Masters in Christian Leadership in Virginia

What Will I Study?

Ministry & Leadership Formation Studies

• Spiritual Formation (3 hours)

• Theology & Practice of Leadership (3 hours)

• Modern Theories of Leadership (3 hours)

• Covenant Group (6 semesters)

Biblical Studies

• Tools Based Bible Study (3 hours)

• Old Testament I or New Testament I (3 hours)

Theological & Philosophical Studies

• Introduction to Theological Studies (3 hours)

• Introduction to Christian Ethics (3 hours)

• Systematic Theology I & II (6 hours) 

Electives (6 hours)

Focused Leadership Studies

• Leadership Practicum (3 hours)

*Total credit hours = 36 *New curriculum requirements as of the 2021-22 Academic Catalog

What is the Spiritual Formation Focus?

At the John Leland Center, the Master of Christian Leadership program emphasizes spiritual formation as a key component of Christian leadership studies. Through this focus, students in Virginia deepen their understanding of biblical servant leadership, learning to lead with humility, integrity, and compassion. The spiritual formation journey equips future leaders with the tools to foster growth in their communities, while embodying the principles of service modeled by Christ. This holistic approach ensures that graduates of the Master’s in Christian Leadership program are prepared to guide others both spiritually and practically in their faith and leadership endeavors.

An essential aspect of fulfilling Leland’s mission to “equip transformational leaders for the global ministry of Jesus Christ” is nurturing spiritual growth in students. Leland seeks to provide a structure and atmosphere that helps students to have the support and accountability necessary for both individual and corporate spiritual growth. Like anything, building community that encourages this kind of growth takes time and intentionality. To this end, Leland has set in place specific requirements for our students.

Spiritual Formation Class – Master’s degree and graduate certificate students are required to take the Spiritual Formation class during their first semester at Leland.

Covenant Groups – Students are required to continue participating in a covenant group comprised of four to seven students, which will meet seven times during the semester. The group typically reads a spiritual classic together and encourages one another in their spiritual practices.

Community Life Events – Master’s degree and graduate certificate students are also asked to contribute to and benefit from the broader Leland community by participating in two required community life events each semester (or four per year). These events include the all-school gatherings that inaugurate each semester, Advent and Lent worship services, Theological Society meetings, and Commencement.