Master’s degree
Master of Christian Ministry
M.A.
Advanced preparation for ministry, spiritual leadership, and teaching through the study of Scripture, theology, and practical aspects of church ministry.
Program Overview
The Master of Christian Ministry program is designed to provide advanced preparation for ministry and leadership development. It is intended for students who already possess foundational theological education and seek further growth in ministry.
The program includes advanced study of Scripture, theology, and practical aspects of ministry, as well as the development of teaching, counseling, and spiritual leadership skills.
The program is designed to be completed over three years and includes nine academic courses (33 credit hours), as well as the completion of a ministry-related research project totaling 10.5 credit hours.
“Not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.”
Romans 12:11
At a Glance
Degree
Master’s degree (M.A.)
Length
3 years after the bachelor’s degree
Language
Russian (primary)
Format
Hybrid sessions (Friday evening & Saturday) + independent study
Open to
Open to men and women
Ministry focus
Advanced ministry and spiritual leadership
Credits
33 credit hours + 10.5-credit research project
Who Is This For?
Is this program right for you?
This program is designed for students who:
- are actively involved in church ministry
- serve in teaching or pastoral roles
- desire deeper study of Scripture
- seek to develop spiritual leadership skills
- are interested in research and mentoring ministry
- are preparing for greater ministry responsibility
Applicants must meet the Institute's admission requirements, including church membership and prior completion of the required program. See requirements →
What You'll Learn
Key areas of study
01
Practical theology
02
Advanced hermeneutics and exegesis
03
Biblical counseling
04
Conflict resolution
05
Teaching and preaching ministry
06
Biblical languages
07
Research and ministry application
08
Spiritual leadership and mentoring
Curriculum
Academic plan
The program includes nine academic courses (33 credit hours) and a ministry-related research project totaling 10.5 credit hours. Course codes use a subject-area abbreviation and a level (300 — master's level).
Theology and Biblical Studies
- TH 301 · Practical Theology — 3 cr.
The application of theological principles to various aspects of Christian ministry, the integration of theology and practice, and contemporary challenges facing ministry. - TH 304 · Contemporary Theological Issues and Trends — 3 cr.
Current theological issues and contemporary trends within Christianity; analyzing viewpoints and developing a biblical position on major theological questions. - BI 305 · Introduction to Biblical Languages (Master’s Level) — 3 cr.
The foundations of Hebrew and Greek for a deeper understanding of the biblical text: key grammatical elements and methods for working with the original languages. - BI 306 · New Testament Exegesis — 3 cr.
Advanced analysis of New Testament texts using exegetical methods: textual structure, theological content, and practical application. - BI 307 · Advanced Hermeneutics — 1.5 cr.
An advanced understanding of the principles of biblical interpretation, complex hermeneutical issues, and various approaches to interpreting biblical texts. - BI 308 · Wisdom Literature — 3 cr.
The Wisdom Books of the Old Testament: their theology, literary characteristics, and practical significance for the life of the believer.
Ministry Practice
- PM 302 · Process and Methodology of Biblical Counseling — 1.5 cr.
An advanced study of the principles and methods of biblical counseling: the counseling process, the diagnosis of spiritual problems, and pathways toward biblical change. - PM 303 · Biblical Conflict Resolution — 1.5 cr.
Biblical principles for resolving conflict: causes of conflict and methods of prevention and resolution in personal life and church contexts.
Teaching and Preaching
- SP 309 · Homiletics and Bible Teaching (Advanced Level) — 3 cr.
Advanced skills in preaching and Bible teaching, strengthening the ability to prepare sermons and effectively teach others.
Research Practicum — 10.5 credits
- Research Project (completed over two years) — 10.5 cr.
A long-term project completed over a two-year period, designed to investigate and address a practical or theological issue related to the student’s ministry. It involves independent research, application of acquired knowledge, and presentation of the final results.
Source: Academic Catalog 2026–27. Each branch maintains its own schedule of offered courses. Download the catalog (PDF)
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion, students will be able to:
- analyze biblical texts using advanced hermeneutical and exegetical methods;
- integrate theological knowledge with ministry practice at an advanced level;
- apply biblical principles to complex pastoral and ministry situations;
- provide spiritual leadership, mentoring, and teaching;
- conduct research and apply its results in ministry contexts.
Learning Format
Designed for students balancing study with work, family responsibilities, and church ministry. Courses are offered through a hybrid session format and include:
- classroom instruction;
- independent study;
- reading assignments;
- written coursework;
- practical ministry application and completion of a research project.
Ministry Opportunities
- teaching ministry
- pastoral and leadership ministry
- mentoring and spiritual leadership
- counseling ministry
- ministry training
- educational and theological ministry within the church
Research Project
A 10.5-credit ministry research project
As part of the master’s program, students complete a ministry-related research project connected to their area of service. The practicum is completed over a two-year period and is intended to help students apply their academic learning within a real ministry context. The project involves independent research, application of acquired knowledge, and presentation of the final results.
Admissions
Admission Requirements
- Be born-again believers, baptized upon confession of faith, and members of an Evangelical Baptist church for at least three years
- Be in agreement with the Institute's Statement of Faith
- Successfully complete an undergraduate-level program (bachelor's degree) at Alliance Bible Institute or another evangelical educational institution
- Submit all required documents
- Demonstrate the ability to study at the master's level
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the program take?
Academic study at the Institute is organized in three-year cycles. One cycle is required for the Associate Degree (A.Th.), an additional cycle for a bachelor's degree (six years total), and another cycle for the master's degree (nine years total).
Can I study while working full-time?
Yes. The learning format is designed for students who are employed, enrolled in other educational programs, and actively involved in ministry. Each session consists of approximately 11 contact hours (Friday evening and Saturday) and about 22 hours of independent study.
May assignments be completed in English?
The primary language of instruction is Russian. Assignments may be completed in English with the approval of the instructor.
Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Transfer credits may be considered upon admission. Only courses completed with a grade of C (72%) or higher may be accepted, and no more than 30% of the total credits required for a program may be transferred. The President of the Institute makes the final decision.
Is there a practicum?
Each academic program includes a summer practicum completed either within a local church or in a missionary ministry context. Students are informed of the specific requirements prior to the summer break.
Ready to Begin?
If you desire deeper theological education, growth in spiritual leadership, and more mature ministry preparation, the Master of Christian Ministry program can become an important next step in your ministry journey.