Master of Arts - Ministry - Specialization in Intercultural Studies
The MA in Ministry with a specialization in Intercultural Studies is a practical and context-driven program. The curriculum is specifically designed to equip those who are called to intercultural ministry whether globally or among diaspora populations in the North American context. The coursework enables Christian leaders to demonstrate cultural competency and appreciation for the other and to engage other cultures in meaningful ways. The coursework also equips students to develop and lead Christian ministries in ways appropriate for their culture and ministry context. Through the problem-based learning approach, students immediately use skills learned in class to address issues in their ministry context. Peer-learning discussions allow students to benefit from each other’s varied global experiences as they learn together.
The Intercultural Studies specialization consists of 12-hours of coursework, with at least 6 hours in Intercultural Theory and at least 6 hours in Intercultural Ministry.
In addition to the MA in Ministry learning outcomes, students with a specialization in Intercultural Studies should, with graduate-level competency, be able to:
- Minister effectively in contexts of diversity exhibiting sensitivity to other religions and cultures.
- Integrate leadership and intercultural theories learned in class with experiential learning for successful contextual ministry.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Ministry major begins with completing application forms and submitting them with official transcripts and two personal recommendations. The Wesley Seminary shall determine admission status from the completed forms and student file and notify the applicant in writing of the admission status granted. Regular admission to the seminary constitutes admission to candidacy for the master’s degree. The basic criteria for regular admission to the MA program within the seminary are as follows:
- A baccalaureate or master's degree from an institution accredited by a regional accrediting body, the Association for Biblical Higher Education, or international theological accrediting associations affiliated with the International Council for Evangelical Theological Education.
- A minimum grade-point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 from the degree granting institution.
- An official transcript from the degree granting institution.
- Two recommendations including:
- One from a pastor or denominational supervisor.
- A general recommendation.
- A three to four page autobiography and statement of ministry purpose. The statement of purpose should reflect one's sense of God's direction in relation to Christian ministry or service.
- A signed Ministry Context form.
Program Requirements
- Students must have completed all required courses before enrolling in the MA Capstone Course (MIN-691).
- Registration in the MA Capstone will be cancelled for any students who fail to satisfactorily complete all required MA courses. All requirements for the degree must be completed within ten years of enrollment.
Transfer Credit
- A maximum of nine hours may be transferred from another accredited master's program, provided it falls within seven years prior to admission.
- Students who have taken equivalent courses in their undergraduate program to BIBL-500 The Bible as Christian Scripture, THEO-500 Introduction to Christian Theology, and CHST-500 Global Christian History will be allowed/encouraged to substitute an advanced Bible, theology, or church history elective.
Graduation Requirements
- Completion of core requirements.
- Minimum grade of "C" in each core and elective course.
- Cumulative grade point average of 2.5.
- Successful completion of the Bible Content Exam with a 70% or higher.
- All requirements for the degree must be completed within six years of enrollment.
- Payment of all tuition and fees is required to receive a diploma.
MA Program of Study (36 Hours)
Core Courses
Practical Ministry - 3 Hours
Biblical Studies - 3 Hours
| BIBL-500 | The Bible as Christian Scripture | 3 |
Church History - 3 Hours
Theological Studies - 3 Hours
| THEO-500 | Introduction to Christian Theology | 3 |
Intercultural Competency - 3 Hours
Spiritual Formation - 4 Hours
| SPIR-500 | Spiritual Formation: Change & Transformation | 1 |
| SPIR-520 | Spiritual Formation: Self Awareness & Appraisal | 1 |
| SPIR-540 | Spiritual Formation: Goal Setting & Accountability | 1 |
| SPIR-560 | Spiritual Formation: Mentoring & Spiritual Direction | 1 |
Capstone - 2 Hours
Specialization in Intercultural Studies
Intercultural Theory
Must take at least 6 hours.
Intercultural Ministry
Must take at least 6 hours.
Elective
-
| Elective | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 36 |
