Program Overview

The Master of Pastoral Studies program is designed to equip ministry leaders with theological foundations, practical skills, and spiritual depth for pastoral service. Through studies in pastoral theology, biblical exegesis, counseling, and leadership, students develop competencies necessary to navigate modern ministry challenges. This program fosters a comprehensive understanding of pastoral roles, from effective sermon delivery and strategic church planting to compassionate spiritual care and ethical leadership, preparing graduates to serve and lead with excellence in diverse ministry contexts.

Key Highlights

At a Glance

Program Outcomes

Immediate Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Master of Pastoral Studies, graduates will possess the essential knowledge and practical capabilities for immediate ministry impact. They will be able to apply sound biblical exegesis to interpret and communicate Scripture effectively, and deliver exegetically rich sermons using advanced homiletical techniques. Graduates will learn to implement church planting strategies that foster sustainable congregational growth, and adeptly guide individuals through spiritual and personal challenges using compassionate pastoral counseling techniques. Furthermore, they will be skilled at facilitating discipleship and small-group Bible studies for comprehensive spiritual formation within diverse communities.

Lifelong Learning Outcomes

Beyond immediate skills, the Master of Pastoral Studies cultivates a commitment to continuous growth and transformative ministry. Graduates will learn to maintain a reflective practice, deeply integrating theological understanding with practical leadership. They will consistently cultivate spiritual formation while demonstrating compassionate servant leadership in all their endeavors. This program equips them to engage in rigorous theological scholarship through advanced research and compelling writing. They will be prepared to innovate effectively in areas of evangelism, discipleship, and pastoral administration, and commit to continuous learning, fostering deeper faith and maximizing ministry impact throughout their lives.

Career Prospects

The Master of Pastoral Studies program prepares graduates for a wide range of leadership and service roles within religious and community organizations. This degree equips individuals for impactful ministry in various contexts, both locally and globally. Potential career paths include:

• Pastor / Associate Pastor: Leading and shepherding local congregations.
• Church Planter: Initiating and developing new churches or ministries.
• Missions Mobilizer / Missionary: Inspiring and equipping others for global missions, or serving in cross-cultural contexts.
• Discipleship Pastor / Director: Overseeing spiritual formation and growth programs.
• Christian Educator: Teaching biblical or theological studies in churches, schools, or ministry organizations.
• Pastoral Care Specialist: Providing spiritual and emotional support in various institutional settings (e.g., hospitals, elder care).
• Non-Profit Ministry Leader: Directing or managing faith-based community service organizations.
• Chaplain: Serving in specialized fields such as healthcare, military, or correctional facilities (may require additional certifications).
• Bible Study Leader / Curriculum Developer: Creating and leading educational content for spiritual growth.

Future Academic Paths

The Master of Pastoral Studies provides a solid academic foundation for individuals seeking to further their education in specialized theological or ministry fields. This program prepares graduates for doctoral-level studies, contributing to academic scholarship or advanced professional practice. Possible future academic paths include:

• Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.): For advanced professional practice and leadership in pastoral ministry.
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Theology, Biblical Studies, or Practical Theology: For academic research and teaching roles.
• Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) with a focus on religious education or leadership: Relevant for roles in academic administration or curriculum development.
• Doctor of Missiology (D.Miss.): For advanced specialization in missions theory and practice.

The MPS degree equips students with the necessary academic rigor and research skills for pursuing these advanced degrees, enabling continued intellectual and spiritual development in their chosen areas of ministry.

Courses for this Program (60 credits)

Total Credits: 60 Credit hrs

Graduation Requirements

• Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 throughout the program.
• Complete all required courses and electives (60 total credit hours).
• Complete the program within 5 years.
• Submit a Degree Completion Application in the last semester before the anticipated graduation date.

These requirements ensure that students have a well-rounded education in pastoral ministry and are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to serve in various pastoral and leadership roles.