The degree is conferred when the following conditions are met:
1. Completion of 65 semester hours with a minimum 2.5 cumulative grade point average. Included are a 15-hour Bible core, 17-hour theology core, and a 33-hour educational ministries specialization.
2. A minimum of 32 semester hours must be achieved at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary by transfer students.
3. Advanced standing credit is limited to 1/6 of the degree program requirements (10 hours).
4. Credits achieved by distance education are limited to a maximum of 1/6 of the degree program requirements (10 hours).
5. Evidence of personal commitment to Jesus Christ and a life pattern of moral character and conduct.
6. Completion of all assessments.
7. Participation in entrance, mid-point, and exit interviews.
8. Submission of all student learning portfolio requirements.
9. Successful completion of the Ministry Residency Requirement or MA thesis component.
10. The meeting of all financial obligations.
11. Five years from matriculation are permitted to complete all degree requirements.
12. Participation in commencement.