master of arts in theology and ministry
Master of Arts in Theology and Ministry (MATM)
Since 1889, Howard Payne University has been training men and women who have sensed God’s calling to vocational ministry. The Master of Arts in Theology & Ministry is designed to provide preparation for those who will minister to people through the local church and other related ministries, as well as provide a foundation for further graduate theological education. The curriculum contains a combination of courses that emphasize biblical, theological, and practical application.
HOUSING REQUIREMENTS
Howard Payne’s Master of Arts in Theology & Ministry program does not have a housing requirement. Our unique non-residency program allows you to complete internships in lieu of a thesis, while you continue to minister right where you are.
MODULAR CLASS FORMAT
All of the courses that are required to complete the degree will be offered in a two-year rotation in a “modular format.” The modular format is a type of hybrid or blended delivery system in which the equivalent of two thirds of the instruction time is accomplished face-to-face in an intensive 8-hour per day, 4-day format. The remaining portion of instruction is fulfilled through the combination of assigned readings, electronic interactions, etc. beginning 6 weeks prior to the class meetings, and through the continued reflection and assimilation demonstrated by the production of a written assignment that is completed weeks after the class meetings. Additionally, some courses will be available to local students in the typical semester long format.
This type of delivery system makes the program accessible to ministry students who are currently serving in ministry locations away from the Brownwood area [does not require relocation], ministry students living in the area, and current HPU undergraduate students who can complete a bachelor’s degree and continue immediately into a graduate program
MENTORSHIPS
In lieu of a thesis, students must complete three semester-long ministry mentorships, each focusing on the student’s personal and spiritual growth, as well as a specific target area for development in ministry. For each mentorship, the student will have an on-site ministry guide with whom she/he will meet each week for reflection and accountability. In addition, the student will have weekly communication with the instructor in order to stay on task toward meeting the targeted goals. By design, no student who earns the MATM degree will be without significant guided experience in ministry.
FINANCIAL AID/SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS
HPU Church Match Scholarship: HPU will match designated gifts for HPU graduate students up to, but not exceeding $100.00 per semester hour. For example if a church contributes $300 for a 3 hour class, then HPU will match that $300.00 so that the student ’s tuition cost would be $600.00 less for that class. This scholarship is limited to Baptist churches.
BGCT Ministerial Grant/Scholarship: For students who are members of a Baptist church, the Baptist General Convention of Texas offers aid of $100.00 per semester hour.