Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies

The Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies encourages students to discover their gifts and develop them for service. Students engage in a process of deepening self-knowledge, exploring the Christian tradition, and considering their potential to minister to the world. An integration of theology, scripture, pastoral and personal formation encourages optimum growth for ministers. The program prepares lay leaders to engage in theological reflection and to articulate “a faith that does justice” in a variety of contexts.

The pastoral studies degree uniquely addresses leadership skill development within the faith community context. Seattle University’s School of Theology and Ministry has signed formal partnership agreements with fourteen Christian denominations and over twenty-four interfaith collaborators, which provide a dynamic context for studying about faith community leadership in the 21st century.

Degree Requirements:

I. Scripture

6 credits:

II. Systematic and Historical Theology

12 credits:

Choose one of the following:

III. Spirituality, Ethics and Justice

9 credits:

IV. Pastoral Skills and Ministerial Formation

15 credits:

Choose an option:

Option a:

Option b:

V. Worship and Liturgy

Choose one of the following two courses: