The specializations and the Youth and Young Adults Ministry track for the Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (MACM) degree program have been designed in light of the mission of Memphis Theological Seminary and the strengths of the faculty.

Students will be assigned a faculty advisor who will guide the student in course selections so that those reflect the specialized ministry in which the student chooses to focus.  In addition to the Integrative Seminar, students will have 21 hours of coursework in their area of specialization.

Click on each specialization for more information about the design of the program.

1.  The Christian Education specialization is intended for those preparing for ministry as directors and teachers of Christian Education within congregational and other settings.

2.  The Social Justice specialization is intended for those preparing for ministry with persons and organizations addressing systemic injustice.

3.  The Methodist Ministry specialization provides the basic educational requirements for ordination as a deacon in the United Methodist Church. It also allows for Methodist students to use this specialization for alternative pathways.

4.  The Chaplain Studies specialization allows students who are interested in pursuing the call to ministry as a chaplain to deepen their theological preparation and practical skills in hospitals, other health care facilities, prisons, the military, or the workplace.

The Youth and Young Adults Ministry track, which features a different paradigm of course requirements than the specializations, equips students for competent leadership in ministry with young people in the church and in the world.

Core Courses

Cultural Context

Personal and Spiritual Formation

Courses & Practicum

Total credits: 48

Note: Within the area of specialization no more than three courses may transfer in from another accredited seminary.

*Elective should be chosen consistent with the student’s intended vocational role. 

Degree requirements listed here are for overview purposes only. Official degree requirements are found in the most current Academic Catalog or on current degree sheets.

Colloquia Credits:  MACM students are required to earn 6 theological colloquia credits. The colloquia are administration and faculty-approved events held on campus or other events approved by the student’s faculty adviser.

Required GPA for Graduation: Students are required to maintain a minimum 2.00 cumulative grade point average.

Requirements for Ordination: Memphis Theological Seminary offers additional courses that meet ordination requirements for certain denominations. Students seeking ordination should consult their denomination officials to ascertain current requirements and procedures.