MATH

Program Overview

Examine historical, philosophical and ethical theology through our integrative Master of Arts &mdah; Theology. Thoughtful, probing inquiry and discussion across the breadth of our Christian Thought discipline will deepen your engagement with the Scriptures. Whether you plan to serve in the workplace, church or academia, the MATH will challenge you to think critically and better interpret God’s Word.

Program Distinctives

• Thoughtful evangelical teaching provides strong foundation for ministry or further studies
• Location in the mission field of New England allows for engagement in the public square as well as the classroom
• Access to other top-tier institutions, including Harvard Divinity School and Boston University School of Theology, through the Boston Theological Institute

Typical Student

Master of Arts (Theology) students are typically interested in pursuing doctoral work, for which this degree is excellent preparation. Others may desire to enter into church ministry or learn to more effectively serve in their current vocation.

Potential Careers

• Doctoral studies
• Campus ministry
• Para-church ministry
• Teaching in Christian education
• Church ministry

Degree Goals

• To understand the basic content and themes of the Old and New Testaments in their historical and cultural settings as well as the historical and theological dimensions of the Christian faith
• To develop competence in a biblical or research language in order to develop exegetical skills
• To develop skills of theological analysis and argument appropriate to the breadth of theological claims of Christianity
• To understand important periods of theological reflection and confession in church history, including the contemporary setting
• To develop aptitudes for living and speaking the gospel in the context of the Christian community so that individually and corporately the depth of Christian conviction can be applied in the ordinary practices of life
• To foster love for God and his Word and therefore to cultivate the practices of spiritual maturity and Christ-like character, and to understand the Christian’s ethical responsibility in church and society
• To understand the ethical and missiological dimensions of the Christian faith in its global context.

Spotlight Alum

The opportunity to study at excellent schools in the Boston area [through the BTI] allowed me to complement Gordon-Conwell’s strengths to receive a more well-rounded education than I would have received otherwise. My experience at Gordon-Conwell has given me a broader perspective on the history of Christian thought.”

David Barbee, MATH ‘04
Ph.D. Student in Religious Studies, University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA