
The Master of Biblical and Theological Studies degree program is designed to prepare students for effective ministry in the workforce, home, or local church.
The MBTS degree is based on the principle that any follower of Christ will benefit from advanced training in biblical and theological studies, becoming a more effective minister of the gospel wherever they serve.
The Curriculum
The MBTS gives you an overview of the entire Biblical story, introduces key theological concepts, and lets you choose from dozens of electives based on your interests and calling.
Biblical Exposition
BE5101 Bible Study Methods and Hermeneutics
BE5201 The Story of Scripture: Genesis to Revelation or BE5505 The Kingdom & Covenants
Other BE51xx Course
Theological Studies
ST5101 Theological Method and Bibliology
HT5101 The Church to the Modern Era or HT5200 History of Doctrine
Other Theology Course – 3 credits
Ministry and Research
PM5101 Christian Life and Witness
Approved Communication Course
Electives
Electives – 12 credits
Immersive Learning
See the many ways students are prepared for a lifetime of fruitful ministry.
Financial Aid
Through our donors and Foundation, we are able to offer hundreds of scholarships to students every year.
Logos Bible Software
Every student at DTS receives a copy of Logos Bible Software customized with additional commentaries and resources, and DTS courses integrate Logos into assignments and learning.
Stories from our community
God has given our graduates incredible gifts that they express in their places of work, in their homes, and the churches where they worship.
DTS Alum Alastair Howie’s Life Changing Decision
Nate Bearfield’s Journey From The Kitchen to the Classroom
Children’s Clothing Company Making a Difference
Program Details
Program Goals
Students in the MBTS program will be able to:
- Demonstrate a general knowledge of the Bible, including a synthetic understanding of the major books;
- Evidence a general knowledge of theology;
- Evidence an ability to biblically and theologically support their views on a specific contemporary issue;
- Evidence an increasing likeness to Christ as manifested in love for God, love for others, and the fruit of the Spirit; and
- Evidence an interest and involvement in the local church or other ministries with which they are associated.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for the MBTS are the same as for all programs of study at the Seminary. However, since the MBTS is primarily designed for individuals who desire to enhance their biblical and theological foundation for lay ministry in professional contexts, admission to the program will normally be limited to those who meet this purpose.
Transfer of Credit
Transfer of up to 12 hours of credit is allowed toward the MBTS program from accredited graduate theological schools. Students must have earned a grade of C or better (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) 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.
Residential Requirements
While the MBTS can be completed entirely online, all of the courses are also offered as classroom courses on the main Dallas campus and at all of the seminary’s extension campuses. This is to enhance the learning objectives of certain subjects that may be better achieved through a live interactive setting as well as for those who prefer a traditional face-to-face format.
Regardless of mode of delivery (online, or in face-to-face courses in Dallas or at an approved regional location), at least fifty percent of the course work required for the degree must be earned through DTS.
Course Requirements
Thirty-six credit hours of coursework are required as a minimum for graduation. Of those hours, 9 are prescribed in Bible Exposition courses, 9 are prescribed in Theological Studies courses, and 6 are prescribed in Ministries and Communication courses. The remaining 12 hours comprise open electives in courses of interest to the student. No thesis is required.
The program normally requires a minimum of two years of study. Some exceptions to the two-year limit apply for those who have previous advanced theological study or prior extensive undergraduate studies in religion and/or other appropriate foundational areas, thus allowing some students to finish the program in as little as one year. Contact the Admissions Office or Advising Center for more information. Students may pursue this degree on a year-round basis or during summers. By taking only one course per term (fall, spring, summer), students can still complete the program in four years. All work leading to the MBTS must, however, be completed within six years from the time of matriculation. Extension of this limit requires approval of the Credits Committee. Reinstatement to the program after withdrawal requires Admissions Committee action and may subject the student to additional requirements for the degree.