Master of Arts in Christian Sports Chaplaincy (M.A.C.S.C.)

Graduate Program | 36 Credit Hours | Thesis Track

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Christian Sports Chaplaincy (M.A.C.S.C.) is a graduate program designed to equip Christian chaplains, pastors, and ministry leaders to serve effectively in the sports world. This program blends biblical theology, chaplaincy skills, and sports ministry training to prepare graduates to provide pastoral care to athletes, coaches, and teams at all levels.

Whether in local sports leagues, professional athletic organizations, schools, or community settings, this program prepares students to be spiritual leaders who bring hope, guidance, and faith into the competitive world of sports.

Program Duration

Full-time Completion: 1.5–2 years

Maximum Duration: 5 years

Minimum GPA Requirement: 2.0

Program Structure & Course Highlights

The M.A.C.S.C. consists of 36 credit hours covering theology, ethics, sports culture, and chaplaincy leadership.

Core Courses in Christian Sports Chaplaincy:

Introduction to Chaplaincy Ministry
Chaplain Evangelism and Discipleship
Chaplain Ethics for Advisement and Pastoral Care
Spiritual and Professional Development of the Chaplain
Theological Ethics of Chaplaincy
Soul Care in Sports
Sports Chaplaincy
Studies in Sports Culture

Core Textbook:

Chaplaincy: A Comprehensive Introduction by Mark A. Jumper, Steven E. Keith, and Michael W. Langston

Sports Theology and Integration Courses:

Theology and Philosophy of Sports Ministry
Integration of Faith and Sports
Theological Ethics of Sports

Core Textbook:

Sport and the Christian Religion by Nick J. Watson et al.

Capstone Thesis Requirement

All students must complete a thesis of 25,000 to 35,000 words, demonstrating theological depth, original research, and practical application within the field of Christian sports chaplaincy.
The thesis is submitted in the final semester for academic review.
Upon approval and successful defense, the thesis may be published through Shiloh College’s academic platform or other approved theological outlets.

Graduation Requirements

Complete 36 credit hours
Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0
Finish within 5 years of enrollment
Submit and defend an approved thesis
File a Degree Completion Application in the final semester

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the M.A.C.S.C. program will:
Serve with competence as chaplains in sports and institutional settings.
Apply theological and ethical principles in diverse and high-pressure contexts.
Provide culturally sensitive and biblically grounded spiritual care.
Minister effectively to athletes and teams with compassion and clarity.
Integrate Christian faith into the culture of modern sports ministry.

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.