1600 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Little Rock, AR 72202

Arkansas Baptist College  ·  Est. 1884

Where PurposeIs Your Major

James & Rosa McKissic School of Christian Studies

"Called. Equipped. Sent."

HLC Approved Program Open Admission Policy 5 Concentrations HBCU · 140+ Year Legacy
Arkansas Baptist College — School of Christian Studies seal

Phillip L. Pointer, Sr., D.Min.

Dean Phillip L. Pointer, Sr.
Phillip L. Pointer, Sr., D.Min. Dean, School of Christian Studies · Arkansas Baptist College

"The mission of the James & Rosa McKissic School of Christian Studies is more than to offer a program — it is a sacred trust."

The James & Rosa McKissic School of Christian Studies at Arkansas Baptist College is a faith-grounded, HBCU-rooted academic initiative committed to equipping the next generation of church leaders, educators, counselors, and ministry administrators for the glory of God and the good of the world.

Whether you are called to preach, teach, counsel, administer, lead worship, or serve your community, there is a path here for you. Every course, every conversation, and every practicum hour is designed to form not just your mind — but your character and your calling.

"We are not just awarding degrees. We are releasing ministers, counselors, educators, and leaders into the world — equipped by faith, formed by scholarship, and sent with purpose."
Meet Our Faculty

140+

Years of HBCU Legacy

5

Degree Concentrations

122+

Credit Hours · B.A. Degree

7

HLC Learning Outcomes

Faith in Action

Where academic formation and spiritual calling meet every day.

McKissic School of Christian Studies Seal

Arkansas Baptist College
McKissic School of Christian Studies

A faith-grounded, HBCU-rooted academic initiative committed to equipping the next generation of church leaders, educators, and ministry administrators for the glory of God and the good of the world.

Choose Your Concentration

You don't just enroll in a program — you enroll in a calling. Five distinct concentrations, one foundation of faith and scholarship.

Why This Degree Works

Faith-Integrated

Every course, every practicum, every capstone is rooted in biblical truth and theological formation — not just career preparation.

HBCU Legacy

140+ years of educating leaders at one of America's historic Black colleges — a tradition of excellence, justice, and community.

Ministry-Ready Outcomes

Graduates leave equipped with theological depth, practical competency, and a professional portfolio reviewed by external ministry practitioners.

Meet Our Distinguished Faculty

Scholars, pastors, and practitioners who teach from the intersection of academy and calling.

Dr. Nathanael A. Palmer I

Nathanael A. Palmer I, D.Min.

Associate Dean, School of Christian Studies

A Detroit native and ABC alumnus, Dr. Palmer earned three degrees summa cum laude and serves as Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church Highland Park, Little Rock, AR (since July 2024). Author of Giving God the Best That I Have.

D.Min. Beeson Divinity School, Samford University

M.Div. Memphis Theological Seminary

Dr. Maurice Watson

Maurice Watson, Ph.D.

Distinguished Visiting Professor

A nationally respected preacher, author, and scholar, Dr. Watson brings decades of pastoral excellence and academic distinction to the McKissic School — expanding its reach and deepening its homiletical tradition.

Ph.D. Theology & Ministry

Expertise: Homiletics, Pastoral Leadership

Your Next Step Starts Here

Whether you are ready to apply, exploring concentrations, or looking to partner — we have a path for you.

Apply for Admission

Open admission policy. Begin your application for Fall 2026 today — financial aid and payment plans available.

Explore Concentrations

Five distinct tracks from Christian Education to Human Services & Counseling. Find the one that matches your calling.

Ministry Partnership

Churches, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations can partner with us for internships, practicum placements, and continuing education.

Talk to an Advisor

Have questions about transfer credits, degree requirements, or financial aid? Our advisors are ready to guide you step by step.

Contact the School of Christian Studies

Campus Address

1600 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive

Little Rock, Arkansas 72202

Ministry Starts Here.

Ready to find your path? Talk to an advisor about which concentration aligns with your calling.