Master of Arts in Christian Leadership
Our Master of Arts in Christian Leadership Curriculum
The Master of Arts in Christian Leadership has been designed with the current and future ministry practitioner in mind. This program packs a lot into just 39 credits, preparing you for your calling.
MA Christian Leadership Degree Courses & Credit Hours
Take 39 credits that explore Christian foundations broadly, as well as your specific area of ministry.
200 hour In-Context Learning Assignment (2)
Formation Groups (2)
Person (2)
Context (2)
Gospel (2)
Calling (2)
An introduction to basic principles for interpreting the Bible in the Reformed tradition. This course initiates the student in the fundamental task of a doing a responsible and relevant interpretation of the biblical text. Thus, the course aims to familiarize us with the indispensable abilities to hear attentively the Word of God and obey it.
This course introduces students to the theology and message of the Old Testament. Emphasis falls upon the Old Testament as a witness to the Missio Dei, Israel’s covenantal vocation, as well as on fundamental theological themes like covenant, divine presence, kingdom, and eschatology. The course will also introduce students to the Old Testament’s literary shape and general historical setting. Finally, the ‘Mission of God in the Old Testament’ encourages students to articulate the OT’s importance for ministry and theological thinking in the context of the Church.
We will survey the grand story of the missio Dei in the New Testament. We will explore the mission of God to redeem and restore God’s fallen world, including themes such as the image of God, covenant, blessing, suffering, community, and shalom. We will make connections to contemporary ministry issues such as creation stewardship, self-identity, gender relations, anti-racism, immigration, economic justice, etc.
Systematic Theology I (3)
Systematic Theology II (3)
Gospel in a Multicultural & Multifaith World (2)
Reformed Confessions (2)
The Story of Christianity I or II (3)
Minimum Courses in Area of Concentration (8)
On Campus & Online
This program is offered in online, hybrid, and residential formats. Through the path of your choice, you’ll be empowered to learn, grow, and enrich your ministry—all within a theologically rich community of students, professors, and mentors.
Reformed Tradition
Calvin educates students within the Reformed tradition of Christianity, and is the official seminary for the Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA). The majority of students studying with the seminary are not members of the CRCNA. All Christ followers and seekers are welcome here.
Vocational Formation & Contextual Learning
Calvin’s vocational formation services are available to you as a seminary student. Further your leadership through assessment, contextual learning, mentorship, and more.
Finishing Your Master of Arts in Christian Leadership Program
How Long Does It Take to Receive an MA in Christian Leadership Degree?
The program takes 2–3 years to complete.
Program Outcomes
Through the Master of Arts in Christian leadership program, you’ll be empowered to learn, grow, and enrich your ministry—all within a theologically rich community of students, professors, and mentors. You will leave seminary well-connected and confident in your abilities to impact your field through Christian leadership.
How to Apply
Our application is simple and straightforward—and ready for you to begin today. Start the guided application process now. We’re here to help, every step of the way.
A wide range of scholarships are available to Calvin Theological Seminary students. Our financial aid team works with you to create a customized plan to fund your graduate study.
Application Requirements
Admission Deadlines
Applications are generally accepted on a rolling basis, but international students are encouraged to apply as early as possible to coordinate travel and immigration logistics.
The following are general application deadline guidelines:
Fall Term
- March 1: Apply for this date to be considered for the first round of scholarship awarding. Note: If you miss this date it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t receive a scholarship, but you may miss the first round of awarding.
- July 1: North American student deadline
- June 1: International student deadline
Spring Term
- November 15
Summer Term
- April 1
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Apply Now
Ready to begin your graduate school journey? Study with the trusted professors and welcoming student community of Calvin Theological Seminary. Apply now to pursue a Master of Arts in Christian Leadership.
Get to Know Calvin Theological Seminary
Meet Your Faculty
Faculty at Calvin Theological Seminary carry out the seminary’s mission as inspiring thought leaders, invested teachers and mentors, and committed followers of Christ.
Student Stories
Past graduates have applied their learning to a variety of ministry-based opportunities. Here are some of their stories.
Academic Support
In addition to contextual learning, the Vocational Formation Office offers students other forms of support, including formation groups with peers, vocational mentors, and assessment tools to help students identify and cultivate their strengths.