Master of Arts in Theological Studies

Program Overview

Explore Scripture more deeply. Grow as a Pentecostal scholar. Lead with greater wisdom and conviction.

The Master of Arts in Theological Studies at Assemblies of God Theological Seminary equips students to engage Scripture more deeply, think theologically, and serve more effectively in ministry. Through advanced study of the Bible and theological research, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed for pastoral leadership, teaching, writing, and future doctoral study. Whether you serve in a church, ministry organization, or missions context, the MATS program helps you grow as a Spirit-empowered minister of the Gospel who can faithfully lead and influence others.

The Master of Arts in Theological Studies is designed for:

• Pastors seeking deeper biblical and theological training
• Ministers preparing to teach or write
• Students preparing for doctoral studies
• Church leaders wanting formal theological education
• Missionaries and ministry leaders seeking advanced biblical understanding
• Graduates from non-religion bachelor’s programs pursuing a call to theological study

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Seminary Education + Personal Formation

At AGTS, education is not merely about what you know, but who you become. Through Christ-centered scholarship, Spirit-empowered formation, and deep connection to the mission of the Church, AGTS prepares women and men to lead, equip, and reach the world for Christ.

Curriculum Overview

The MATS program at AGTS requires 48 credits of study and can be completed by any student regardless of the field of their undergraduate degree.

Master of Arts in Theological Studies Degree Info Sheet

Most students complete the MATS degree in approximately 2-4 years.

Graduates from the MATS program may pursue:

• Preaching and pastoral ministry
• Christian education (church based, K-12, or higher ed)
• Writing and scholarly publication
• Missionary service
• Theological research
• Doctoral studies (PhD, ThD, DMin, or similar programs)
• Denominational leadership roles

Concentrations and Areas of Focus

The MATS program allows students to select elective courses that align with their interests and calling. The MATS program has Biblical and Theological Studies as the default concentration, but students can narrow their focus and pursue specialization with one of the following areas of focus:

• Old Testament Studies
• New Testament Studies
• Biblical Languages (Greek and Hebrew)
• Pentecostal and Charismatic Studies
• Intercultural Theology

Transfer Credit

Have you completed graduate theological coursework at another institution? The MATS program at AGTS allows for up to 24 transfer credits. Note, there is a 10-year time limit on program completion, including transfer credit (see the AGTS Catalog for more information). Contact our AGTS Admission Coordinator at [email protected] to request a free transfer credit evaluation.

Advanced Standing Credit

Students with a strong undergraduate background in religion who have successfully completed introductory courses in Bible, Theology, and Ministry as part of their bachelor’s degree may receive up to 9 credits of advanced standing toward the 48-credit hour requirement for the MATS program. Note, the bachelor’s courses must be relatively recent to fit within the 10-year time limit for completion of the MATS program.

Course Delivery Options

AGTS provide flexible course options for adult learners and current ministers. The MATS courses are available online* or on campus in the following formats:

• On Campus Residential Courses – weekly in-person class meetings at the main campus in Springfield, Missouri.
• Virtual Remote Courses* – weekly online class meetings through live videoconferencing, joining with students attending the on campus residential courses.
• Online Courses* – weekly online modules without fixed class meetings, though some faculty use live web meetings with students throughout the course.

*AGTS is obligated to comply with other states’ laws regarding delivery of online programs to residents outside the state of Missouri. See Evangel’s State Compliance Public Disclosure to view the current authorization status of your state.

Take the Next Step: Explore Admissions Information

As the national seminary of the Assemblies of God, AGTS integrates academic excellence, Pentecostal spirituality, and practical ministry formation to prepare leaders who are equipped for faithful Kingdom service and effective global impact.