: 8
Total MTS-Pentecostal Theology Program Requirements: 48 Credit Hours
MASTER OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES - BIBLICAL STUDIES CONCENTRATION (60 Credit Hours)
The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) Biblical Studies
concentration is designed to give students an opportunity to acquire focused knowledge in the
specific discipline of Biblical Studies. The distinctive approach and contributions of the Pentecostal Theological Seminary in
the area of Biblical Studies, which has had a global impact within the Pentecostal tradition and within the broader discipline of Biblical Studies, are brought to bear in this degree concentration in an intentional way, offering candidates for this degree the opportunity to study and research at the intersection of Biblical Studies and Pentecostal theology.
CONCENTRATION LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon graduation the student will be able to:
1. Experience and give priority to encounter with God through His Word.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the Word of God by showing familiarity with the structure, content, theological emphases, canonical context, original context, church context, and Pentecostal context of the books of the biblical canon.
3. Demonstrate proficiency in the Biblical Languages.
4. Rightly divide (interpret/discern) the Word of God by means of a Pentecostal approach to Scripture that utilizes critical appropriation of spiritual and academic resources.
5. Practice and foster community of faith relationships around the Word of God.
6. Exhibit knowledge of the Word that informs Pentecostal faith and practice, both generally and more specifically.
7. Produce ministry of the Word through writing, speaking, and enacting the Word in relation to various gifts of ministry.
8. Discern the Spirit of the Word that attends the Word of the Spirit through reverential recognition and response to the presence and voice of the Holy Spirit in and through the Scripture, assessed in the context of Pentecostal community.
9. Be people of the Word by ingesting the Word to the point that it is embodied in one’s life and witness.
CONCENTRATION REQUIREMENTS
Candidates for the MTS Biblical Studies Concentration must complete 48-60 hours (depending upon previous academic training) of prescribed coursework. This includes the successful completion of first year Greek and first year Hebrew (or their completion at undergraduate level), eleven hours of core courses in biblical studies including an introductory seminar on Biblical Studies in the Pentecostal Tradition (one hour) and the Biblical Studies MTS Capstone Seminar (one hour), thirteen hours of Pentecostal Theology and History including Pentecostal Foundations as well as four hours of Community of Faith Group participation, at least twelve hours of coursework in Biblical Studies based upon Greek and/or Hebrew, and twelve hours of elective Biblical Studies coursework. The candidate will produce a final project in the MTS Biblical Studies Concentration Capstone Course.
REQUIRED COURSES
Area I - Biblical Studies
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the Old Testament.......................................... 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the New Testament ........................................ 3
BH 501 Biblical Hermeneutics ................................................................................ 3
NT 511 Biblical Studies in the Pentecostal Tradition................................................ 1
BH 502 MTS Biblical Studies Capstone................................................................... 1
Area II - Historical and Theological Studies
Historical and Theological Studies Electives........................................................... 6
Area IV - Personal Formation
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study ......................... 3
SA 802 Community of Faith I .................................................................................. 1
SA 803 Community of Faith II ................................................................................. 1
SA 804 Community of Faith III................................................................................. 1
SA 805 Community of Faith IV ................................................................................ 1
Biblical Studies Concentration: Specifically, these courses include:
GK 501 N.T. Greek I and GK 502 N.T. Greek II*...................................................... 6
HB 501 O.T. Hebrew and HB 502 O.T. Hebrew II*................................................... 6
Biblical Studies based upon Greek and/or Hebrew ................................................ 12
Biblical Studies Electives** ..................................................................................... 12
*These requirements may be fulfilled by successful completion of the courses as part of the MTS Biblical Studies Concentration, petition for advanced standing based upon previous study, or petition to have the requirement waived based upon previous study and thus the number of hours required for graduation reduced by six to twelve hours.
**Where deemed appropriate, one or more of the following courses from each group may be counted toward this requirement: First Century Judaism or Hellenistic Backgrounds to the New Testament, Old Testament, Life and Teaching of Jesus or Theology of Paul, Early Church or History of Exegesis, a course in a Research Language (Latin, Theological German, Coptic, Aramaic, etc.)
TYPICAL MTS-BIBLICAL STUDIES SEQUENCE
For Candidates who come to the program with the Requisite Biblical Language Training at Undergraduate Level
FIRST YEAR
NT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the New Testament .......................................... 3
NT 511 Biblical Studies in the Pentecostal Tradition ............................................... 1
OT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the Old Testament............................................ 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study ......................... 3
SA 802 Community of Faith I .................................................................................. 1
SA 803 Community of Faith II ................................................................................. 1
Biblical Studies Courses ......................................................................................... 12
J-Term (January, June, or July) Optional
Total Credit Hours First Year: 24
SECOND YEAR
BH 501 Biblical Hermeneutics ................................................................................ 3
Biblical Studies Courses ......................................................................................... 12
SA 804 Community of Faith III................................................................................. 1
SA 805 Community of Faith IV ................................................................................ 1
Pentecostal Theology/Historical Theological Electives ........................................... 6
BH 502 MTS Biblical Studies Capstone................................................................... 1
J-Term (January, June, or July) Optional
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 24
For Candidates who come to the program with ONE Requisite Biblical Language Training at Undergraduate Level
FIRST YEAR
NT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the New Testament .......................................... 3
NT 511 Biblical Studies in the Pentecostal Tradition ............................................... 1
OT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the Old Testament............................................ 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study ......................... 3
SA 802 Community of Faith I .................................................................................. 1
SA 803 Community of Faith II ................................................................................. 1
Biblical Language Courses ..................................................................................... 6
Biblical Studies Courses ......................................................................................... 6
J-Term Biblical Studies Courses ............................................................................. 6
Total Credit Hours First Year: 30
SECOND YEAR
BH 501 Biblical Hermeneutics ................................................................................ 3
Biblical Studies Courses ......................................................................................... 12
SA 804 Community of Faith III................................................................................. 1
SA 805 Community of Faith IV ................................................................................ 1
Pentecostal Theology/Historical Theological Elective ............................................. 6
BH 502 MTS Biblical Studies Capstone................................................................... 1
J-Term (January, June, or July) Optional
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 24
For Candidates who come to the program with NO Biblical Language Training at Undergraduate Level
JUNE J-TERM
Biblical Language Course........................................................................................ 3
JULY J-TERM
Biblical Language Course........................................................................................ 3
TYPICAL MTS-BIBLICAL STUDIES SEQUENCE (Part-Time Study)
For Candidates who come to the program with the Requisite Biblical Language Training at Undergraduate Level
FIRST YEAR
NT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the New Testament ................................................. 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the Old Testament................................................... 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study ................................ 3
SA 802 Community of Faith I .......................................................................................... 1
SA 803 Community of Faith II ......................................................................................... 1
Biblical Studies Electives (including J-Terms).................................................................. 9
Total Credit Hours First Year: 20
SECOND YEAR
BH 501 Biblical Hermeneutics ........................................................................................ 3
Biblical Studies Courses (Including J-Terms)................................................................ 12
SA 804 Community of Faith III.........................................................................................1
SA 805 Community of Faith IV ....................................................................................... 1
Pentecostal Theology/Historical Theological Electives ……………………..................... 3
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 20
Biblical Studies Courses ................................................................................................. 3
Pentecostal Theology/Historical Theological Electives ................................................... 3
BH 502 MTS Biblical Studies Capstone.......................................................................... 1
NT 511 Biblical Studies in the Pentecostal Tradition ...................................................... 1
Total Credit Hours First Year: 8
Total MTS-Biblical Studies Program Requirements: 48 Credit Hours
For Candidates who come to the program with
ONE Requisite Biblical Language Training at Undergraduate Level
FIRST YEAR
NT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the New Testament ................................................. 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Exploration of the Old Testament................................................... 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study ................................ 3
SA 802 Community of Faith I .......................................................................................... 1
SA 803 Community of Faith II ......................................................................................... 1
Biblical Language Courses ............................................................................................. 3
J-Term Biblical Studies Courses ..................................................................................... 6
Total Credit Hours First Year: 20
SECOND YEAR
BH 501 Biblical Hermeneutics ........................................................................................ 3
Biblical Language Courses ............................................................................................. 3
Biblical Studies Courses ................................................................................................. 9
SA 804 Community of Faith III......................................................................................... 1
SA 805 Community of Faith IV ....................................................................................... 1
Pentecostal Theology/Historical Theological Elective .................................................... 3
J-Term (January, June, or July) Optional
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 20
THIRD YEAR
Biblical Studies Courses ................................................................................................. 9
Pentecostal Theology/Historical Theological Electives ................................................... 3
BH 502 MTS Biblical Studies Capstone.......................................................................... 1
NT 511 Biblical Studies in the Pentecostal Tradition ...................................................... 1
Total Credit Hours Third Year: 14
For Candidates who come to the program with
NO Biblical Language Training at Undergraduate Level
JUNE J-TERM
Biblical Language Course................................................................................................ 3
JULY J-TERM
Biblical Language Course................................................................................................ 3
MASTER OF ARTS IN CHURCH MINISTRIES (48 Credit Hours)
The Master of Arts in Church Ministries (MACM) is a two-year program offering options for concentration in three areas of ministry: Discipleship and Christian Formation, Missions, and Ministry Leadership.
The program for the MACM degree is structured so that each student receives a balanced exposure to biblical, historical, and theological studies through the required courses, and develops skills and competence in one of the three areas of professional preparation.
MACM LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon graduation, students will be able to articulate, practice, and lead others to practice Pentecostal Worship, Holy Witness, and Covenant Community.
Pentecostal Worship: Graduates will be able to:
Articulate a biblically-based and historically-shaped understanding of the theology and practice of Pentecostal worship.
With sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, creatively and collaboratively plan and lead believers into theologically faithful and contextually relevant practices of worship.
Lead congregations in the distinctive practices of Pentecostal worship (including anointing and prayer for the sick, altar services, spiritual gifts, the Lord’s Supper, footwashing, water baptism), leading from within an identification and union with the spirituality of the people.
Effectively preach and teach the gospel to the variety of generations, cultures, and socio-economic groups in church and society.
Cultivate participation in the practices of worship in home, community, and marketplace so that worship is integrated into all areas of personal and corporate life: personal, social, private, and public.
Holy Witness: Graduates will be able to:
Lead a lifestyle of personal witness and evangelism in light of the imminent return of Jesus Christ.
Cultivate one’s personal gifts of evangelism and participate in local evangelism in the local church.
Develop a personal lifestyle and corporate witness to social holiness.
Practice the discipline of prayer for unreached people.
Discern and participate faithfully in the global mission and witness of the church.
Covenant Community: Graduates will be able to:
Cultivate community fellowship and hospitality by modeling and nurturing healthy relationships in the local church.
Articulate a biblical/theological and historically faithful understanding of the corporate identity or koinonia of the Church.
Live and minister in accountable relationships with congregations, bishops, pastoral peers, and denominational leaders.
Articulate an understanding of the holistic nature of gospel practice and the Pentecostal theology of healing.
Practice and lead others in prayer for the miraculous and in intercessory prayer for the sick and hurting persons.
Contribute to the development of counter-cultural communities of faith (contrast societies) for and in the world that manifests a lifestyle of meeting needs, co-suffering, and sacrificial advocacy.
Work for the creation communal environments of holistic healing by responding hospitably and redemptively to the needs and concerns in their context in collaboration with other community resources.
Provide pastoral care, counseling, and spiritual direction appropriate to ministerial calling and relevant to the needs of persons in institutional (jails, prisons, nursing homes, hospitals, etc.), community, and church contexts.
Covenant with a community of ministerial peers for continuing personal accountability, mutual care and support, pastoral development, missional collaboration, and living an exemplary moral life in personal financial matters, family relationships, ministerial conduct, and in private life.
Exegete the Scriptures, lead group Bible study, and effectively communicate the Word.
Practice personal and corporate spiritual disciplines (including prayer, fasting, Bible study, waiting upon God, and personal worship) supportive of Pentecostal spirituality.
Reflect critically upon their story in light of the truthful biblical story in order to form the individual and the community.
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
The MACM requires the successful completion of 48 semester hours with a GPA of 2.0 or above on a 4-point scale. Up to 24 credit hours of work may be accepted by transfer from accredited schools with a grade of C or better upon approval by the Vice President for Academics.
Note: This degree program is structured with the courses to be taken in the areas of concentration. Students should consult regularly (at least twice per year) with the director of their MACM concentration.
DEGREE CONCENTRATIONS
The MACM degree program is designed to prepare persons for competent leadership in the following specialized areas of church ministry. Students must have a concentration and should complete 18 credit hours of work in one of the designated areas.
Note: Substituting a course not listed under the selected concentration requires the approval of the concentration coordinator.
CONCENTRATION IN DISCIPLESHIP AND CHRISTIAN FORMATION
This concentration is for those who plan to do Christian Education work in the local church, in day schools, youth camps, administrative positions, etc. For a concentration in Discipleship and Christian Formation, choose Foundations for Christian Formation (CF 701) and five of the following courses:
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study
CF 703 Human Growth and Transformation
CF 704 The Pedagogy of the Holy Spirit
CF 720 Teaching the Word
CF 721 Formational Leadership
CF 750 Children of the Kingdom
CF 760 Ministry with Youth in the Postmodern Context
CF 761 Discipling Youth
CF 770 Adult Education and Ministry of the Laity
CF 771 Ministry to Singles
CONCENTRATION IN MINISTRY LEADERSHIP
This concentration is for those who do not choose to pursue the Master of Divinity degree. For a concentration in Ministry Leadership choose Pastoral Ministries (ML 720), Expository Preaching (ML 702), Foundations for Christian Formation (CF 701), plus three of the following courses:
CF 722 The Disciple Making Pastor
CO 701 Counseling Skills
ML 701 Ministry of the Word
ML 711 Contemporary Models of Preaching
ML 721 Church Administration and Leadership
ML 723 Multiple Staff Ministries
ML 724 Leadership Training Models
ML 725 Church Music and Worship
ML 741 Church Growth
ML 750 Conflict Ministry
ML 795 Contemporary Issues in Pentecostal Ministry
ML 798 Leading and Mobilizing Laity
For an Urban Mission focus under the Ministry Leadership concentration, a student would:
Substitute Foundations for Wholistic Mission (ML/WM 760) for Expository Preaching (ML 702) or Foundations for Christian Formation (CF 701).
Choose two (2) of the following:
CO 736 Intercultural Counseling
LC 701 Religion and Culture
TS/LS 680 Christian Ethics: Pentecostal Theology for Social Engagement
ML 721 Church Administration and Leadership
ML 722 Church Leadership
ML 761 Cross-Cultural Ministries in North America
ML 796 Urban Mission Area Studies
WM 730 Cultural Anthropology
WM 740 Contemporary World Religions
WM 752 Issues in Pentecostal/Charismatic Church Growth
CONCENTRATION IN WORLD MISSION AND EVANGELISM
This concentration is for those who plan to do any type of cross-cultural missions work, for those who are already involved in mission schools around the world, and for nationals who are planning to teach in mission schools. For a concentration in World Mission and Evangelism, choose Foundations for World Mission and Evangelism (WM 701), Cultural Anthropology (WM 730), and four of the following courses:
ML 724 Leadership Training Models
ML 741 Church Growth
ML 742 Church Planting
ML 760 Foundations for Wholistic Mission
ML 761 Cross-Cultural Ministries in North America
WM 740 Contemporary World Religions
WM 750 Pentecostal Strategies of Missions
WM 751 Principles
CONCENTRATION IN CHURCH PLANTING AND DEVELOPMENT
This concentration is for those who are planting a church or plan to plant a church, and for pastors who want to realize missional revitalization in their congregation. Students can choose to focus their study on church planting among their particular ethnic/cultural group, urban church planting and cross-cultural planting. This concentration is also available in Spanish with a Latino perspective. For a concentration in Church Planting and Development, students must take:
Select One:
ML 742 Church Planting (for church planters), or
ML 741 Church Development (for pastors of existing churches)
Select One:
WM 730 Cultural Anthropology, or
WM/ML 760 Foundations for Wholistic Mission (for urban church planting)
Plus:
WM/ML 797 Pentecostalism and Social Transformation
And three electives from Area III: Studies in the Life and Ministry of the Church
Note: Substituting a course not listed under the selected concentration requires the approval of the concentration coordinator.
REQUIRED COURSES
Area I - Biblical Studies
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study or Bible Book Study ................................................. 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the NT or Book Study in NT............................ 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the OT or Book Study in OT........................... 3
Area II - Historical and Theological Studies
HT 601 Historical Theology or
TS 643 Theology of Wesleyan-Pentecostal Movement .......................................... 3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine................................................................ 3
Area II Elective or Area II Interdisciplinary Course*................................................. 3
Area IV - Personal Formation for Ministry
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study …..................... 3
SA 802-805 Community of Faith and Ministry Development Group........................ 4
Ministry Practicum in the Area of Concentration ** ................................................. 3
Capstone ................................................................................................................. 2
General Elective* .................................................................................................... 3
Five Elective Courses in the Area of Concentration** ............................................ 15
*HS 650 Church of God History and Polity (Area II) is required for students seeking credentialing or advancement in rank within the Church of God.
**The Ministry Practicum course and the five electives would constitute the total of 18 credit hours in the area of concentration. If the practicum does not have a "care component", course SA 806 Care Practicum (1 credit hour) must be completed.
TYPICAL MACM PROGRAM SEQUENCE
First Year
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study or Bible Book Study ................................................. 3
HT 601 History Theology or
TS 643 Theology of the Wesleyan-Pentecostal Movement .................................... 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations in the NT or Book Study in NT ........................... 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations in the OT or Book Study in OT .......................... 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study ......................... 3
SA 802 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ......................................... 1
SA 803 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ......................................... 1
Courses in Concentration........................................................................................ 9
J-Term Elective (January, June, or July) - Optional
Total Credit Hours First Year: 26
Second Year
SA 804 Community of Faith and Ministry Development.......................................... 1
SA 805 Community of Faith and Ministry Development.......................................... 1
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine…………….............................................. 3
Area II Elective or Area II Interdisciplinary Course ................................................. 3
Courses in Concentration........................................................................................ 6
Elective ................................................................................................................... 6
Capstone ................................................................................................................ 2
J-Term Course (January, June, or July) - Optional
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 22
Total MACM Degree Program Requirement: 48 Credit Hours
TYPICAL MACM PROGRAM SEQUENCE (Part-Time Study)
First Year
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study or Bible Book Study ..........................................................3
HT 601 History Theology or
TS 643 Theology of the Wesleyan-Pentecostal Movement .............................................3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations in the NT or Book Study in NT ....................................3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations in the OT or Book Study in OT ...................................3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study .................................3
SA 802 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ..................................................1
SA 803 Community of Faith and Ministry Development ..................................................1
Courses in Concentration (J-Term)...................................................................................3
Total Credit Hours First Year: 20
Second Year
SA 804 Community of Faith and Ministry Development.................................................. 1
SA 805 Community of Faith and Ministry Development.................................................. 1
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine……………...................................................... 3
Area II Elective or Area II Interdisciplinary Course ......................................................... 3
Courses in Concentration (including J-Terms)................................................................. 9
Capstone ........................................................................................................................ 2
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 19
Third Year
Courses in Concentration.................................................................................................3
Elective . ...................................................................................................................... 6
J-Term Course (January, June, or July) - Optional
Total Credit Hours Third Year: 9
Total MACM Degree Program Requirement: 48 Credit Hours
MASTER OF ARTS IN COUNSELING (48 Credit Hours)
MISSION STATEMENT
The Master of Arts in Counseling *MAC presents the theory, method, and practice of counseling from a Pentecostal perspective. The program emphasizes distinctives of counseling for pastors and church staff members while also preparing those who will be counseling in other arenas, including those preparing for professional certification or state licensure by continuing from the Master of Arts in Counseling (48 credit hours) to the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (78 credit hours). The degree concentration requires courses in Bible, doctrine, historical theology, and Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study, all of which form the substantive core required to integrate faith, spirituality, and counseling. Integration of Pentecostal theology, counseling theory, and practice is critical to the design of this degree.
MASTER OF ARTS IN COUNSELING LEARNING OUTCOMES
As a result of successfully completing the Master of Arts in Counseling program, students will have been able to do the following:
Demonstrate the possession of personality characteristics that enable him or her to establish and maintain therapeutic relationships with clients and to facilitate clients’ constructive change processes.
Demonstrate a theoretical and applied knowledge of spiritual, theological and ecclesiastical integration of counseling, particularly from a Wesleyan-Pentecostal perspective, and as applied in Wesleyan-Pentecostal ecclesial contexts.
Present evidence of the characteristics, knowledge, and skills required of an effective helper; compliance with ethical standards and as appropriate to his or her credentials, provide an effective range of counseling, care and related services to the community.
Identify and apply effective counseling skills that help clients grow toward personal goals and strengthen their capacity to cope with life situations.
Successfully complete the core biblical, theological, historical, and applied ministry studies as required by the Seminary in order to demonstrate acquisition of knowledge and practice toward integration of counseling, Scripture, theology, history and other applied ministry studies.
Demonstrate the knowledge of and compliance with characteristics, knowledge, and skills required of an effective counselor/helper.
Demonstrate compliance with ethical standards of counseling and use counseling abilities appropriate to his or her credentials.
REQUIRED COURSES
MAC Program Scope
Counseling Courses
CO 701 Counseling Skills………………………………………………………… 3 hrs
CO 702 Theories and Techniques of Counseling………………………………. 3
CO 710 Marriage and Family Systems Theories………………………………. 3
CO/TS 751 Spirituality, Religion, and Mental Health in Counseling…………… 3
CO 802 Counseling Development Group……………………………………….. 1
CO 803 Counseling Development Group……………………………………….. 1
CO 804 Counseling Development Group……………………………………….. 1
CO 805 Counseling Development Group……………………………………….. 1
CO 770 Clinical Practicum or CO783 Supplemental Field Experience………. 3
Counseling Elective …………………………………………………… 3
Counseling Elective ……………………………………………………... 3
Counseling Elective ……………………………………………………... 3
Counseling Elective ……………………………………………………... 2
Total Counseling Courses……………………………………………………………….. 30 hrs
Non-Counseling Courses
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry……………………….. 3 hrs
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the Old Testament
or Old Testament Book Study…………………………………………... 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the New Testament
or New Testament Book Study…………………………………………. 3
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study or Bible Book Study …………………………… 3
HT 601 Historical Theology………………………………………………………. 3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine………………………………………. 3
Total Non-Counseling Courses…………………………………………………………. 18 hrs
Total for MAC……………………………………………………………………………... 48 hrs
TYPICAL MAC PROGRAM SEQUENCE
First Year
CO 701 Counseling Skills ....................................................................................... 3
CO 702 Theories and Techniques in Counseling .................................................... 3
Counseling Elective.................................................................................................. 3
Counseling Elective.................................................................................................. 3
Counseling Elective................................................................................................. 3
CO 802 Counseling Development Group ............................................................... 1
CO 803 Counseling Development Group ............................................................... 1
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study ......................... 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the OT or OT Book Study ….......................... 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the NT or NT Book Study…............................ 3
J-Term Elective (January, June, or July) - Optional
Total Credit Hours First Year: 26
Second Year
CO 710 Marriage and Family Systems-Theories in Counseling ............................. 3
CO 751 Spirituality, Religion and Mental Health Counseling................................... 3
CO 804 Counseling Development Group III ........................................................... 1
CO 805 Counseling Development Group IV ........................................................... 1
CO 770 Clinical Practicum or CO 783 Supplemental Field Experience................... 3
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study or Bible Book Study ................................................. 3
HT 601 Inductive Bible Study or Bible Book Study…………………………………... 3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine................................................................ 3
Counseling Elective ................................................................................................ 3
General Elective………............................................................................................ 3
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 22
Total MAC Degree Program Requirement: 48 Credit Hours
TYPICAL MAC PROGRAM SEQUENCE (Part-Time Study)
First Year
CO 701 Counseling Skills ............................................................................................... 3
CO 702 Theories and Techniques in Counseling ........................................................... 3
CO 802 Counseling Development Group ....................................................................... 1
CO 803 Counseling Development Group ....................................................................... 1
HT 601 Historical Theology………………………………………………………...……….... 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the OT or Book Study in OT .................................. 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the NT or Book Study in NT .................................. 3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study ................................ 3
J-Term Elective (January, June, or July) - Optional
Total Credit Hours First Year: 20
Second Year
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study or Bible Book Study ..........................................................3 CO 710 Marriage and Family Systems-Theories in Counseling ......................................3 CO 782 Field Experience or
CO 770 (Clinical Practicum) (Capstone)...........................................................................3
CO 804 Counseling Development Group III ....................................................................1 CO 805 Counseling Development Group IV ....................................................................1 TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine.........................................................................3
CO 751 Spirituality, Religion and Mental Health Counseling............................................3
General Elective (J-Term).....................................................................................................3
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 20
Third Year
Counseling Elective......................................................................................................... 6
General Electives............................................................................................................. 2
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 8
Total MAC Degree Program Requirement: 48 Credit Hours
MASTER OF ARTS IN CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING (78-Hour Degree Program)
MACMHC MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MACMHC) is preparation for the eventual certification and/or licensure of students. Students will receive thorough integration training in professional counseling that will prepare them to sit for licensure examination in various states in the area of Mental Health Counseling. The program provides training for counselors that relates to the diagnosis of various mental disorders. They will be especially familiar with the DSM 5 and will be capable of diagnosing mental illnesses. The program is designed to train students so they can work in church settings, outpatient mental health settings, and inpatient settings. Students will be able to assess potential clients and compare their skills with client needs and treat or refer with confidence. The program also provides electives in couples counseling, marriage and family counseling, and gerontological counseling.
The program is for students who desire professional level training in mental health counseling. The program includes the same essential Bible and theology core as other programs in the Seminary. Students in the program will not only be competent in mental health counseling, but will also be proficient in the academic study of, practical dialogue of, and professional leadership in religious, spiritual, biblical, and theological issues related to mental health counseling. Mental health counselors are valuable and sought for placement by a variety of growing public, private, educational, clinical, secular, and religious settings.
MACMHC LEARNING OUTCOMES
Students completing the 78-hour MACMHC degree program will be able to:
Demonstrate the possession of personality characteristics that enable him or her to establish and maintain therapeutic relationships with clients and to facilitate clients’ constructive change processes.
Demonstrate a theoretical and applied knowledge of spiritual, theological and ecclesiastical integration of counseling, particularly from a Wesleyan-Pentecostal perspective, and as applied in Wesleyan-Pentecostal ecclesial contexts.
Present evidence of the characteristics, knowledge, and skills required of an effective helper.
Identify and apply effective counseling skills that help clients grow toward personal goals and strengthen their capacity to cope with life situations.
Successfully complete the core biblical, theological, historical, and applied ministry studies as required by the Seminary in order to demonstrate acquisition of knowledge and practice toward integration of counseling, Scripture, theology, history and other applied ministry studies.
Demonstrate the knowledge of and compliance with characteristics, knowledge, and skills required of an effective counselor/helper.
Demonstrate compliance with ethical standards of counseling and the use of counseling abilities appropriate to his or her credentials.
Demonstrate the ability to discern when individual or group counseling would be most helpful; understand basic principles of group dynamics; and become familiar with the major group therapies, stages of group development, group member roles, and research related to group counseling.
Demonstrate the ability to define and recognize the needs of multicultural and specific populations/counselees, and respond to such needs via effective intervention and/or appropriate referral.
Understand planning, administration, evaluation and program revision for the delivery of counseling and related services.
Promote healthy attitudes toward work and career plans; implement and evaluate career development programs; and facilitate client career development and mature life planning.
Demonstrate the ability to appraise the characteristics of students and counselees, describe the needs and potentialities of individuals; identify individual differences; and provide for recording and disseminating the resultant data.
Demonstrate the ability to conceptualize clients based on the assessment categories used in standardized diagnostic systems; maintain current and comprehensive financial, clinical, and other records related to a private or community-based agency counseling practice; and assist counselees, administrative staff, agency personnel, and parents in the location of and introduction to specialized referral agencies and services within the community.
Demonstrate the ability to consult with individuals, groups, institutions, and agencies on individual, group, family, and institutional programs and activities.
Demonstrate the ability to conduct research, to interpret clearly the implications of research data to professional staff members, parents, clients, referral agencies, and community resources, and to use the results of research in counseling, program development, and program revision.
Develop the ability to use their diagnostic skills when assessing clients during the intake session so that they can quickly develop a working diagnosis in order to direct treatment planning.
Learn to assess clients with in-depth clinical interview skills that will lead to more accurate initial diagnoses.
The MACMHC satisfies the academic requirements for National Certified Counselors with the National Board of Certified Counselors and for Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselors in all 50 U.S. states, according to an annual audit of state requirements conducted each spring. Internationally, mental health counseling recognition requirements may vary from United States criteria. State nomenclature may vary from state to state. As an example, rather than Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a state may use Licensed Professional Counselor. Besides academic requirements, other state requirements include post-master's degree supervised experience, examinations etc. Students should inquire about licensure requirements with the board governing counseling licensure in their respective state.
A MACMHC program handbook entitled, Guidelines for the MACMHC, includes program requirements of students and is available upon request in the counseling departmental office.
For the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, students must complete all General Degree Core Requirements and all Counseling Core Requirements. Students are further required to complete the minimum of 11 credit hours of counseling electives. A counseling elective is any course with a course number prefix CO that is not listed as a Counseling Core Requirement.
MACMHC Program Scope
Counseling Courses
CO 701 Counseling Skills…………………………………………………………. 3 hrs
CO 702 Theories and Techniques of Counseling………………………………. 3
CO 700 Mental Health Diagnosis/Abnormal Psychology Using the DSM 5…. 3
CO 703 Human Growth and Transformation……………………………………. 3
CO 731 Professional Issues and Ethics in Counseling………………………... 3
CO 732 Group Dynamics and Counseling………………………………………. 3
CO 733 Lifestyle and Career Development in Counseling……………………. 3
CO 736 Intercultural Counseling…………………………………………………. 3
CO/TS 751 Spirituality, Religion, and Mental Health in Counseling………… 3
CO 773 Mental Health Assessment, Tests & Measures in Counseling
Using the DSM 5………………………………………………………. 3
CO 784 Research and Evaluation in Counseling………………………………. 3
CO 791 Psychopharmacology Applied to Clinical Mental Health
Counseling Using the DSM 5………………………………….............. 3
CO 802 Counseling Development Group……………………………………….. 1
CO 803 Counseling Development Group……………………………………….. 1
CO 804 Counseling Development Group……………………………………….. 1
CO 805 Counseling Development Group……………………………………….. 1
CO 770 Clinical Practicum………………………………………………………... 3
CO 785 Internship in Mental Health Counseling……………………………….. 3
CO 787 Internship in Mental Health Counseling……………………………….. 3
Counseling Elective…………………………………………………….... 3
Counseling Elective…………………………………………………….... 3
Counseling Elective………………………………………………………. 3
Counseling Elective…………………………………………………….... 2
Total Counseling Courses………………………………………………………… 60 hrs
Non-Counseling Courses
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry……………………….. 3 hrs
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the Old Testament
or Old Testament Book Study……………………………………… 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the New Testament
or New Testament Book Study…………………………………………. 3
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study or Bible Book Study…………………………... 3
HT 601 Historical Theology………………………………………………………. 3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine………………………………………. 3
Total Non-Counseling Courses……………………………………………………… 18 hrs
Total for MACMHC……………………………………………………………………… 78 hrs
TYPICAL MACMHC PROGRAM SEQUENCE
First Year
CO 701 Counseling Skills........................................................................................ 3
CO 702 Theories and Techniques in Counseling..................................................... 3
CO 700 Mental Health Diagnosis/Abnormal Psychology in Counseling ................. 3
CO 703 Human Growth and Transformation........................................................... 3
CO 731 Professional Issues and Ethics in Counseling............................................ 3
Counseling Elective................................................................................................. 3
CO 802 Counseling Development Group................................................................ 1
CO 803 Counseling Development Group................................................................ 1
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study.......................... 3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the OT or OT Book Study…........................... 3
J-Term (January, June, or July)
Total Credit Hours First Year: 26
Second Year
CO 732 Group Dynamics in Counseling.................................................................. 3
CO 733 Lifestyle and Career Development............................................................. 3
CO 736 Intercultural Counseling.............................................................................. 3
CO 751 Spirituality, Religion and Mental Health Counseling................................... 3
CO 773 Mental Health Assessment......................................................................... 3
CO 804 Counseling Development Group................................................................ 1
CO 805 Counseling Development Group................................................................ 1
CO 770 Clinical Practicum in Counseling................................................................ 3
HT 601 Historical Theology……………………………….......................................... 3
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the NT or NT Book Study................................ 3
J-Term Optional
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 26
Third Year
CO 784 Research and Evaluation in Counseling..................................................... 3
CO 791 Psychopharmacology Applied to Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Using the DSM 5………………………………………………………………............. 3
CO 785 Internship in Mental Health Counseling………………………………………...... 3
CO 787 Internship in Mental Health Counseling………………………………………...... 3
Counseling Elective................................................................................................. 3
Counseling Elective................................................................................................. 3
Counseling Elective................................................................................................. 2
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study or Bible Book Study.................................................. 3
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine…............................................................ 3
Optional J-Term
Total Credit Hours Third Year: 26
TOTAL MACMHC HOURS 78
TYPICAL MACMHC PROGRAM SEQUENCE (Part-Time Study)
First Year
CO 700 Mental Health Diagnosis/Abnormal Psychology in Counseling ..........................3
CO 701 Counseling Skills.................................................................................................3
CO 702 Theories and Techniques in Counseling.............................................................3
CO 802 Counseling Development Group.........................................................................1
CO 803 Counseling Development Group.........................................................................1
NT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the NT or Book Study in NT....................................3
OT 501 Pentecostal Explorations of the OT or Book Study in OT....................................3
SA 801 Pentecostal Foundations for Christian Ministry and Study..................................3
Courses include J-Terms (January, June, or July)
Total Credit Hours First Year: 20
Second Year
CF 702 Inductive Bible Study or Bible Book Study...........................................................3
CO 703 Human Growth and Transformation....................................................................3
CO 731 Professional Issues and Ethics in Counseling.....................................................3
CO 736 Intercultural Counseling.......................................................................................3
CO 770 Clinical Practicum in Counseling.........................................................................3
CO 804 Counseling Development Group.........................................................................1
CO 805 Counseling Development Group.........................................................................1
CO 791 Psychopharmacology (June J-term)....................................................................3
Courses include J-Terms (January, June, July)
Total Credit Hours Second Year: 20
Third Year
CO 732 Group Dynamics in Counseling...........................................................................3
CO 733 Lifestyle and Career Development......................................................................3
CO 773 Mental Health Assessment..................................................................................3
CO 751 Spirituality, Religion and Mental Health Counseling............................................3
CO 784 Research and Evaluation in Counseling.............................................................3
HT 601 Historical Theology………………………………..........................................................3
Courses Include J-Terms (January, June, or July)
Total Credit Hours Third Year: 18
Fourth Year
TS 603 Introduction to Christian Doctrine……….............................................................3
Supervised Internship in Mental Health Counseling* (CO 786 or CO 785 and CO 787)..6
Counseling Electives.......................................................................................................11
*CO 785 is 3 credit hours; CO 786 is 6 credit hours; and CO 787 is 3 credit hours.
Courses include J-Terms (January, June, July)
Total Credit Hours Fourth Year: 20
Total MACMHC Degree Program Requirement: 78 Credits