Master of Arts in Theology
Advance in your understanding of the Christian faith.
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Earn a Customizable Master’s in Theology
Pursue advanced theological study for academic, professional, or personal development in Concordia University Irvine’s Master of Arts 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. Regardless of your background and religious affiliation, you will be welcomed, respected, and challenged to think, reflect, and learn in our program.
With our live, online classes, you can complete most of your degree from home. One on-campus intensive is required for most students. Since all classes are live, you will have plenty of opportunity to get to know fellow students and ask questions of your instructors.
The master’s in theology at Concordia provides a broad-based theological foundation, including courses in Biblical exegesis, historical theology, and systematic-doctrinal theology. You will also have the opportunity to tailor the program to your goals. Emphases include
- Christian Education Leadership
- Director of Christian Education
- Research in Theology
- Servant Leadership
- Theology and Culture
Live Online Classes
All classes are offered in a live format so you can get to know your professors and fellow students.
Customizable
Choose an emphasis that fits your goals.
On-Campus Intensive
Students come to campus at least once for an on-campus intensive.
“What makes Concordia unique is the vision of molding us into people not just academically, athletically, or spiritually but how each of those are connected into our vocations in our life.”
Isaiah D. ’25
Getting Started
The core of the M.A. in Theology curriculum will equip you with a solid foundation in research skills and the major divisions of theology.
Core courses cover topics like theological research, historical theology, Biblical exegesis, and ethics. No matter which emphasis you choose, you will receive a strong foundation in all areas of theology.
Next Start
August 24, 2026
Upcoming Starts
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Spring 2027 January 11, 2027
Curriculum
Complete ALL of the following Courses:
- THL501 – Introduction to Theological Research
- THL504 – Survey of Historical Theology
- THL510 – Lutheran Confessions
OR THL511 – Creeds and Confessions - THL528 – Seminar in Biblical Theology and Exegesis
OR THL529 – Lutheran Hermeneutics and the Theology of Scripture - THL565 – Christianity, Ethics and Contemporary Culture
- THL573 – Systematic Doctrinal Theology
View the Concordia University Irvine Online Catalog for a full list of courses.
Upon completion of the Master of Arts in Theology program, you’ll be able to:
- Express an understanding of the language, contents, history, culture, and themes of the Bible.
- Integrate and articulate biblical doctrine in systematic constructs.
- Accurately describe prominent religions, denominations, and philosophies of the past and present.
- Articulate a personal faith in Christ that is well informed from a biblical perspective.
Emphases
Christian Education Leadership
The Christian Education Leadership emphasis is a specialized track that promotes theological reflection and ministry skills for those who wish to deepen their ability to contribute to the educational programming of congregations. Students take the core M.A. Theology courses, complete several ministry courses, and write a master’s thesis for a total of 35 units.
Director of Christian Education
This emphasis is open only to LCMS students seeking certification as a director of Christian education. Students in this emphasis complete all M.A. Theology core courses as well as theological and ministry courses required for certification as a Director of Christian Education in the LCMS. The entire program requires 62 units. Please note the additional admission requirements apply for this program
Research in Theology
The Research in Theology emphasis invites you into an ongoing life of theological research and scholarship. Students in this emphasis take the M.A. Theology core courses, choose three electives in consultation with the program director, and write a master’s thesis for 32 total units. Electives can include Guided Readings, which permit students to dig deeply into a theological topic of their choosing.
Servant Leadership
This emphasis is only for graduates of the KINDLE Servant Leadership Program. Three 3-unit courses (9 units total) are transferable from the KINDLE experience. The rest of the master’s program includes the core curriculum and thesis work. Contact Carrie Donohoe for more details.
Theology and Culture
The Theology and Culture emphasis is a specialized track for those who wish to engage in culture-crossing ministry within the church. It gives students a strong theological foundation as well as practical ministry skills. Students take the core M.A. Theology courses, complete several ministry courses, and write a master’s thesis for a total of 38 units.
Residency
Most students will be required to come to campus for one in-person course. The on-campus residency generally takes place in early June and lasts for five days. These intensive courses require students to complete work before the residency begins and finish the coursework after they return home
Tuition and Fees
At Concordia, we understand that investing in your education is a significant decision. That’s why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make your academic journey more affordable. View tuition costs and fees.
Admission Requirements
Your application process will involve an interview with Christ College’s Director of Graduate Programs or a representative.
The Director of Christian Education certification includes supplemental application and eligibility requirements, including:
View the Concordia University Irvine Online Catalog for full details on application and admission requirements.
Career Outcomes
Many students pursue a Master of Arts in Theology simply to grow in their understanding of the Christian faith. However, the M.A. in Theology can also prepare you for a variety of careers in churches, schools, and beyond. Students from a wide variety of Christian denominations have thrived in our graduate programs, going on to PhDs and professorships, publishing books, and successfully serving in ministry. Possible careers include
- Writer
- Youth and family minister
- Theology teacher in a Christian school
- Professor at a college or university
- Director of Christian Education
Networking Opportunities
Because the classes in this program are held in real time, you will study with a diverse cohort of fellow students who are as interested in theology and ministry as you are. Moreover, you will receive direct mentorship from a faculty of distinguished scholar-teachers, allowing you to build lasting professional and personal relationships that span congregations, mission fields, and academic institutions worldwide.
As a graduate of Concordia, you’ll become part of a vibrant community of over 25,000 alumni and over 3,500 peers, fostering meaningful connections that support both personal and professional growth. Our dedicated faculty and staff are committed to helping you discover and develop your callings through mentorship and collaboration.
Explore Financial Aid
Reduce your tuition costs with financial aid — with help from a team that wants to make your time at Concordia as affordable as possible.
Meet Our Faculty
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Cari Chittick
Director of Lutheran Teaching Programs and LCMS Placement, Professor of…
FAQs
Can you be a pastor with a master’s in theology?
Concordia’s Master of Arts in Theology provides you with a rigorous, faithful, broad-based theological education. Some churches will accept the degree as preparation for becoming a pastor, but not all do. If you are considering pastoral ministry in The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, please look at our Cross-cultural Ministry Program.
How long does the master’s in theology take?
Depending on the emphasis you choose and how quickly you write your thesis, you can complete the M.A. in Theology in as little as 2.5 years.
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Sources
1U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/home.htm (viewed Oct. 25, 2024),
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/fundraisers.htm (viewed Oct. 25, 2024),
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/about/data-for-occupations-not-covered-in-detail.htm (viewed Oct. 25, 2024).
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.