2023-2024 University Catalog

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Master of Arts in Biblical Studies

PROGRAM CHAIR, DR. REBEKAH L. JOSBERGER

The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (Old Testament) or (New Testament) is a two-year program offering a specialization in biblical studies and exegesis with a concentration in Old Testament (OT) or New Testament (NT). The program emphasizes competency in the original languages (Greek or Hebrew) and research methods related to biblical interpretation. The student will successfully produce and defend scholarly biblical research projects.

The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (Hebrew Bible) is a three-year program designed for those desiring 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.  The student will successfully produce and defend a scholarly thesis.

Vocational Options

The MABS degree enhances student preparation for a variety of vocational directions:

  • Church ministry;
  • Christian primary and secondary education;
  • Christian writing ministries;
  • campus ministry and parachurch organizations;
  • intercultural and global missions; and
  • preparation for further graduate study.

Program Outcomes

At the completion of the MABS program, students will be able to:

  • Understand the biblical text in its original context for its ongoing theological and cultural relevance
  • Translate and exegete Greek and/or Hebrew biblical texts
  • Explain and apply the major themes and theological concepts of the biblical text
  • Communicate biblical truths in a way that engages both the Church and the academy
  • Engage others in a culturally aware and relevant manner
  • Identify healthy spiritual well-being and promote growth in self and others

Admission

  1. Must possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 32 semester hours of general studies, including such courses as English composition, speech, history, psychology, and sociology, from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or holding membership in the Association of Universities and Colleges in Canada or the equivalent.
  2. Must hold a minimum 2.5 undergraduate grade point average (4.0 scale) for admission into the MABS (OT/NT) and 3.0 for admission into the MABS (HB).
  3. Must believe and affirm the essential doctrines of the Christian faith.
  4. See the Admission & Financial Information section of the catalog for information about other admission requirements.
  • See additional requirements for admission into the MABS (Hebrew Bible) here.

Graduation Requirements

  1. Complete all general graduation requirements as listed earlier in this section.
  2. Complete required program credits with at least 24 credits of the MABS (OT/NT) or at least 34 credits of the MABS (HB) earned at Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
  3. Earn a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (4.0 scale).
  4. Affirms the essential doctrines of the Christian faith.
  5. Normally, complete the MABS (OT/NT) program within four years from the date of matriculation and the MABS (HB) program within six years from the date of matriculation.
Click here for program details for MABS (Old Testament), MABS (New Testament), and MABS (Hebrew Bible).