Master Programs

Unlock your potential for ministry and leadership with our Master's programs.

Master of Divinity (M.Div.)

The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) is the essential graduate degree for individuals pursuing a career in ministry. This program at WHU equips students with deep knowledge of the Bible, Christian theology, and the practical skills necessary for effective gospel ministry.

The M.Div. program requires the completion of 90 credit hours, including 48 credits in biblical and theological studies, 24 credits in missions, evangelism, and ministry, and 18 credits of free electives.

Refer to the section below for more details.

90

2.5+

GPA

Credits

Degree Requirements
  • Completion of 90 credit hours, including a minimum of 25% full-time residency.

  • A minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.

  • Fulfillment of financial obligations to WHU.

  • Exit interview with the Academic and Business Offices, if applicable.

M.Div. Curriculum (90 Credits)
  • Biblical and Theological Studies (48 Credits)
    Hebrew Syntax and Exegesis, Biblical Hermeneutics, Greek Syntax and Exegesis, Church History, Systematic Theology, Christian Ethics, and more.

  • Missions, Evangelism, and Ministry (24 Credits)
    Worldview and Apologetics, Christian Preaching, Christian Teaching, Discipleship, Pastoral Ministry, and more.

  • Electives (18 Credits)

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the M.Div. program, students will be able to:

  • Understand the socio-cultural contexts and significance of the Old and New Testaments.

  • Apply hermeneutical and exegetical principles to communicate biblical messages effectively.

  • Analyze the historical development of Christian doctrine and its contemporary relevance.

  • Produce graduate-level research with clear organization and proper citations.

  • Demonstrate advanced ministry skills, including preaching, counseling, and leadership.

Master of Christian Education (M.C.E.)

The Master of Christian Education (M.C.E.) is a professional graduate degree designed to prepare students for specialized roles in Christian education ministry.

The M.C.E. program requires a minimum of 42 credit hours, with 15 credits in biblical and theological studies, 21 credits in Christian education, and 6 credits of electives.

Refer to the section below for more details.

42

2.5+

GPA

Credits

Degree Requirements
  • Completion of 42 credit hours, including 25% full-time residency.

  • A minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.

  • Fulfillment of financial obligations to WHU.

  • Exit interview with the Academic and Business Offices, if applicable.

M.C.E. Curriculum (42 Credits)
  • Biblical and Theological Studies (15 Credits)
    Introduction to the Old and New Testament, Systematic Theology, Christian Ethics.

  • Christian Education Studies (21 Credits)
    Foundations of Christian Education, Curriculum Development, Educational Psychology, and more.

  • Electives (6 Credits)

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the M.C.E. program, students will be able to:

  • Assess the biblical, philosophical, and theological foundations of Christian education ministries.

  • Understand the spiritual development and learning processes for leadership and teaching.

  • Integrate systematic theology into the broader biblical narrative.

  • Demonstrate Christlike character and ministry calling.

  • Demonstrate competence in various educational ministries.

Master of Christian Counseling (M.C.C.)

The Master of Christian Counseling (M.C.C) is a two-and-a-half or three-year, 48-credit-hour degree program that equips students with professional Christian counselors and chaplains in the church and Christian organizations.

Graduates are well-prepared to serve in various Christian Counseling settings. This program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to specialize in Christian care and

counseling in various settings, such as chaplaincy, coaching, spiritual direction, and counseling.

Refer to the section below for more details.

smiling woman in academic dress wearing academic hat
smiling woman in academic dress wearing academic hat

48

2.5+

GPA

Credits

Degree Requirements
  • Complete 48 credit hours of prescribed studies and a minimum 25% of full-time residency at WTS. Internship(s) required.

  • Achieve a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.

  • Clear all indebtedness and obligations to the University.

  • Complete an exit interview with the Academic and Business Offices, if applicable.

M.C.E. Curriculum (48 Credits)
  • Biblical and Theological Studies (12 Credits)
    Introduction to the Old and New Testament, Systematic Theology, Christian Ethics.

  • Christian Counseling Studies (21 Credits)
    Introduction to Christian Counseling, Counseling Theories, Counseling Skills and Techniques, and more.

  • Electives (9 Credits)

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the M.C.C. program, students will be able to:

  • Articulate how biblical principles inform and shape counseling practices, incorporating scripture and Christian doctrines to support clients’ spiritual and emotional well-being.

  • Demonstrate the ability to integrate scripture and Christian doctrines in counseling sessions to promote clients' spiritual and emotional health.

  • Conduct comprehensive assessments that include spiritual dimensions and develop intervention strategies addressing both psychological and spiritual needs.

  • Design and implement counseling interventions that incorporate prayer, scripture, and other spiritual practices based on clients’ faith backgrounds.

  • Advocate for mental health awareness within Christian communities, collaborating with church leaders and organizations to promote holistic care.

  • Critically evaluate research and contribute to the evidence base for integrating Christian faith with counseling practices.

Master of Church Music (M.C.M.)

The Master of Church Music (M.C.M.) is a 2.5-year, 45-credit-hour degree designed to equip students for professional careers in church music and related fields. Graduates are prepared to serve in educational and ministerial settings, including leading worship and concert performances.

The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for application as worship practitioners in corporate and continuous worship settings.

Refer to the section below for more details.

person playing black upright piano
person playing black upright piano

45

2.5+

GPA

Credits

Degree Requirements
  • Complete 45 credit hours of prescribed studies with at least 25% full-time residency at WHU.

  • Achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.

  • Clear all financial and other obligations to the University.

  • Complete an exit interview with the Academic and Business Offices, if applicable.

  • Pass the Written and Oral Comprehensive Examinations and an Arts Performance (Recital).

  • Successfully complete the Comprehensive Examination.

M.C.M. Curriculum (45 Credits)
  • Biblical and Theological Studies (12 Credits)
    Music and Worship in the Biblical World, Worship/Hymnology, Worshiping Church, Theology of Contemporary Hymnody.

  • Christian Music Studies (21 Credits)
    Music History and Literature, Church Music, Music Research, Instrumental Performance I & II, and more.

  • Electives (9 Credits)

Program Outcomes

The M.C.M. degree equips graduates to:

  1. Master music techniques and performance skills.

  2. Develop written and oral communication abilities tailored to diverse audiences.

  3. Plan and conduct ministry, classroom, or studio learning experiences.

  4. Foster attitudes and skills for healthy interpersonal relationships.

  5. Achieve advanced skills in a chosen performance or research area.

Upon program completion, graduates will:

  • Demonstrate mastery of vocal techniques and eclectic settings, conducting independent, original research that advances the field.

  • Attain advanced performance and/or composition skills, interpreting and performing diverse church music repertoire.

  • Exhibit strong written and oral communication skills for academic, ministerial, and public contexts.