Master of Pastoral Leadership
Master of Pastoral Leadership (MPL)
The Master of Arts in Pastoral Leadership (M.A.P.L.) is an online program designed for those individuals who seek a graduate level education that advances skills in practical ministerial service. While it is not necessary to be employed in a church, it is a requirement of this degree that each student is actively involved in church ministry. Course work will often focus on actual ministry being done in one’s church setting.
It is the goal of Chapman Seminary that, upon completion of the Master of Arts in Pastoral Leadership, the successful graduate will have an advanced knowledge of Holy Scripture and Church traditions as well as an advanced effectiveness in serving the Church through focused course work in servant leadership.
This degree lays a foundation for further graduate academic work or for professional studies for ministry such as provided by a Master of Divinity degree. The course of study is 36 hours. Any student who chooses to further study in the Master of Divinity program at Chapman Seminary will receive advanced standing for work completed in the Pastoral Leadership degree.
Degree Courses
- Old Testament
- New Testament
- Church History
- Christian Theology
- Worship
- Leadership in Contemporary Culture
- Service through Spiritual Formation
- Servant Leadership in Church Administration
- Servant Leader as Preacher
- Ministry Practicum
- Essay Writing
Requirements
Admission Requirements
Requirements for unconditional admission to the Master of Theological Studies or the Master of Divinity program are as follows:
- A formal application for admission submitted to the Admissions Office together with the application fee.
- A baccalaureate degree from an accredited four-year college or university.
- An overall undergraduate grade point average of 2.5 based on a 4.0 scale, or a 2.75 average in the undergraduate major field.
- Two (2) letters of recommendation from persons qualified to judge aptitude and ability for graduate work; one recommendation may come from the faculty of the Chapman Seminary.
- Submission of official transcripts of all undergraduate credits and any graduate credits earned.
- A formal statement of reasons for applying, making clear the motivation for entering the Seminary.
Graduation Requirements for the Master of Pastoral Leadership
The completion of thirty-six (36) semester hours, with a minimum grade point average of B on a 4.0 scale, is necessary to receive the M.A.P.L. degree. Of the 36 hours, 30 hours are core (mandatory) courses required of all students and 6 hours of courses dedicated to the completion of a capstone project.
