MA-BS
M.A. Biblical Studies
Department of Biblical Studies · 2 years · 16 courses · 100% online
About this programme
Some pastors and teachers find that their questions keep returning to the same place: what the text actually says, and how anyone can be sure of it. Years of teaching from translations and other people's commentaries raise the wish to do the work first-hand. This degree is for those who want to sit with Scripture in its own languages and settings rather than receive conclusions reached by others.
The work is exegetical throughout. Hebrew and Greek are learned for use and then applied across the Old and New Testaments, so that a reading can be defended from the text rather than from a commentary. Around that sits the study of how the canon came together and of the world the writings came out of, which is what keeps exegesis honest, and the whole is drawn together in advanced hermeneutics, biblical theology and a supervised thesis.
You will graduate able to say why a reading stands or falls, and to teach Scripture at a level where that matters. Imagine opening a passage in its own language and needing nobody's permission to trust what you find there. If that is the work you want, apply.
16 courses across 4 semesters, about 2 years of study.
Who it is for
Those already trained in theology who want to go deeper, and to be equipped to teach and lead others. It assumes you have studied the subject before.
What you will be able to do
Teach the subject, supervise others, write to a scholarly standard, and lead at a senior level in the church or in theological education.
How you will study
Every course here runs the same way, so you always know where you are.
- Six study modules a course, each with a handout you can read on screen or download.
- Video and audio of the same teaching, for studying while you travel or work.
- A short refresher quiz to open each course. It is not scored, and you may retake it.
- Two tests along the way, then a final examination. The pass mark is 50%.
- Results appear as soon as you submit.
Study is entirely online and at your own pace. Everything works on a phone, and handouts can be downloaded to read without data.
Entry requirements
A theological background is required. If you do not have one, begin with the Postgraduate Diploma, which is designed as the route in.
Fees
Your fees are set out in the admission letter issued to you.
What you will study
16 courses across 4 semesters, drawn from these areas.
- Department of Biblical Studies
- Department of Pastoral Ministry
The full course schedule is issued when you are admitted.