Master of Arts in Biblical Studies

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The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Biblical Studies focuses on the exegesis, or interpretation, of specific sections and books of the Bible. The emphasis of the degree is on understanding the Bible. This graduate degree prepares individuals in Christian ministry with knowledge and skills that strengthen their biblical understanding. This graduate degree may also appeal to students desiring personal enrichment and a deeper understanding of God’s Word.

Objectives of the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies program

The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies degree equips the student to interpret effectively and handle faithfully the entire Bible. In addition, this degree prepares the student to communicate biblical truth to others in the church, the workplace, and one’s sphere of influence. As a result of their studies at Colorado Christian University, the M.A. in Biblical Studies graduate student will become proficient in grasping both a macro approach to Scripture through comprehension of its narrative arc and a micro approach through studying the nuances and appropriate interpretive approaches for each genre of biblical literature. Thus, graduates will be proficient in crafting word studies, topical studies, exegetical studies, and other sermon types.

Upon completion of the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, the student will be able to:

Interpret the uniqueness of God’s self-revelation in Scripture.
Exegete specific texts of the Bible in relation to their respective literary genres.
Evaluate how the reliability of the Bible supports valid biblical interpretation and personal faith.
Demonstrate how the narrative of Scripture, both Old and New Testaments, engages their specific culture.
Utilize the practical use of the biblical languages for accurate exegesis of Scripture.

Admission to the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies Degree Program

Admission Requirements:

Submit a completed application form (including essay, transcripts, and fees).
Valid state-issued driver’s license or state-issued ID card or passport.
Submit an official transcript that reflects a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a regionally accredited higher education institution.
Possess a minimum undergraduate grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with an undergraduate grade point average between 2.0 and 2.49 will be admitted on a conditional admit (CAD) basis for the first semester. CAD students must maintain a 3.0 GPA or better in their first nine (9) credits to remain in the program.

Transfer of Courses

Students may transfer up to 9 semester hours of graduate credit from a regionally accredited college or university. The coursework must be comparable to that offered at CCU and fulfill the M.A. in Biblical Studies requirements.

Time Limitation

The M.A. in Biblical Studies is a 39 credit-hour degree designed to be completed within 17 months of intensive study by persons who work or are otherwise occupied by the equivalent of a full time job.

All work applied toward a master’s degree must be completed within a four-year period from the date of enrollment. After the four-year period, an M.A. in Biblical Studies student who has not completed the requirements to graduate will be withdrawn from the program. Students who go beyond the four-year period and wish to complete their M.A. in Biblical Studies degree will be required to apply for reconsideration by completing a Petition for Exception to Academic Policy. Readmitted students will be required to adhere to the degree plans and academic policies in place at the time they are readmitted.

Required courses for Master of Arts: Biblical Studies Degree

39 credit hours consisting of the following classes:

Graduation Requirements for the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies

The faculty recommends students in the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies to the Board of Trustees as candidates for graduation when they have completed the following requirements:

Completion of 39 credit hours required for the degree within four years of program admission and enrollment.
A letter grade of C or higher with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher on the University’s 4.0 grade scale in all CCU course work.
Successful completion of the final capstone course (BIB 699 ) requiring research competence with a B- or higher.
Formal and timely application for graduation by the date specified by the University Registrar.
No outstanding financial obligations to the University.