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 [1] 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 [2] for more information.)
Peace Studies [3]- 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 [4] - 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 [5], or contact:
Tracy Primozich, Director of Admissions
[6]
primotr@bethanyseminary.edu [7] 765-983-1832
Malinda Berry, Instructor in Theological Studies and Director of MA Program
berryma@bethanyseminary.edu [8] 765-983-1807
Steven Schweitzer, Academic Dean and Associate Professor
deansoffice@bethanyseminary.edu [9] 765-983-1815