Frequently Asked Questions
The MA in Theology and Religion is accredited by Cornerstone University, Grand Rapids, USA (recognized by The Wall Street Journal as one of America’s Best Colleges for 2025). It is offered by the Asia Biblical Theological Seminary (ABTS), Chiang Mai, Thailand, in collaboration with the Marina Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies in Religion (MCISR), Chennai.
The program includes 20 courses and a thesis. Each course runs for 12 weeks, with two courses offered simultaneously.
The program requires 64 credit hours.
The minimum duration is three years.
No, you can study at your convenience. There are no mandatory live sessions.
Not at all! You only need basic internet skills, such as accessing a website via a browser on a computer or mobile device. The program uses Brightspace, a user-friendly and intuitive e-learning platform provided by Cornerstone University.
You can engage with faculty through discussion forums and live Zoom sessions.
Assessments include quizzes, participation in discussion forums, reflective summaries, and a final evaluation.
You will write a thesis on a real-world issue from your ministry or professional context that is closer to your heart. This research will use an interdisciplinary approach that integrates theology and social sciences.
Courses start every quarter: January, April, July, and October.
Applications are accepted year-round.
If English is not your first language, you must complete an online English proficiency exam. The test includes audio and reading components and takes approximately 2–3 hours to complete.
The interview helps us learn more about you, including your spiritual life, interests, and purpose for pursuing this degree. It will be conducted via Zoom.
You can submit your application online by clicking here. We accept only online applications.
The standard tuition fee is USD 155 per credit hour.
Yes, scholarships covering over 80% of tuition fees are available for students from non-Western countries. Scholarship eligibility is based on your citizenship.
Yes, credits from master’s-level theology courses completed at recognized institutions may be eligible for transfer.
You may attend the convocation ceremony at Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids (subject to visa requirements), ABTS in Chiang Mai, or MCISR in Chennai.