Master of Arts in Sports Chaplaincy

Courses in this program (36 Credits)

Pluralism and World Religions: 

This course explores the diversity of world religions and promotes an understanding of religious pluralism.

Chaplain Evangelism and Discipleship: 

This course focuses on the role of a chaplain in sharing the message of faith and discipling individuals in their spiritual journey.

Hermeneutics: 

This course examines principles and methods of interpreting and understanding biblical texts.

Systematic Theology I: 

This course provides an in-depth study of the foundational doctrines and beliefs of Christianity.

Systematic Theology II: 

This course further explores key theological concepts and doctrines within the Christian faith.

Biblical Theology: 

This course examines the overarching themes and theological message of the Bible.

Foundations of Expository Teaching and Preaching: 

This course equips students with the skills and techniques necessary for effective teaching and preaching of biblical texts.

Introduction to Pastoral Counseling: 

This course introduces students to the principles and practices of pastoral counseling, focusing on providing care and support to individuals in a pastoral context.

Premarital and Marital Counseling: 

This course addresses the specific needs and challenges of couples, equipping students to provide counseling and guidance for premarital and marital relationships.

Introduction to Chaplaincy Ministry: 

This course provides an overview of the role and responsibilities of a chaplain in various settings.

Spiritual and Professional Development of the Chaplain: 

This course focuses on the personal and professional growth of chaplains, helping them develop their spiritual lives and enhance their skills as chaplains.

Chaplain Ethics for Advisement and Pastoral Care: 

This course explores ethical considerations and dilemmas that chaplains may encounter in their advisory and pastoral care roles.

Sports Chaplaincy: 

This course specifically addresses the unique challenges and opportunities of chaplaincy within the context of sports.

Theology and Philosophy of Sports Ministry

This course offers a theological and philosophical framework for understanding sports and sports ministry within churches and other settings. It explores the historical antecedents of sports ministry and examines contemporary themes in this field. Students will develop a theology of sports as a cultural discourse, allowing them to engage with sports ministry in a thoughtful and informed manner.

Integration of Faith and Sports

Building upon the foundational knowledge from theology and philosophy of sport ministry, this course encourages sportspersons and ministers to reimagine their thinking, engagement, and practice of sports. It critically examines how Christians can understand and navigate the culture of sports. Through lectures and a sports laboratory, students will simulate various challenges and dilemmas faced by sportspersons in competition, facilitating a deeper understanding of the intersection between faith and sports.

Theological Ethics of Sports

In this course, students will develop Christian moral reasoning skills in relation to sports. The focus is on theological and ethical reflections and moral deliberations specific to sports. Students will explore selected moral issues that arise in the context of sports and develop a deeper understanding of how faith can shape ethical decision-making in this domain.

Theological Ethics of Chaplaincy

This course delves into Christian moral reasoning related to chaplaincy ministry in diverse institutional contexts, including healthcare, military, prison, and sports. Drawing on the Christian Scripture tradition, students will interpret particular situations and construct moral norms to guide chaplains in their care and concern for the well-being of others.

Soul Care in Sports

This course focuses on models of holistic care and personal development for individuals involved in sports. Students will learn how to address the social, emotional, spiritual, and relational aspects of flourishing unique to sportspersons and sports culture. They will develop skills to provide effective soul care to individuals in the sports community.

Studies in Sports Culture

This course offers an in-depth exploration of a selected topic related to the study of sports and ministry. The specific content may vary, allowing students to delve into areas of interest within the broader field of sports culture and ministry. Students can take this course multiple times, as long as the content differs, for a maximum of 6 credit hours.

Overall, these courses provide students with a comprehensive understanding of sports ministry, exploring its theological, philosophical, ethical, and cultural dimensions. They equip students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary to engage in meaningful sports ministry and promote the integration of faith and sports.

Graduation Requirements:

• Completion of a total of 36 credit hours.
• Maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0 throughout the program.
• Completion of all required courses within a maximum period of 5 years.
• Submission of a Degree Completion Application in the last semester before the anticipated graduation date.
These requirements ensure that students receive comprehensive training in chaplaincy ministry, pastoral counseling, and theological studies, preparing them for effective service in their chosen field.