Online Master of Arts in Theology & Culture (M.A.)
Deepen your faith, influence the world
Engage deeply with the evolving landscape of theology and culture through Bushnell University’s Master of Arts in Theology and Culture. Carefully crafted and delivered online, with the exception of two immersive one-week residencies on campus, this innovative program equips pastors, leaders, and ministers of all types with a deep theological foundation and practical insights, empowering you to effectively lead and disciple in a rapidly changing world.
Credits 36 | Cost/Credit $675 | Completion 24 Months | Starts Per Year One
Why Choose Bushnell for Your M.A. in Theology and Culture?
Bushnell University’s Master of Arts in Theology and Culture offers a unique blend of theological depth and cultural insight, carefully designed to empower you for impactful leadership in today’s evolving world. Our program goes beyond traditional education by integrating online learning with immersive on-campus residencies, providing a comprehensive approach to theological and cultural studies.
Explore what sets our program apart:
- Flexible Learning Structure: Enjoy the convenience of a fully online format, complemented by two one-week on-campus residencies. This flexibility allows you to balance your studies with professional and personal commitments while engaging in enriching face-to-face experiences.
- Accelerated Completion: With a thoughtfully structured curriculum, you can complete your degree in just two years, giving you the advanced knowledge and skills needed for leadership roles in a timely manner.
- Holistic Formation: Benefit from a curriculum that combines rigorous theological training with practical insights into cultural dynamics, preparing you to lead and disciple effectively in diverse contexts.
- Cohort Model: Join a supportive community of peers through our cohort-based approach, fostering collaboration and networking as you progress through the program together.
- Engaged Learning: Participate in immersive on-campus residencies that enhance your learning experience through collaborative projects and real-world applications, bridging theory with practice.
Program Admissions
To complete your application for the Online Master of Arts in Theology and Culture, you must submit the following:
- Free application for admission.
- Official transcripts reflecting completion of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (with a minimum 3.0 grade-point average), along with transcripts for any postgraduate work.
- A 500-word Statement of Purpose showcasing your written communication skills and explaining how our online program aligns with your personal and professional goals.
- Two letters of recommendation. One from a pastoral reference and one from either an academic or personal reference.
Additional Admissions Considerations
We holistically assess applicants, considering academic achievements, work experience and personal accomplishments.
Applicants who do not meet grade-point average requirements may apply for conditional admission by submitting a one-page description of their academic history and plans for success at the graduate level.
Have questions about the admissions process? Contact our Admissions Counselor.
Tuition and Financial Aid
At Bushnell University, we emphasize affordability and understand that navigating financial aid and funding opportunities is a big part of the process. We strive to connect students with the aid they need to make their graduate education more accessible, including traditional student loans.
Get started by exploring various forms of financial aid, including federal aid, scholarships and grants.
Military veteran students can also benefit from Bushnell’s veteran support services and tuition assistance program.
Cost of Attendance
Per Semester:
Housing & Food: $5,650
Books & Supplies: $55 per credit
Personal: $700
Transportation: $700
Tech Fee: $150
Career Opportunities with an M.A. in Theology and Culture
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Theology and Culture are well-prepared to excel in a range of impactful roles within religious and cultural contexts. Our program equips students with the theological insight and cultural understanding needed to lead and influence effectively.
Career paths our graduates may pursue include:
- Theological Educator
- Cultural Consultant
- Church Leader
- Mission Director
- Faith-Based Community Organizer
- Parachurch Leader
- Religious Research Analyst
- Social Justice Advocate
Deepen Your Expertise with Bushnell’s M.A. in Theology and Culture
In our Master of Arts in Theology and Culture program, you develop a comprehensive understanding of theological and cultural dynamics, preparing you to address the complexities of modern faith-based and cultural leadership. Whether your aspirations involve guiding religious communities, engaging in cultural analysis, or driving social impact through faith, our program provides you with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective and transformative leadership.
Take the next step toward transformative leadership — apply today!
Have Questions?
Reach out with any questions — our admissions team and faculty members are happy to help you at any step of your grad school journey.
Mitchell Davis
Admissions Counselor
541-349-5243
A.J. Swoboda, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Biblical Studies & World Christianity
541-684-7238
Meet the Program Lead
Dr. A.J. Swoboda,
Program Faculty
“Hi! My name is Dr. A.J. Swoboda (Ph.D., Birmingham). I’m the associate professor of Bible and Theology at Bushnell University. I’m the author of many books, including The Gift of Thorns (Zondervan), After Doubt (Brazos), and the award-winning Subversive Sabbath (Brazos). I also host the “Slow Theology” podcast (w/ Dr. Nijay Gupta) and write the widely read “Low-Level Theologian” Substack. I lives and work on an urban farm with my wife and son here in Eugene.
For the better part of two decades, I served in local-church pastoral ministry—both as a college pastor and then as a church planter in Portland, OR. What I learned in these journeys before entering a life of teaching was that theology really, really matters. And for many Christians, thinking well in evolving cultural moments like these is disorienting and difficult. This program exists to help you learn to think critically in an ever-changing cultural landscape.”