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Ministry Leadership

Master of Arts in Leadership

The world of Christian ministry today needs leaders who are not only visionary and spiritual but also trustworthy, innovative, collaborative, and transformative. Leaders need to create a clear purpose and direction so the ministry remains alive and vibrant. The Master of Arts in Leadership with an emphasis in Christian Ministry at Mid-America Christian University (MACU), through the Thomas School of Global Leadership, is uniquely designed to meet this demand.

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EXPLORE THE MASTER OF LEADERSHIP: Ministry Leadership EMPHASIS

Lead the Transformation with Integrity and Capacity

MACU has offered online master’s degree programs since 2008, helping adult learners pursue their professional goals while balancing busy careers and family lives. More than just a leadership degree, this program prepares graduates to thrive as ethical servant leaders equipped to influence organizations in business, education, ministry, government, and nonprofits—with a global mindset rooted in a Christ-centered worldview.

Our graduates are not only competent in leadership theory and practice but also ready to navigate complexity, foster human growth, leverage data and technology, champion collaboration, and design future-proof strategies for a rapidly changing world.

The MA in Leadership with an emphasis in Ministry Leadership is designed for individuals called to serve in ministerial leadership roles, whether vocationally or as laypersons. The program provides an in-depth understanding of theoretical leadership foundations and practical applications, enabling graduates to minister to others with increased capacity, insight, and sound wisdom. The curriculum blends courses on organizational and leadership theory with spiritual formation and theology, enriching students’ spiritual lives while enabling them to lead teams and successfully shape Christian entities to face the growing demands of complex contexts, both locally and globally. 

MACU’s ML was listed (2023) as one of the Best Programs in the USA by Organizational Leadership Education (Wiley University Services).

MACU is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of  Colleges and Schools (NCA).

Lead with Faith, Vision, and Kingdom Impact

This program is a flexible, career-advancing pathway for professionals seeking to sharpen their influence and expand their leadership capacity in local and global contexts. It is especially designed for:

  • Organizational leaders, managers, and CEOs aspiring to strategic and transformative leadership.
  • Leadership consultants, trainers, and coaches who want advanced credentials and tools to multiply their impact.
  • Leaders in nonprofit, higher education, government, and ministry seeking to strengthen their voice and articulate lasting transformation.

“Leadership skills rank among the most in-demand across industries: in 2023, leadership & people-management competencies were rated ‘very important’ or ‘extremely important’ in 185 occupations with projected fast growth and many openings.” – U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Program Highlights

  • 100% Online – Designed for busy, working professionals around the world.
  • Accelerated and Affordable – Your program is broken into:
    • 30 credit hours
    • 18 months
    • 10 courses
    • One six-week course at a time
  • Areas of Emphasis – Tailor your degree in:
  • Distinctive Methodology – Integrates a global context, servant leadership principles, and a biblical worldview through case studies and field experiences.
  • Career Networking Opportunities
  • Expert Faculty – Diverse professors and practitioners, all with doctorates in their specialty areas.
  • Applied & Portfolio-Oriented – Instead of a traditional thesis, you’ll complete an Integrative Leadership Project and a Professional Portfolio that showcase your expertise to future employers.
  • Personalized Attention – Small classes, engaged faculty, and meaningful peer collaboration.
  • No GMAT/GRE required for entrance
  • Special benefits and application of eligible service credits for veterans and active military

Careers

  • Associate Pastor
  • Board Member
  • Chaplain
  • Church Administrator
  • Evangelist
  • Fund Development Director
  • Marketplace Ministry Leader
  • Ministry Leadership Trainer, Consultant, and Coach
  • Missionary
  • Missions Director
  • Non-Profit Ministry Leader
  • Pastor
  • Youth Minister

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

“The MA in Leadership provided a structured learning experience that stretched and equipped me to lead with greater effectiveness. Through a blend of theory, theology, and real-world application, I found the courses designed to fit with my schedule and the content to be highly applicable to several ministry settings. I’d highly recommend this program to those ready to thoughtfully elevate their personal or organizational leadership and expand their influence within a Christian worldview.”

– Steve Southards
Lead Pastor, Salem Church of God

“Earning my Master’s of Leadership at MACU was an incredibly rewarding experience! As a working mom of three, I valued the flexibility of online classes, which allowed me to balance family, work, and studies. I appreciated the real-world projects that let me immediately apply what I was learning, and writing weekly devotionals offered insights and wisdom that continue to shape my personal and professional growth. This degree has equipped me to make a greater impact in my work and continue growing as a leader.” 

– Jill Hanson
Director of Partnerships and Engagement, Kimmel Foundation (Kimray)

“My experience in the MACU Master of Arts in Leadership program elevated my leadership capacity in transformative ways. From navigating organizational change to leading through the complexities of the pandemic, the program gave me practical tools, spiritual grounding, and a renewed confidence in my calling. I am grateful for how it equipped me to lead with wisdom, courage, and Christ-centered purpose.”

– Christian Mael Velez
Groups Pastor & Teaching Team, North Church (Edmond, OK)

THE PLACE TO BE

At Mid-America Christian University, leadership is more than a position—it’s a calling. Nestled in Oklahoma City, but connected globally through the Thomas School of Global Leadership, MACU offers a Christ-centered education with international reach.

Here, you’ll experience:

  • A community where purpose and passion intersect.
  • Innovative programs that integrate biblical worldview with global leadership practice.
  • Small class sizes, personalized mentoring, and a global network of leaders shaping transformation worldwide.

Whether you study online or visit our welcoming campus, MACU is the place to launch a leadership journey that extends far beyond your workplace—into your community, your nation, and the world.

Meet our Leadership Faculty

Dr. LeAnn Brown

Chair, Thomas School of Global Leadership

Dr. Jesus Sampedro

Program Director & Professor, Thomas School of Global Leadership

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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