Biblical Studies
Master of Arts
Description
The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (MABS) program is a research-intensive graduate program designed for those who desire to enhance their preaching or teaching of the Bible. Graduates will be prepared to teach Bible and Theology at a college or Christian University or serve as leaders in a ministry. Those who earn an MABS will be able to pursue a language-based research PhD.
Comprehensive Examination
Students in the MABS program must take a written comprehensive examination as their “capstone” experience during the last two semesters before graduation. The exams are designed to incorporate subject areas from a core of courses, as well as from the student’s concentration. Adequate time will be allotted for a careful and thorough review of foundational theology and appropriate coursework to determine the knowledge and position of the student. A summary of the student’s responses and a complete evaluation of his/her performance will become part of the student’s permanent record. In the event that a student does not respond in an adequate manner, a corrective direction will be recommended, and the student will be allowed one retest after a period of at least one month. The comprehensive examination must be taken at a scheduled time. A request to complete the exam should be submitted to the Dean of the appropriate school. This form must be submitted by October 15 for fall completion or by December 15 for spring graduation. Details on the exam may also be obtained from the director of the Piedmont Divinity School.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Articulate an in-depth understanding of selected books of the Bible
- Demonstrate a competence in the exegesis of the Hebrew and Greek biblical texts
- Learn to interpret the Bible consistently with a literal, grammatical, contextual, and historical hermeneutic
- Explain the tenets of Bible Doctrine and evaluate theological trends of major significance
- Formulate an analysis and evaluation of graduate-level research on a biblical or theological subject by composing a paper using clear English and standard procedures
- Demonstrate a general knowledge of of the content and critical issues in the Old and New Testaments from a conservative perspective
Admissions Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized college or university
- GPA of 2.5 or higher
- Autobiographical essay giving testimony of salvation
- Official transcripts from all previously attended schools
- Completed application with Piedmont International University
Degree Requirements
- The maximum time limit to complete the program is six years or 150% of the credits, whichever the student reaches first.
- A minimum of 50% of the required credit hours must be completed at PIU.
- Up to 50% of the required credit hours can be transferred.
- Graduation is contingent upon the completion of 48 hours of prescribed courses with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00.