The one year Master of Arts (M.A.) degree program is designed for students preparing for further graduate study, for students wishing to enhance their work in ministry contexts, or for students wishing to study at the seminary level for personal growth. It has also served the interests of people who want to integrate theological reflection with other professions in which they want to live out their vocation. The course offerings in Wartburg Seminary’s flexible and formative curriculum make it possible for M.A. students to shape a program that meets their individual passions and goals. Normally, students will complete the Master of Arts degree in one year.Students interested in service as a Deacon may also consider the Master of Arts in Diaconal Ministry degree, which includes coursework and internship specific to the Word and Service Roster of the ELCA and for similar positions in other denominations.

A Bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA is a requirement for admission to our Master of Arts program. Unfortunately, we are not able to make exceptions to our policy for candidates without a Bachelor’s degree for our Master of Arts Program. We encourage those without a Bachelor’s Degree to consider the Theological Education for Emerging Ministries program (if you are interested in ordained ministry) or Certificate Courses if you are interested in learning for personal or professional growth. Get in touch with the Admissions team to discuss these or other options that fit your needs and desires for theological education.

Wartburg Seminary offers two options to complete a Master of Arts Degree:

Wartburg Seminary, a seminary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, welcomes ELCA students along with students from the wide spectrum of Lutheran and ecumenical partners.

Students seeking to serve in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America should consider beginning the candidacy process with their synodical candidacy committee.

Quick links for more information:

• Degree Concentrations in Hispanic Ministry, Rural Ministry, Mission Development or Youth, Culture and Mission.
• The Current Catalog will be updated soon with more information about the new one-year program. Please contact admissions@wartburgseminary.edu for more information.
• WTS Master of Arts Degree Application