Master’s Degrees

Choose from a diverse range of available master’s programs to find the one that best fits your career goals and take the next step in your education. Whether studying at APU’s main campus, one of six regional locations, or online, you will benefit from faculty who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom. Graduate prepared to make a difference in classrooms, boardrooms, churches, communities, and beyond.

  • Applied Statistics and Data Science, MS

    The applied statistics and data science master’s degree prepares students to become leaders in rapidly growing fields involving data analysis. Students may choose an emphasis in biostatistics or business analytics, as well as choose a part-time or full-time format.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Biostatistics and Business Analytics.

  • Art Education, MA

    The Master of Arts in Art Education program is a 30-hour low-residency degree for artists who love to teach. Designed for working professionals and busy educators who enjoy making and teaching art, students benefit from the convenience of online courses and two one-week summer intensive practicums at APU’s main campus in Azusa.

      Online: Low Residency at Azusa (main campus)

  • Biotechnology, MS

    The master’s in biotechnology program prepares students for success in biotechnology careers through coursework and training in areas such as molecular biology, pharmacology of pharmaceutics and biopharmaceutics, bioinformatics, industrial statistics, project management, biotech business ethics, and more.

  • Child Life, MS

    Child life specialists are allied healthcare professionals who support children and their families facing challenging experiences, particularly traumatic medical situations. Azusa Pacific University’s Master of Science in Child Life program prepares men and women for this special role.

      Available Online

  • Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy, MA (MFT)

    Theory and hands-on practice prepares counselors to work with individuals, couples, and families by integrating ethics and psychotherapy. The program meets California licensure requirements.

  • College Counseling and Student Development, MS

    This program has a rich history of more than 40 years, and its balance of theory and practice prepares graduates for the exciting and ever-changing field of working with today's college students. This cohort-based program can be completed on site in Azusa in two years of internships and coursework. The culminating capstone experience allows students to synthesize their new knowledge for their professional application—for those new to the field and those seeking professional advancement.

  • Composition, MM

    The Master of Music in Composition prepares musicians for professional careers in the specialized and competitive field of composition and arranging.

  • Conducting, MM

    The Master of Music in Conducting prepares musicians for professional careers in the specialized and competitive field of conducting.

  • Counseling Psychology with Specialization in Children and Adolescents, MS

    Designed to meet the growing need for psychologists who can support the mental health of children and youth, the MS in Counseling Psychology with Specialization in Child and Adolescents equips graduates to pursue LPCC licensure in California and work in both public and private mental health settings.

      Available Online

  • Educational Counseling, MAEd, and embedded School Counseling Credential

    Prepares school counselors to communicate with and guide students of all cultures, socioeconomic levels, and learning abilities. Requirements for the Pupil Personnel Services Credential are embedded within the program.

  • Educational and Clinical Counseling, MAEd, and embedded School Counseling Credential

    Prepares candidates to serve as professional counselors in both school and clinical settings. Requirements for the Pupil Personnel Services Credential are embedded within the program, along with the educational requirements for California state licensure as an LPCC.

  • English, MA

    Azusa Pacific University’s Master of Arts in English provides professional preparation and personal enrichment to graduate students seeking advanced knowledge in the field of literary studies. A 4+1 BA/MA option is available for current APU undergraduate students to complete the master’s degree in just one additional year.

  • Entry-Level Master’s in Nursing (ELM)

    The Entry-Level Master’s in Nursing (ELM) program is designed for students who hold baccalaureate or higher degrees in other disciplines, but want to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing. The program provides students an intensive sequence of pre-licensure and post-licensure studies that enables them to become registered nurses (RNs) and receive a BSN, and also leads to the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with a clinical specialty.

  • Healthcare Administration, MS

    This graduate program, available online and in-person, is designed for working professionals interested in pursuing careers in healthcare administration or policy, but who have no prior experience in the field.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Financial Management in Healthcare Systems, International Health, and Quality and Innovation in Health Care.

      Online

  • Korean Master of Divinity (MDiv)

    Available in Orange County. The Korean Master of Divinity equips pastors and lay leaders for professional ministry in the Korean community by providing students with basic training in biblical, theological, and ministerial studies through coursework and ongoing supervised ministry in the context of Korean culture.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Biblical Studies.

  • Korean Pastoral Studies, MA

    Available in Orange County. The Korean Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies program equips Korean church leaders to communicate the Gospel message in a culturally relevant and meaningful way to their congregations. Whether a lay person or senior pastor, the student learns how to convey the central themes of the Bible in a clear, transformational way, and in the context of Korean culture.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Church Leadership and Development, Urban Studies, Youth Ministry, and General Electives.

  • Leadership, MA

    Focus on character, creativity, curiosity, and innovation in this leadership master's degree program that prepares leaders to respond to challenges facing teams and organizations in the 21st century.

      Available Online

  • Learning and Technology, MAEd, and Extensive Support Needs Education Specialist Credential

    This program empowers candidates to effectively integrate technology into the special needs classroom. Coursework delves into instructional strategy, behavioral support, intervention, and assessment for students with moderate/severe disabilities, as well as core classes in educational technology and learning.

  • Learning and Technology, MAEd, and Mild to Moderate Support Needs Education Specialist Credential

    Learn how to make a difference in special needs classrooms. Expert faculty instruct and guide from a distinctly Christian perspective, leading to a compassionate, caring, and ethical approach to teaching. Candidates build the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to help all students learn through engaging, technology-driven experiences.

  • Learning and Technology, MAEd, and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential

    Equip yourself with the foundational tools for designing and implementing instructional experiences that integrate technology throughout the curriculum, and gain essential skills and knowledge in a variety of areas, including instructional video, web tools for enhanced interactive learning, digital communications, and emerging trends in the field.

  • Learning and Technology, MAEd, and Single Subject Teaching Credential

    The learning and technology program focuses on foundational tools for teachers to design and implement instructional experiences that integrate technology throughout the curriculum. Graduates gain essential skills and knowledge in a variety of areas, including instructional video, web tools for enhanced interactive learning, digital communications, and emerging trends in the field.

  • MDiv

    English and Hispanic programs in Azusa; Korean program in Orange County. The Master of Divinity program prepares men and women for professional ministry in the church by providing solid training in biblical, theological, and ministerial studies.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Biblical Studies.

  • MFA in Visual Art

    APU’s 37-month, low-residency MFA program accommodates the working artist/educator and centers primarily on studio activity and the integration of faith and art. Students engage in highly collaborative relationships with MFA program mentor-professors, enabling artists to hone their talent through critique and individual instruction.

      Online: Low Residency at Azusa (main campus)

  • MSN in Healthcare Administration and Leadership

    APU's Master of Science in Nursing in Healthcare Administration and Leadership program is designed for registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree in nursing who are interested in pursing healthcare administration careers in myriad healthcare settings.

      Available Online

  • MSN in Nursing Education

    The master's in nursing education program provides comprehensive preparation to become a nurse educator. Using technology and teaching-learning methods taught by experienced nursing faculty, students develop the competencies and skills required to train the next generation of nursing professionals, leaders, and researchers.

      Available Online

  • MSN with CNS Specialties

    The Master of Science in Nursing with Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) or Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist allows students to concentrate on one of these two clinical areas of content and practice.

  • MSN with FNP and SNSC Credential

    This combined program allows students to earn a master’s degree along with the School Nurse Services Credential, including a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), preparing them for certification by the state of California and for national certification.

  • MSN with NP Specialties

    The Master of Science in Nursing with Nurse Practitioner (NP) Specialties offers the Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialties. These three clinical areas of content and advanced practice prepare nurses to work with patients across the adult years, throughout the human lifespan, or in the psychiatric and mental health settings.

  • MSN with PNP and SNSC

    This combined program allows students to earn a master’s degree, including a specialization in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner–Primary Care (PNP-PC), along with the School Nurse Services Credential, preparing them for certification by the state of California and for national certification.

  • MSN with SNSC

    The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with School Nurse Services Credential (SNSC) prepares nurses to be effective practitioners of school health. Throughout the program, students develop theoretical and practical expertise in nursing and education applied to basic health services in the public schools (K-12).

  • Maestría en Divinidades (MDiv)

    La Maestría en Divinidades (MDiv) ofrece al individuo la oportunidad de estudiar profundamente los diferentes aspectos y énfasis del campo teológico y su relación directa con el ámbito ministerial. Este programa promueve la excelencia académica y ministerial, y proporciona la base para aquellos estudiantes que desean obtener un Doctorado en Ministerio (DMin). Este programa consta de 90 unidades de estudio.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Biblical Studies.

  • Maestría en Estudios Pastorales (MAPS)

    La Maestría de Artes en Estudios Pastorales (MAPS) está diseñada para equipar a líderes y pastores, de manera práctica, para desempeñar las funciones del ministerio dentro y fuera de la iglesia. Este programa consta de 60 unidades de estudio.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Church Leadership and Development, Urban Studies, Youth Ministry, and General Electives.

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)

    The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program teaches working professionals the key concepts and skills, both analytical and relational, to be successful managers and leaders in business and society.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Accounting, Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Government Financial Management, Healthcare Management, International Business, Marketing, Public Administration, Organizational Science, and Sport Management.

      Available Online

  • Master of Business Management (MBM)

    Through the MBM program, students gain relevant business and leadership strategies without a financial emphasis. Hands-on learning enables students to implement management principles in the modern workplace, while learning to positively steer organizational change and create a culture of teamwork.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Entrepreneurship, Government Financial Management, Healthcare Management, Human Resource Management, International Business, Marketing, Organizational Development and Change, Organizational Science, Public Administration, and Sport Management.

      Available Online

  • Master of Professional Accountancy (MAcc)

    The Master of Professional Accountancy degree is designed to equip ethical leaders in the financial fields. The master’s degree in accounting emphasizes preparation for the CPA exam and real-world experience through internships and job placement for graduates. This full-time, intensive program for recent graduates allows students to complete an advanced degree in just one year.

  • Master of Public Administration (MPA)

    The Master of Public Administration degree equips those with a call to public service for leadership and management positions in the public sector, health services, social services, nonprofits, education, and more.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Administrative Science, Data Analytics, Government Budgeting, Health Policy and Public Administration, and Marketing.

      Available Online

  • Master of Public Health (MPH)

    The MPH degree prepares students to be leaders in public health and increase wellness in various populations.

      Available Online

  • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

    Nationally accredited, the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) prepares students in advanced theory and practice in a specialized clinical area of nursing. Upon completion, students will meet all the requirements to be certified and will be nationally board-eligible. Note: Students pursuing an MSN must also complete coursework for a specialized clinical area of nursing.

  • Master of Social Work (MSW)

    Azusa Pacific’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program equips social work professionals for careers dedicated to improving the lives of others in a variety of settings, including advanced-level practitioners, clinicians, supervisors, and managers, as well as leadership roles in community and program development. A combination of rigorous coursework and internship opportunities provide the tools you’ll need to help others thrive. Full-time, part-time, and Advanced Standing options are available.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Clinical Practice with Individuals and Families and Community Leadership and Program Administration.

  • Modern and Contemporary Art History, MA

    APU’s Online MA in Modern and Contemporary Art History is an innovative 24-month program that offers a specialized program in modernism while blending courses in contemporary theory and the practice of art criticism. The program cultivates expertise through a framework of aesthetic understanding and scholarly analysis.

      Online

  • Music Education (MMEd)

    The Master of Music Education prepares current and prospective teaching professionals as school music specialists qualified to lead K-12 music programs in both private and public sectors.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Choral and Instrumental.

  • Music Industry, MA

    The Master of Arts in Music Industry equips talented independent musicians and managers with the business acumen they need to thrive in the competitive, ever-changing music industry.

      Online: Low Residency at Orange County

  • Organizational Psychology, MS

    The MS in Organizational Psychology prepares students to diagnose and improve organizational health and to build and develop successful teams. This Christ-centered program prepares graduates to champion and endorse people, care, and wellness within organizations.

      Available Online

  • Pastoral Studies, MA

    English and Hispanic programs in Azusa; Korean program in Orange County. The Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies program is designed for those seeking preparation in a specialized field of ministry. Concentrations include church leadership and development, urban studies, and youth ministry.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Church Leadership and Development, Urban Studies, Youth Ministry, and General Electives.

  • Performance, MM

    The Master of Music in Performance allows specialization in instrumental performance, keyboard collaborative arts, piano and organ performance, and vocal performance.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Instrumental, Keyboard Collaborative Arts, Piano and Organ, and Vocal.

  • Physical Education, MA, and Adapted Physical Education Added Authorization

    Designed for candidates who possess a teaching credential in physical education and who seek to teach both adapted physical education and general physical education at the K–12 and community college levels.

      Available Online

  • Physical Education, MA, and Single Subject Teaching Credential

    Build the skills needed to teach physical education and coach at the K-12, junior college, and four-year university levels. Coursework covers advanced topics in physical education, ranging from sociological and ethical issues to leadership and administration. Note: Only the master’s portion of this program is available online.

  • Physical Education, MS

    Prepares candidates to advance their careers, increase their marketability, and gain opportunities in a variety of positions connected to physical education, athletics, and exercise science.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Sport Management (also online).

      Online

  • Research Psychology and Data Analysis, MS

    The Master of Science in Research Psychology and Data Analysis program prepares students with the advanced skills and experiences to be competitive for doctoral programs and pursue careers in psychological research. Work one-on-one with faculty research advisors in a number of psychology-related areas, including substance abuse, social, clinical, cognitive, and more.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Counseling Psychology, Data Analytics, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and Public Health.

  • School Psychology, EdS, with embedded Educational Psychology, MAEd, and School Psychology Credential

    Prepares school psychologists to evaluate and treat students of all cultures, socioeconomic levels, and learning abilities. In addition to the EdS degree, requirements for the master’s degree and the Pupil Personnel Services Credential are embedded within the program. Additional degree pathways are available to add an ABA or EHRMS specialization.

    This program offers the following areas of study: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Clinical and Educationally Related Mental Health Counseling.

  • Screenwriting, MA

    The master’s in screenwriting program prepares writers with literary talent and strong motivation to tell substantive stories that point audiences toward truth and beauty, while exploring the dialogue between faith and cinematic arts.

      Online: Low Residency at Azusa (main campus)

  • Special Education, MAEd, and Extensive Support Needs Education Specialist Credential

    Develop advanced skills to serve students with special needs. The program provides an essential foundation of special education theory, methods, and practical teaching experience. Candidates explore relevant issues, including behavior support, inclusion strategies, and modified classroom instruction.

  • Special Education, MAEd, and Mild to Moderate Support Needs Education Specialist Credential

    This program prepares educators to effectively teach students with special learning needs, including specific learning or language disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, emotional difficulties, and behavioral disorders. Course content enables candidates to take what they learn and immediately apply it in the teaching environment.

  • Strategic Communication, MA

    Advance your skills and prepare to lead purposeful, meaningful, and effective communication in for-profit and nonprofit settings with Azusa Pacific’s online strategic communication master’s degree program.

      Online

  • Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, MA (on campus and online)

    APU’s Master of Arts in TESOL provides comprehensive preparation in English language teaching for those seeking careers in U.S.-based institutions or schools around the world. Students develop a theoretical foundation along with practical preparation for diverse teaching scenarios and environments. The program is offered on-campus in Azusa and online.

      Available Online

  • Teaching, MAEd, and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential

    Blending practitioner-based courses with graduate work in research and best practices, this program prepares teachers for positions at the elementary and middle school levels (K-8). Methods coursework and practical classroom training create a lasting learning experience for educators.

  • Teaching, MAEd, and Single Subject Teaching Credential

    This program equips teachers for the middle and high school levels (7-12), and as K-12 specialists in art, music, and physical education. Candidates complete advanced coursework in research and best practices, and apply new teaching-methods knowledge directly in the classroom to enhance student learning.

  • User Experience Design, MA

    The Master of Arts in User Experience Design is a 30-unit low-residency and online degree that prepares graduates for the fast-growing field of interactive design. Azusa Pacific’s user experience design, or UXD, program integrates a signature approach to human-centered design from an artistic perspective.

      Online: Low Residency at Orange County