Abilene Christian University Graduate School of Theology

The Graduate School of Theology at Abilene Christian University (ACU) is an institution affiliated with the Church of Christ. It offers a wide range of courses and programs designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of theology and prepare them for effective ministry and scholarship. One notable feature of the Graduate School of Theology is that 100% of the coursework for the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree can be completed online, making it accessible to students regardless of their geographical location.

At ACU's Graduate School of Theology, students engage in a transformative educational experience that delves into matters of faith, history, and spiritual growth. The faculty consists of renowned scholars who bring both their faith and professional expertise to the classroom. They serve as mentors and role models, providing students with the necessary skills for ministry and scholarship.

The Graduate School of Theology offers a diverse range of master's degree programs to cater to students' individual passions and callings. These include:

• Ancient and Oriental Christianity (MA): Explores the historical development of Christianity and its interactions with ancient and Oriental cultures.
• Christian Ministry (MA): Equips students with ministry skills and knowledge to serve effectively in various ministry contexts.
• Divinity - Missions (MDiv): Focuses on preparing students for cross-cultural and international missions.
• Divinity (MDiv): Provides a comprehensive education in theology and ministry for those seeking to serve as pastors or leaders in Christian organizations.
• Divinity Equivalency: Offers a pathway for students who have already completed significant theological education but need further coursework to fulfill denominational requirements.
• Global Service (MA): Examines the theological and practical aspects of engaging in global service and mission work.
• Modern and American Christianity (MA): Explores the development of Christianity in the modern and American contexts, examining cultural, social, and theological influences.
• New Testament (MA): Focuses on the study of the New Testament, including its historical, literary, and theological dimensions.
• Old Testament (MA): Engages students in the study of the Old Testament, encompassing its literature, history, and theological themes.
• Theology (MA): Provides a comprehensive understanding of theological concepts, traditions, and methods of theological inquiry.

In addition to the master's degree programs, the Graduate School of Theology also offers doctoral degree programs, specifically the Doctor of Ministry (DMin) degree. This program offers four distinct tracks for ministry professionals seeking to deepen their theological knowledge and enhance their ministry skills. Students have the flexibility to remain in their home and ministry contexts for most of their studies, attending residential coursework sessions in Abilene, Texas, or Melbourne, Australia, only twice a year.

For students seeking flexibility and convenience, ACU's Graduate School of Theology provides the option to complete four of its master's degree programs online. These online programs include the Master of Arts in Christian Ministry, Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Global Service, and Master of Arts in Theological Studies. This online learning format allows students to pursue theological education while accommodating their personal and professional commitments.

The mission of the Graduate School of Theology at ACU is to equip men and women for effective missional leadership in various ministry settings. It aims to provide students with the necessary ministry skills, academic foundations in theological disciplines, and an integrated environment that fosters personal and spiritual development.

It is worth noting that Abilene Christian University's Graduate School of Theology is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada. This accreditation ensures the quality and rigor of the school's master's and doctoral degree programs, validating their academic excellence and theological integrity.

In conclusion, the Graduate School of Theology at Abilene Christian University offers a diverse range of programs, including online options, to equip students for effective ministry and scholarship. With its emphasis on academic excellence, spiritual growth, and integration of theology with practical ministry skills, the Graduate School of Theology prepares students to make a significant impact in their communities and beyond.