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The Master of Arts in Religious Studies degree is designed to enable students to study the teachings for the New Church in-depth. The program allows students to relate the truths of doctrine to various academic, professional, and personal areas.

This degree is useful for those who wish to:

• Gain a more solid foundation in New Church doctrine for their personal understanding and intellectual development.
• Become more effective at discussing and sharing New Church teachings with the world.
• Become more effective New Church teachers.
• Enter more deeply into lay leadership roles in the church.
• Pursue further graduate work.

The degree program emphasizes theology, and provides opportunities to explore some secular areas. It consists of 8 courses and an integrative thesis equivalent to 2 courses. Of the 8 courses at least 5 are to be taken in the field of theology. The remaining 3 courses can be taken in the fields of theology, education, history, psychology, philosophy, or science as courses are available.

Distance Learning

Some courses can also be taken for credit at a distance. A variety of methods are employed, from audio recordings of courses to phone conferences and internet-based options.

Application and Admissions

To apply to the Master of Arts in Religious Study program students must:

1. Complete the admission form by: May 1 to enter Fall Term, September 30 to enter Winter Term, January 10 to enter Spring Term.
2. Write a statement of intent and purpose (minimum of about 300 words). This is an opportunity to clearly express why you wish to enter the degree program.
3. Provide three recommendations: An instructor recommendation. A New Church clergy recommendation. A personal recommendation.
4. Submit official academic records (transcripts) from each institution of higher education attended.
5. Include $30 payable to the Academy of the New Church for application processing.

Please send application forms to:

Master of Arts in Religious Studies
Program Admission
Academy of the New Church Theological School
PO Box 717
Bryn Athyn, PA 19009 USA