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Our online degree programs are designed for busy working adults just like you – intentionally structured to allow you to balance work, life and other commitments. As a student of ACU Online, you are part of a vibrant, virtual, Christ-centered community.
About the Program
ACU’s online Master of Arts in Global Service is designed to equip you for ministries that require living, working and communicating in the intercultural contexts typical of today’s global society. Drawing upon theology, sociology, anthropology, history and communication theory, the M.A. in Global Service challenges you to analyze contemporary global concerns, formulate Christian perspectives and explore solutions to intercultural challenges.
Program Structure
All the Details on Your Degree
In our innovative online global service degree, you can complete all of your course work in an online format or experience face-to-face learning with optional residential courses in Abilene.
Required Hours
48 hours
2.5 years
Example Coursework
Foundations of the Theology of Ministry
Philosophy of Religion
Reading & Engaging Contemporary Cultures
Witness in Global Contexts
Department
Upcoming Start Dates
May 6, 2024
August 26, 2024
Meet the Program Director
Dr. Chris Flanders, Master of Arts in Global Service
Dr. Chris Flanders is a professor and program director for the Master of Arts in Global Service program. He received a BA in Biblical Text, an MS in Missions, and an MDIV at ACU and completed his Ph.D. in Intercultural Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary. Chris grew up in the midwest, eventually settling down in northern Minnesota. He is married to Cara (Duvall) who works as a supervisor in ACU’s Master of Marriage and Family Therapy program and a therapist in the ACU Counseling Center. Their two children, Autumn and Ethan (both born while they were serving in Thailand), are a huge part of their lives.
Spotlight
Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Christopher Cobbler
As the new executive director for the Center for Vocational Formation and dean of vocational formation, Dr. Christopher Cobbler is already making moves across the ACU Online community by showcasing what it means to love and receive love earnestly. Hoping to make ACU a more accepting and formative place, Dr. Cobbler is eager to see where his role can touch the lives of students and employees alike.
Why Study Theology?
There are four benefits to studying in ACU’s Graduate School of Theology. Learn what they are now, in our latest blog post!
Ministering to the World with a Master of Arts in Global Service
The hurting world needs you to answer God’s unique call to international ministry. Those called to this worthy vocation, however, must be able to navigate intercultural contexts within today’s global society. Learn how ACU Online’s Master of Arts in Global Service will help equip you for the mission field.
Four Benefits of Getting a Theology Degree at ACU
When it comes to theology master’s programs, what makes ACU’s stand out? Hear directly from Dr. Myles Werntz, Director of ACU’s Baptist Studies Center, in a recent blog post.
Faculty Spotlight: Chris Flanders publishes “Devoted to Christ”
Dr. Chris Flanders (’94) is professor of missions at Abilene Christian University. Along with his work in missiology he is also the program director for the Master of Arts in Global Service and the missions track for the Master of Divinity.
Upon completion, graduates will be able to:
- Integrate the biblical, historical, and theological perspectives foundational for contemporary Christian practice.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the mission of God and their place within that mission as both individuals and members of the global Church.
- Learn how to live, work, and communicate appropriately in a variety of cultural contexts.
To be considered for admission, students must:
- Complete the online program application accompanied by a non-refundable processing fee.
- Submit 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.
- Have a cumulative undergraduate 3.0 GPA or above in the area of focus or related area and evidence of an overall productive GPA.
- Submit two letters of recommendation (may be submitted through the online application).
- A reflective essay 3-5 pages typed, double spaced
- Complete an academic writing assessment
The Graduate School of Theology is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools, an organization of more than 250 graduate schools that conduct post-baccalaureate professional and academic degree programs to educate persons for the practice of ministry and for teaching and research in theological disciplines.