Master of Arts in Discipleship & Spiritual Formation (M.A.)
Total Credit Hours: 36
Program Duration: 18–24 months (accelerated and part-time options available)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online | Hybrid | Retreat-Based Intensives Optional
Prerequisite: Accredited Bachelor’s Degree in ministry, theology, psychology, or related field
Program Overview
This is not a degree in leadership techniques.
It’s not about hype, hustle, or church growth metrics.
It’s about becoming the kind of person who can carry presence.
Who walks slowly. Who listens deeply.
Who knows the way back to the Garden—and leads others there.
This program is rooted in ancient rhythms and shaped for modern chaos.
It combines the best of biblical discipleship, spiritual direction, soul care, and formation theory.
Curriculum Breakdown
1. Core Formation Studies (12 Credit Hours)
- Foundations of Spiritual Formation – 3 credits
- Biblical Discipleship: Following Jesus in the Everyday – 3 credits
- Psychology and Spiritual Growth – 3 credits
- Rhythms of Grace: Rule of Life & Sacred Practices – 3 credits
2. Theological Integration (9 Credit Hours)
- Trinitarian Theology & the Formed Self – 3 credits
- The Cross and the False Self: A Theology of Surrender – 3 credits
- Pneumatology & the Spiritual Life – 3 credits
3. Soul Shepherding & Practical Application (9 Credit Hours)
- Listening as Healing: Spiritual Direction Skills – 3 credits
- Pastoral Care & Trauma-Informed Discipleship – 3 credits
- Disciple-Making Movements in a Post-Christian World – 3 credits
4. Electives (3 Credit Hours) – Choose one:
- Contemplative Prayer & Christian Mysticism
- Justice, Mercy, and Spiritual Formation
- Digital Discipleship & Online Soul Care
- Formation Through Art, Creativity, and Embodiment
5. Spiritual Formation Capstone (3 Credit Hours)
- Final project integrating personal formation and ministry application
- Can be designed as a retreat curriculum, coaching program, original liturgy, or soul care resource
- Optional spiritual direction practicum available
Program Outcomes
Graduates of the M.A. in Discipleship and Spiritual Formation will:
- Cultivate a deep, authentic life with God that overflows into others
- Facilitate spiritual growth in individuals and communities
- Offer trauma-informed, Spirit-filled care to the hurting and seeking
- Lead others in spiritual rhythms that restore, not burn out
- Walk in wisdom, compassion, and grounded authority in any ministry context
This degree isn’t just for ministry.
It is formation through ministry.
Because before you can lead others to the Living Water…
you’ve got to drink deep for yourself.