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Master of Arts in Theology

Christ College

Pursue advanced theological study for academic, professional, or personal development at Concordia University Irvine’s Master of Arts (MA) in Theology program. A confessional, orthodox, and missional university, we take seriously the Gospel of Jesus Christ and Christian faithfulness without compromising academic integrity. Every graduate theology program teaches from a certain perspective. Ours is a biblical one.

The Master’s in Theology degree is delivered through a “blended” instructional approach that offers flexibility for distance learners who live outside of the Orange County area. Blended instructional models are growing in popularity because adult students appreciate periodic face-to-face classroom connection times while being able to complete coursework primarily online. That means less time on campus, more time online, and the flexibility to fit continuing education into your home, family, and work life.

Students from a wide variety of Christian denominations have thrived in our graduate programs, going on to PhD’s and professorships in top universities, publishing books, and successfully serving in ministry.

32 Units
2.5 Years Completion
$630 cost per unit
Online Delivery

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Program Highlights

Program Timelines

Due to the flexibility and ability to customize your program, contact an admissions counselor to discuss upcoming start dates and how to plan your coursework. The MA program generally runs for a 15-week term during the fall and spring semesters and for a 9-day summer intensive.

If you are pursuing certifications with the Cross-Cultural Ministry Center or other programs with oversight by The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, there may be different term lengths to understand within your expanded coursework beyond the MA in Theology.

Start Term Term Dates
Fall August 21, 2023 - December 15, 2023
Spring January 8, 2024 - May 3, 2024
Summer May 13, 2024 - August 23, 2024

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Customizable Emphases

You may select an emphasis related to Christian Education Leadership, Director of Christian Education, Research in Theology, Servant Leadership, or Theology and Culture. Additionally, you may be interested in a cohort like Apologetics which are offered during specific semesters. There are many options for customizing your academic plan within the core courses, your chosen emphasis area, and available electives. If you aren’t sure how to plan an emphasis or electives, an admissions counselor can help you determine your personal academic plan.

Online Delivery

The majority of our courses are delivered in a live, real-time online format, enabling you to enroll in the program without relocating. Classes meet in technologically enhanced classrooms featuring smart boards and data projection, enhanced microphones, and acoustical conditioning to better facilitate interaction of classroom participants with distance participants.

Summer Intensives

In the online Theology master’s program, even distance learners are required to take a minimum of two classes on site; however, with the option to take a summer intensive to complete a course in 9 days, you can manage your ministry and schedule needs while continuing your education. You might even want to use a summer intensive course as a reason to take a vacation in beautiful southern California, while you do the rest of your coursework online during the year.

Faculty Spotlight

Our professors strive to achieve faithful excellence in church and society and to cultivate these values in their students. Every faculty member is published, and all of them have practical ministry experience––many in cross-cultural settings. With class sizes typically ranging from 10-20 students, you will have the opportunity to intimately study theology in a community of scholars. Christ College professors are available to you and committed to your development.


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Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission to the master’s program, a student must:

  1. Provide one official transcript that shows a confirmed bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
  2. Submit a statement of intent.
  3. Provide a minimum of two professional references.

View complete details for admissions requirements.

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Have questions about a degree in Theology? Not sure how to get started? Fill out the form below, and one of our admissions counselors will get in touch with you.

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