MA in Marriage & Family Studies

With this degree, you can pursue a career in church ministry, counseling, social work, chaplaincy, and other areas of service, making a meaningful impact.

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Studies at the European Theological Seminary (ETS) equips students with essential counseling and relational skills to support the spiritual and emotional well-being of individuals, couples, and families. Offered in partnership with Lee University, USA, this three-year, part-time, English-language program blends behavioral sciences with biblical principles to prepare you for impactful ministry.

This Evalag- and SACS-accredited master’s program trains ministry leaders through intensive study and practical application. Recognized by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Education, the program consists of 90 ECTS, including 14 modules and a thesis, qualifying graduates for doctoral studies. The part-time model is designed to suit working professionals seeking to advance their calling.

Audience of the European Theological Seminary

The President of the European Theological Seminary is explaining something from the pulpit

What You’ll Learn

Counseling Competencies: Master counseling skills through courses like Counseling Theories and Techniques, and Counseling Children and Adolescents.
Systemic and Psychological Perspectives: Explore Intro to Marriage and Family Studies, Systems Theory, Psychopathology, and Personality Theories to address diverse counseling needs.
Christian Integration: Apply biblical principles with the courses Christian Perspectives in the Helping Professions, and Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues in Family Therapy to guide your practice.
Practical Application: Develop expertise through courses such as Family Stress and Resilience and Cultural Contexts in Clinical Practice.

Program Details

Duration: Three years, part-time
Format: Six modules per year, each including a one-week intensive block on the ETS campus, besides self-study, exams, and research papers
Credits: 90 ECTS (14 modules at 5 ECTS each, plus a 20-ECTS thesis component), EQF Level 7
Cost: Approximately €3,000 per year (tuition only)
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (180 ECTS, EQF Level 6, preferably in behavioral and social sciences), one year of documented ministry experience (equivalent to 30 ECTS), and C1-level English proficiency. No specific bachelor’s major is required, but a solid understanding of the subject is essential.

The Alumni of the year of the European Theological Seminary

Who Should Enroll?

The MA in Marriage and Family Studies is ideal for:

Church workers focusing on family or marriage counseling
Ministry leaders seeking advanced skills in pastoral care
Individuals aiming for doctoral studies in counseling or other helping professions
Those called to integrate faith and behavioral sciences in ministry

Why ETS?

With a 75-year legacy of equipping leaders, we empower you to fulfill God’s vision and prepare our students for various types of ministry through deep scriptural knowledge and academic excellence. Our experienced faculty will help you grow in faith and skill, preparing you to impact God’s Kingdom worldwide with compassion and wisdom.