Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics
The Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics (MACA) is a 48-unit program that may be completed in as little as two (2) years of full-time study if summer and winter terms are utilized. The program must be completed within 6 years of first enrollment. This course of study builds on the core requirements described under the MATS degree by adding 21 units in the area of Christian apologetics, religion, and philosophy. The program emphasizes a classical/evidential approach to apologetics. This degree is designed for those in discernment ministries, who are engaged in non-pastoral ministry activities, and those seeking to pursue doctoral studies. Of particular importance is the program’s focus on educating students to train those in the local church or who seek to be in leadership roles involving apologetics and philosophical skills, including teaching. Upon completion of the program, each student will have demonstrated knowledge in the areas of theological studies, Old and New Testament, Christian apologetics, alternative religious perspectives and worldviews, Christian ethics, and philosophy as it relates to proclaiming and defending Christian doctrine. The MACA learning student learning outcomes are:
- To defend Christian doctrine from ancient and contemporary challenges.
- Analyze and explain the major beliefs of non-Christian religions and contemporary cults.
- To understand apologetic research, writing, communication, and how to defend the Christian worldview.
| Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics (MACA) | |
| Prerequisite Requirement – P/F | |
| RW499 Research & Writing Skills (P/F) | |
| Core Requirements – 27 units | |
| OT515 Old Testament Survey (3) | TH560 Anthropology, Hamartiology, Soteriology (3) |
| NT515 New Testament Survey (3) | TH570 Ecclesiology and Eschatology (3) |
| TH520 Biblical Hermeneutics (3) | Elective or RW501 Thesis Research & Writing (3) |
| TH530 Prolegomena and Bibliology (3) | CM501 Church/Mission Experience I (P/F) |
| TH540 Theology Proper and Creation (3) | CM502 Church/Mission Experience II (P/F) |
| TH550 Christology and Pneumatology (3) | |
| Major Requirements – 21 units | |
| AP501 Christian Apologetics (3) | RE504 World Religions (3) |
| AP504 Christian Ethics & Moral Philosophy (3) | RE505 Contemporary Cults (3) |
| AP507 Problem of Evil (3) | PH510 Classical Logic & Beginning Symbolic Logic (3) |
| AP510 Cultural & Social Apologetics (3) | CM503 CM Church/Mission Experience III (P/F) |
| Complete Comprehensive Exam – Pass/Fail | |
| Total Semester Hours: 48 | |
*This degree can prepare someone for the following California Occupational Codes:Clergy 21-2011; Directors, religious activities and education 21-2021; Religious workers 21-2099.