Biblical Studies

Credential: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Degree Level: Bachelor's Degree

Credits: 120 total, with up to 90 transfer credits accepted

School: School of Divinity

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies is for students who want to work directly with the text of Scripture. The degree builds interpretive skill in a deliberate sequence: learn the content of the Bible, learn its historical and cultural setting, learn the method by which a passage is read, then begin the patient work of exegesis with the help of the original languages. Students finish able to open any book of the Bible and study it for themselves with confidence and restraint. Because Scripture was written in particular times and places, the program devotes real attention to backgrounds — the geography of Israel, the empires that ruled it, the Second Temple world into which Jesus came, and the Greco-Roman cities that received Paul's letters. Because Scripture was written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, students begin New Testament Greek in the third year and may add biblical Hebrew. Because Scripture was given to the church, every interpretive exercise ends in application and every student teaches what they have studied. Graduates serve as Bible teachers and ministry leaders, or continue into graduate exegetical work.

Core Courses

  • BIB 201 — Introduction to Biblical Interpretation (3 credits)
  • BIB 210 — Old Testament I: Torah and History (4 credits)
  • BIB 220 — Old Testament II: Prophets and Writings (4 credits)
  • BIB 230 — New Testament I: Gospels and Acts (4 credits)
  • BIB 240 — New Testament II: Letters and Revelation (4 credits)
  • BIB 301 — Elementary Biblical Greek (4 credits)
  • BIB 310 — Biblical Backgrounds and Geography (3 credits)
  • BIB 401 — Exegesis Capstone and Teaching Project (4 credits)

Admission Requirements

  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent preparation
  • Personal testimony of Christian faith
  • Statement of purpose describing your interest in theological study
  • Involvement in a local church or Christian ministry community
  • Official transcripts from prior schools when available

Degree Levels in Biblical Studies