Online

MASTER OF ARTS
IN RELIGION

The Westminster Master of Arts in Religion is a rigorous and academically focused course of study toward becoming a trained specialist in the Bible. It combines deep, exegetical-theological studies with rich historical theology as preparation to serve Christ and his global church.

Now available fully online through state-of-the-art digital platforms, you can earn your degree while staying in your local ministry context.

APPLY TODAY

ONLINE MAR AT A GLANCE

Face-to-face small groups

74

credit hours of coursework

100%

online format

Small class sizes

3–6

years to degree completion

Begin February, May, or September

Our integrated curriculum prepares you to:

Read the Bible in its original languages in order to exegete with precision and accuracy.

Understand how each book of the Bible fits with the whole.

Appreciate the contours of modern church history.

Engage in a comprehensive study of systematic theology to understand the relationship of God, humankind, and creation.

Defend the Christian faith in a manner consistent with the Scriptures.

Teach and apply the whole counsel of God in real-world situations in life and ministry.

Practical Application through a Capstone Experience

Students have the opportunity to connect the riches of Westminster’s distinct curriculum with practical experience outside the classroom. Produce a personalized resource that will be valuable to your life, work, and ministry.

ONLINE COURSE PREVIEWS

Our online courses leverage innovative technology and high-quality production to deliver excellent content in engaging formats.

Course Preview: Greek 1

"I think the online courses are exemplary of how a seminary should go about education in a time like this.”

Current Student

“Studying Greek has given me a greater passion for my love of Scripture. Learning the Bible in its original language allows the very words of Scripture to come to life and nourish both my mind and heart in my study and meditation of the Bible.”

GREEK 1 Student

A BETTER WAY TO LEARN ONLINE

Flexible programs that fit your life.

Our online programs are designed with your schedule in mind. Watch course lectures at your own pace and start your degree during one of our February, May, or September terms. Enroll as a full-time or part-time student, or enroll in a single class as a visiting student to see if our program is a good fit for you.

Engaging and innovative classroom environment, with high-production excellence.

Classes are specifically designed to enhance learning for the online student. With engaging videos from Westminster faculty and informative animations, you’ll see concepts in whole new ways. Speed lectures up or slow them down. Watch them again or all at once. Shape how you learn best.

Face-to-face connection with a global community through integrated digital platforms.

Effective learning happens in community. Face-to-face small groups and group messaging app connect you to global peers, faculty, and staff around the clock. Your personal advisor is available to help you balance class with life. Access to tech help and writing resources will ensure you succeed.

Immediate application in your life, work, and ongoing ministry.

Take what you learn in theology, biblical studies, apologetics, and biblical counseling directly from the classroom into your ministry or workplace setting. Our online instructors, spiritual care, and support teams will walk alongside you, providing guidance and encouragement as you develop your ministerial skills and sharpen your sense of calling.

MEET YOUR SUPPORT TEAM

At Westminster, each student is known and prayed for by name. The Student Support team’s dedicated focus is to care for you throughout your time at Westminster.

Jerry McFarland

Online Dean of Students

Tyler Frey

Student Support COORDINATOR

The Master of Arts in Religion will equip you to serve in a wide range of contexts.

MAR ALUMNI SERVE IN:

Cross-cultural missions

Continuing academic scholarship

Teaching & Professorship

Bible Translation

Vocational ministry

Writing & Publishing

The MAR equipped me with the tools I needed to be able to rightly exegete the Scriptures for my parish. I use the skills I learned at WTS every day in my ministry.

Brian Oldfield, MAR 2016

Being grounded in this vision for God’s glory and majesty as it has been revealed in Christ changed the way I think about the Scriptures and naturally overflows into my teaching at my church.

Jackie Gober, MAR 2018

Westminster's curriculum displays a rigorous consistency that performs its commitment to Scripture and the Reformed standards.

Nathaniel Gray Sutanto, MAR 2015

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long will it take me to complete my degree?

The online MAR can be completed in three years. You can also complete your coursework on a part-time schedule, with the requirement that all credits are completed within 10 years. Contact our admissions team to discuss your goals and
determine the right pace for you.

What are the differences between online and on-campus formats?

All class formats deliver the same high-quality course material taught by our faculty. On-campus programs require students to take courses at our campus in Glenside, Pennsylvania. Online programs deliver courses through state-of-the-art digital platforms and are designed to be more flexible with scheduling.

Are there any scholarships for the online MAR?

Limited scholarships are available to highly-qualified, full-time students. We encourage all students to seek support from their local church and personal network, and apply to outside scholarships opportunities. Contact our admissions team for more information.

Can an online student take residential classes?

Yes, pending seat availability.

Can I audit online courses?

No, auditing is currently not available.

Where can I find answers to my other questions?

We are here to help. Please fill out a contact form or reach us at 267-579-2366.