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.

Maricka Herrer

Graduate, MA in Biblical Studies

Master of Arts 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.

Why pursue an MA in Biblical Studies 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.
  • Accreditation. Degrees are both regionally (HLC) and nationally (ABHE) accredited.
  • 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.

Admissions

Applicants must…

  • hold an earned BA or equivalent (for example, a BS or BRE).
  • have completed 30 undergrad credits of Bible and Theology.
  • have an undergrad GPA of 3.0 or greater. However, applicants with a lower GPA will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

A GRE test is not required.

If needed, undergrad Bible and Theology courses are available online. For a list of suggested undergrad Bible and Theology courses, see the Graduate Catalog.

Degree Structure (Suggested Sequence)

Biblical Studies 18 hours
 
Theology Electives 6 hours
 
Exegesis Electives 6 hours
 
Practical Theology Electives 6 hours

We offer electives in the following areas:

 
Total 36 hours

Program Format

Two semesters per year, Fall and Spring.

Students may take classes…

  • 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

  • FAFSA offers unsubsidized loans.
  • GBSC offers some scholarships. Visit the Financial Aid page for more information.

Accreditation

HLC and ABHE

Next Steps

Graduate Program Calendar

    Fall 2024 Dates

    • November 1st: Registration for Spring Opens
    • November 24-30th: Thanksgiving Break
    • December 1st: Spring Application & Registration Deadline

    Spring 2025 Dates

    • January 6th: Spring Graduate Classes Convene
    • January 11th: Add/Drop Deadline
    • February 16th-22nd: Late Winter Break
    • March 1st: Withdrawal Deadline
    • April 1st: Program Application and Scholarship Deadline (Summer 2025)
    • April 6th-12th: Spring Break
    • May 3rd: Spring Semester Ends
    • May 10: Commencement

    For more important dates the the GBSC Calendar.

    Accreditation

    We are accredited by both the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Association of Biblical Higher Education (ABHE). See why having both matters.

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