Master of Arts in Specialized Ministry

The Master of Arts in Specialized Ministry (M.A.S.M.) is a professional master's degree for students who desire to work in some form of specialized ministry in congregations and other settings, including the Order of Ordained Deacon in The United Methodist Church. These students may not be seeking ordination with a particular denomination, but may be interested in employment through churches, non-profit agencies, or similar organizations. The curriculum includes study in an area of specialization, a colloquium experience, and field education or clinical pastoral education related to the area of specialization.

To graduate, students must meet the requirements as specified in the catalog and Master's Student Handbook of their year of matriculation.

At least 80 quarter credits with a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or better are required for the Master of Arts in Specialized Ministry degree.

This degree may be completed in 40 quarter credits if the student has previously completed a M.Div. degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. Specific requirements may be negotiated based on prior educational experience. A minimum grade point average of 2.0 is necessary. Students who average 40 quarter credits a year (13-14 credits each quarter of the academic year) will complete the course work for the Master of Arts in Specialized Ministry degree in two years. Students may, however, elect to complete their course work over a longer period of time.

For greater detail, read the Masters Student Handbook.