A message from the M.A. in Biblical Studies program coordinator Dr. Fred Hansen
Why choose the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies Degree at OCC?
The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies is a 36-hour academic degree that prepares servant leaders for a lifetime of ministry by training them in rigorous study of Scripture in its original languages. Students will complete a masterās thesis for this degree.
This program serves as a foundation for teaching the Bible in the church and other ministry settings, and it prepares students for postgraduate work in biblical studies and theology.
High Quality Education
For over 80 years, OCC has trained men and women for Christian service through deep biblical study. We believe that ministry principles grounded in Scripture provide profound cultural agility regardless of your kingdom calling.
Personal Transformation
Education, at its best, is a process of discipleship, and discipleship, according to Scripture (Galatians 2:20), is the process of transforming you into the hands and feet of Jesus.
Spirit-Centered Community
When you join the masterās program at OCC, you are partnering with Godās Spirit by connecting with Christās community represented by fellow kingdom workers across the world.
Who is this degree for?
Anyone called to or entrusted with directly engaging Godās Word to shape Godās people into Christās image, especially:
Ā· Discipleship Pastors Ā· Senior Ministers Ā· Associate Ministers Ā·Ā Student Ministers Ā·Ā Small Groups Pastors
Those without a Bible college undergraduate degree are encouraged to pursue this degree program.
Sample Degree Courses
Greek Basics
An introduction to the basics of the Greek language, with focus on using the language in a ministry setting. In using examples from the Greek New Testament, the course is designed to prepare students to use the basics of the language in interpreting Scripture (e.g., grammar, syntax, the meaning of words, etc.). NT 6501 is a continuation of this course.
Greek NT Exegesis
By building on NT 5501, this course will emphasize using the Greek New Testament in the exegetical process. Students will develop a method for using the Greek text, English translations, and other appropriate tools to understand the context, grammar, syntax, word meanings, theology, and contemporary meaning of New Testament texts. Attention will be given to how to use the New Testament in preaching and teaching.Ā Prerequisite: NT 5501 or Greek proficiency.
Hebrew Basics
An introduction to the basics of the Hebrew language, with focus on using the language in a ministry setting. In using examples from the Hebrew Old Testament, the course is designed to prepare students to use the basics of the language in interpreting Scripture (e.g., grammar, syntax, the meaning of words, etc.). OT 6501 is a continuation of this course.
Hebrew OT Exegesis
By building on OT 5501, this course will emphasize using the Hebrew Old Testament in the exegetical process. Students will develop a method for using the Hebrew text, English translations, and other appropriate tools to understand the context, grammar, syntax, word meanings, theology, and contemporary meaning of Old Testament texts. Attention will be given to how to use the Old Testament in preaching and teaching.Ā Prerequisite: OT 5501 or Hebrew proficiency.
Graduate Research and Writing
This course will prepare students for their thesis by developing their skills in academic writing. Attention will be given to assessing and improving the quality of oneās research and writing, becoming well-versed in relevant scholarly conversations, and making a meaningful contribution to their specific field of study.
Thesis
A guided study where students propose, write, and defend a central thesis in the area of Biblical Studies. Students will utilize learned skills in research and writing to interact with scholarly conversations through summarization, critique, and contribution.Ā Prerequisite: RW 6201 Graduate and Writing (as well as 60% of degree completed).Ā
Looking for a full list of courses?
View the complete course information in our catalog.
Program and Concentration Outcomes
Students will be able toā¦
1. Interpret a biblical text from its original language (Greek or Hebrew).
2. Integrate historical, literary, canonical, and theological insights in biblical interpretation.
3. Employ appropriate research methodologies in biblical scholarship.
What Lincoln Seminary students are saying:
"Having never taken Bible classes before this program, the in-depth look at hermeneutics and contextualization has been incredibly helpful in my personal Bible reading as well as my teaching and preaching and equipping others."
"I enjoyed all of the readings as well as videos from our professorĀ each week. They combined to leave me with a real appreciation for culture and our role as Christians in engaging with culture in a manner that remains faithful to our call as witnesses for Jesus."
"I really enjoyed the intensive in-person days. It allowed valuable questioning, discussion, and interaction with the class and the professor."
"The portion of this course that I found most valuable was the study of kingdom diversity and what that looks like in a religious organization. I look at diversity from this lens now instead of mixing it up with how the world looks at diversity."
Spring Lincoln Seminary Admissions Dates
December 12
Application Deadline
December 22
Acceptance Deadline (all materials turned in)
Just like in our undergraduate program, Ozarkās masterās program faculty set us apart. Youāll learn from practitioner professorsāmen and women with hands-on experience in their fieldsāin a distinctively Christ-centered community.
How much is tuition?
Each graduate credit hour at OCC is $490 plus fees.
Are there scholarships available for graduate students?
