The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (MABS) offers a specialization in biblical studies and exegesis with an emphasis in Old Testament (OT) or New Testament (NT). This program emphasizes competency in original languages (Greek or Hebrew) and research methods related to biblical interpretation. Students will successfully produce and defend scholarly biblical research projects. A more comprehensive MABS specialization in Hebrew Bible (HB) is offered if you desire a stronger background in languages and a deeper understanding of topics related to the Old Testament. This program is designed to prepare students for entrance into Ph.D. programs and/or teaching ministries.

Ways to study

Graduate | On-campus | Online (NT only)

Program emphasis

New Testament | Old Testament | Hebrew Bible

Course plan

2-year OT & NT | 3-year HB

Application deadlines

Explore the Word in Depth

Do you want to deepen your understanding of God’s Word? Our 48-credit-hour program offers a specialization in Bible, biblical interpretation, and biblical theology. You will develop skills for studying the biblical text, working with original languages, thinking critically about the Text and scholarship, and you will learn what it takes to produce scholarly biblical research. Whether you are a writer, teacher, missionary candidate, or member of a church or parachurch organization, we will prepare you to expound on the Bible with wisdom, passion, and humility.

Three Women Talking and Standing with Coffee

Example Courses

The courses listed below are some of our featured core classes that will be a part of your educational journey here at MU. Take a look at each course for a small preview.

An introduction to New Testament Greek (Koine) covering the basics of word formation, grammar, and syntax, systematically preparing the student for reading the Greek NT.

An introduction to Classical Hebrew grammar, stressing vocabulary acquisition, noun and verb morphology, proficiency in oral reading and translation. In this course students translate a graded reader based on the Joseph narrative of Genesis 37-50.

This course provides an overview and practice in the basic steps of doing independent, in-depth study of the Bible. It provides guidelines for approaching different literary categories of Scripture and features an emphasis on students’ hands-on practice of applying these various methods.

Survey of the New Testament books from Romans through Jude addressing the message and themes of each book, basic study methods for each relevant genre, critical issues related to the interpretation of these books, and their contribution to our understanding of the Church.

A study of selected passages in Genesis through Deuteronomy focusing on the character of God revealed through both narrative and Old Testament legal material. Consideration is given to broader Ancient Near Eastern literature, interpretation and implication of biblical law, and the relevance of Torah for modern life.

Degree Requirements

Here you will find everything you need to know about what is required to successfully complete your degree.

Course Layout (Old Testament)
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Course Layout (New Testament)
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Course Layout (Hebrew Bible)
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Meet Your Professors

RebekahJosbergerHeadshot
Rebekah Josberger, Ph.D.
Program Chair, Master of Biblical Studies; Professor, Hebrew and Old Testament
Faculty Headshot Karl Kutz
Karl Kutz
Professor of Biblical Languages and Bible; Chair of Biblical Languages
Faculty Headshot Ray Lubeck
Ray Lubeck
Professor, Bible and Theology

Program Emphasis

This two-year program specializes in biblical studies and exegesis. Students take courses in the areas of Old Testament, New Testament, and Theology. However, this concentration emphasizes competency in Hebrew language and research methods related to biblical interpretation of the Old Testament. You will successfully produce and defend a summative research project.

This two-year program specializes in biblical studies and exegesis. Students take courses in areas of Old Testament, New Testament, and Theology. However, this concentration emphasizes competency in Greek language and research methods related to biblical interpretation of the New Testament. You will successfully produce and defend a summative research project or may obtain permission to prepare and defend a scholarly thesis.

After the first year of Hebrew studies, you may apply for admission into the MABS – Hebrew Bible (HB). This three-year program is designed for those desiring a stronger background in languages (includes both Hebrew and Greek) and a deeper understanding of topics related to the Old Testament. This concentration is designed to prepare students for entrance into Ph.D. programs and/or teaching ministries. You will successfully produce and defend a scholarly thesis.

Career Placement

As a graduate of the Biblical Studies program, you will be well-equipped for careers in churches, nonprofits, and all types of businesses.

Our graduates are enriched by the knowledge, critical thinking, and mentoring that prepares them for a broad spectrum of career interests or pursuing more education.

Here is what some of our MABS graduates are doing:

• Pastor • Pastoral/Church Staff • Social Worker
• Instructor • High School Teacher • Missionary
• Bible Translation • Nonprofit Worker