This Master’s Degree prepares the student for deeper understanding and study of the Bible in Spanish. (Este programa de Maestría prepara al estudiante para una comprensión y estudio más profundo de la Biblia en español).

Prerequisite: Approved Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline.
(Prerequisito: Licenciatura aprobada en cualquier disciplina).

A. 12 Core Courses (Doce Cursos Principales):
‍1. OT600.1 Introduction to the Old Testament (OT600.1 Introducción al Antiguo Testamento).
2. NT600.1 Introduction to the New Testament (NT600.1 Introducción al Nuevo Testamento).
3. CT611.1 Introduction to Christian Theology (CT611.1 Introducción a la Teología Cristiana).
4. GB615.1 Biblical Hermeneutics and Exegesis (GB615.1 Hermenéutica Bíblica y Exégesis).
5. CH600.1 Church History (CH600.1 Historia de la Iglesia)
6. AP600.1 Christian Apologetics (AP600.1 Apologética Cristiana).
7. NT635.1 The Pastoral Epistles (NT635.1 Las Epístolas Pastorales).
8. NT674.1 The book of Hebrews (NT674.1 El Libro de Hebreos).
9. SF601.1 Introduction to Spiritual Formation (SF601.1 Introducción a la Formación Espiritual).
10. SF685.1 Mentoring, Coaching and Spiritual Direction: Maturing One Another in Christ. (SF680.1 Mentoreando, Entrenando y Dirección Espiritual: Madurando Unos a Otros en Cristo).
11. NT653.1 The Sermon on the Mount and Beyond (NT653.1 El Sermón del Monte y Más Allá)
12. GB700.1 Capstone Paper (GB700.1 Documento Final)

‍B. University Studies US500.1 (0 credit hours) (Estudios Universitarios (cero horas créditos)):
‍1. US500.1 Introduction to Graduate Studies at MTS (US500.1 Introducción a los Estudios de Posgrado en la MTS)

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This Master’s Degree equips the Christian Minister and other Christian workers to be able to both study the Scripture more deeply as well as learn practical skills in ministering to their congregation.

‍Prerequisite: Approved Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline

‍A. Required Core Courses (12 Courses):
1. OT600 Introduction to the Old Testament
2. NT600 Introduction to the New Testament
3. CT611 Introduction to Christian Theology
4. GB615 Biblical Hermeneutics and Exegesis
5. CH600 Church History
6. PC600 Pastoral Care and Counseling
7. SF606 The Art of Spiritual Leadership
8. SF601 Intro to Spiritual Formation
9. CM601 Biblical Homiletics
10. CM702 Missiology
11. CM685 Mentoring, Coaching and Spiritual Direction: Maturing One Another in Christ
12. CM700 Christian Ministry Capstone Project

B. Required: University Studies (0 credit hours): 1. US500 Introduction to Graduate Studies at MTS
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This Master’s Degree prepares the student for deeper understanding and study of the Bible with the use of NT Greek and OT Hebrew languages.

‍Prerequisite: Approved Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline
‍
‍A. Required Core Courses (13 Courses):
‍1. OT600 Introduction to the Old Testament
‍2. NT600 Introduction to the New Testament
‍3. CT611 Introduction to Christian Theology OR CT696 Christian Theology and World Religions
4. GB615 Biblical Hermeneutics and Exegesis
‍5. CH600 Church History
‍6. AP600 Christian Apologetics
‍7. NT610 Greek Basics
‍8. NT611 Greek Exegesis
‍9. OT610 Biblical Hebrew Basics
‍10. OT611 Biblical Hebrew Exegesis
‍11. One NT Course on Greek Exegesis of a NT book
‍12. One OT Course on Hebrew Exegesis of an OT book
13. GB901 Master of Arts in Biblical Studies with Languages Thesis

B. Elective Courses:
‍Choose any 3 courses from General Bible (GB), New 22 Testament (NT), Old Testament (OT), Christian Theology (CT), Church History (CH), or Christian Apologetics (AP) Departments. Up to 2 courses from Christian Ministry (CM) and/or Pastoral Care and Counseling (PC) and/or Spiritual Formation (SF) Departments may be approved to fulfill 2 of the required 3 elective courses

C. Required: University Studies (0 credit hours):
1. US500 Introduction to Graduate Studies at MTS

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This Master's Degree equips Christian leaders and other Christian workers to be able to counsel and minister to disciples in their church setting from a Biblical World View.  This degree does not lead to state certification.
‍
Prerequisite:  Approved Bachelor’s Degree in Any Discipline
‍
A. Required Core Courses:
From the Biblical Field (4 Courses)
1. OT600 Introduction to the Old Testament
2. NT600 Introduction to the New Testament
3. CT611 Introduction to Christian Theology
4. CM654 Jesus and Spiritual Formation

From the Christian Counseling and Christian Spirituality Fields (8 Courses)
1. PC600 Pastoral Care and Counseling
2. PC603 Marriage and the Family Counseling
3. PC622 Counseling Adolescents
4. PC645 Christian Sexuality Counseling
5. PC655 Grief Counseling
6. PC660 Cultural Competence in Christian Counseling
7. PC662 Psychopathology, Pharmacology, and the DSM
8. PC668 Group Therapy and Skills Lab
9. PC680 Depression, Anxiety, and Mental Health Counseling
10. PC690 Biblical Counseling Practicum

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This Master’s degree in spiritual formation allows the student time, space, and opportunity to experience a personal spiritual journey of transformation while learning spiritual disciplines that will foster spiritual growth in other disciples and in their spiritual community. The student will explore how the church has practiced spiritual formation throughout its history.

‍Prerequisite: Approved Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline

‍A. Required Core Courses: 1. From the Biblical Field (4 courses)
‍a. OT600 Introduction to the Old Testament
b. NT600 Introduction to the New Testament
c. GB 615 Biblical Hermeneutics and Exegesis
d. Choose either CT611 Introduction to Christian Theology OR CH600 Church History

‍2. From the Spiritual Formation Field: All 8 of the following courses are Required:
‍a. SF601 Introduction to Spiritual Formation
b. SF602 The Theology of Christian Spirituality
c. SF603 Jesus and Spiritual Formation
d. SF604 Classics in Spiritual Formation OR SF610 History of Christian Spirituality
e. SF605 Biblical Spirituality
f. SF606 The Art of Spiritual Leadership
g. SF685 Mentoring, Coaching and Spiritual Direction: Maturing One Another in Christ.
h. SF695 Spiritual Formation Retreat or SF700 Spiritual Formation Capstone Research Paper

‍B. Required: University Studies (0 credit hours)
1. US500 Introduction to Graduate Studies at MTS

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The Master of Divinity Degree is the standard professional vocational theological degree for full-time church leaders.

The program is designed to prepare the Christian worker to be well-rounded in the understanding of the Bible, ministry/pastoral care to their church members, and tools to successfully lead a church. Our Master of Divinity program is a 72-semester hour program that will prepare leaders in our churches worldwide to be the best ministers possible. It prepares leaders for ministry in a deeper and more balanced manner than the other Master’s degrees we offer.

‍Prerequisite: Approved Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline

‍
‍A. Required Core Courses: (57 Semester Hours, 19 Courses)
‍
1. Comprehending Scripture (27 hours)
‍a. OT600 Introduction to the OT
b. NT600 Introduction to the New Testament
c. GB615 Biblical Hermeneutics and Exegesis
d. NT610 Greek Basics
e. NT611 Greek Exegesis
f. OT610 Hebrew Basics
g. OT611 Hebrew Exegesis
h. One NT Course on Greek Exegesis of a NT Book
i. One OT Course on Hebrew Exegesis of an OT Book

‍2. Comprehending Theology and Christian Tradition (9 Hours)
‍a. CH600 Church History
b. CH601 History and Theology of the Restoration Movement
c. CT611 Introduction to Christian Theology

‍3. Skills for Ministry (18 Semester Hours)
‍a. SF/CM685 Mentoring, Coaching and Spiritual Direction: Maturing One Another in Christ
b. CM601 Biblical Homiletics
c. PC600 Pastoral Care and Counseling
d. CM689 Christ and Culture
e. CT654/CM654/SF603 Jesus and Spiritual Formation
f. SF606 The Art of Spiritual Leadership

‍4. Mentored Ministry Experience (3 Semester Hours):
‍a. CM890 Ministry Practicum 25


B. Electives: (15 Semester Hours, 5 Courses):
‍1. Choose 5 courses from any department: GB, NT, OT, CT, AP, CM, CC, SF.

‍C. Required: University Studies (0 credit hours):
‍1. US500 Introduction to Graduate Studies at MTS

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This Certificate gives the Christian Minister or other Christian worker an overview of the Bible and an opportunity to begin to dig deeper into the Old Testament, New Testament, and/or Christian Theology. Its purpose is to give the Christian student an introduction to Biblical Studies on the graduate level and equip them to be better able to teach others the foundations of the Christian faith.

Prerequisite: Approved Bachelor’s Degree in Any Discipline

A. Required Courses:
‍1. GB615 Biblical Hermeneutics and Exegesis
‍2. NT600 Introduction to the New Testament
‍3. OT600 Introduction to the Old Testament

‍B. Elective Courses:
‍Choose any one course from General Bible (GB), New Testament (NT), Old Testament (OT), or Christian Theology (CT). Students would also be allowed to take Church History (CH600) as the elective for this certificate.

C. Required: University Studies (0 credit hours):
1. US500 Introduction to Graduate Studies at MTS

Download Graduation Worksheet

A. CM601 Biblical Homiletics:
This course is designed to provide the student with the skills necessary to preach relevant, biblical sermons. Attention is given to homiletical method, biblical and theological content, the contemporary context, and creative methodology. Students will examine contemporary thinking, current preachers, and possible approaches to preaching to the contemporary listener.

B. CM606 The Art of Spiritual Leadership (Same as SF606):
This course explores the spiritual, biblical, and theological dimensions of Christian leadership, focusing on spirituality in personal, and ministry contexts. We will investigate the intersection of leadership and spirituality, reviewing a comprehensive array of knowledge and practices that foster both spiritual growth in Christ and effective leadership principles. Additionally, the course will examine the stages of a leader’s spiritual journey and development. Ultimately, students will be equipped to cultivate their own approach to spiritual leadership.

C. CM610 The Biblical Foundations and Practice of Christian Family Ministry (Same as PC610)
This course will explore the biblical, spiritual, and theological foundations of “family” as they pertain to modern Christian ministry.

D. CM651 Biblical Archaeology and the Christian Faith (Same as GB605 and AP651)
With the help of practicing archaeologists in the field, this course will bring to light the importance of this field to our Christian life and ministry. This introduction to archaeology will help students gain critical skills in how to think about the historical context of the biblical narrative as well as how to use archaeological data in teaching and preaching in the church.

E. CM653 The Sermon on the Mount and Beyond (Same as CT653/NT653)
This course involves an in-depth English text study of the Sermon on the Mount from the Book of Matthew, Christian ethics found in it, and this passage’s application to today.

F. CM654 Jesus and Spiritual Formation (Same as CT654 and SF603)
This course teaches biblical principles of helping Christ be formed in each individual disciple by exploring the life of Jesus and the gospels. The course focuses on how Jesus practiced the spiritual disciplines and what Jesus taught about the spiritual disciplines.

G. CM685 Mentoring, Coaching and Spiritual Direction: Maturing One Another in Christ (Same as SF685)
This course explores the theology and practice of healthy discipling relationships within a Christian context. Integrating the biblical "one another" commands with principles of mentoring, coaching, and spiritual direction, students will gain theological grounding, spiritual insight, and interpersonal skills to nurture others in Christlike maturity. Emphasis is placed on active listening, empathy, affirmation, and discernment in spiritual care. It also includes practical training in a two-way experiential relationship with God, including mentoring, coaching, and spiritual direction skills for thriving discipleship maturity in step with the Holy Spirit.

H. CM689 Christ and Culture (Same as CT689)
What does Christ have to say to modern culture? How did Jesus interact with culture? How does he expect his followers to relate to culture today? Do disciples of Jesus escape from culture, stand in the midst of but fight against culture, baptize culture, or embrace culture? This class will explore these questions as well as matters of biblical justice, ecology, poverty, race, class, age, and gender.

I. CM700 Christian Ministry Capstone Project (for MA in Christian Ministry Students)
This course evaluates a student’s ability to apply ministry principles to a ministry setting. It involves an approved field-based project completed in a field setting.

J. CM702 Missiology (Same as CT702)
This course is a study of the theology of Christian mission from the perspectives of the Old and New Testaments, emphasizing principles which bear on our understanding of mission today, especially with regard to the message, the missionary, and missionary practices. Contemporary mission theories and practices will be evaluated in light of a Biblical theology of mission.

K. CM751 Congregational Leadership Studies
This course is a comprehensive course on various aspects of leading a congregation including conflict resolution, church polity (elders, deacons, evangelists, teachers), gender studies, church growth principles for different church sizes, church administration, church board, Kids Kingdom, conducting weddings and funerals, using technology, integrating spiritual gifts, etc.

L. CM890 Ministry Practicum (for Master of Divinity Students)
This Ministry Practicum is a supervised ministry experience on the field in a church or church-related institution under the oversight of a field supervisor and the Dean of Biblical Studies and Ministry. It requires a minimum of 135 hours of ministry experience during the semester.  

A. CT602 The Theology of Christian Spirituality (Same as SF602)
This course will explore some of the fundamental theological concepts of Christian spirituality.  We will explore how Jesus is formed in a person. We will explore: How do we break free of sin? How do new spiritual habits become part of our lives as Christians? What is the role of the heart in Christian transformation? What is the role of the Holy Spirit in Christian transformation? How do we live in this earthly body and be spiritual people? The course includes a thorough exegesis of Romans 8 and Romans 12. Also, each student will be asked to explore the work of one major spiritual author to see how he or she develops theological themes in his or her writings.

B. CT611 Introduction to Christian Theology
This course surveys Christian theology and doctrine in the Bible both from a historical perspective as well as a systematic perspective.

C. CT611.1 Introduction to Christian Theology (CT611.1 Introducción a la Teología Cristiana)
This course surveys Christian theology and doctrine in the Bible both from a historical perspective as well as a systematic perspective in Spanish (Este curso ofrece un panorama a la teología y la doctrina cristiana en la Biblia desde las perspectivas histórica y sistemática).

D. CT653 The Sermon on the Mount and Beyond (Same as NT653/CM653)
This course involves an in-depth English text study of the Sermon on the Mount from the Book of Matthew, Christian ethics found in it, and this passage’s application to today.

E. CT654 Jesus and Spiritual Formation (same as CM654 and SF602)
This course teaches biblical principles of helping Christ be formed in each individual disciple by exploring the life of Jesus and the gospels. The course focuses on how Jesus practiced the spiritual disciplines and what Jesus taught about the spiritual disciplines.

F. CT689 Christ and Culture (Same as CM689)
What does Christ have to say to modern culture? How did Jesus interact with culture? How does he expect his followers to relate to culture today? Do disciples of Jesus escape from culture, stand in the midst of but fight against culture, baptize culture, or embrace culture? This class will explore these questions as well as matters of biblical justice, ecology, poverty, race, class, age, and gender.

G. CT696 Christian Theology and World Religions
This course surveys the principles and beliefs (doctrines) of the Christian World View in the Bible in contrast with other World Religions.

H. CT699 Christian Theology or World View Topics
This course involves an in-depth study of special Christian Theology/World View topics.

I. CT702 Missiology (Same as CM702)
This course is a study of the theology of Christian mission from the perspectives of the Old and New Testaments, emphasizing principles which bear on our understanding of mission today, especially with regard to the message, the missionary, and missionary practices. Contemporary mission theories and practices will be evaluated in light of a Biblical theology of mission.

A. CH600 Church History
This course surveys the history of the Christian Church from its inception in the first century AD to today.

B. CH600.1 Church History (CH600.1 Historia de la Iglesia)
This class surveys the history of the Christian Church from its inception in the first century AD to today in Spanish (Este curso ofrece una visión general de la historia de la iglesia cristiana desde su fundación en el primer siglo d. C. al día de hoy).

C. CH601 History and Theology of the Restoration Movement
This course surveys the historical development, documents, and theology of the Stone-Campbell Movement.

D. CH606 The History of Spiritual Formation (Same as SF610)
Christian spirituality has a rich tradition beginning with Jesus and Paul and going through the last two thousand years to Howard Thurman and Ruth Burrows. Spiritual writers are like poets and prophets, they call the church to look in the mirror and see if she reflects the image of God. This course will explore such movements as monasticism, mysticism, pietism, quietism, and Puritanism. It will also see how various spiritual movements informed Christian denominations like the Methodist church, the Pentecostal church, the Greek Orthodox Church, and the Roman Catholic Church.

E. CH699 Special Topics in Church History
This course involves an in-depth study of special Church History topics.

A. GB501 Introduction to the Bible
The course studies the metanarrative of the Bible as it is developed in the Old and New Testaments. This is a required course for Master of Arts in Christian Counseling students but is also designed for entering Biblical Studies and Master of Divinity students with little or no background in the study of the Bible.

B. GB605 Biblical Archaeology and the Christian Faith (AP651 and CM651)
With the help of practicing archaeologists in the field, this course will bring to light the importance of this field to our Christian life and ministry. This introduction to archaeology will help students gain critical skills in how to think about the historical context of the biblical narrative as well as how to use archaeological data in teaching and preaching in the church.

C. GB615 Biblical Hermeneutics and Exegesis
This course surveys resources, principles, and methods of interpreting the Bible with special emphasis on contemporary hermeneutical approaches.

D. GB615.1 Biblical Hermeneutics and Exegesis (GB615.1 Hermenéutica Bíblica y Exégesis)
This course surveys resources, principles, and methods of interpreting the Bible with special emphasis on contemporary hermeneutical approaches in Spanish (Este curso revisa principios, recursos, principios y métodos de interpretación de la Biblia con énfasis especial en los enfoques hermenéuticos contemporáneos).

E. GB699 General Bible Topics
This course will involve an in-depth study of special general Bible topics.

F. GB700 Capstone Paper (for Master of Arts in Biblical Studies)
This course evaluates the student’s grasp of biblical research, exegesis, and theological understanding. This is done through completing a 35-45 page research paper on an approved biblical passage or biblical/theological topic.

G. GB700.1 Capstone Paper (GB700.1 Documento Final)
This course evaluates the student’s grasp of biblical research, exegesis, and theological understanding. This is done through completing a 35–45-page research paper on an approved biblical passage or biblical/theological topic. (Este curso evalúa la comprensión del estudiante de la investigación bíblica, la exégesis y la comprensión teológica. Esto se logra mediante la realización de un trabajo de investigación de 35 a 45 páginas sobre un pasaje bíblico aprobado o un tema bíblico/teológico.

H. GB901 Master of Arts in Biblical Studies with Languages Thesis
This thesis for Master of Arts in Biblical Studies with Languages will be written according to MTS guidelines. The topic or biblical passage needs to be approved by MTS. The student may choose to defend the thesis in an oral exam or make a presentation to a select audience. (3 hours).

I. GB902 Thesis Re-Registration
Students not completing the GB901 thesis during the semester in which they register for it are required to re-register under the GB902 course number each semester (and pay the reregistration fee which is the equivalent of 3 semester hours) until the thesis is completed and approved. (0 hours).

A. NT600 Introduction to the New Testament
This course surveys the contents and backgrounds of all the books of the Christian New Testament.
‍
B. NT600.1 Introduction to the New Testament (NT600.1 Introducción al Nuevo Testamento)
This course surveys the contents and backgrounds of all the books of the Christian New Testament in Spanish
(Este curso ofrece un panorama a los contenidos y trasfondos de todos los libros del Nuevo Testamento cristiano).
‍
C. NT610 Greek Basics
This course consists of an introduction to the basic principles of New Testament Greek.
‍
D. NT611 Greek Exegesis
This course consists of learning detailed elements involved in NT Greek exegesis. Prerequisite: NT610.
‍
E. NT631 English Exegesis of a Synoptic Gospel
An exegetical study of a synoptic Gospel in the English text with attention to the theological themes, structure, historical setting, its relationships to the other Gospels, and interpretation of selected portions.
‍
F. NT635 Exegesis of Pauline Letters
This course is an exegetical study of the English text of one or more of the Pauline writings with attention to the theological themes, structures, historical setting, and interpretation of selected portions.

G. NT635.1 Exegesis of Pauline Letters (NT635.1 Exégesis de las Cartas Paulinas)
This course is an exegetical study of the Spanish text of one or more of the Pauline writings with attention to the theological themes, structures, historical setting, and interpretation of selected portions. (Este curso es un estudio exegético del texto en español de uno o más de los escritos paulinos con atención a los temas teológicos, estructuras, entorno histórico e interpretación de porciones seleccionadas.).

H. NT651 The Life and Teaching of Jesus the Messiah
This course is an in-depth English text study of Jesus’ teachings and life as depicted in the four gospels of the Bible.

I. NT653 The Sermon on the Mount and Beyond (Same as CT653/CM653)
This course involves an in-depth English text study of the Sermon on the Mount from the Book of Matthew, Christian ethics found in it, and this passage’s application to today.

J. NT653.1 The Sermon on the Mount and Beyond (NT653.1 El Sermón del Monte y Más Allá)
This course involves an in-depth English text study of the Sermon on the Mount from the Book of Matthew, Christian ethics found in it, and this passage’s application to today. (Esta clase implica un estudio en profundidad del Sermón de la Montaña del libro de Mateo, la ética cristiana que se encuentra en él, y la aplicación de este pasaje al día de hoy).

K. NT659 The Book of Acts
This course involves an in-depth English text study of the contents and history found in the Book of Acts and has a special focus on the biblical-theological themes of conversion, the Holy Spirit, church polity, and leadership principles.

L. NT674.1 Hebrews (NT674.1 Hebreos)
This class is a critical introduction to the background, content, and interpretation of the New Testament book of Hebrews. Special attention will be paid to history, criticism, literature, canon, and theology and how these disciplines contribute to understanding and applying Scripture to life today. (Esta clase es una introducción crítica a los antecedentes, el contenido y la interpretación del libro de Hebreos del Nuevo Testamento. Se prestará especial atención a la historia, la crítica, la literatura, el canon y la teología y cómo estas disciplinas contribuyen a la comprensión y aplicación de las Escrituras a la vida actual.).

M. NT731. Greek Exegesis of a Synoptic Gospel
An exegetical study of a synoptic Gospel in the Greek text with attention to the theological themes, structure, historical setting, its relationships to the other Gospels, and interpretation of selected portions. NT 610 is a prerequisite.

N. NT741 Second Temple Judaism (Same as OT741)
A study of the history and literature of the Intertestamental Period with particular emphasis given to connections between the Old and New Testaments as well as to developments that aid in the understanding of the writings of the New Testament. Students will be familiarized with political, social, and cultural issues related to understanding this historical period through the use of primary and secondary readings and a focused and guided research project.

O. NT899 Special Studies in the NT
This course involves an in-depth study of a special NT topic.

A. OT600 Introduction to the Old Testament
This course surveys the contents and backgrounds of all the books of the Christian Old Testament.

B. OT600.1 Introduction to the Old Testament (OT600.1 Introducción al Antiguo Testamento)
This course surveys the contents and backgrounds of all the books of the Christian Old Testament in Spanish. (Este curso ofrece un panorama a los contenidos y trasfondos de todos los libros del Antiguo Testamento cristiano).

C. OT610 Biblical Hebrew Basics
This course consists of an introduction to the basic principles of OT Hebrew.

D. OT611 Biblical Hebrew Exegesis
This course consists of learning detailed elements of OT Hebrew Grammar in preparation for Hebrew Exegesis: Prerequisite: OT610.

E. OT631 Interpreting the Psalms
This course surveys the literary, historical, and social background of the Psalter; including its structure, themes, theology, and relevance. This is a study using the English text of the Psalter.

F. OT653: Deuteronomy
This course is an English exegetical study of the book of Deuteronomy, its literary features, canonical importance, and theological perspective.

G. OT731. Hebrew Exegesis of Deuteronomy
An exegetical study of the Hebrew text of Deuteronomy with emphasis upon critical issues, theology, and value for the church. Hebrew proficiency or OT610 is a prerequisite.

H. OT741 Second Temple Judaism (Same as NT731)
A study of the history and literature of the Intertestamental Period with particular emphasis given to connections between the Old and New Testaments as well as to developments that aid in the understanding of the writings of the New Testament. Students will be familiarized with political, social, and cultural issues related to understanding this historical period through the use of primary and secondary readings and a focused and guided research project.

I. OT899 Special Studies in the OT
This course involves an in-depth study of a special OT topic.

A. SF601 Introduction to Spiritual Formation
What is spiritual formation? This course examines the biblical, historical, and theological aspects of Christian formation with emphasis on both personal life and ministry contexts. This course examines the principles, problems, and practices of spiritual growth in Christ, both personally and corporately, with an emphasis on the Christian disciplines. Explores the stages of spirituality and spiritual development. This course will help the student determine where they have been, where they are, and where they want to go on their spiritual journey.

B. SF601.1 Introduction to Spiritual Formation (SF601.1 Introducción a la formación espiritual)
What is spiritual formation? This course examines the biblical, historical, and theological aspects of Christian formation with emphasis on both personal life and ministry contexts. This course examines the principles, problems, and practices of spiritual growth in Christ, both personally and corporately, with an emphasis on the Christian disciplines. Explores the stages of spirituality and spiritual development. This course will help the student determine where they have been, where they are, and where they want to go on their spiritual journey.
(¿Qué es la formación espiritual? Este curso examina los aspectos bíblicos, históricos y teológicos de la formación cristiana con énfasis en los contextos de la vida personal y del ministerio. Este curso examina los principios, problemas y prácticas del crecimiento espiritual en Cristo, tanto personal como corporativamente, con énfasis en las disciplinas cristianas. Explora las etapas de la espiritualidad y el desarrollo espiritual. Este curso ayudará al estudiante a determinar dónde ha estado, dónde está y hacia dónde quiere ir en su viaje espiritual.)

C. SF602 The Theology of Christian Spirituality (Same as CT602)
This course will explore some of the fundamental theological concepts of Christian spirituality. We will explore how Jesus is formed in a person. We will explore: How do we break free of sin? How do new spiritual habits become part of our lives as Christians? What is the role of the heart in Christian transformation? What is the role of the Holy Spirit in Christian transformation? How do we live in this earthly body and be spiritual people? The course includes a thorough exegesis of Romans 8 and Romans 12. Also, each student will be asked to explore the work of one major spiritual author to see how he or she develops theological themes in his or her writings.

D. SF603 Jesus and Spiritual Formation (Same as CT654 and CM654)
This course teaches biblical principles of helping Christ be formed in each individual disciple by exploring the life of Jesus and the gospels. The course focuses on how Jesus practiced the spiritual disciplines and what Jesus taught about the spiritual disciplines.

E. SF604 Classics of Spiritual Formation
Explores historical and contemporary writings that serve to both inform and form needed changes and growth in character, behavior, relationships, vision, values, ministry, godly influence, and servant leadership.

F. SF605 Biblical Spirituality
Explores primary passages in the Bible that speak directly to spiritual formation and the practice of spiritual formation, spiritual direction, and the spiritual disciplines. Along with guided lectures, the student will read through the Bible highlighting passages that speak to spirituality and spiritual formation.

G. SF606 The Art of Spiritual Leadership (Same as CM606)
This course explores the spiritual, biblical, and theological dimensions of Christian leadership, focusing on spirituality in personal, and ministry contexts. We will investigate the intersection of leadership and spirituality, reviewing a comprehensive array of knowledge and practices that foster both spiritual growth in Christ and effective leadership principles. Additionally, the course will examine the stages of a leader’s spiritual journey and development. Ultimately, students will be equipped to cultivate their own approach to spiritual leadership.

H. SF610 The History of Christian Spirituality (Same as CH606)
Christian spirituality has a rich tradition beginning with Jesus and Paul and going through the last two thousand years to Howard Thurman and Ruth Burrows. Spiritual writers are like poets and prophets, they call the church to look in the mirror and see if she reflects the image of God. This course will explore such movements as monasticism, mysticism, pietism, quietism, and Puritanism. It will also see how various spiritual movements informed Christian denominations like the Methodist church, the Pentecostal church, the Greek Orthodox Church, and the Roman Catholic Church.

I. SF685 Mentoring, Coaching and Spiritual Direction: Maturing One Another in Christ (Same as CM685)
This course explores the theology and practice of healthy discipling relationships within a Christian context. Integrating the biblical "one another" commands with principles of mentoring, coaching, and spiritual direction, students will gain theological grounding, spiritual insight, and interpersonal skills to nurture others in Christlike maturity. Emphasis is placed on active listening, empathy, affirmation, and discernment in spiritual care. It also includes practical training in a two-way experiential relationship with God, including mentoring, coaching, and spiritual direction skills for thriving discipleship maturity in step with the Holy Spirit.

J. SF685.1 Mentoring, Coaching and Spiritual Direction: Maturing One Another in Christ (SF685.1 Mentoreo, Coaching y Dirección Espiritual: Madurando Unos a Otros en Cristo)
This course explores the theology and practice of healthy discipling relationships within a Christian context. Integrating the biblical "one another" commands with principles of mentoring, coaching, and spiritual direction, students will gain theological grounding, spiritual insight, and interpersonal skills to nurture others in Christlike maturity. Emphasis is placed on active listening, empathy, affirmation, and discernment in spiritual care. It also includes practical training in a two-way experiential relationship with God, including mentoring, coaching, and spiritual direction skills for thriving discipleship maturity in step with the Holy Spirit.
(Este curso explora la teología y la práctica de relaciones sanas de discipulado en un contexto cristiano. Al integrar los mandatos bíblicos de "unos a otros" con los principios de mentoría, coaching y dirección espiritual, los estudiantes adquirirán una base teológica, comprensión espiritual y habilidades interpersonales para nutrir a otros en una madurez cristiana. Se hace hincapié en la escucha activa, la empatía, la afirmación y el discernimiento en el cuidado espiritual. También incluye capacitación práctica en una relación experiencial bidireccional con Dios, incluyendo habilidades de mentoría, coaching y dirección espiritual para una madurez próspera en el discipulado, en sintonía con el Espíritu Santo

K. SF695 Spiritual Formation Retreat
This course has no in-class time. The student will go on a personal spiritual retreat or attend a spiritual formation retreat. The student will learn and practice principles learned within the retreat and report on the experience. The student attends and reflects on a spiritual formation retreat. The retreat must be approved by the spiritual formation department (Dr. G. Steve Kinnard and Robert Carrillo). The student must get approval for the retreat at least one month prior to attending the retreat. After the retreat, the student must write a 10-page reflection paper on the retreat which must be submitted within one month of completing the retreat. This paper will be submitted to your practicum advisor.

L. SF699 Spiritual Formation Special Topics
This course focuses on one or more special areas of Christian Spirituality.

M. SF700 Spiritual Formation Capstone Research Paper
This course evaluates the student’s grasp of Christian Spirituality through completing a 35–45-page research paper on an approved Christian Spirituality topic.

A. PC600 Pastoral Care and Counseling
This course attempts to open avenues of insight and service through pastoral care and counseling. The students explore Biblical, historical and contemporary materials to apply the pastoral function with a healthy interface of theology and psychology. Numerous specific applications will be made in such areas of concern as crisis intervention, marital, premarital, and family counseling, and cross-cultural counseling. Solution Oriented Therapy will be taught for pastoral applications. The students' own lives and experiences are seen as a base for developing competence in a healing counseling ministry.
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B. PC603 Marriage and the Family Counseling
This course involves a study of the dynamics within marriage and family and the proper application of biblical and psychological counseling principles with respect to marriage and family. Students will explore the range of experiences in couple and family relationships in various areas from spiritual and systemic perspectives: from physical affection to abuse, healthy communication to painful conflict, connection to disconnection, and the impact of roles and power. Special focus is given to physical and sexual abuse, addiction, domestic violence, mental health, and resilience. Students will also examine the Self of the Counselor in relation to work with family and couple issues, which involves encouraging the student to examine their attitudes, beliefs, experiences, and understandings about individuals and relationships within family and marriage.
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C. PC622 Development and Counseling of Adolescents
This course provides students with a framework for understanding the adolescent time period as a window of opportunity for healthy growth and development for the whole person with a special emphasis on spiritual maturity. Students will examine major theories and findings concerning biological, cognitive, social, and emotional development during adolescence. A primary objective of this course is to help students become knowledgeable about the latest research on the time period of adolescence and apply this research to counseling adolescents towards spiritual maturity. The course will be organized using the following framework: Primary changes of adolescence (the developmental changes that make adolescence distinctive such as puberty, neurobiological, etc.) the contexts of adolescence (the settings in which these primary changes play out including family, peer group, schools, and religious institutions) and the secondary changes of adolescence (the psychological consequences of the interaction between the primary changes and the settings, organized into the domains of identity, autonomy, intimacy, sexuality, achievement, and spirituality). The course will conclude with discussions about how to counsel and help adolescents.
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D. PC 645 Christian Sexuality Counseling
This course is an introduction to Sexuality Counseling for individuals, families, and couples. It will provide students with an overview of human sexuality as experienced throughout the lifespan. Human sexuality will be examined through a number of different lenses (spiritual, personal, relational, historical, cultural, and public health) and will focus on helping students integrate the spiritual aspects of sexuality with the physical, emotional, intellectual, and social factors influencing people’s sexual lives.
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E. PC655 Crisis Counseling: Trauma, Grief, Suicidality
This course focuses on acute emergency mental health intervention that covers the Critical Incident Stress Management fundamentals and protocols needed to respond to emotional trauma associated with natural disasters (earthquake, fire, etc.) as well as human-caused traumas (death/grief, suicide, repression, etc.). Steps to lessen the potential negative impact of such crises and the prevention of possible post-trauma syndromes for both the primary and secondary victims of trauma will be described. Appropriate follow-up services using government and faith-based resources and referrals will be discussed. Students will identify compassion fatigue risk factors and learn self-care strategies.
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F. PC660 Cultural Competence in Christian Counseling (3 Credit hours)
This graduate-level course explores the critical importance of cultural competence within the context of Christian counseling. It is designed to equip future counselors with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively minister to diverse populations, respecting and understanding various cultural backgrounds. Students will engage with the principles of cultural competence, examining how cultural identity influences counseling practices and client interactions while addressing biases and prejudices that may affect the therapeutic relationship.
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G. PC662 Psychopathology, Pharmacology, and the DSM
When it comes to counseling individuals, whether in a clinical or pastoral setting, the counselor must have a working knowledge of the many psychiatric disorders that represent the “biological” component of the bio-psycho-social-spiritual model of behavioral health. In this course, the student will become familiar with many of the categories of psychiatric pathology in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and learn how the most common of these disorders (such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders) impact an individual’s relationship to (and perception of) church leadership, church fellowship, and biblical principles. Common approaches to pharmacological treatment will also be discussed.
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H. PC668 Group Therapy and Skills Lab
In this lab, students will practice counseling skills for working with individuals and groups. Students will role play and take turns as therapists or participants in group or individual sessions, and the student will write Lab Notes (progress notes) to be turned in to lab instructor each week of the lab.
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I. PC680 Counseling of Anxiety and Depression
This course provides an understanding of depression and anxiety from a spiritual, social, clinical, and physical perspective. The students will explore Biblical, scientific, and theological approaches to increasing the spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being of people. An overview of Mental Health Counseling will be presented including gaining an understanding of numerous specific applications will be made for anxiety and depression which, are two of the most common mental disorders. The most common clinical approach for treating anxiety and depression includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which will be presented from a Christian perspective including changing cognition through Christian spirituality. The students' own lives and experiences are seen as a base for developing competence in a healing counseling ministry.
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J. PC690 Biblical Counseling Practicum
This course provides the opportunity for learners to practice the
principles and techniques of biblical counseling learned in previous course work within a structured context.

A. US500 Introduction to Graduate Studies at MTS
This is a non-credit, two-week, pass/no pass orientation course which provides an overview of online learning, expectations of the student, an introduction to our online learning management system, an introduction to research and writing skills including Turabian format, MTS programs and policies, and delineating helps in preparing the student for successful completion of his or her degree here at MTS. The student must pass this course before taking other courses at MTS.
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B. US 500.1 Introduction to Graduate Studies at MTS (US500.1 Introducción a los Estudios de Posgrado en la MTS)
The purpose of this non-credit, two-week, pass/no pass orientation course is to provide an overview of online learning, an introduction to our online learning management system, an introduction to research and writing skills, as well as giving other helps to prepare the student for successful completion of his or her degree here at MTS. The student must pass this course at the beginning of their program to be able to continue his or her studies at MTS. (El propósito de este curso no acreditado de dos semanas y de aprobación / no aprobación es proveer un panorama de la educación en-línea, una introducción a nuestro Sistema de Gestión de Aprendizaje En Línea (LMS), una introducción a las habilidades de investigación y escritura, así como proporcionar otras ayudas para preparar al estudiante para una finalización exitosa de su grado en la MTS. El estudiante deberá aprobar este curso al inicio de su programa para poder continuar sus estudios en la MTS).