Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
Our DistinctivesDegree ProgramsCourse InfoAdmin & Finance PoliciesAdmissions
Degree Programs
DEGREE PROGRAMS
 
  • The Divinity Program
  • Distance Learning
  • The Ruling Elder Program
  • The Master of Arts Program
  • Non-degree Special Students
  • Continuing Education

The Master of Arts Program

PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY

Greenville Seminary recognizes the benefits of offering a degree program for those who desire a theological education but do not need the ministerial M.Div. degree. A Master of Arts (M.A.) program, which emphasizes knowledge of Biblical Theology, Systematic Theology, and Historical Theology, as well as personal piety, is offered. This program is designed for both men and women involved in the various non-ordained ministries of the church who wish to gain a sound biblical education for their particular work. Those involved in youth ministry, missions, or Christian Education will find the M.A. program particularly suited to give them a thorough theological education. The M.A. program can be an excellent opportunity for men and women in non-church professions to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith.

THE CURRICULUM

The M.A. in Theological Studies program is divided into three segments as shown in the following chart:

  Segment I  
Total
Hours
Master
of Arts
Program
47
OT 11 OT Survey NT 14 NT Survey
OT 23 OT Introduction NT 24 NT Introduction
OT 34 OT Biblical Theology NT 41 NT Biblical Theology
   
Segment II  
ST 11 Intro. to Reformed Theology ST 42 Ecclesiology and Polity
  ST 31 Prolegomena & Theology AP 12 Introduction to Apologetics
  ST 32 Man & Sin AP 42 Ethics
  ST 41 Christ & Salvation AP 44 Contemporary Theology
     
  Segment III  
  HT 21 Ancient Church History HT 31 Reformation Church History
  HT 22 Medieval Church History HT 32 Modern Church History

The first segment’s purpose is to ground the candidate thoroughly in the content and interpretation of the Bible. All six courses listed are required. The second segment deals systematically with the doctrines of the Bible. All four courses in the left column are required. The candidate must choose two more from those listed on the right. The third segment deals with the history of the church and pays particular attention to the development of doctrine and to the Reformed tradition. All four courses are required.

DEGREE SPECIALIZATIONS

The Master of Arts program may also be designed to provide a concentration in one of the following areas: Biblical Languages, Church History, Systematic Theology, and Biblical Counseling. For further information about courses required in these degree tracks, please contact Dr. Ben Shaw, Academic Dean: bshaw@gpts.edu.

RESIDENCY AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

The M.A. program can be completed in two years of full-time resident study. There is a four-year time limit for completing the program that may be extended only by faculty vote.

ADMISSION

All interested men and women who hold a B.A. degree or its equivalent are invited to apply. Women should note the admission requirements on page 69 of the Catalog as stated in the General Policies. Applications may be obtained by contacting the Admissions Office or by clicking here. Two references, one from the applicant’s pastor and one academic are required.

top Back to top

How Can I Apply?
What Programs Do You Offer?
Do You Offer Distance Learning?
How Much Do Your Programs Cost?
How Can I Support GPTS?
Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
The new seminary building is located at 200 East Main Street in Taylors, South Carolina.
(Please address all postal mail to P.O. Box 690, Taylors, South Carolina 29687.)
TEL 864/322-2717 | FAX 864/322-2719
info@gpts.edu
©2010. All rights reserved.