Save time and tuition by integrating your B.A. in Biblical and Theological Studies with a Master of Arts in Theological Studies. Be prepared to serve in an academic setting, church or para-church organization. Get advanced training in theology, Bible interpretation, and biblical languages. Complete 14 graduate credits in your undergraduate program to finish your master's degree faster.
This might be the right degree for you if you
- want to develop advanced skills in biblical studies
- desire to analyze and apply theological concepts
- want to save time and money on a master’s degree
Why choose the accelerated Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) at Northwestern?
This streamlined track saves you time and money as you add a master’s degree to your portfolio. Complete 14 graduate credits as part of your bachelor’s degree in Biblical and Theological Studies. Wrap up the remaining 22 credits during one extra year of graduate study on site or online.
Study theology by themes (biblical theology) and categories (systematic theology). Grow in your faith as you learn how views have been shaped over time (historical theology).
Excel in biblical studies with advanced courses in Bible interpretation methods. Enrich your study of God’s Word by learning New Testament Greek and biblical Hebrew.
Understand Scripture on a deeper level as you study the cultural and historical setting of the Bible.
Gain awareness of personal and cultural biases in biblical interpretation. Discover and develop the gifts God has given you to serve in an academic or ministry setting. Be prepared for a meaningful career.
Explore the option to write a master’s thesis contributing to one of these fields of study:
- Old Testament Studies
- New Testament Studies
- Theological Studies
Writing a master’s thesis is especially helpful if you are considering doctoral studies. You’ll improve your skills in critical thinking, project management, and writing.
Learn from accomplished scholars in the Old and New Testaments, theology, archaeology, biblical interpretation, Septuagint studies, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Be equipped with transferable job skills in communication, research, and analysis.
During your undergraduate program
Enjoy all the benefits of a traditional undergraduate student as a Biblical and Theological Studies major:
- Attend chapels
- Engage in theological discussions in a non-denominational setting
- Study abroad in Israel
- Be inducted into Theta Alpha Kappa national honor society
- Present a paper to your peers at a local conference
- Volunteer for service projects
- Be rewarded for your achievements in Greek, Hebrew, and theology
- Deepen your understanding and appreciation of God’s Word
Join Northwestern’s legacy of dedicated Christian leaders like Billy Graham and Roger Youderian.
Next Steps
Talk to your enrollment advisor and faculty as soon as you can. To earn a Master of Arts in Theological Studies, you must first apply and be accepted into Northwestern. Once accepted, you can submit an application for this accelerated program through the Biblical & Theological Studies department. Dedicated scholarship funds are available for qualified students in addition to financial aid.
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Careers in biblical and theological studies
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a master of arts in theological studies.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Pastoral ministry
- Bible translation
- Leadership in nonprofit organizations
- Research and writing
- Theological librarian
- Chaplain
- University professor
- Para-church ministry
- Christian education
- Missions
- Communication
- Camp ministry
What will I learn?
You will learn to perform advanced biblical interpretation, evaluate current issues using theological methods, and explain Christian theology.
BIB 4460
Biblical Theology
The study of theology that identifies the themes emerging from the various books of the Bible and explains their contribution to the progress of divine revelation.
BIB 6315
Contemporary Issues in Theology
A study of a contemporary theological issue relevant to Evangelical theology, with a focus on analysis and assessment.
ACL 2001
Elementary Greek I
The first course in a year-long sequence introducing elements of Classical and Koine Greek morphology, syntax and vocabulary. Emphasis is on reading classical and New Testament Greek.
PHI 2016
Ethics
A comparative introduction to normative social theory. An examination and critique of alternative grounds for claiming that an action, attitude, social rule, or social institution is morally right or wrong.
BIA 3235
Second Temple Judaism
A study of Jewish civilization from 538 B.C. to A.D. 135 as an aid to understanding both the formation of the Old Testament and the rise of Christianity. Primary emphasis is on political and social history, with considerable attention to the literary materials of the period.
Still have questions about this program or how to apply?
Our team is ready with answers!
Discover the Department of Biblical & Theological Studies
Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.
