The Master of Arts is accredited with the Australian College of Theology (ACT) and its intention is to provide graduates holding the Bachelor of Theology or Bachelor of Ministries with the opportunity to extend and deepen previous studies in light of on-going ministry experience.  In designing the courses, the College takes into account the multicultural context of much local church ministry in Australia, as well as considering the needs of those serving in another cultural environment in the world.

The degree may be obtained by the completion of eight coursework subjects, or by the completion of six coursework subjects and a 15,000 word project in a relevant ministry area.  Each of the coursework subjects offered is assessed by essays or projects, and students are encouraged to make the topics of these assessments as relevant as possible to their current or future ministry.  Most courses are offered in intensive mode, with the lecture input occurring in a period of five to ten days and the assessments being completed during the remainder of the semester.  The degree may be completed full time over two years or part time over a period of up to six years.

Transportability of credit is guaranteed by the ACT, so that students enrolled at SMBC may also complete individual subjects towards their degree at other colleges in the consortium.  Similarly, students at the other colleges may also complete individual subjects at SMBC.

The subjects offered at SMBC vary from year to year, but the following are typical:

Local Church and Global Mission

Cross Cultural Teaching and Learning

Leadership Development: Biblical, Cultural, Contemporary Perspectives

Theology and Practice of Church Planting

Developing Trainers to Train Others

Ministry in a Multicultural Context

Old Testament Foundation for Mission

Contemporary Apologetics

Theology for Tomorrow's Church

Theology and Practice of Expository Preaching

Church Growth and Dynamics

Preaching Christ from the Pentateuch

Hermeneutics, Theology and the Book of Acts

Theories of Ethics and their Implications for Christians in a Postmodern world

Preaching Psalms

These subjects are repeated every three to four years, with at least one new subject added each year.  Further information on the program may be obtained from the Graduate Studies Advisor at SMBC.