The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Biblical Studies is a rigorous and comprehensive doctoral program designed to develop scholars equipped to advance biblical research, theological understanding, and biblical literacy within academic, church, and ministry contexts. This 60-credit hour program aims to cultivate critical thinkers, researchers, and teachers who can contribute original insights to the field of biblical studies while maintaining a strong foundation in Scripture, hermeneutics, theology, and historical context. The program emphasizes rigorous scholarly inquiry, advanced exegesis, and the development of a significant dissertation project that demonstrates mastery of biblical scholarship and research methodologies. Graduates will be prepared to serve as university professors, biblical scholars, theologians, or church leaders committed to advancing biblical knowledge and theological reflection.
Credit Hours: 60
Course Length: 8 weeks per course
Duration: 4 years (including Dissertation)
Prerequisite Requirements
Standard Admission
Master’s degree from a recognized, accredited institution
Only coursework that is “B” or above will be accepted
References and academic transcripts
Written statement of purpose
For Applicants with a Secular Master’s and Some Christian Training
Such applicants must complete Leveling/Prerequisite Coursework (24 credit hours) to reach the equivalent of a master’s in biblical studies. These courses ensure a solid foundation in biblical, theological, and ministerial studies.
At least 1 year of professional experience in Christian or biblical education, leadership, or administration.
Prerequisite Courses
BIB 111 Old Testament Survey
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the Old Testament, exploring its historical context, literary structure, and theological significance. By studying the Old Testament from a biblical apostolic perspective, students will gain a deeper understanding of God’s revelation and his redemptive plan for humanity. Textbook: “Old Testament Survey: Second Edition” by Paul R. House. (4 credit hours).
BIB 114 New Testament Survey
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the New Testament, examining its historical context, literary structure, and theological significance from a biblical apostolic perspective. Through this study, students will gain a deeper understanding of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, the development of the early church, and the foundational doctrines of the Christian faith. Textbook: “New Testament Survey” by Merrill C. Tenney. (4 credit hours)
MST 511 Systematic Theology
This course offers a thorough overview of the major doctrines of the Christian faith. This course will explore key theological concepts, such as the nature of God, the work of Christ, and the role of the Holy Spirit, while encouraging critical engagement with scripture and historical perspectives. Through systematic study, students will develop a coherent understanding of theology that informs their faith and practice, preparing them for thoughtful leadership in the church and beyond. Textbook: “Systematic Theology” by Wayne Grudem. (4 credit hours).
MCH 591 Church History
This course will provide an overview of significant events, movements, and figures throughout church history, fostering an understanding of how historical developments influence contemporary faith. By engaging with Shelley’s text, students will gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of the church, preparing them to navigate the complexities of modern Christian practice with historical awareness. Textbook: “Church History in Plain Language” by Bruce L. Shelley. (4 credit hours).
MBH 600 Biblical Hermeneutics
This course is a thorough framework for understanding the principles and practices of interpreting biblical texts. This course will equip students with the essential skills for hermeneutical analysis, emphasizing the significance of context, language, and genre in scripture interpretation. Students will learn to navigate the complexities of biblical texts, enabling them to communicate their meanings effectively within various ministry contexts. Textbook: “Biblical Hermeneutics: A Comprehensive Guide to Interpreting Scripture” by Bruce Corcoran. (4 credit hours).
MCE 581 Christian Ethics
This course will explore moral principles and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals and communities, emphasizing the importance of glorifying God in ethical decision-making. Through engaging with case studies and scriptural teachings, students will learn to apply ethical principles to contemporary issues, equipping them to serve as moral leaders within their churches and communities. Textbook: “A God To Glorify” by Michael Mangum. (4 credit hours).
BAP 200 Advanced Pneumatology
In this course, we will explore the person, work, and manifestations of the Holy Spirit from a biblical apostolic perspective. Building upon foundational knowledge of Pneumatology, we will delve deeper into the complexities and nuances of the Holy Spirit’s role in the life of the believer and the Church. Textbooks: “God’s Giftings To The Church” and “Spiritual Gifts” by Michael Mangum. (4 credit hours)
MHP 620 Homiletics (Preaching)
This course provides essential guidance for developing and delivering effective sermons rooted in scripture. This course will focus on the principles of expository preaching, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation and clear communication. By engaging with Robinson’s methodologies, students will enhance their preaching skills, equipping them to communicate God’s word powerfully and persuasively in their ministries. Textbook: “Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages” by Haddon W. Robinson. (4 credit hours).
Core Coursework
MTOT 561 Theology of the Old Testament
This course will explore concepts such as covenant, justice, and prophetic witness, emphasizing their relevance for both ancient and modern contexts. Through Brueggemann’s lens, students will gain a richer understanding of Old Testament theology, preparing them to integrate these insights into their preaching, teaching, and pastoral care. Textbook: “The Theology of the Old Testament” by Walter Brueggemann. (4 credit hours).
MTNT 551 Theology of the New Testament
This course will examine key concepts such as the kingdom of God, salvation, and the role of the Church, emphasizing their implications for contemporary faith and practice. By engaging with Ladd’s insights, students will deepen their understanding of New Testament theology, enabling them to apply these teachings within their ministry contexts effectively. Textbook: “The Theology of the New Testament” by George Eldon Ladd. (4 credit hours).
MBE 600 Methods of Biblical Exegesis
Through this course students will learn principles and advanced techniques of biblical interpretation, focusing on contextual analysis, literary genres, and applying hermeneutical principles to complex texts. Textbook: New Testament Exegesis, 3rd edition by Gordon D. Fee.
OTES 605 Old Testament Exegesis Seminar
This seminar advances advanced exegetical work on selected Old Testament books through disciplined analysis of original languages, literary structure, historical context, and theological themes, equipping Ph.D. students to conduct rigorous, text-centered scholarship that informs scholarly discourse and pedagogical leadership in biblical education. Textbook: Old Testament Commentary Survey by Tremper Longman III. (4 credit hours).
NTES 610 New Testament Exegesis Seminar
This seminar advances advanced exegesis on selected New Testament books through rigorous analysis of Greek text, textual criticism, literary context, and theological interpretation, equipping Ph.D. students to produce text-driven scholarship that informs doctrinal understanding, teaching, and leadership in biblical education. Textbook: “An Introduction to the New Testament 2nd ed.” by D. A. Carson & Douglas J. Moo. (4 credit hours).
RMBS 615 Research Methods in Biblical Studies
This course introduces qualitative and quantitative research techniques, scholarly writing, and thesis formulation, preparing students for their dissertation. Textbook: Introduction to Biblical Hermeneutics by Mark L. Strauss. (4 credit hours).
ATPE 620 Advanced Topics in Pauline Epistles
A detailed study of Pauline theology and exegesis of key epistles such as Romans, Galatians, and Corinthians. Textbook: Paul: Apostle of the Heart Set Free by F. F. Bruce. (4 credit hours).
MPF 625 Messianic Prophecy and Fulfillment
This course explores messianic prophecies in the Old Testament and their fulfillment in Christ, emphasizing textual analysis and theological significance. Textbook: The Messiah in the Old Testament by Walter C. Kaiser Jr. (4 credit hours).
HLAE 630 History and Literature of the Ancient Near East
This course provides contextual understanding of the cultural and historical background of biblical texts, emphasizing the ancient Near Eastern environment. Textbook: The Context of Scripture by William W. Hallo & K. Lawson Young. (4 credit hours).
EMP 635 Ethics and Moral Philosophy in Biblical Perspective
Students examine ethical principles derived from Scripture and their application to contemporary moral issues. Textbook: The Case for Classical Christian Education by Christopher W. Morgan & Robert A. Peterson. (4 credit hours).
CAW 640 Christian Apologetics and Worldview
This course investigates rational defenses of Christianity and the integration of biblical worldview into academic and cultural contexts. Textbook: Christian Apologetics by Norman L. Geisler. (4 credit hours).
BCT 645 Biblical Canon and Textual Criticism
This course explores the formation of the biblical canon, and the methods used in textual criticism to establish the most accurate text of Scripture. Students examine historical manuscripts, textual variants, and the impact of textual transmission on biblical interpretation. Textbook: The Text of the New Testament: Its Transmission, Corruption, and Restoration by Bruce M. Metzger & Bart D. Ehrman. (4 credit hours)
Dissertation Requirements:
Dissertation Proposal Seminar for formulation and approval
Dissertation Research and Defense
Guided development of the dissertation topic, research questions, methodology, and literature review. Textbook: Kate L. Turabian, A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations, 9th ed.
Dissertation 200 pages or 60,000 words
Oral Defense
Only “A” coursework will be accepted for graduation.
Publication Encouraged: Students are encouraged to publish findings in scholarly or professional journals.
Summary
The Ph.D. in Biblical Studies is a demanding, research-intensive program for those called to contribute at the highest level of biblical scholarship. The curriculum blends advanced language study, exegesis, history, theology, hermeneutics, and pedagogy, culminating in a scholarly dissertation. For those without an M.Div., targeted leveling courses prepare students for the highest level of biblical research and teaching.