The M.A. in the History of Christianity and Church History prepares students for careers in religious education and for advanced study on the doctoral level. Students in the M.A. program are expected to think critically about the ways in which Christianity has been studied over the centuries. To do this effectively, students are expected to acquire training in the original languages and to conduct their research in the primary texts. The program allows for students to complete coursework in related fields and disciplines.

Prerequisites

  • Students should have earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and completed coursework in religious studies, theology, and history.
  • Additional preparation in these areas may be undertaken during the course of study.

Program

Students must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours, which include the following:

  • TRS 722A Ancient and Medieval Church History.
  • TRS 621C Church History from the High Middle Ages to the Present.
  • TRS 724 The Writing of Church History.
  • Two (2) seminar courses in which research papers are required and for which at least a grade of B is received. At least one of these seminars must be in the academic area.

Languages

  • Students must demonstrate reading competence in French and German by the end of the second semester of coursework. Competence is demonstrated by receiving a grade of B or better in approved language courses.
  • Competence in 1 additional language may be required depending upon the student’s area of concentration (e.g. Greek or Latin for the early and Medieval periods). This is to be determined by passing an examination administered by the Department of Greek and Latin.

Comprehensive Examinations

Students are required to pass two written comprehensive examinations. One (four-hour) examination will be in the major area of concentration, and one (four-hour) examination will test the student's general knowledge of historiography from 100 AD to the present, including the Early, Medieval, Renaissance, Early Modern, and American periods. The examinations will be prepared under the direction of the student's advisor and the academic area.