Cairn Theological Seminary Archives - 天涯海角社区 Walk a different path. Fri, 31 Jul 2026 20:32:36 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2 Religion (MA) | Online /religion-ma/ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:31:12 +0000 /?page_id=100529

Religion (MA)

Cairn鈥檚 Master of Arts in Religion program equips you with a broad foundational education in the inerrant Word of God and in the key doctrines of the Christian faith. It prepares you for teaching, preaching, and other ministries in the local church.

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Picture of Cairn student studying the Bible
Credits
42
Years
2
Online
100 %
Christian College*
# 2

Our Distinctives

Cairn is a place that faithfully upholds the authority and centrality of Christ and the Bible in its programs, curriculum,听community, and ethos. Students are taught to think biblically about God, themselves, and the world in which they live.

*天涯海角社区 Ranks #2 in Glanzer鈥檚 Guide to Christian Colleges and Universities

Experienced, Ministry-Focused Faculty

Learn from Cairn professors who combine scholarly expertise with real-world ministry experience to guide practical application.

Christ-Centered Without Compromise

Deep commitment to a rigorous biblical education grounded in the inerrant Word of God and core Christian doctrines.

Preparation for Vocational Ministry

Broad foundational training in Bible, theology, and applied ministry, plus electives tailored to personal goals like pastoring, teaching, missions, or nonprofit leadership.

Flexible Learning Options

Fully available online with 7-week courses and multiple start dates per year to accommodate family, ministry, or professional responsibilities.

Program Description

天涯海角社区鈥檚 Master of Arts in Religion (MAR) is a flexible 42-credit graduate program available 100% online. It provides a solid foundation in biblical studies, systematic and historical theology, and applied ministry, equipping students for teaching, preaching, and various roles in vocational Christian ministry.

Ideal for those seeking advanced biblical training and theological depth without compromise on the inerrant Word of God, the program includes customizable electives to align with personal ministry or professional goals such as pastoring, missions, teaching, or nonprofit leadership.

Advanced standing of up to 12 credits may be granted for Bible/Theology credits earned at an accredited Bible college, Christian liberal arts college or university, or seminary. Credits will be granted on a course-by-course basis.

Learn more:

Core Curriculum
Biblical Studies – Credits: 21
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
Systematic and Historical Theology – Credits: 6
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
Applied Theology – Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
  1. Articulate a master鈥檚 level understanding of the Bible appropriate for vocational ministry.
  2. Articulate a master鈥檚 level understanding of systematic and historical theology appropriate for vocational ministry.
  3. Demonstrate a spiritual maturity and skills within a ministry setting.
  • Ministry Director
  • Pastor
  • Associate Pastor
  • Teacher
  • Nonprofit Leader
  • Christian Camp Leader
  • Chaplain
  • Worship Leader
  • Youth Pastor
  • Missionary
  • 础辫辫濒颈肠补迟颈辞苍:听Submit the听Application for Admission听along with the $25 non-refundable fee. Apply today using code听滨苍颁丑谤颈蝉迟础濒辞苍别听and we will waive the fee.听
  • Transcripts: Order official transcripts for all conferred degrees to be sent to 天涯海角社区.
Essays
  • Personal Testimony: Describe your conversion to Christ, spiritual growth, and church involvement. (250-500 words)
  • Statement of Purpose: Describe your reasons for pursuing graduate studies in this field at this time. Please explain your current employment situation and your long-term goals. (250-500 words)

天涯海角社区 strives to keep tuition costs affordable despite providing a rigorous education. Courses are taught by faculty not TAs.听

The tuition rate for the 2026-2027 academic year is听$2900 block rate for 6+ credits per semester. Additional details on fees and part-time status are available on this page.听

Christian school educators and employees may be eligible for the $400/credit discounted rate. 天涯海角社区 also partners with many organizations and offers tuition discounts. Please contact us to find out if your organization has a partnership with 天涯海角社区.听

Information on scholarships, grants, and loans is available from听this page.听

天涯海角社区 is regionally accredited by听听(惭厂颁贬贰).

Programmatic Accreditation

ABHE logo

Additional Accreditation Information

FAQs

What is the experience like?

Our program is intentionally grounded in God鈥檚 Word. Courses are thoughtfully designed by Cairn faculty to promote deep learning and active engagement through instructor-led instruction, research-driven activities, active learning, and meaningful interactions with peers and faculty.听At Cairn, the students鈥 education and experience is designed to shape听Christian character, cultivate wisdom, and prepare them to think, live, and serve biblically in an ever-changing world.

All courses, except the research courses, are structured in seven units and delivered in accelerated 7-week terms.

Each unit contains 5鈥7 modular activities, including:

  • Assigned readings and reading reflections
  • Instructional videos from Cairn faculty
  • Active learning activities
  • Weekly application projects
  • A component of the ongoing course research project

Faculty also schedule a few optional Zoom sessions throughout the term to connect with students and address questions.

Faculty are actively involved throughout the week鈥攇uiding learning activities, leading asynchronous discussions, grading work, and delivering personalized feedback. Online students also receive priority technical support and have access to valuable resources from the Masland Library and the Writing Lab.

Cairn is approved to offer financial aid because of its regional accreditation. There are many options available and typically students qualify for at least one type of federal aid. Many students receive scholarships and grants that make earning their degree even more affordable. Cairn offers a variety of scholarships and discounts in addition to options for loans and grants. Please refer to听this page听for details.听

Please note that international students are not eligible for financial aid.听

Advanced standing may be granted for up to 12听 Bible/Theology credits earned at an accredited Bible college, Christian liberal arts college or university, or seminary. Credits will be granted on a course-by-course basis.

There are six entry points in the program: September, October, January, March, May, July.听

Provided you submit the enrollment materials, applications are typically processed within 2 weeks of submitting your application.听

Although the program is 100% online, students may choose to take up to four elective courses on campus. Elective courses may include any graduate-level courses offered by the School of Bible and Theology that are not required as part of this program’s .听

At Cairn, you will study with faculty who combine scholarship and pastoral wisdom. Below are just some of the books written by our faculty.

听

Next Steps

Information Sessions

Connect with an Advisor

Apply Today

Begin Application

Request More Information

Interested in our MA in Religion degree?听 Complete this form to connect with an admissions advisor for personalized guidance on schedules, costs, and application steps. We鈥檙e here to help you take the next step!

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Department Updates

]]> Executive Ministry Leadership (MA) | Online /executive-ministry-leadership-ma/ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:24:44 +0000 /?page_id=100517

Executive Ministry Leadership (MA)

天涯海角社区鈥檚 online MA in Executive Ministry Leadership is a 36-credit graduate program that blends biblical and theological foundations with essential organizational leadership and nonprofit management skills. The program equips pastors, executive pastors, ministry directors, and other faith-based professionals to lead churches and organizations with strategic vision, spiritual depth, and lasting impact.

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Apply Today
A picture of a student studying the Bible.
Credits
36
Years
2
Online
100 %
Christian College*
# 2

Our Distinctives

Designed for pastors, lay church leaders, and others seeking greater effectiveness in church and nonprofit contexts, Cairn鈥檚 MA in Executive Ministry Leadership equips students with biblical and theological insight, spiritual formation, and organizational leadership skills. The curriculum integrates Scripture, Christian theology, leadership theory, and nonprofit practices, preparing students to serve in leadership or support roles within churches, parachurch ministries, and other mission-driven organizations.

Graduates are prepared for high-impact roles as executive pastor, ministry director, nonprofit executive, or Christian higher education administrator, making this online ministry leadership master鈥檚 degree the ideal choice for Christ-centered executive pastor training and biblical nonprofit leadership.

*听天涯海角社区 Ranks #2 in Glanzer鈥檚 Guide to Christian Colleges and Universities

Community

Faculty and staff teach and serve biblically, personally invest in students, and cultivate an authentic Christian community marked by faithfulness, discipleship, and love.

Biblically Rooted

At Cairn we are rooted in the Scriptures. It is the foundation of everything we do, whether it is in the classroom, on the field, or out in our local community.

Deep Integration of Faith and Leadership

Every aspect of the curriculum ties Scripture, Christian theology, and spiritual formation directly to real-world organizational leadership, stewardship, and mission execution.

Affordable

Cairn is an affordable option among private Christian schools.

Program Description

The Master of Arts in Executive Ministry Leadership is a 36-credit graduate program that integrates theological foundations with organizational leadership and nonprofit management skills to prepare students for effective ministry roles. It features a 27-credit core curriculum covering topics like effective organizations, spiritual life, ministry philosophy, financial management, organizational change, action research, and fundraising, culminating in a capstone project; a 3-credit Bible elective; and 6 credits in Bible/Theology courses such as Overview of Christian Theology and The Purpose and Calling of Business, with potential advanced standing for prior relevant credits.

Learn more:听
Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, the student will be able to:

  • Articulate a master鈥檚 level understanding of biblical听and theological foundations that informs ministry leadership and decision-making.
  • Demonstrate the ability to lead and manage effectively in ministry organizations, with attention to spiritual health, strategic vision, and organizational change.
  • Exhibit spiritual maturity and personal integrity shaped by ongoing formation and reflection on one鈥檚 calling and purpose.
  • Apply best practices in nonprofit financial management, fundraising, and resource stewardship in a way that supports sustainable and mission-driven leadership.

Core Curriculum – Credits: 27

  • 听Credits: 3
  • or听听听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3
  • 听Credits: 3

Electives – Credits: 3

  • Bible Elective听Credits: 3
    Any graduate course with a prefix of .

All 天涯海角社区 students must have professed a faith in Jesus Christ as Savior as evidenced by providing a personal testimony that details this faith. By submitting an application, students acknowledge the University鈥檚 doctrinal position and standards of conduct as outlined in the听Foundational Statements. Below are the admission requirements:

  • 础辫辫濒颈肠补迟颈辞苍:听Submit the听Application for Admission along with the $25 non-refundable fee. Apply today using code faithmatters and we will waive the fee.听
  • Transcripts: Order official transcripts for all conferred degrees to be sent to 天涯海角社区.听
  • Statement of Purpose: Describe your reasons for pursuing graduate studies in this field at this time. Please explain your current employment situation and your long-term goals. (250鈥500 words)
  • References: Submit two Academic/Professional References.

天涯海角社区 strives to keep tuition costs affordable despite providing a rigorous education. Courses are taught by faculty, not TAs.听

The tuition rate for the 2026-2027 academic year is $455/credit for full-time status. Additional details on fees and part-time status are available on this page.听

天涯海角社区 also partners with many organizations and offers tuition discounts. Please contact us to find out if your organization has a partnership with 天涯海角社区.听

Information on scholarships, grants, and loans is available from this page.听

天涯海角社区 is regionally accredited by听 (MSCHE).

听


天涯海角社区 participates in the听.

Additional Accreditation Information is available from this page.听

Image of former Cairn student

“The THM program’s flexibility has been especially helpful for me as I balance ministry and study. I have found there to be great value in pursuing graduate studies while being active in pastoral ministry. Rather than finding that my academic work was distracting from my ministry, I have found quite the opposite: It has been enriched by it.”

– John B.听

FAQs

What is the experience like?

Our program is intentionally grounded in God鈥檚 Word. Courses are thoughtfully designed by Cairn faculty to promote deep learning and active engagement through instructor-led instruction, research-driven activities, active learning, and meaningful interactions with peers and faculty.听At Cairn, the students鈥 education and experience is designed to shape听Christian character, cultivate wisdom, and prepare them to think, live, and serve biblically in an ever-changing world.

All courses, except the research courses, are structured in seven units and delivered in accelerated 7-week terms.

Each unit contains 5鈥7 modular activities, including:

  • Assigned readings and reading reflections
  • Instructional videos from Cairn faculty
  • Active learning activities
  • Weekly application projects
  • A component of the ongoing course research project

Faculty also schedule a few optional Zoom sessions throughout the term to connect with students and address questions.

Faculty are actively involved throughout the week鈥攇uiding learning activities, leading asynchronous discussions, grading work, and delivering personalized feedback. Online students also receive priority technical support and have access to valuable resources from the Masland Library and the Writing Lab.

Cairn is approved to offer financial aid because of its regional accreditation. There are many options available and typically students qualify for at least one type of federal aid. Many students receive scholarships and grants that make earning their degree even more affordable. Cairn offers a variety of scholarships and discounts in addition to options for loans and grants. Please refer to听this page听for details.听

Please note that international students are not eligible for financial aid.听

Advanced standing may be granted for Bible/Theology credits earned at an accredited Bible college, Christian liberal arts college or university, or seminary. Credits will be granted on a course-by-course basis.

There are six entry points in the program: September, October, January, March, May, July.听

Provided you submit the enrollment materials, applications are typically processed within 2 weeks of submitting your application.听

At Cairn, you will study with faculty who combine scholarship and pastoral wisdom. Below are just some of the books written by our faculty.

Next Steps

Information Sessions

Connect with an Advisor

Apply Today

Begin Application

Request More Information

Interested in our Executive Ministry Leadership (MA) degree?听 Complete this form to connect with an admissions advisor for personalized guidance on schedules, costs, and application steps. We’re here to help you take the next step!

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Department Updates

]]> Master of Divinity (MDiv) | In-Person /master-of-divinity-mdiv/ Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:08:26 +0000 /?page_id=100148

Master of Divinity (MDiv)

The 天涯海角社区 Master of Divinity (MDiv) program is a rigorous in-person MDiv degree designed for comprehensive pastoral ministry training and vocational ministry preparation, equipping aspiring pastors, chaplains, and church leaders through a Christ-centered curriculum that emphasizes biblical languages mastery in Greek and Hebrew, advanced exegesis, homiletics, systematic theology, and practical applied theology skills.
Request Information
Apply Today
bible
Credits*
72
Years
4
Start Dates
6
Christian College**
# 2

Our Distinctives

天涯海角社区 delivers an intentionally biblical and Christ-centered education that upholds the authority of Scripture, the importance of truth, and the faithful following of Christ.
听

Distinguished Faculty

Study with faculty who combine scholarship and pastoral wisdom.

Biblically Rooted

天涯海角社区 demonstrates a consistent commitment to biblical authority.

Strong Academics

Prepare to preach and teach with in-depth training in the exegesis of biblical texts and a thorough study of biblical Greek and Hebrew, hermeneutics, and homiletics.

Affordable

Receive a superior learning experience and education at the rate of an online degree.

Program Description

The MDiv program at 天涯海角社区 equips students to master pastoral ministry essentials for diverse church settings, preach and teach through advanced training in original biblical languages (Greek and Hebrew), exegesis, hermeneutics, and homiletics, while integrating theology, exposition, and practical service in a balanced academic and experiential framework.听

At 天涯海角社区 you鈥檒l receive everything you need to lead, teach, and preach from God鈥檚 Word and prepare for pastoral leadership in your local church. You鈥檒l study the Bible cover to cover while developing a foundational understanding of Christian doctrine and applied theology, and become equipped to approach pastoral responsibilities ranging from counseling to financial management from a biblical perspective.听

Learn More

Program Outcomes
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
  1. Articulate a master鈥檚 level understanding of the Bible appropriate for vocational ministry.
  2. Articulate a master鈥檚 level understanding of systematic and historical theology appropriate for vocational ministry.
  3. Demonstrate exegetical skill in the original languages of the Bible.
  4. Demonstrate expositional skill in communicating God鈥檚 Word.
  5. Demonstrate shepherding skills of caring for and leading God鈥檚 people within a ministry setting.
  6. Demonstrate evidence of mature Christian character necessary for vocational ministry and lead God鈥檚 people to spiritual maturity as one who models the same.
  • Homiletics
  • Pastoral Counseling
  • Biblical Hermeneutics
  • History & Doctrine of Humanity, Sin, and Salvation
  • Apologetics
Learn more:听

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) program at 天涯海角社区 equips graduates for a range of vocational ministry roles, often in pastoral, educational, or leadership capacities within churches, missions, and related organizations. Here are some common career paths:

  • Pastor: Leading congregations, preaching, and overseeing church operations.
  • Youth Pastor: Ministering to young people in church settings, often building on foundational ministry training.
  • Chaplain: Providing spiritual care in hospitals, military, prisons, or other institutional settings.
  • Missionary or Overseas Ministry Program Director: Engaging in cross-cultural evangelism, international outreach, or directing global ministry initiatives.
  • Church Administrator:听Managing administrative and operational aspects of churches or ministries.
  • Camp Director: Leading Christian camps, retreats, or youth programs with a focus on spiritual development.
  • Professor or Teacher: Teaching biblical studies or theology in schools, churches, or seminaries.
  • Elder or Lay Ministry Roles: Serving in non-ordained leadership or volunteer capacities within churches.

Many graduates pursue ordination upon receiving the MDiv degree.

  • 础辫辫濒颈肠补迟颈辞苍:听Submit the听Application for Admission听along with the $25 non-refundable fee. Apply today using code听滨苍颁丑谤颈蝉迟础濒辞苍别听and we will waive the fee.听
  • Transcripts: Order official transcripts for all conferred degrees to be sent to 天涯海角社区. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher is required.
Essays
  • Personal Testimony: Describe your conversion to Christ, spiritual growth, and church involvement. (250-500 words)
  • Statement of Purpose: Describe your reasons for pursuing graduate studies in this field at this time. Please explain your current employment situation and your long-term goals. (250-500 words)
  • Academic Essay: Choose an author, theologian, well-known ministry leader, or Christian philosopher and discuss how his/her views have shaped your thinking on a biblical text or theme that has significant meaning for you. What are its implications for pastoral ministry? (1000-1200 words)
References
  • Submit an Academic/Professional Reference听
  • Submit a Pastoral Reference.

天涯海角社区 strives to keep tuition costs affordable despite providing a rigorous education. Courses are taught by Cairn faculty, not TAs.听

The tuition rate for the 2026-2027 academic year is $4350 per semester for 9+ credits. Additional details on fees and part-time status are available on this page.听A limited-time offer for a听50% off MDiv scholarship听is currently available. Apply now to take advantage of it.听听

天涯海角社区 also partners with many organizations and offers tuition discounts. Please contact us to find out if your organization has a partnership with 天涯海角社区.听

Information on scholarships, grants, and loans is available from this page.听

天涯海角社区 is regionally accredited by听听(惭厂颁贬贰).

Programmatic Accreditation

ABHE logo

Additional Accreditation Information

Picture of 天涯海角社区

“I chose to pursue my MDiv because I wanted to further my education, be better prepared for ministry, and sharpen my theology and my gifts. At Cairn, I learned how to read the Word more carefully, and as a result, I feel more equipped to teach and preach it in the church more faithfully.”

– Dwayne S., MDiv

FAQs

Do I need to take the biblical languages courses?

The MDiv program requires students pass a language proficiency test for Greek and Hebrew.听 Depending upon the results of the test, up to 12 additional credits of Greek and/or up to 12 additional credits of Hebrew may be required. The graduate Divinity Electives
may be used for this purpose.

Greek Courses:听

  • GRK 631 Elem NT Greek I
  • GRK 632 Elem NT Greek II
  • GRK 731 NT Greek Exegesis I
  • GRK 732 NT Greek Exegesis II

听

Hebrew Courses:听

  • HEB 631 Elem Biblical Hebrew I
  • HEB 632 Elem Biblical Hebrew II
  • HEB 731 Exegesis of Hebrew Prose
  • HEB 732 Exegesis of Hebrew Poetry

Being proficient in biblical languages enables you to earn the degree sooner.听

Advanced standing of up to 24 credits may be granted for Bible/Theology credits earned at an accredited Bible college, Christian liberal arts college or university, or seminary. Credits will be granted on a course-by-course basis.听

Classes are typically scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays to accommodate your busy work, ministry and family schedule.听

At 天涯海角社区, we purposefully deliver our MDiv program in-person. Though online learning is valuable, the essential face-to-face interactions with faculty and peers are key to fully equipping pastors and leaders for effective vocational ministry.

There are six entry points in the program: September, October, January, March, May, July.听

Provided you submit the enrollment materials, applications are typically processed within 2 weeks of submitting your application.听

At Cairn, you will study with faculty who combine scholarship and pastoral wisdom. Below are just some of the books written by our faculty.

Next Steps

Information Sessions

Connect with an Advisor

Apply Today

Begin Application

Request More Information

Interested in our Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree?听 Complete this form to connect with an admissions advisor for personalized guidance on schedules, costs, and application steps. We’re here to help you take the next step!

Loading...

Department Updates

]]>