The Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Ministries (MAPM) is a professional degree program designed to equip its graduates to become effective pastoral ministers and leaders within a variety of Christian settings.

The program offers theological training for those preparing for a future in ministry and also for those seeking to deepen their faith understanding. While it is offered within a Catholic framework, it is open to students of all faiths who desire a fuller knowledge and understanding of the Christian tradition.

The program is completed primarily through distance learning, which allows students to remain at work and home while earning a degree. The program is jointly sponsored with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls.

Program
The MAPM program consists of 36 credit hours and is delivered through a combination of residency seminars and distance learning courses. The year is divided into three semester terms. Each academic term begins with an on-campus residency program over a four-day weekend. The residency sessions consist of seminars, classes and discussion. The remainder of the classes are taught through email and an on-line program called Blackboard. Students complete coursework on-line from their home computers using Blackboard.

Curriculum
Students will be introduced to various facets of our Catholic tradition, including Scripture , principles of Ministry, Church History, and Theology, along with other ancient and contemporary pastoral teachings of the Church. Students can complete the program in 2 - 2 ½ years.

Program Features:

• Convenient.
  The program is an online program, which allows you to study when it's convenient for you.
• Economical.
  Scholarships are available to make the program affordable.
• Ecumenical.
  Open to students of all faiths and traditions.
• Hands-On Experience.
  In your ministry practicum, you gain hands-on ministerial experience.
• Residency Programs.
  Provides the opportunity for individual and communal growth.

Director of Pastoral Ministries
Peter R. Loving, D.Min.
ploving@mtmc.edu
(605) 668-1494