Master of Arts in Ministry
At a Glance
Accreditation
ATS (Association of Theological Schools), NWCCU
Format
Hybrid (synchronous online 50-minute classes one day per week with two required BridgeWeek intensives) - more
Tuition Cost for Entire Program
$27,636* (plus $4,000 total for two BridgeWeek intensives)
Workload
Part time (20-30 hours per week)
Cohort Model
Courses and intensives with the same group of students - more
Application Deadlines
Rolling application deadline; apply now for the next fall cohort
Be Formed for Faithful Ministry
Whether you’re already pastoring, discerning a call, or serving in a lay role, our Master of Arts in Ministry program will equip you with the biblical, theological and pastoral training you need to lead congregations authentically and faithfully. If you’re ready to realize your vision as a Christ follower and church leader, we’ll provide a flexible, affordable path to get you there.
This is more than content delivery. It’s a ministry degree that’s academically grounded, spiritually formative, and manageable while you lead and serve. And because it’s designed for the church, not just the classroom, it fits your life, your calling and your context.
What Will I Experience?
As a student in the Master of Arts in Ministry program, you’ll embark on a path to sustainable ministry. This program is ideal for bi-vocational pastors, second-career leaders and those discerning a call to serve. Here’s what you can expect:
- A Fast, Affordable Degree
Save time and money compared to a Master of Divinity degree, and benefit from a focused, 42-credit program with a lower price point than similar programs at other seminaries. - Ministry-Ready Tools
Gain the deep theological knowledge and practical ministry skills you need to provide transformational leadership to your church and every member of your congregation. - Unparalleled Mentoring and Support
Form lifelong relationships with nationally recognized faculty mentors and gain invaluable insights from peers in a cohort community that cultivates maturity, resilience and clarity of calling.
Program Details
Built from the core of our established Master of Divinity curriculum, the Master of Arts in Ministry provides a pathway to ministry leadership that prepares students for commissioning or ordination in many denominational contexts, without the extended time or cost of a traditional MDiv.
- You’ll apply biblical, theological and historical foundations to Christian leadership in the life of the local church.
- Along the way, you’ll deepen your awareness of God, yourself and others through formative practices in preparation for lifelong personal and vocational flourishing.
- You’ll discover how to best utilize your unique gifts to preach, lead and care for God’s people in congregational settings.
- By the time you graduate, you’ll be fully prepared for commissioning or ordination in roles such as youth or family pastor, associate pastor, parish associate, or ministry director.
Community-Building Opportunities
At Portland Seminary, you won’t just be part of a program – you’ll be part of a community. You’ll start connecting with your professors and classmates at an online orientation for new students in August.
You’ll also participate in two required BridgeWeek intensives. These intensives, which take place in Portland or Newberg each September, feature a variety of immersive learning opportunities. They also include a daily rhythm of prayer, fellowship around meals and space for reflection.
What does a hybrid format look like?
At Portland Seminary, you’ll join your professors and peers Mondays for 50-minute Zoom classes. You’ll also engage in online discussions throughout the week and connect with your classmates in person at BridgeWeek.
The people in your cohort will be a source of strength and inspiration. Your experiences will expand your vision and deepen your formation throughout your vocational journey.
Questions?
Haley Holman
Admissions Counselor, Portland Seminary