The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (MABS) program provides graduate-level curriculum that is designed for persons seeking a thorough biblical and theological understanding of the Old and New Testaments. By offering 6 units of electives as part of the curriculum, the MABS program allows students to focus on a particular area of interest. This program includes the preparation of a research thesis that should correspond to the students’ area of interest related to biblical and theological studies. By taking a full-time load of 9 units each trimester, the program can be completed in three years. Course availability, student load, adherence to student advisement, how soon the student completes the capstone thesis requirement, and other factors may extend or shorten the anticipated completion timeline.

PURPOSE

The MABS degree is primarily designed to prepare students for:

1. Church or para-church ministries where a well-developed understanding of the Old and New Testaments is required;
2. An advanced level of biblical and theological understanding to apply toward vocational Christian ministry;
3. Future exegetical or theological studies which require a strong foundation in biblical studies.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

Upon successful completion of the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies Program students will be able to:

1. Interpret the content of the Old and New Testaments utilizing a literal-grammaticalhistorical hermeneutic;
2. Demonstrate a graduate-level proficiency in theological research and writing;
3. Explain the foundational theological doctrines of the Christian faith;
4. Expound Biblical truths in a variety of settings;
5. Integrate biblical knowledge for spiritual growth, discipleship in vocational ministry; and
6. Provide leadership in a variety of ministry contexts inside and outside of the local church.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Each candidate for the MABS degree must meet the general graduation requirements and complete 60 units of graduate-level courses of which no more than 12 units can be transferred from another institution.

1. Complete 60 units of graduate-level courses.
2. Complete a minimum of 48 units at SCS. Students are urged to follow the recommended curriculum to prevent scheduling conflicts later on.
3. Prepare a thesis in the student’s chosen area of concentration that reflects a graduate-level of research and writing.
4. Complete the program curriculum with not less than a 2.5 GPA
5. Submit a petition to graduate to the Registrar by the deadline in the Academic Calendar.
6. Settle all financial obligations to SCS.
7. Be recommended by the faculty based on demonstrated moral integrity.