Master of Arts in Biblical & Theological Studies (MABT)
Overview
The Master of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies provides a graduate program of study for students who want to deepen their knowledge of the Bible and theology and grow in their relationship with God. The degree equips students with the skills needed to interpret and communicate the scriptures and theological truth effectively in various ministry settings (e.g., teaching and preaching in churches, worship leading, or service in other ministry organizations).
Contextual Learning
In addition to specialized course work in the areas of bible and theology, students in this program will have the opportunity to hone their skills in a specific area of study (e.g., biblical languages) or practical ministry (e.g., preaching).
This program is offered as a full-time or part-time program. It can be completed fully synchronously or fully asynchronously through our various course delivery methods: onsite, livestream, video on demand (VOD), online video, and directed study.
The 48 credit-hour program focuses on four aspects of ministry preparation:
- Theological Training – Develop the capacity for theological engagement for effective preaching, teaching, and ministry as well as engagement with current cultural trends
- Biblical Literacy – Deepen biblical knowledge and perspective for effective preaching, teaching, and other ministry
- Area of Focused Study – Combine biblical and theological training with an area of interest or specific skill development
- Spiritual Formation – Integrate spiritual development with biblical and theological knowledge
Program
48 total credits required
Core Courses
6 credit hours
History & Theology
9 credit hours
Theology or Church History Elective
BI / TS
3 credits
Theology or Church History Elective
BI / TS
3 credits
New Testament Studies3
6 credit hours
Intro to the New Testament
NT5201
3 credits
New Testament Elective
BI / TS
3 credits
Old Testament Studies4
6 credit hours
Old Testament Elective
BI / TS
3 credits
Bible or Theology Electives
9 credit hours
Old Testament, New Testament, or Theology Electives
OT / NT / TS
9 credits
Open Electives or Area of Focused Study
12 credit hours
Advanced Reading Course
3 credits
Open Elective
3 credits
1 Students who already have an advanced undergraduate course in hermeneutics should choose a different elective in any area related to this degree.
2 Students who have a similar course from their undergraduate degree should choose a different elective in any area related to this degree.
3 Students who have a similar course from their undergraduate degree should choose a different NT elective.
4Students who have a similar course from their undergraduate degree should choose a different OT elective.
5 Students must complete the Summative Assessment to complete their program and graduate. This requirement will be documented as a Pass/Fail.
