Master of Arts in Theology and Spiritual Leadership

The M. A. in Theology and Spiritual Leadership requires the completion of two parts in the program. Part one (the course work) consists of 11 courses (33 credits) which include a selection of Bible, theology, and leadership subjects. Part two consists of a Thesis Writing Seminar (2 credits) and the writing of a research project with a thesis supervisor (9 credits).

Students will learn skills and acquire knowledge that serves to develop their research, communication, and theological understanding in vocational, semi-vocational, or voluntary ministry in church and everyday marketplace contexts. The purpose of this program is to lead people to spiritual leadership that is firmly established in biblical and theological knowledge that develops competencies in the task of ministry and Christian witness.

The M. A. in Theology and Spiritual Leadership program can be tailored to fulfil all educational requirements for Recognition of Ministry (ROMER) credentials in the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC). Further information can be obtained by contacting the Dean of Graduate Studies (deanofgradstudies@summitpacific.ca).

Upon completion of this program, the student shall be able to:

1. demonstrate advanced levels of knowledge in subjects of Bible and theology.

2. demonstrate competency to communicate biblical messages in contemporary church life and society.

3. exhibit confidence in making academic contributions in biblical and Pentecostal theology.

4. critically evaluate theological ideas and positions as well as hermeneutical approaches and practices.

5. demonstrate exegetical and hermeneutical skills.

6. argue convincingly for the meaning and theology of biblical texts within contemporary contexts.

7. utilize skills and biblical knowledge for practical ministry and academic debate.

8. critically evaluate various interpretations, positions, and practices in New Testament studies.

9. demonstrate the development of a thoughtful personal philosophy of service and spiritual leadership which is cognizant of contemporary culture and a Christian worldview.

10. demonstrate competence in leadership and relational communication skills.

11. feel competent in doing further study at the post-graduate level in theological, spiritual, or ministry-related research.

‣ a learning roundtable within the diverse SPC academic community.  

‣ a forum for a reflective and critical thinking of one’s faith in interaction with vigorous study of the Scriptures and theology.

‣ an opportunity to engage with a process of spiritual formation.

‣ a curriculum that is focused on Bible and theology with insightful components in leadership, forming a robust basis for one’s spiritual leadership competencies.

‣ an opportunity to tailor the program to fit student’s learning objectives.

‣ a part-time study program with flexible in-person and online (synchronous/asynchronous) learning. While it is possible to complete the degree within three years, students can take up to six years to complete it.

‣ a distant learning opportunity via video conferencing for those who cannot attend classes in person.

‣ an opportunity to study in person or online.

‣ church members and volunteer workers who are called to sharpen their biblical, theological, and leadership skills.

‣ credential holders in Pentecostal and Evangelical churches who want to refresh and become more competent in their theological knowledge and ministerial leadership.

‣ lifelong learners holding an undergraduate or graduate degree from fields other than theology.

‣ students who wish to complete their unfinished master’s degree (certain restrictions apply).

‣ individuals who would need to fulfil the educational requirements for credentialing within the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (ROMER).

‣ students seeking a master’s degree to be equipped to teach in domestic and/or international training institutions and colleges.

‣ students from all church denominations.

‣ students who are planning to pursue a determinate (doctorate) degree in the future.

‣ learners who are working full-time in either the secular or ministry sector.

Course offerings for 2023-2025: PDF

Example of Study Calendar:

First Year - 18 credits

BIBE 501 – Contemporary Approaches to Biblical Text (Fall)

NPOL 511 – Strategy & Principles for Leading Not-for-Profit Organization (Fall)

THEO 505 – Preaching in Post-Christian Culture (Spring)

BIBE 612 – Studies in Pauline Writings (Spring)

THEO 610 – Constructive Theology I (Spring)

THEO 503 – Theology of Luke-Acts (Summer)

Second Year – 17 Credits

THEO 502 – Pentecostal Pastoral Theology (Fall)

YMSL 601 – Spiritual Enhancement in Leadership (Spring)

BIBE 611 – Gospel of John (Spring)

THEO 620 – Constructive Theology II (Spring)

BIBE Elective (Summer)

THES 701 – Thesis Writing Seminar (Summer)

Third Year – 9 Credits

THES 702 – Thesis (Fall & Spring)

Students may study on campus or opt to participate in the live class via video conference.

A student enrolls in the class like everyone else, engages with the learning material and assignments as others in the class, but is present in the class sessions via video conference.

An online student misses very little of the dynamics of the classroom experience.

Cost: $333 per credit or $999 per 3-credit course

Estimated tuition: $14,652 (44 credits) not including books and other school-related costs.

For more information, visit our admission information.