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CHRISTIAN MINISTRY

Master of Arts

Mid-America Christian University’s Master of Arts in Christian Ministry is designed for individuals called to serve in a wide range of Christian ministry roles, from pastoral leadership to faith-based organizational service. The program builds a solid foundation in biblical exegesis, Wesleyan-Arminian theology, and church history, while also emphasizing spiritual formation, pastoral care, and effective communication of the gospel through preaching, teaching, and evangelism. Students gain valuable insight into contemporary leadership, discipleship, and apologetics, equipping them to lead with confidence and clarity in both church and community-based ministry environments.

Students in the program can customize their degree by choosing from six specialized emphasis areas: Ministry Leadership, Pastoral Studies, Theological Studies, Biblical Studies, Christian Leadership, or Pastoral Care and Crisis. Each emphasis allows students to deepen their expertise in a specific area of ministry, tailoring their academic experience to align with their calling and vocational goals. Whether preparing for pastoral ministry, teaching, counseling, or organizational leadership, MACU’s flexible program structure ensures that graduates are well-equipped to meet the unique challenges of modern ministry.

Degree Plan →

EXPLORE THE Ma IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRy

To tailor the degree to individual callings, the program offers optional emphases in Ministry Leadership, Pastoral Studies, Theological Studies, Biblical Studies, Christian Leadership, or Pastoral Care and Crisis. This flexibility allows students to focus on areas most relevant to their ministry goals. This program may be taken 100% online or through weekly classes in the evening, accommodating the diverse schedules of working students.

Program Options

  • Choose from 100% online courses or take a class one night a week on campus
  • Follow your calling with an emphasis in Ministry Leadership, Pastoral Studies, Theological Studies, Biblical Studies, Christian Leadership, or Pastoral Care in Crisis

Emphasis Options

  • Ministry Leadership: The Ministry Leadership emphasis equips current and aspiring leaders to serve effectively in both church and community settings. Grounded in the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition, this emphasis blends biblical and theological studies with hands-on ministry training to develop spiritually grounded, compassionate, and visionary leaders.
  • Pastoral Studies: The Pastoral Studies emphasis prepares individuals for vocational ministry by combining biblical and theological depth with practical leadership training. Emphasizing spiritual formation and pastoral care, this emphasis equips students to lead with wisdom, compassion, and clarity in the local church and beyond.
  • Theological Studies: The Theological Studies emphasis offers a deep and rigorous exploration of Christian theology, history, and doctrine—ideal for those pursuing informed ministry leadership or preparing for advanced theological research. Rooted in the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition, the curriculum fosters critical thinking, spiritual formation, and thoughtful engagement with today’s pressing theological and cultural issues.
  • Biblical Studies: The Biblical Studies emphasis equips students with a rich, in-depth understanding of Scripture through focused study of its content, historical context, and theological meaning. Designed for those called to teach, preach, or pursue academic research, this emphasis offers a strong foundation in both the Old and New Testaments, along with essential training in biblical languages.
  • Christian Leadership: The Christian Leadership emphasis prepares biblically grounded, forward-thinking leaders to serve in churches, ministries, nonprofits, and other faith-based organizations. Blending leadership principles with practical skills in communication, organizational development, and innovation, this emphasis equips students to lead with integrity, vision, and compassion.
  • Pastoral Care and Crisis: The Pastoral Care and Crisis emphasis equips pastors, chaplains, and ministry leaders to offer compassionate, biblically grounded care to those navigating life’s most difficult seasons. With a Christ-centered focus, the curriculum integrates counseling principles, human development, addiction recovery, and trauma response with the theological and pastoral dimensions of ministry.

Careers

  • Senior Pastor
  • Associate Pastor
  • Youth Pastor
  • Children’s Ministry Director
  • Church Administrator
  • Missionary
  • Chaplain
  • Christian Educator
  • Nonprofit Organization Leader
  • Pastoral Counselor
  • Worship Leader
  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • Bible Study Leader
  • Evangelist
  • Church Planting Coordinator

THE PLACE TO BE

Mid-America Christian University is more than a campus—it’s a community where purpose and passion collide. Nestled in Oklahoma City, MACU offers a Christ-centered education that goes beyond the classroom, empowering students to grow academically, spiritually, and professionally.

With small class sizes, personalized attention, and innovative degree programs designed for real-world impact, MACU is the place where dreams take root and thrive. Whether you’re engaging in vibrant campus life or pursuing a flexible online program, you’ll find a supportive environment dedicated to helping you discover your calling and make a difference in the world. At MACU, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re shaping your future.

Meet our Ministry Faculty

DR. JUSTIN KEY

Chair/Professor

dr. Michael sanders

Professor

dr. wendell sutton

Professor

DR. DAWN MEADOWS

Dean of Academic Instruction

dr. cliff sanders

Professor Emeritus

Ready to Get Started?

Ready to take the next step toward your future at MACU? Start your journey today by applying online or scheduling a campus visit to experience our welcoming community firsthand. Whether you’re exploring programs or ready to enroll, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Your path to purpose starts now!

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