Master of Arts

The Life of the Mind, the Passions of the Heart, and the Master of Arts

The life of the mind is freely celebrated in Bethany's Master of Arts (MA) program, because the mind, like the heart, is also a passionate organ. All MA students participate in a research thesis progression of focused study on a topic of passionate academic interest. The MA program strives to foster growth of the whole person: spirit, mind and body.

Traditionally a two-year residential program, consisting of 18 three-credit-hour courses, Bethany also offers the same degree as a distance education option via the MA Connections track.

Earning a MA from Bethany will prepare you for:

PhD programs across the country, in preparation for careers in teaching and writing
Work with faith-based agencies or organizations
Personal and professional enrichment

MA Areas of Concentration

Each student chooses an area of concentration that supports their thesis research from one of these broad categories.

Biblical Studies
Historical Studies
Theological Studies
Brethren Studies
Ministry Studies
Peace Studies

Other areas can be considered upon petition to the Educational Policies and Assessment Committee.

Thesis work includes participation in the Research Seminar, which provides interaction with other MA students in a collegial style of learning.

Recent M.A. thesis topics have included the following.

Brethren History, studying 1968 as a cultural case study
Peace Studies
Theology
Biblical Studies
Theopoetics
Ecotheology
An Inclusive Church
Feminist Theology

MA Emphases

In addition to an area of concentration, MA students can add an emphasis. (See the Program Emphases page for more information.)

Peace Studies - includes two Peace Studies courses, two travel or conference experiences, two semesters of Peace Forum participation, and two papers on peace topics.

Ministry With Youth and Young Adults - includes a course in Christian Education, three courses in youth and young adult ministry, and a thesis related to youth and young adult ministry.

For more information about the Master of Arts program, refer to the Bethany Catalog, or contact:

Tracy Primozich, Director of Admissions
primotr@bethanyseminary.edu 765-983-1832

Malinda Berry, Instructor in Theological Studies and Director of MA Program
berryma@bethanyseminary.edu 765-983-1807

Steven Schweitzer, Academic Dean and Associate Professor
deansoffice@bethanyseminary.edu 765-983-1815

Brandon Hanks
(Master of Divinity)

Brandon I find great comfort in knowing that the gifts of God are irrevocable--that God is faithful even if we are faithless. My faith journey begins with the Church of the Brethren. I was raised in the church by my family going to Sunday school and attending worship each week. But as a teenager I found myself struggling in my understanding of the word of God. I wanted to own my faith. I wanted it to be...