The Master of Arts in Philosophy and Apologetics program is designed to provide a distinctively Christian analysis of the traditional problems of philosophy against the background of a solid understanding of the history of Western philosophy. Critical thinking and presuppositional analysis are brought to bear on traditional and contemporary issues in metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and logic with a view to developing answers which are faithful to the Christian worldview. The program features readings in classical philosophical texts as well as guidance for special research. It provides a thorough overview of the field and equips those who wish to pursue further studies with the requisite knowledge and skills. The program also seeks to enrich the student's understanding of the theory and practice of defending the Christian faith against various challenges. Students will gain a thorough understanding of the presuppositional approach (building on the foundation of Cornelius Van Til's seminal work) be given the tools to apply it to any apologetic situation.
This program is designed for the serious Christian student who desires to develop proficiency in defending the Christian world and life view against the various philosophical and religious systems advocated in opposition to God’s word. CTS also recommends this program to pastors seeking to study Christian apologetics in more detail, thereby enabling them to prepare their congregations for the defense of the faith. Successful completion of twenty classes is required to be awarded the M.A.P.A. degree. To be admitted to this program interested applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and demonstrate the ability to perform graduate-level academic work.
PH1: Critical Thinking
AT3: Introduction to Biblical/Presuppositional Apologetics
PH2: Christian Introduction to Philosophy
P3A: History of Western Philosophy: Ancient
AT3: The Apologetics of Cornelius Van Til
P3B: History of Western Philosophy: Medieval
PH5: The Philosophy of Christianity
P6: Epistemology
P9: Philosophy of Science
AT8: Epistemology in Contemporary Apologetics
AT9: Comparative Religions and Cults
P3C: History of Western Philosophy: Renaissance and Enlightenment
P8A: Logic I
P10: Philosophy of Language
P3D: History of Western Philosophy: Modern (19th-20th Centuries)
P4: Ethical Systems
P7: Metaphysics
P8B: Logic II
P11: Philosophy of Mind