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M.T.S. in Ancient and Oriental Christianity
Complete this short form to learn more about our M.T.S in Ancient and Oriental Christianity program. ACU’s Office of Graduate Programs will reach out shortly to discuss your interests and answer your questions.
Why Ancient and Oriental Christianity?
Primarily suited for students preparing to pursue doctoral study, this program will equip you with advanced academic foundations in historical research and integration, with an emphasis on the languages needed to conduct such research. You will sharpen your research and writing skills as you take part in intensive reading of primary historical and theological works. Students in this program may have special opportunities to participate in CSART projects.
This program can prepare you to engage the growing fascination with the theology and spirituality of eastern Christian communities, and equip you to function better as a class teacher in congregational contexts, or as a missionary and church planter in non-western contexts.
Program Structure
WHAT TO EXPECT
These are the important details you will need to keep in mind as you prepare your application and degree plan.
Required Hours
Program length: 2 years
Credit hours: 48
2023/2024 tuition per credit hour: $779
Example Coursework
History of Christianity I: Early and Medieval
Theological Explorations
Christian Mission in Global Contexts
Explorations in the Christian East
Department
Application Deadlines
Fall Priority: April 24
Fall Standard: August 10
Summer & Spring: Please contact ACU’s Graduate School of Theology (gst@acu.edu or 325-674-3735)
Frequently Asked Questions
OUTCOMES
Research Sources
Graduates will have critical facility with the most important primary sources and issues of scholarly discussion in biblical studies, theology, or church history.
Research Methods
Graduates will have ability to use the best current methods of research in one of the following disciplines: biblical studies, theology, or church history.
Original Research
Graduates will demonstrate ability to produce scholarly contributions in their field of study.
Dr. Jeff Childers
Professor of Church History
Carmichael-Walling Chair for New Testament and Early Christianity
Director, Center for the Study of Ancient Religious Texts
DPhil, University of Oxford, 1996
jeff.childers@acu.edu
- A completed application and application fee;
- An official transcript of all previous colleges attended. The transcript must indicate an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university or equivalent.
- A cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale;
- Two letters of recommendation (may be submitted through the online application);
- A purpose statement following these guidelines;
- GST Writing Assessment (a brief evaluation of academic writing skills).
Download the program brochure for more information about the program format, degree plan, accreditation and distinctives that set ACU’s program apart.