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You studied theology in college, but you’ve always wanted to know more:

  • What tools do I need to interpret Scripture–to “correctly handle the Word of truth”?
  • What does God say about some of todays’ complicated ethical questions?
  • What can church history teach me about the church today?
  • How can I better counsel people in crisis?
  • How can I gain confidence in leading others to a deeper walk with Christ?
  • How can I myself grow in the grace and knowledge of my Savior?

Maybe now is the time. The time to explore the Word. Let it dwell in you richly. Ponder the mysteries and majesties of the Triune God. Develop your own philoshophy of personal ministry.

Maybe now is the time to grow.

  • Teachers who want a deeper understanding of the Word for catechism and Word of God class
  • Staff ministers who want to be better prepared for Bible class, religion class, evangelism, or counseling
  • Lay leaders who want to lead or participate more fully in their Bible classes or small groups
  • Anyone who has completed undergrad biblical-theology coursework and wants to know more

Undergraduate degree from accredited college or university

Completion of 18 undergraduate biblical theology credits at MLC (or comparable coursework, upon approval)

GPA of 3.00 (Students with a lower GPA may be accepted on probation)

Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work

Registration fee

Written statement of goals and expectations for the program

Approval by director of graduate studies

Graduate Certificate in Theology Is For: 

  • Lutheran teachers and staff ministers
  • Provisionally called WELS Lutheran teachers

Graduate Certificate in Theology: 

  • Provides a graduate-level study of the bible, bible interpretation, and Lutheran ministry
  • Is useful for Lutheran teachers and staff ministers who wish to deepen their understanding of theology
  • Is a pathway to WELS teaching ministry certification for provisionally called Lutheran teachers who meet the qualifications

Graduate Theology Admission Requirements

  • Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
  • GPA of 3.00 or higher
  • Previous undergraduate theology requirements
    • MLC’s 18-credit Ministry Certification courses
    • Satisfactory completion of theology graduation requirements from WLC or BLC
    • Satisfactory completion of theology requirements from another Lutheran college with MLC MATS faculty approval

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION

Application for Admission
MATS

Program Plan

Graduate Certificate in Theology
MATS Course Descriptions
Course Calendar

Listed by Semester

Long-term Course Calendar
Course Registration
Finances
Completing Your Degree

Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS)

100% Online

Martin Luther College’s Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) is an online degree program that contributes to the spiritual and professional growth of individuals by equipping them to be reflective, competent, and dedicated workers in the Kingdom through advanced studies in Scripture, doctrine, church
history, and ministry.

It is designed primarily for ministry-certified staff ministers and teachers, to provide a broader and deeper foundation for their service in the public ministry. Other college graduates who wish to grow spiritually may also meet entrance requirements. The degree, in and of itself, does not qualify one for a called position in the ministry.

MATS graduates will demonstrate the following capabilities:

  1. Utilize appropriate tools for theological study.
  2. Articulate the major themes of the Old and New Testaments.
  3. Interpret the biblical text from a Christocentric perspective.
  4. Apply biblical doctrine to specific situations in life and ministry.
  5. Describe the key individuals, events, and ideas represented in the history of Christianity.
  6. Evaluate and respond to changes in culture and society that affect the Church.
  7. Construct a personal philosophy of ministry.

Upon successful completion of the graduate program, students are awarded the Master of Arts in Theological Studies degree.

Planning YOUR master’s program is as easy as 1, 2, 3

  1. Print your program plan.
  2. Choose electives to support your ministry.
    Read the course descriptions to determine which best match your responsibilities and interests.
  3. Schedule your courses.
    Plan to take courses when it’s convenient for you with our long-term course calendar.