Masters degree
Biblical Studies
Summary
Discover our MA in Biblical Studies and how it will uniquely equip you for further ministry.
MA in Biblical Studies Overview
For those who want to pursue further biblical studies to prepare for a teaching ministry, this degree provides a solid platform to an MDiv or PhD.
For pastors, this degree provides advanced exegesis skill development and deeper theological understanding to equip laity for more effective service.
The degree has a core of 30 hours with 6 hours of practical theology electives. It requires language proficiency in biblical Greek and Hebrew.
Although the nature of our study was academic, it was never allowed to be merely theoretical.
Professors consistently showed the practical implications of what was being taught for life and ministry.
I found it personally transformative.
Overview
Program Format
Two semesters per year, Fall and Spring. Students may take classes either:
- Full-time: 3 courses (9 credit hours) per semester. Graduate after 4 semesters.
- Part-time: 1-2 courses (3-6 credit hours) per semester. Graduate after 6-12 semesters.
Students went on to be a
- Bible teacher
- missionary
- PhD student
- MDiv student
- pastoral counselor
Cost
Visit the Masters Tuition page for up-to-date cost information.
Homework Load
Students report spending 7-12 hours weekly on homework for one graduate course.
Financial Aid Options
If you want to save money and have less debt after you graduate. Learn more about your financial aid options.
Degree Structure
You can shape the MA in Ministry to meet your needs. However here is our suggested sequence for this degree.
Biblical Studies
The biblical core of the MA in Biblical Studies is 18 credits.
- Biblical Hermeneutics – 3 hours
- Biblical Theology of Holiness – 3 hours
- Old Testament Introduction – 3 hours
- Old Testament Theology – 3 hours
- New Testament Introduction – 3 hours
- New Testament Theology – 3 hours
Theological Electives
The theology electives of the MA in Biblical Studies is 6 credits.
- Wesleyan or Historical Theology Elective – 3 hours (Example: History of American Methodism 1784-1900)
- Systematic Theology Elective – 3 hours (Example: Ecclesiology)
Exegesis Electives
Greek
Hebrew
- Example: Hebrew Exegesis I
The exegesis electives of the MA in Biblical Studies is 6 credits.
Practical Theology Electives
We offer electives in the following areas:
Christian Counseling
Church Planting & Discipleship
- Example: Church Multiplication Practicum
Evangelism & Apologetics
- Example: Apologetics and Cultural Engagement
Expository Preaching & Teaching
The practical theology electives of the MA in Biblical Studies is 6 credits.
Why pursue an MA in Ministry at GBSC?
Flexibility
Grad courses are completely online, from homework to live class sessions. No need to relocate or upset your schedule. Our degrees are designed with active pastors, missionaries, and lay ministers in mind.
Original Languages
Greek and Hebrew exegesis courses are a core component of the degree. Students meet weekly with a professor to discuss their work as they translate and analyze a portion of Scripture from the original Greek or Hebrew.
Theology
We are committed to the authority of God’s inerrant Word. We are Wesleyan-Arminian and passionate about the message of Spirit-filled, holy living.