M.A. in Biblical Studies (M.A.[BS])

Download the M.A. in Biblical Studies degree plan. (64KB PDF).

Purpose

The program leading to the Master of Arts degree with a major in Biblical Studies is designed to provide a graduate-level biblical and theological foundation for various kinds of Christian service. This degree is designed primarily for lay leaders who desire training for better ministry within their church or organization. The M.A.(BS) may also provide supplemental training for those engaged in parachurch ministries or those in support positions with mission agencies or churches. Those who are seeking full preparation for vocational ministry should apply for admission to one of the professional degree programs.

Goals 

Educational Goals

To enable students to:

• demonstrate a general knowledge of the Bible, including a synthetic understanding of the major books
• evidence an understanding of the historical development of theology, a knowledge of premillennial theology, and an ability to support their theological views and apply them to contemporary issues.

Spiritual Goal

To enable students to evidence an increasing likeness to Christ as manifested in love for God, love for others, and the fruit of the Spirit.

Ministry Goals

To enable students to:

• demonstrate an increasing involvement in the local church or other ministries with which they are associated
• minister within a local church or other group by means of leadership skills, evangelism, and service.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements and application procedures for the M.A.(BS) are the same as for all programs of study at the Seminary. Students will generally not be admitted into this degree program without goals consistent with the ministries for which the program is designed to equip them.

Course Requirements

Sixty-two semester hours of course work are required as a minimum for graduation. Students may pursue this degree on a year-round basis or during summers. By taking about 12 hours of course work each summer, students can complete the program in five summers (or four summers if several elective hours in independent study courses are taken between summers of study).

Twenty-four of the 62 hours are in prescribed Biblical Studies courses, 18 are in prescribed Systematic Theology courses, 2 are in Historical Theology, and 4 are in Spiritual Life and Evangelism. Of the remaining 14 elective hours at least two hours must be taken in Christian Education and at least two hours in World Missions and Intercultural Studies.

No thesis is required for the M.A.(BS) degree.

Transfer Credits

Transfer of some credit is allowed toward the professional M.A. programs from accredited graduate theological schools. Up to 30 hours of credit may be transferred toward the M.A. in Biblical Studies. 
 
Students must have earned a grade of C or better for a course to be considered in transfer. Transferability of credits earned at this institution and transferred to another is at the discretion of the receiving institution. Consult the Registrar’s Office for information on eligibility for transfer credit.