The MA in Theology and the Arts degree program will prepare you to engage theological questions through the lens of the arts. You’ll engage these questions in a broad and systematic way, drawing on art history, aesthetics, practical arts, creativity, and imagination. The program has an academic focus on exploring justice, spirituality, and the human condition through the lens of art and theology.
If you are interested in preparing for ministerial leadership through the lens of the arts, check out the MDiv in Theology and the Arts.
Do More with an MA in Theology and the Arts Degree
A Master of Theology and the Arts degree may be a good fit for you if you are interested in pursuing:
- A doctoral degree in theology and the arts, aesthetics, art history, art and culture, or religious studies in preparation for a career as a professor
- Work in a museum
- Curatorial work
- Work as a gallery coordinator
- Work in an arts institution
Concentration Learning Outcomes
In addition to achieving the core MA degree learning outcomes, a graduate of the MA in Theology and the Arts program will be able to:
- Articulate an informed understanding of the historical use of the arts as a means of theological or religious expression and reflection.
- Articulate an informed understanding of the complex relationships among art, culture and religion.
- Analyze a contemporary artistic or cultural work for the ways it expresses spiritual and religious ideas.
- Express a studied theological or religious concept, question, or issue via an art form.
- Articulate the relationship between theology and the arts—both verbally and through their artwork.
A master’s degree in theology and the arts from United prepares you for the next step in your spiritual journey, whatever that may be. Whether you’re planning to pursue a doctorate degree or dive into field work, you’ll have the skills and knowledge needed to make a true impact.
United’s MA in Theology and the Arts Program at a Glance
- Degree: Master of Arts (MA)
- Concentration: Theology and the Arts
- Total Credits: 36 credits
- Courses: Eleven 3-credit courses plus a 3-credit thesis, or ten 3-credit courses plus a 6-credit thesis
- Typical Completion Time: Can be completed within two years if you take a full-time course load of 9 credits per trimester and complete your thesis in one trimester
- Learning Format: All MA concentrations can be completed entirely via distance learning; many courses can be taken completely asynchronously
Earn an MA in Theology Online at United
With our fully-accredited online master’s degree programs, you can earn your MA from anywhere. And with the ability to take some courses completely asynchronously, you can earn an MA in Theology and the Arts online, on your schedule. As a distance learning student, you’ll enjoy a flexible, engaging, and rewarding spiritual education from a premier seminary.
Discover Distance Learning at United
Art and Theology Degree Students in Action
|
|
Alicia Reese, DMin Student The success Alicia found using improv to get incarcerated students to re-vision their stories inspired her to go back to school for a DMin through which she could explore the “connection between spiritual formation and improv.” Why United? “From the moment I started interacting with United,” Alicia remarks, “I felt that deep connection between the arts and theology and ministry.” |
Program Course Guide Sheet for Academic Year 2026–2027
| PRIMARY OUTCOME |
NUMBER OF COURSES | COURSES |
| Theology | 2 |
Invitation to Theology: Truth, Goodness, and Beauty
Choose one:
History of Early Christian Theologies
History of Modern Christian Theologies
|
| Textual Hermeneutics | 2 |
Introduction to Religious Texts
One 2000-level Religious Texts course |
| Ethics and Justice | 2 |
Choose one:
Christian Ethics
Comparative Religious Ethics
Choose one:
Queer and Trans Theologies
Black and Womanist Theologies
|
| Concentration | 5 |
History of Arts and Theology
Art, Religion, and Contemporary Culture Arts Praxis Seminar Two elective courses (as approved by advisor) |
| Research and Communication | 1 |
MA Thesis
|
| DEGREE TOTAL |
12 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an MA in Theology and the Arts?
An MA in Theology and the Arts is a graduate degree that looks into the relationship between theological inquiry and creative expression. Students in this program engage in questions about theology through a lens of art history, aesthetics, the practical arts, and imaginative thinking. This program can teach you how to examine how forms of art, including visual art, music, poetry, theater, film, and dance, can all serve as methods of expressing theological and spiritual meaning.
Can I earn a Master’s degree in Theology and the Arts online at United?
Yes, it is possible to earn United’s MA in Theology and the Arts completely online. Students can choose to attend courses online through live Zoom sessions or at in-person sessions when available. We also offer asynchronous courses to offer greater flexibility with scheduling. Learn more about our distance learning options.
What is the difference between master of Arts and master of Divinity?
Both of these degrees allow you to explore the point where faith and creative expression meet, but they serve different vocational goals. The MA in Theology and the Arts takes an academic focus for students who are interested in pursuing doctoral studies, teaching, scholarship, or arts-centered work in cultural and community settings. The MDiv in Theology and the Arts is a degree that helps students prepare for ordained ministry and pastoral leadership positions, while also looking through the lens of the arts.
What can you do with a Master of Arts in Theology and the Arts degree?
Graduates of this program pursue careers in a wide range of creative, academic, and ministry-connected fields, including professor or instructor in theology and the arts, aesthetics, art history, or religious studies; arts minister, worship curator, or creative director in a faith community; artist, cultural educator, or arts activist engaging faith and justice themes; chaplain or spiritual director with an arts-based practice; and writer or curator working at the intersection of spirituality and culture. The degree also provides a strong foundation for doctoral study in theology and the arts or related fields.
How long does it take to earn an MA in Theology and the Arts?
The MA in Theology and the Arts degree program requires 36 credit hours, and most students complete this program in two years of 9 credit trimesters, including a trimester for completing a thesis. There are also part-time enrollment options for students who need more flexibility in their schedule.
What are some examples of Master’s in Theology and the Arts courses at United?
Coursework in this program covers both theological foundations and arts-focused inquiries. Students in this course will cover topics of the historical use of the arts as a method of theological and religious expression, the relationships in art, culture, and religion, aesthetics and the philosophy of art from a theological perspective, the analysis of contemporary artistic and cultural works for their spiritual and religious dimensions, and the practice of expressing theological concepts through a chosen art form. All United students, regardless of what program they are in, are also required to take at least one arts course, reflecting on our deep commitment to creative expression as a mode of theological meaning.
Why do students choose United for a theology and the arts master’s degree?
We embrace all art forms, including poetry, theater, visual arts, fabric arts, music, dance, photography, film, and more, as legitimate expressions of theological meaning, and not just simply illustrations of it. Additionally, United offers a fully online format, making this distinctive program available to students across the world. Our seminary offers an open and affirming community, and we welcome creatives, activists, and artists across different faiths and backgrounds.
Are financial aid and scholarships available for the MA in Theology and the Arts program?
95% of new master’s students at United receive some form of scholarship, grant, or federal financial aid. We offer several funding options that can help make graduate theological education accessible and affordable to you. Learn more about financial aid and scholarships.