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Master of Arts in
Biblical Studies
On-Campus & Online

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Transfer up to 65% of your program credits

Broaden Your Biblical Ministry Skills with an M.A. in Biblical Studies Degree

Immerse yourself in a comprehensive study of the Bible and Christian theology with a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies degree. Our Association of Theological Schools (ATS)-accredited theology degree equips you for ministry, nonprofit, and professional roles, including pastoral leadership, teaching, missions, and church administration. Learn to effectively communicate Biblical truths, teach and lead congregations, and engage in the spiritual formation of others for God’s glory. Additionally, course credits can build toward a future Master of Divinity through Cornerstone Theological Seminary. Whether you are called to formal church leadership or wish to expand your biblical-theological framework, gain the Biblical depth you need to grow spiritually and professionally.

Deepen Your Biblical Knowledge with a Biblical Exegesis Master’s Degree

Led by Biblically faithful faculty scholars and theologians who are currently active in Christian ministry, our 36-credit hour online master’s degree is designed to equip you for leadership and growth.

Cornerstone University and Cornerstone Theological Seminary unwaveringly embrace Biblical scripture, which is central to our foundational statements and doctrinal confession, honoring God’s vision of the world and ministry.

A decades-long partner and resource to churches and pastors, Cornerstone Theological Seminary is accredited by the respected Association of Theological Schools (ATS), and Cornerstone University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Develop Ministry-Ready Skills with an M.A. in Biblical Studies

You will cultivate Biblically grounded ministry skills to help you lead effectively through our ministry curriculum.

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Theological Expertise – Expand core theological foundations in Old and New Testament Biblical interpretation, Christian theology, and practical applications for today’s ministry needs.

Biblical Interpretation – Interpret and apply the Scriptures using various hermeneutical methods.

Research and Analytical Skills – Conduct advanced research, critically analyze biblical texts, and engage with scholarly theological exchanges.

Systematic Theology – Understand major theological frameworks and the ability to integrate biblical teachings into a coherent system of belief.

Preaching and Teaching – Skilled in preparing and delivering biblically grounded sermons and teachings for diverse audiences aimed at spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Cultural and Historical Contextualization – Ability to analyze and interpret the Bible within its historical, cultural, and social contexts.

Spiritual Formation – Strengthen spiritual growth and apply biblical principles, ensuring moral integrity, accountability, and faith-driven leadership.

Cornerstone Theological Seminary Core Courses

Cornerstone Theological Seminary’s (CTS) core curriculum provides a solid footing to complete any of our four theological master’s degree programs including M.A. in Ministry Leadership (36 credits), M.A. in Biblical Studies (36 credits), M.A. in Biblical Exegesis (45 credits) or the Master of Divinity (75 credits).

The CTS core curriculum includes essential elements of graduate theological education and ministry equipping, such as hermeneutics, Old Testament studies, New Testament studies, and Biblical and systematic theological studies. You will strengthen your understanding of Scripture, expand your teaching capabilities, and cultivate compassionate leadership skills.

Your master’s course credits or master’s degree can build toward an M.Div. if you complete the required courses or a full degree program.

Courses

Cornerstone is ready to help you excel in your chosen field. The courses below reflect the general education courses you will experience to achieve your degree.

Program Courses

MIN-500: Christian Spiritual Formation

Examine biblical Christianity and its connection to faith and practice, with a focus on spiritual growth within contemporary, cultural, and community contexts.

BBL-501: Biblical Hermeneutics

Learn to determine the original meaning and contemporary significance of biblical texts.

CTS-502: Program Introduction

Develop essential skills for rigorous graduate theological study as you engage in research, academic reading, writing, and citation practices.

BBL-514: Old Testament Foundations

Discover historical and cultural contexts, literary features, and theological themes of each Old Testament book.

BBL-515: New Testament Foundations

Explore historical and cultural contexts, literary features, and theological themes of each New Testament book.

THE-540: Systematic Theology I

Understand the biblical metanarrative to theology, focusing on creation to new creation, and explore the doctrines of Scripture and God.

THE-640: Systematic Theology II

Explore the theological themes of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration, with a focus on humanity, sin, and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

THE-641: Systematic Theology III

Examine the doctrines of salvation, the church, pastoral theology, and the four last things — death, judgment, heaven, and hell — focusing on key elements of ministry and spiritual formation.

BBl-689: Capstone Course

Develop and apply a theology of public justice through biblical exegesis, historic Christian theology, and insights from contemporary justice movements as a culminating course.

View the academic catalog.

Academic Catalog

Ministry Careers with a Master’s in Biblical Studies Degree

  • Pastor/Minister
  • Bible Study Teacher
  • Theologian/Researcher
  • Chaplain (hospital, military, corporate, prison)
  • Biblical Counselor
  • Missionary
  • Church Planting Leader
  • Nonprofit/Ministry Leader
  • Religious Educator or Administrator (e.g., Christian schools, seminaries)
  • Writer/Author (books, articles, blogs)

Seminary Student Scholarships

Through the gifts of generous donors, students have access to multiple Cornerstone Theological Seminary scholarships, with many scholarships covering up to 50% of tuition.
All seminary students who are interested in receiving scholarship consideration should complete the Seminary Scholarship Application.

Apply Now

Tuition

On-Campus

$3,090 per semester for full-time students

Through the gifts of generous donors, students have access to multiple Cornerstone Theological Seminary scholarships, with many scholarships covering up to 50% of tuition. To apply for a variety of seminary scholarships, click on the link below. Monthly payment options are also available.

ScholarshipsFile the FAFSA

Online

$3,090 per semester for full-time students

Through the gifts of generous donors, students have access to multiple Cornerstone Theological Seminary scholarships, with many scholarships covering up to 50% of tuition. To apply for a variety of seminary scholarships, click on the link below. Monthly payment options are also available.

ScholarshipsFile the FAFSA

Your Next Steps

Review application requirements and take the first step to apply to Cornerstone Theological Seminary today.

  1. Submit your program application.
    Choose the Speciality Master’s degree application.
    No GRE is required.
  2. Submit your transcripts.
    Request your undergraduate transcripts directly from the institution. A minimum 2.5 GPA from an accredited undergraduate college or university is required.
  3. Submit a Letter of Recommendation.
    Submit one letter of recommendation from a ministry leader or mentor.

Cornerstone University

Hours

MON - FRI: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
SAT & SUN: Closed

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