Master of Arts in Christian Ministry

Offered in Columbia SC

The Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (MACM) degree is a two-year program (55 credit hours) that enables graduates to serve in a number of ministry areas, depending on the specific credentialing requirements within their denominations. These may include but are not limited to Christian education, youth ministry, youth and family ministry, chaplaincy, and faith-based non-profit organizational leadership. The MACM provides the necessary educational and formational requirements for students desiring to be placed on the Deacon roster of the ELCA.

The MACM degree is designed with a core of 28 credit hours which is combined with 15 credit hours in selected ministry related areas, three semesters of field education, and nine credit hours in electives which provide for an area of specialization.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary admissions application, candidates for admission to the Master of Arts in Christian Ministry program must meet the following criteria:

1. Have earned an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale;
2. Submit official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended;
3. Complete an autobiographical essay in 600-800 words setting forth: (a) your reasons for applying to seminary, (b) an assessment of your strengths and weaknesses as an applicant for theological studies and (c) the significant events of your life, your Christian experience, and your relationship to the church;
4. Submit three references from: (a) your Pastor, (b) a faculty member, an advisor in an academic setting, or a supervisor who is acquainted with your work ethic, and (c) a non-relative lay person who has known you in a leadership role or professional setting;
5. Ecclesiastical endorsement is required for admission when required by your denomination;
6. Be available for an interview as requested.