Academic Programs
Detailed information on ATS academic programs and curriculum.
Master of Biblical Studies
Detailed information on the curriculum and course structure for the Master of Biblical Studies program.
Purposes
Equipping Students with Biblical Knowledge
The primary purpose of the Master of Biblical Studies program is to equip students with a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the Bible. This includes the study of biblical texts within their historical, literary, and theological contexts, as well as their practical application for life and ministry. Students are trained to develop strong critical thinking and interpretive skills, enabling them to engage Scripture faithfully and responsibly. The program also emphasizes personal spiritual growth through disciplined and rigorous biblical study.
Preparing for Christian Ministry
Another key purpose of the program is to prepare students for various forms of Christian ministry, including service as pastors, missionaries, teachers, and church leaders. The curriculum is designed to develop essential ministry skills such as preaching, teaching, counseling, and leadership. Strong emphasis is placed on ethical integrity and Christian character, ensuring that graduates are equipped to lead both personally and professionally in accordance with biblical values.
Qualifications
Educational Requirement
Applicants to the Master of Biblical Studies program must have completed a Bachelor-level degree (or its equivalent) with a minimum GPA of 2.3. This requirement ensures that students possess the academic foundation necessary for graduate-level theological studies.
Other Requirements
In addition to academic qualifications, applicants may be required to submit a personal statement of faith, letters of recommendation, and, where applicable, participate in an entrance examination or interview. These requirements help assess the applicant's commitment, calling, and readiness for advanced biblical and theological training.
Course Duration
Program Length
The Master of Biblical Studies is a three-year academic program, designed to be completed within this period by full-time students.
Credit Requirements
To graduate, students must successfully complete a total of 108 credit hours. These credits are distributed among core biblical and theological courses, elective subjects, practical ministry components, and a final capstone project or thesis. This structure ensures a balanced education that integrates academic rigor with practical ministry application.
Aims
Theological Proficiency
One of the primary aims of the program is to develop a strong foundation in biblical studies, Christian theology, and church history. Students are equipped to articulate and defend their faith through sound theological understanding and careful interpretation of Scripture.
Practical Ministry Skills
The program aims to provide hands-on ministry training through internships, practicums, and ministry placements. Students gain practical experience in sermon preparation, pastoral care, teaching, and community outreach, preparing them for real-life ministry challenges.
Spiritual and Personal Growth
Encouraging spiritual maturity and personal character development is a central aim of the program. Students are guided to deepen their relationship with God and to live lives marked by integrity, holiness, and service, reflecting Christian values in all areas of life.
Academic Excellence
The program fosters a rigorous academic environment that encourages critical thinking, scholarly research, and theological reflection. Graduates are well prepared for further theological education or advanced academic study, if they choose to pursue it.
Community Engagement
Finally, the program aims to equip students for meaningful engagement within diverse communities. Students are trained to address contemporary issues from a biblical perspective, exercise wise leadership, and make positive contributions to church and society.
Master of Biblical Studies Curriculum
Total Credit Hours: 108
Spring Session - 1st Year
Credit Hours: 18
| C.N | Subjects | Credit Hrs. |
|---|---|---|
| 501 | Hermeneutics | 3 |
| 511 | N.T. Introduction | 3 |
| 616 | Biblical Theology in Mission | 3 |
| 301 | Survey of Theology | 3 |
| 901 | Church History-1 | 3 |
Autumn Session - 1st Year
Credit Hours: 18
| C.N | Subjects | Credit Hrs. |
|---|---|---|
| 303 | Bibliology | 3 |
| 502 | Survey of the O.T | 3 |
| 507 | Gospels & Acts | 3 |
| 509 | General Letters | 3 |
| 902 | Church History-2 | 3 |
| 621 | Christian Ethics | 3 |
Spring Session - 2nd Year
Credit Hours: 18
| C.N | Subjects | Credit Hrs. |
|---|---|---|
| 308 | Anthro./Angelology | 3 |
| 508 | Pauline Letters | 3 |
| 703 | Christian Leadership | 3 |
| 313 | O.T. Theology | 3 |
| 316 | Pauline Theology | 3 |
Autumn Session - 2nd Year
Credit Hours: 18
| C.N | Subjects | Credit Hrs. |
|---|---|---|
| 305 | Christology | 3 |
| 505 | Wisdom Literature | 3 |
| 604 | Christian Counseling | 3 |
| 314 | N.T. Theology | 3 |
| 311 | Eschatology | 3 |
| 312 | Calvin Theology | 3 |
Spring Session - 3rd Year
Credit Hours: 18
| C.N | Subjects | Credit Hrs. |
|---|---|---|
| 310 | Pneumatology | 3 |
| 506 | O.T. Prophets | 3 |
| 601 | Mastering in Management | 3 |
| 315 | Contemporary Theology | 3 |
| 306 | Soteriology | 3 |
| 093 | Ministry Report | 3 |
Autumn Session - 3rd Year
Credit Hours: 18
| C.N | Subjects | Credit Hrs. |
|---|---|---|
| 309 | Ecclesiology | 3 |
| 510 | Expo. Daniel & Revelation | 3 |
| 603 | Expository Preaching | 3 |
| 230 | Apologetics | 3 |
| 504 | O.T. Historical Books | 3 |
| 791 | Comprehensive Exam | 3 |
- The Master of Biblical Studies (MBS) curriculum is adapted from the Master of Theology (M.Th.) program, excluding all Greek and Hebrew language courses.
- Students in the MBS program are not required to present or submit a thesis paper.
- The curriculum is designed to provide strong biblical and theological training without the biblical language and thesis components required in the M.Th. program.
- ATS offers a maximum of 18 credit hours per semester.
- Students shouldn't reproduce classroom material for business purposes without permission.
- ATS does not accept degrees from other seminaries that offer less than the required credits for a particular degree.
