Lindsay Kuhl
208.467.8854
ministryinfo@nnu.edu
If you feel called to serve in ministry, a master’s in pastoral studies can prepare you for fulfilling work. The Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry at NNU provides a solid vocational foundation, ideal for meeting educational requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene and other denominations. With knowledgeable faculty, you’ll be well-equipped to dive deep into your passion for pastoral ministry and make a difference in others’ lives.
- 40-SEMESTER CREDITS for degree completion
- ENTIRELY ONLINE, with accessible professors and faculty
- MEETS ALL EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene
- RANKED #3 for Best Online Master’s in Ministry Degree Programs of 2025 by Intelligent.com
Master’s in Pastoral Studies – Know Joy in Service
Embarking on a journey of service to God and His people can be one of the most fulfilling choices you can make in life. NNU’s master’s in pastoral studies degree is designed to prepare you for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene and most other denominations. It’s a fully online program that you can flexibly complete at your own pace. With a caring and experienced faculty, you’ll be academically challenged and supported to bring out your best, preparing you for your future in ministry. Serving others brings immense joy, knowing you’re following God’s path.
Tuition Costs
$575 per credit, $150 per semester technology fee
The Benefits of a Master’s Degree in Pastoral Studies
- NNU’s Northwest Nazarene Divinity School is accredited by The Commission on Accrediting of The Association of Theological Schools
- Graduates from our Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry are serving in various ministry venues
- Earn your pastoral studies master’s degree online in as few as 27 months
- Earn your master’s degree from a respected Christian University
- Further your studies and expand your professional ministry credentials
- Take advantage of flexible course schedules while working around your current life and occupational demands
- Receive tailored support from our experienced faculty to prepare you for Christian ministry
- Fulfill all educational requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene
- Graduate with 40-semester credits and a comprehensive understanding of pastoral studies
Goals and Outcomes for Our Pastoral Studies Students
- Acquire essential skills for success in Christian ministry and other job fields
- Benefit from a faculty team of experienced pastoral professionals, ready to support you in the classroom and beyond
- Develop a multitude of well-rounded ministry options upon graduation
- Receive quality theological and ministerial education from our experienced faculty
- Learn the skills needed to advance your career in ministry
- Be equipped to serve in various ministry venues such as church planting, military, healthcare and more
- Expand your knowledge and have the opportunity to pursue a doctorate-level degree
- Develop meaningful lifelong connections through our supportive and caring academic community
Additional Information About the MA in Pastoral Studies
Program Information
Are you interested in pursuing a nationally recognized Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies degree that is reliable, credible and tailored to your unique ministry goals? Look no further! The MA in Pastoral Studies offers adults worldwide the perfect opportunity to unlock the doors of ministry. Our streamlined program is designed to meet the educational requirements of the Church of the Nazarene and most other denominations and can be completed online in just 27 months*. Inspirational and experienced faculty will provide the encouragement and support needed to take your knowledge and capabilities to the next level.
This degree was designed to gain the expertise to serve wherever God calls you, whether in pastoral leadership, staff ministry, youth ministry, church management, young adult ministry, pastoral counseling, university student development, military, healthcare, hospice, cross-cultural ministry, district and general church administration, religious education or other ministry or non-profit venues. With this program, you can embark on a fulfilling journey of Christian service that will be impactful and meaningful.
Moreover, many of our graduates have advanced to doctoral studies in renowned universities nationwide, such as Drew Divinity School, Boston University, Regent, Claremont, Portland Seminary, Fuller, Perkins and other institutions. There is no limit to what you can achieve after earning this degree.
Enroll today and embark on the next step of your rewarding Christian minister journey. With this master’s degree program in pastoral studies, you can build something remarkable and actively make a difference in people’s lives.
* Students in their final year of study may complete Supervised Ministry concurrently with other course/s or enroll in it separately during the Summer session.
Accreditation
NNU’s Northwest Nazarene Divinity School is accredited by The Commission on Accrediting of The Association of Theological Schools. The following degree programs are approved by The Commission on Accrediting: Master of Divinity; Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry; Master of Arts in Leadership & Formation with specializations in Missional Leadership; Spiritual Formation; Youth, Children & Family Ministry.
Career Paths with a Master’s in Pastoral Studies
Graduates of our program have discovered many fulfilling career paths, including pastoral practice, staff ministry and church management concentration. Our alumni have gone on to serve in university student development, healthcare, hospice, institutional and marketplace chaplaincy, non-profit leadership, cross-cultural ministry and district and general church administration.
Executive Pastor
Church/Ministry Administrator
Meet Our Faculty
Frequently Asked Questions About the Master’s Degree in Pastoral Studies Program
Know joy in service and ministry at Northwest Nazarene University through a master’s degree in pastoral studies. Here are some frequently asked questions students often have about the program.
What are the benefits of PURSUING NNU's master's in pastoral studies program?
When pursuing a master’s degree in pastoral studies, Northwest Nazarene University offers a program that stands out, providing a range of benefits that will enhance your ministry career.
- First and foremost, NNU’s Northwest Nazarene Divinity School is accredited by The Commission on Accrediting of The Association of Theological Schools, ensuring the quality and credibility of your education. This accreditation gives you confidence in the rigorous standards and comprehensive curriculum you will experience at NNU.
- Graduates from our Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry program are significantly impacting various ministry venues, utilizing their knowledge and skills to lead and serve in diverse contexts. By joining this program, you become part of a community of alumni actively contributing to the field of pastoral ministry.
- One of the key advantages of NNU’s program is the flexibility it offers. You can earn your pastoral studies master’s degree online in as few as 27 months, allowing you to balance your current life and occupational demands while furthering your education.
- By choosing NNU, you will be earning your master’s degree from a respected Christian University known for its commitment to academic excellence and its dedication to the integration of faith and learning. This unique blend will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of pastoral studies and a strong foundation for Christian ministry.
- Throughout your studies, you will receive tailored support from our experienced faculty, who are knowledgeable and passionate about helping you succeed in your ministry calling. They will guide you through the program, providing mentorship and guidance to prepare you for effective and impactful ministry.
- After completing NNU’s Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry program, you will fulfill all educational requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene. This distinction will strengthen your credentials and open doors for ministry opportunities.
- With a total of 40-semester credits, you will graduate with a comprehensive understanding of pastoral studies, equipping you with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of ministry in today’s world.
Join us at NNU’s master’s in pastoral studies program and embark on a transformative journey that will deepen your faith, expand your knowledge and empower you to make a lasting impact in Christian ministry.
What kind of support is available to help theology students succeed?
Northwest Nazarene University understands the importance of providing comprehensive support to theology students pursuing their studies and preparing for Christian ministry. Our master’s in pastoral studies program is designed with the needs of busy adults in mind, allowing you to complete the program fully online and at your own pace.
At NNU, we believe in the power of caring and qualified faculty dedicated to your success. Our faculty members are knowledgeable in their fields and committed to supporting and challenging you in ways that bring out your best. They will provide guidance, mentorship and personalized attention to help you navigate your theological studies and develop the pastoral skills necessary for effective ministry.
In addition to our faculty, you will have access to various resources and support services throughout your journey at NNU. These may include academic advising, career counseling, and pastoral mentorship opportunities. We are committed to equipping you with the tools and knowledge to excel academically, champion Biblical truth and thrive in your future ministry endeavors.
Furthermore, NNU offers various scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to assist theology students in pursuing their studies. These opportunities aim to alleviate the financial burden and make theological education more accessible to aspiring pastors and ministry leaders. You can explore these options to find the financial support that best suits your needs.
By choosing NNU’s Master in Pastoral Studies program, you become part of a vibrant community that values collaboration, growth and support. Our mission is to provide a transformative education that empowers you to make a positive difference in the world through Christian ministry. Join us at NNU and experience the comprehensive support system to enhance your theological studies, nurture your faith and prepare you for a fulfilling and impactful ministry career.
How can the master's in pastoral studies program help prepare a student for ordination in different denominations?
The master’s in pastoral studies program at Northwest Nazarene University is uniquely positioned to help students prepare for ordination in different denominations, offering a streamlined ministry degree that fulfills educational requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene and most requirements from other denominations.
By enrolling in NNU’s Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry program, students gain a comprehensive understanding of ministerial studies, equipping them with the knowledge and pastoral skills necessary to excel in various denominational contexts. The program covers many theological subjects, including biblical studies, church history, pastoral care, preaching and leadership.
NNU’s Northwest Nazarene Divinity School provides a nurturing environment where students are guided by caring and experienced faculty well-versed in diverse denominational practices and requirements. These faculty members are ready to support and challenge students’ spiritual growth, helping them develop a strong vocational ministry foundation and navigate the path toward ordination.
While the program primarily focuses on meeting the educational requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene, it also considers the typical requirements of other denominations. This gives students a well-rounded education that prepares them for ministry across different religious traditions.
Furthermore, NNU’s Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry program offers flexibility, allowing students to tailor their studies to align with their desired denomination’s specific requirements and practices. Through coursework, mentorship opportunities and practical ministry experiences, students can deepen their understanding of their own denominational traditions while also gaining exposure to broader theological perspectives.
The pastoral studies master program at NNU provides a comprehensive and flexible education that can help prepare students for ordination in different denominations. By completing this program, students will acquire the knowledge, skills and spiritual formation necessary to serve as effective ministers in various denominations and ministry contexts.
How does the online format of the master's degree make it easier for students to study and complete the program?
Experience the convenience and flexibility of Northwest Nazarene University’s master’s degree in pastoral studies through our innovative online format. Designed with busy adults in mind, this program allows you to study and complete your degree at a pace that fits your schedule, offering a seamless pathway toward your ministerial aspirations.
With NNU’s fully online program, you can engage with your coursework and complete your assignments from anywhere, anytime. This flexibility lets you balance your studies with your commitments, whether work, family or other ministry responsibilities. Embrace the opportunity to delve into your theological studies without sacrificing your personal and professional obligations.
By offering courses one at a time, NNU ensures you can focus on each subject, maximizing your learning experience and allowing deeper engagement with the material. This structure will enable you to immerse yourself in the content, fostering a comprehensive understanding of pastoral studies.
Throughout your journey, you will be guided by our caring and qualified faculty, who are passionate about helping you succeed academically and thrive in your future ministry endeavors. They provide personalized support, challenging you to grow your knowledge, skills and faith while fostering community within the online learning environment.
Completing the master’s degree in pastoral studies online fulfills all educational requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene. This distinction showcases the program’s commitment to equipping you with the necessary credentials to pursue your ministry calling within the denomination.
Join NNU’s online master’s in pastoral studies program and embark on a transformative journey that combines the convenience of online learning with the academic rigor and spiritual formation necessary for effective Christian ministry.