With insurance professionals and a 24/7 emergency claims service, we are ready to assist you no matter what.
Master of Arts Christian Studies
The Master of Arts (Christian Studies) degree is designed to prepare students for doctoral-level studies or to develop advanced competence in theological studies. This program has a research-oriented emphasis, building on prior academic preparation in the general areas of theological education.
Apply Now See Accelerated MA–PhD optionProgram Details
The Master of Arts (Christian Studies) program at McMaster Divinity College is a research-intensive degree designed to prepare students for doctoral studies while providing a solid foundation in their chosen area of concentration–Christian theology, history, or biblical studies.
This program introduces students to the world of scholarly research, equipping them with essential skills in academic writing, critical analysis, and theological inquiry. Through mentorship from experienced faculty and access to extensive research resources, students develop the ability to engage with complex theological ideas and contribute meaningful scholarship to the field.
Our tuition rates are affordable for both domestic and international students looking for a path directly to our PhD or DPT programs. Whether students aspire to continue in doctoral studies, enter ministry, or engage in other Christian leadership roles, the MA (Christian Studies) program provides a strong foundation for their future.
At A Glance
Program Duration
- Designed to be completed in 2 years
Concentrations
- Biblical Studies (OT, NT)
- Theological Studies (includes Patristics and Church History)
- Ministry Studies (includes Pastoral Theology & Preaching)
Contact Admissions
Program Outline
| Number of courses | |
| Research Methods course | 1 |
| 6-unit courses* in concentration: Biblical Studies (Old Testament, New Testament) Ministry Studies Theological Studies (including Patristics and Church History) |
4 |
| Total courses | 5 |
| Thesis (40,000 words) |
*Note: Two 3-unit courses may be substituted for one 6-unit course.
Thesis Project
The thesis project is a major piece of writing intended to provide an in-depth foundation for further study of enhanced knowledge and proficiency in a defined area.
Funding
McMaster Divinity College awards approximately half a million dollars in financial assistance to our students each year. This money is awarded on a needs basis and does not need to be repaid. Eligible MA students can receive up to $2,600, in funding each year, students admitted to the accelerated MA–PhD can receive up to $3,400 in their first year. Students can also take advantage of the following opportunities:
Academic Achievement Awards
MDC awards approximately $27,000 in academic awards and achievements each year. Students who show exceptional ability in specified areas may receive additional prizes and awards at the end of each academic year.
Grants & Loans For Ontario Residents
Financial assistance may be available for those who qualify. Ontario students enrolled in the MA (Christian Studies) program may be eligible, if qualified, for grants and loans awarded by the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). When applying for OSAP, please indicate McMaster Divinity College as your institution. For questions regarding OSAP, contact MDC’s Financial Aid Office at mdcaid@mcmaster.ca.
Additional MDC Financial Assistance may be available for Ontario residents.
A typical full-time MA student could have the following scenario*:
| MDC Financial Assistance Academic Awards |
$ 2,600 $ 500 |
| Total Funding | $ 3,100 |
| Tuition Fee | $ 10,540 |
| Amount Payable by Student | $ 7,440 |
*based on actual amounts from 2023-24
Tuition Fees
| Domestic Students Canadian students |
International Students Non-Canadian and visa students |
|
| Per year | $ 10,540.00 | $ 10,540.00 |
MA students must pay a minimum of 2 years of tuition in this program (excluding accelerated MA–PhD students).
All fees are subject to an additional $28 registration fee.
Full-time and part-time students must also pay MDC student fees and student & GSA health fees. Applicable UHIP premiums will be added for international students.
Additional Benefits
Students in our program can also take advantage of the following:
- Student study space (cubicle) in a secure room
- Full access to the Digital Theological Library
- Software licenses including: Microsoft 365, Zoom, LinkedIn Learning, EndNote, + more
Admission Requirements
Agreement with the McMaster Divinity College Statement of Faith
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or its educational equivalent, of which 10 courses must be in the area of Theological or Christian Studies (with at least a B+ average)
An applicant whose emphasis is Biblical Studies will have studied at least 6 units (two terms) of the relevant biblical language (i.e. Greek for NT or Hebrew for OT). There is no biblical language pre-requisite for Ministry and Theological Studies applicants.
-
Program Outline
Program Outline
Number of courses Research Methods course 1 6-unit courses* in concentration:
Biblical Studies (Old Testament, New Testament)
Ministry Studies
Theological Studies (including Patristics and Church History)4 Total courses 5 Thesis (40,000 words) *Note: Two 3-unit courses may be substituted for one 6-unit course.
Thesis Project
The thesis project is a major piece of writing intended to provide an in-depth foundation for further study of enhanced knowledge and proficiency in a defined area.
-
Funding & Tuition Fees
Funding
McMaster Divinity College awards approximately half a million dollars in financial assistance to our students each year. This money is awarded on a needs basis and does not need to be repaid. Eligible MA students can receive up to $2,600, in funding each year, students admitted to the accelerated MA–PhD can receive up to $3,400 in their first year. Students can also take advantage of the following opportunities:
Academic Achievement Awards
MDC awards approximately $27,000 in academic awards and achievements each year. Students who show exceptional ability in specified areas may receive additional prizes and awards at the end of each academic year.
Grants & Loans For Ontario Residents
Financial assistance may be available for those who qualify. Ontario students enrolled in the MA (Christian Studies) program may be eligible, if qualified, for grants and loans awarded by the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). When applying for OSAP, please indicate McMaster Divinity College as your institution. For questions regarding OSAP, contact MDC’s Financial Aid Office at mdcaid@mcmaster.ca.
Additional MDC Financial Assistance may be available for Ontario residents.
A typical full-time MA student could have the following scenario*:
MDC Financial Assistance
Academic Awards$ 2,600
$ 500Total Funding $ 3,100 Tuition Fee $ 10,540 Amount Payable by Student $ 7,440 *based on actual amounts from 2023-24
Tuition Fees
Domestic Students
Canadian studentsInternational Students
Non-Canadian and visa studentsPer year $ 10,540.00 $ 10,540.00 MA students must pay a minimum of 2 years of tuition in this program (excluding accelerated MA–PhD students).
All fees are subject to an additional $28 registration fee.
Full-time and part-time students must also pay MDC student fees and student & GSA health fees. Applicable UHIP premiums will be added for international students.
Additional Benefits
Students in our program can also take advantage of the following:
- Student study space (cubicle) in a secure room
- Full access to the Digital Theological Library
- Software licenses including: Microsoft 365, Zoom, LinkedIn Learning, EndNote, + more
-
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Agreement with the McMaster Divinity College Statement of Faith
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or its educational equivalent, of which 10 courses must be in the area of Theological or Christian Studies (with at least a B+ average)
An applicant whose emphasis is Biblical Studies will have studied at least 6 units (two terms) of the relevant biblical language (i.e. Greek for NT or Hebrew for OT). There is no biblical language pre-requisite for Ministry and Theological Studies applicants.
Take the Next Step
-
Book an appointment
If you would like to speak directly with an Admissions Counsellor we would be glad to book an appointment at a time that works for you. You can choose to book an in-person appointment*, a Zoom call, or a phone call. Quick question? Give us a phone call, drop us a text, or send us an email!
-
Attend an online info session
Can’t make it to campus? No problem! Join one of our program-specific online information sessions to connect with us from wherever you are. These one-hour sessions are designed to give you the chance to ask questions and receive detailed information about the program that interests you. Be sure to register in advance so we can send you the meeting link and welcome you to the session!
-
Visit us in-person
Come visit us in person! Meet with an admissions counsellor, meet faculty, and take a personalized tour of our campus. Experience firsthand what makes our community and programs so special.
-
Download an on-demand lecture
Register now for access to our on-demand lectures. This is an opportunity to watch online lectures from our faculty, on your own schedule. Fill out the registration form for the lecture(s) you would like to view and we will send you a link to access the lectures. Check back often for new content!
Jesus – Elijah Confusion – Dr. Paul Evans
How to Disagree Christianly – Dr. Gord Heath
Knowing the Bible – Dr. Christopher Land
Theology of the Temple – Dr. Paul Evans
Old Testament Apologetics – Dr. Paul Evans
Part 1: Interpreting OT Law
Part 2: Interpreting Imprecatory PsalmsBiblical Wisdom – Dr. Paul Evans
Part 1: The Patriarchy of Wisdom
Part 2: Wisdom as Emotional and Practical Intelligence
Part 3: The Bible’s Use of Non-Israelite Wisdom
Application Checklist
-
1. Agreement with Statement of Faith
Review McMaster Divinity College’s Statement of Faith.
-
2. Personal Statement
Your personal statement should be no longer than one page and comment on the following questions:
What is your Christian experience?
Why are you pursuing this degree?
Why is McMaster Divinity College the best place for you to develop the above?
What is the nature of your present local church involvement and/or para-church involvement? -
3. References
You will be required to submit the names and contact information for your references in your application. References must be confidential. Please forward the appropriate reference form link (below) to your referees who will complete the form for direct submission to our Admissions Office.
PhD applicants must submit:
- Two academic references
- One pastoral reference
You will also be required to submit the name, title, and contact information for two additional referees who are willing to speak on your behalf, if contacted.
-
4. Application Fee
You will be required to pay a $107.00 (CAD) non-refundable application fee. Students who pay after the application deadlines will be charged a late fee of $54.00 (CAD).
International students must pay an international application fee, see “Special Requirements for Visa/International Applicants” below.
-
5. Transcripts
After submitting your application, please request official transcripts for all post-secondary education from your institution. Transcripts should be sent in original sealed envelope or official digital transcript to divadmit@mcmaster.ca or by mail to:
McMaster Divinity College
Admissions Dept
1280 Main St W
Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1 -
Special Requirements for Visa/International Applicants
For students whose first language is not English, a TOEFL certificate with a minimum score of 92 IBT is required.
If submitted documents (including transcripts) are not in English, you maybe required to submit an official translation of these documents (WES evaluation may be requested).
Students who do not possess a passport from a North American country must pay an application fee of $134.00 (CAD).
Students will be required to submit a copy of their Canadian study permit before registration.
Application deadline
Fall Term
March 15
Winter Term
August 1
Applications submitted after the deadline are subject to a late fee.