Master of Arts in Bible and Theology
Introduction
The Master of Arts in Bible and Theology is a 36-hour degree that is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada. The degree focuses on lay leaders or non-ordained staff members in local church congregations or para-church organizations who desire a greater knowledge of biblical content as well as the necessary skills to interpret the Bible in a theologically appropriate manner. Through the curriculum students will gain skills in reading and interpreting the Bible, understanding the theological backgrounds that undergird the various doctrines within the modern church, and learn to apply these skills within situations encountered in local congregational settings as well as the secular workplace.
Student Learning Outcomes
The student learning outcomes (SLOs) for the Master of Bible and Theology degree are as follows:
- Students will demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the genres within and the contents of the Bible, as well as the history of its development and canonization.
- Students will be able to articulate historical theological positions that undergird the diverse doctrines within the Christian church.
- Students will analyze and evaluate the development of Christian ethics and apply them to ecclesial and secular contexts.
- Students will develop the ability to integrate their knowledge of the Bible, theology, and ethics and apply it to their personal involvement in the mission of God in the world.
Admission Policies
The policies for admission to the Master of Arts in Bible and Theology degree program are the same as those for the Master of Divinity degree. Those policies can be accessed at Master of Divinity Admissions.
Required Courses (30 hours)
The following courses are required to complete the Master of Arts in Bible and Theology degree:
| DSSF 100 | Introduction to Theological Education for Ministry | 3 |
| DSOT 100 | Introduction to the Old Testament I | 3 |
| DSOT 101 | Introduction to the Old Testament II | 3 |
| DSNT 100 | Introduction to the New Testament I | 3 |
| DSNT 101 | Introduction to the New Testament II | 3 |
| DSTH 200 | Introduction to Christian History and Theology I | 3 |
| DSTH 201 | Introduction to Christian History and Theology II | 3 |
| DSET 100 | Christian Ethics | 3 |
| DSNT 414 | Biblical Hermeneutics | 3 |
| DSSF 300 | Theological Integration Capstone Seminar | 3 |
Elective Courses (6 hours)
In addition to the required courses listed above, students are required to take two biblical and/or theological electives (three hours each for a total of six hours). Students may take any class with the prefix DSGK, DSHB, DSNT, DSOT, DSTH, or DSHS (excluding those classes already taken as requirements).