MA Directed Study

The Directed Study Master’s Degree program will deepen your knowledge of an area of study that does not fall under the other MA concentrations offered at United (Biblical Studies, Ethics and Justice, Religion and Theology, and Theology and the Arts). This flexible, self-designed concentration can prepare you for doctoral studies, teaching, or various specialized ministries.

This program may be a good fit for you if you are interested in pursuing a career as:

• A professor in a seminary, divinity school, or college
• A teacher or program leader in a private school, church, or religious community

Concentration Learning Outcomes

In addition to the core MA degree learning outcomes, the outcomes for the MA Directed Study program will be based on the elective courses that the student selects in consultation with their advisor.

United’s MA at a Glance

• 36 credits
• Eleven 3-credit courses plus a 3-credit thesis, or ten 3-credit courses plus a 6-credit thesis
• Can be completed in two years if you take a full-time course load (24 credits per year) and complete your thesis in approximately one trimester
• All MA concentrations can be completed entirely via distance learning; many courses can be taken completely asynchronously