The Master of Arts degree in Christian Studies is Rivendell's most flexible graduate program, consisting of M.A. core courses and graduate-level electives selected from Rivendell's academic departments.   eRivendell now makes this degree the most convenient program as well!

The M.A. degree delivered through eRivendell is ideal for students who bring life questions and interests from previous work or education to their studies, where those questions motivate and shape their research interests.  It is also ideal for those who anticipate working in the marketplace or in some form of remunerated ministry.

The M.A. in Christian Studies delivered through eRivendell is designed around Rivendell's strong commitment to the personal growth, spiritual formation, and leadership development of its students.  Through the eRivendell program, the College seeks to equip students with practical competencies and skills that will enable them to flourish and fulfill their calling in life.  Add to the program the opportunity for learning from first-rate Christian scholars and the convenience of distance learning, and it's easy to see that the eRivendell M.A. Degree in Christian Studies will be a unique and exciting opportunity for many students!

OVERVIEW OF LEARNING OUTCOMES

The Master of Arts Degree in Christian Studies offered through eRivendell has the same learning outcomes as the on-campus M.A. in Christian Studies, differing only in mode of delivery.

COURSE DELIVERY 

All courses are available for individual independent study; designated courses are available in on-line cohorts.

REQUIREMENTS 

After meeting the M.A. 26-credit core curriculum requirements (listed below), Christian Studies majors may choose a 36-credit area of concentration, or shape their own curriculum across disciplines to fit their particular interests and needs.  

➢    Core curriculum requirements: 26 credits

➢    Christian Studies electives: 36 credits from any graduate-level courses

➢    A personal development plan designed uniquely for each student by professionally qualified staff using personality and behavior assessments, and implemented with extensive life-coaching and mentoring relationships.

➢    Community service projects in a student’s place of residence

➢    A three-week summer experience on the Rivendell College campus
 
CORE CURRICULUM

• RLST 5200 Survey of the Old Testament 1 (3)
• RLST 5300 Survey of the New Testament 1  (3)
• RLST 5400 Survey of Church History  (3)
• RLST 5510 Survey of Christian Theology   (3)
• RLST 6600 Systems of Apologetics  (3)
• MNTY 5300 Introduction to World Missions  (3)
• SPFM 5101 Spiritual Formation  (3)
• MNTY 5010 Foundations of Leadership (3)         
• Two sets of personal assessments  (2)*

*The first personal assessment is done when a student has completed 30 semester credits, and the second assessment is taken when he or she is within 10 semester credits of graduating.  During this same period distance learning students are required to complete a minimum of 50 individual and/or group session hours with a Rivendell’s life coach. (2 credits)

All students are also required to participate in two approved community service projects during their degree program, and must submit a report on their experience, signed by a project supervisor. (0 credits)