For those seeking to be set apart as a deaconess, the two-year Master of Arts in Religion (Deaconess Studies) requires a minimum of 73 credit hours, inclusive of 12 hours of elective coursework. The required courses are listed in the column at right, and their descriptions are found at the links for each department. Worship and spiritual formation is also required for those pursuing the M.A.R. to be set apart as a deaconess.

For more information on the duties and requirements of a deaconess, as well as the history of deaconesses in the Church, visit the following websites:=