Asbury Theological Seminary’s 30-hour (plus dissertation work) Master of Theology in Biblical Studies forms Christian scholars, teachers and servant-leaders for the church. Candidates for the Master of Theology [Biblical Studies] can focus either in Old Testament or New Testament. The degree is designed to achieve substantive understanding of the field of biblical studies appropriate for advanced academic study of Scripture in the service of the church.
What to Expect from the Degree
The following is an overview of the degree requirements:
- Completion of 30 credit hours, as outlined in the Academic Catalog with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00/4.00
- Active attendance of the weekly school seminars and the annual interdisciplinary colloquium of Advanced Research Programs.
- Pass the competency exit exam, with a score of 80%
*Refer to the Academic Catalog for a detailed and full list of graduation requirements.
Admissions Requirements
- Application Form
- Accredited baccalaureate degree
- Official transcripts from all postsecondary schools where at least 12 hours of coursework was completed
- Personal History Essay – 1050-1500 words (350-500 words per question)
- Share your testimony starting with how you met Jesus Christ. Talk about your growth since that time and what brings you to apply to seminary at this season in your life. Include your thoughts on how you would like to see your faith grow during your time in seminary.
- What draws you to your desired major/area of study? What is your intended outcome upon degree completion? Why is that career or ministry choice meaningful to you?
- Discuss a local, national, and/or international issue and why you are passionate about it.
- Optional: If your GPA is not a good indication of your academic ability, please explain.
- Four references (references cannot be related to applicant)
- Four references, including a pastoral reference (required) and a professor or academic administrator reference (recommended). Laity or personal acquaintances are accepted.
- $50 Nonrefundable Application Fee
- For applicants whose primary language is not English, a TOEFL score of 550 (79 internet-based) or an IELTS score of 6.5
- Background check (completed by the Admissions Office)
- A personal interview may be required upon request by the Admissions Committee
Learn more about what other graduates of Asbury Seminary are doing.
| Hrs | Course ID | Course Name |
| Biblical Studies Required Courses (9 credit hours) | ||
| 3 | NT901 | Research Methods in New Testament Interpretation |
| 3 | OT901 | Research Methods in Old Testament Interpretation |
| 3 | BS905 | Seminar in the History of Interpretation |
| 0 | BS901 | Seminar in Biblical Studies
Register and attend required, non-credit Biblical Studies seminar weekly for two semesters (fall and spring).
|
| Biblical Studies Elective Courses (21 credit hours) | ||
| 600, 700, and 900 level courses in Biblical Studies, including BT605 or BT660 | ||
Additional Requirements
- Attend required, non-credit Advanced Research Programs Interdisciplinary Colloquium as scheduled until coursework is completed.
- Cumulative GPA of at least 3.30/4.00.
- Pass the competency exit exam, with a score of 80%, demonstrating translations, exegetical and theological competencies in both Old and New Testaments.
- Fulfillment of all degree requirements in not more than three calendar years from the first term of enrollment.
Asbury Seminary is committed to providing you with a quality theological education and practical skills for a lifetime. We offer more than 400 scholarships annually and our Ministry Partners Program helps you graduate with minimal debt.
Cost of Attendance: 2023-2024
| Degree | Total Credits | Cost |
| Th.M. | 30 credits | $736/credit hour |
| Coursework Total | $22,080 |
| Academic Year 2021-2022 | All Campuses Fall/Spring | All Campuses Summer |
| Technology Fee | $225 per semester | $110 per semester |
| Graduation Fee | $200 one-time fee | $200 one-time fee |
| Student Services Fee | $160 per semester | $80 per semester |
Scholarships
Postgraduate Support Scholarships are available to Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Theology students based on criteria of merit and need.
To apply
- Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Complete the Asbury Financial Aid Application
- Complete a Postgraduate Support Scholarship Application, including a 1000-word essay describing your passion for research and how it will equip you for the future.
Save Time! Save Money!
Combine your Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Biblical Studies or Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies with a Master of Theology degree, you’ll save up to 15 credit hours! This option is designed for those planning to pursue a Ph.D. or for those seeking a deeper educational background to serve in the church or marketplace.
This dual track option allows you to:
- Share up to 15 hours between degrees, reducing your overall time and cost to complete the degrees.
- Prepare for the rigor of the Ph.D. program and strengthen your CV. Classes are taught at a Ph.D. level.
- Gain a more extensive knowledge-base for marketplace or church ministry.
- Shorten the admissions process if you’re already a current student.