What is a Biblical Studies Bachelor Degree?
In a bachelor's degree in biblical studies program, students often learn about the cultural, historical, and literary contexts of Scripture, in addition to delving into the theological concepts therein. They may also learn how to interpret and apply the knowledge gleaned from their studies in school and of the Bible to their lives, perhaps in ways that can help others. Outside of the Bible, students will frequently cover topics like the history of the church, examination of key figures in Christianity, and communication skills. This overall study can help students prepare for careers in teaching, ministry, or further education. This degree is typically a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.
The Best Bachelors Degree Programs in Biblical Studies
| School | Tuition* | Acceptance Rate | Graduation Rate | Financial Aid % | Placement Services | Career Services | Accepts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Waynesburg University | $25570 | 93% | 66% | 100% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 2 | Grace College and Theological Seminary | $24078 | 80% | 69% | 98% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 3 | University of Sioux Falls | $18910 | 91% | 64% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 4 | Bethel University | $11448 | 90% | 32% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 5 | Lee University | $18770 | 82% | 60% | 98% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 6 | Cornerstone University | $25360 | 78% | 60% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 7 | North Central University | $25090 | 90% | 51% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 8 | The Master's University and Seminary | $25390 | 67% | 70% | 62% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 9 | Belhaven University | $26201 | 49% | 50% | 95% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 10 | Bryan College-Dayton | $27900 | 51% | 45% | 83% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 11 | Warner University | $22850 | 41% | 46% | 100% | No | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 12 | Campbellsville University | $25400 | 70% | 36% | 94% | No | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 13 | Southern Adventist University | $22520 | No Available Data (2019-2020) | 55% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 14 | Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global | $9345 | No Available Data (2019-2020) | 38% | 85% | No | Yes | AP Credits |
To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit Study.com's ranking methodology page.
*Tuition information is based on published tuition and required fees, per data by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Biblical Studies Bachelor's Degree Concentrations
Biblical studies degrees may have a variety of names like Bible, theology, and ministry, Christian studies, or Bible and theology. Depending on the specificity of a degree title, there may be options for specialization within a bachelor's program on the subject. Possible concentrations may include areas like:
- Theological studies
- Biblical languages
- Christian ministries
- Old or new testament
- Biblical studies
Curriculum for a Bachelor's Degree in Biblical Studies
The curriculum available to students earning a bachelor's degree in biblical studies may vary for each school. Generally speaking, however, there will be a core curriculum focused on biblical studies and a host of general education courses similar to those students take at secular schools. Within this degree, course titles may include:
- Methods in or principles of interpretation
- Biblical theology
- Introduction to or foundations of ministry
- History of the church or Christianity
- Studies of particular books or sections of the bible like the Pentateuch
- Jewish studies
- Hermeneutics
How Long Does it Take to Get a Bachelor's in Biblical Studies?
It normally takes about four years to obtain a bachelor's in biblical studies. Like most secular degrees at this level, earning a bachelor's in this subject usually requires students to complete a total of around 120 credit hours, with somewhere around 30 or more of those being in core classes. This process can be accelerated in some programs, particularly in online biblical studies programs, or elongated, with students having more hands-on opportunities in programs that may take closer to five years.
How to Choose a Biblical Studies School & Bachelor's Program
There are numerous factors to consider when choosing a biblical studies school and program. For many students, one of the foremost considerations will be how well the school's beliefs align with their own. There are numerous denominations within Christianity that vary to different degrees, and there are conservative bible colleges|https://study.com/articles/conservative_bible_colleges.html] and more liberal ones, so prospective learners should research potential schools' statement of faith and core beliefs to ensure they align. Otherwise, a student may find himself or herself learning at a place that teaches doctrine they do not believe. For example, a student from an apostolic worldview would most likely be most at home at an online apostolic bible college, while someone from a Calvinist background would probably be most comfortable at Calvinist bible college.
In more traditional areas, students should also consider what they want to do after graduation. Certain programs may be geared more toward certain jobs in ministry or toward pursuing a higher degree, so pick a school and program that matches your goals. To help you achieve those goals, research the faculty to ensure they have the academic credentials and professional experiences necessary to best instruct you. Another key consideration is the opportunities for professional experience, as some programs may offer or require internships. This real-life exposure to ministry can be extremely beneficial, so see what a program offers before selecting it.
Accreditation for Bachelor's in Biblical Studies Degrees
Bible colleges are accredited by some of the institutions recognized by the Council for Higher Education (CHEA) including the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Accreditation increases your chances of quality education, enables you to qualify for federal financial aid and can help your credits transfer more easily.
Bible colleges are often accredited by religious institutions like the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) and the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), both of which accredit undergraduate programs and schools. Another notable accrediting body is the International Association of Bible Colleges and Seminaries (IABCS). These accreditations won't make a difference in terms of government financial aid but they may speak to the quality of the religious education you'll find there.
Biblical Studies Licensure & Certification
Technically speaking, there's no license or certification to qualify for most of these jobs that stem from this degree. However, some churches unofficially refer to ordination as a license or certification. Requirements for ordination vary quite a bit from denomination to denomination but they typically require a statement of faith, letters of recommendation, theological education and practical experience.
For graduates who don't go into traditional ministry, there may be licensure and certification requirements. For example, with more training and education, a biblical studies graduate could become a counselor. In this case, certification may be required by the state government, or it may be voluntary. In any case, governing bodies do not typically regulate most professions related to religion, so licensure or certification will typically be voluntary or based on industry standards.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's Degree in Biblical Studies?
With a bachelor's degree in biblical studies, it is possible to get a number of jobs. Some of these may be more directly involved in ministry than others. For example, this degree may prepare you for a career as a church planter or ministry leader of some sort. Alternatively, it can help you ready yourself for a career as a teacher, author, administrator, social worker, or any number of more secular career options. It all depends on the companies you apply to and the experience and education you pursue while earning your bachelor's. Jobs you may be qualified for, or on the way to being qualified for, after earning this degree include:
- Author
- Evangelist
- Teacher
- Church planter
- Pastor or chaplain
- Nonprofit employee
- Church ministry staff
- Minister
- Relief worker
- Social worker
- Counselor
How to Become a Pastor
One of the most common career paths for biblical studies graduates is to seek Christian ministry-related positions like a pastorship. Pastors typically lead religious services, carry out common rituals within the faith and offer guidance to the church's members. The minimum level of education for pastors is a bachelor's degree, though some churches may look for candidates who have a master's degree in the field. Those with a bachelor's degree may be able to take on a role as an assistant pastor and work their way up.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor & Statistics (BLS) reported in 2019 that pastors (who fall under the broader category of clergy) made an average annual salary of $55,190.
How to Become a Counselor
Counselors, specifically mental health counselors, advise people who suffer from mental health issues or other mental or behavioral problems. They provide treatment and support to help clients recover from issues or modify behaviors that are causing them problems. Specifically, this can involve evaluating clients' mental health, creating and recommending treatment goals, and assisting clients with developing the skills necessary to adjust their behavior. Counselors may specialize in certain areas like couples or children's counseling.
To become a counselor, at least a bachelor's degree is usually required, though there are some positions that require a master's degree to qualify. All states also require mental health counselors to be licensed, normally after a period of working under the supervision of a veteran counselor. The BLS reported in 2019 that mental health counselors made an average median wage of $46,240. The job field is also projected to grow 25 percent between 2019 and 2029, per the BLS.
Career Advancement in Biblical Studies
Career advancement with a biblical studies degree can take many forms depending on the route you choose to take with your career. For those who pursue a more secular direction, career advancement will look much different compared to biblical studies graduates who choose a degree in ministry. For example, if you decide to become a teacher with your biblical studies degree, you may start out as a substitute or full-time educator before transitioning to more of a leadership role, perhaps as an administrator in a school or school district. Along the way, you will gain experience and may earn further degrees.
On the other hand, a career in ministry has various pathways that differ for each church or religious organization. For instance, after graduating with your bachelor's in biblical studies you may become a staff member like the vacation bible school director or entry-level pastor at a church. While there are some similarities between these general career paths, the specifics differ greatly depending on the avenue biblical studies students choose.
What Other Kinds of Biblical Studies Degrees Are There?
Generally speaking, education is prized in this field, as it allows students and professionals to learn a wider array of subjects related to the Bible, theology, and ministry. Given that, it should not be a surprise that education options at levels above and below the bachelor's degree level exist in this field. These are frequently tailored toward a particular goal, so be sure to check to ensure your goals match with a program's.
Associate Degrees in Biblical Studies
An associate degree in biblical studies is below a bachelor's degree in the academic hierarchy. In the case of biblical studies, this is typically an Associate of Arts (AA) degree. In these programs, students normally learn foundational skills needed to study Scripture and help others grow in their faith. Some jobs within ministry may be available after completing this degree, or it may simply serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's in this subject. It normally takes about one and a half to two years to earn an associate's degree in this subject, with graduates completing around 60 credit hours of coursework.
Master's Degrees in Biblical Studies
Right above the bachelor's level is the graduate level, with a master's degree being the first step in that arena. A master's in biblical studies is typically a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree. These programs are often designed to dive deeper into the study of doctrine and Scripture, giving students the skills and knowledge to more effectively work in ministry or a related field. A master's degree may also serve the penultimate step toward earning a doctoral degree in this subject or be a way for individuals to deepen their faith. It usually takes around two years to earn this degree.
Doctoral Degrees in Biblical Studies
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biblical Studies is the terminal degree in this field. These programs are normally designed to prepare students to teach, research, or work in ministry through a rigorous curriculum that focuses on the interpretation of the Bible, language studies, theology, religious history, and similar subjects. A comprehensive final exam that includes multiple components related to these topics is often a feature of these programs. It normally takes at least four years to earn a doctorate in biblical studies, with students completing upwards of 50 credit hours in many cases.
Certificates in Biblical Studies
A certificate in biblical studies is the quickest academic distinction available in the subject. These programs focus only on the core principles of the field, providing students with a cursory understanding of topics like biblical interpretation and theology. They may be best suited to those who want to learn more skills but do not have the capability to pursue one of the degrees listed above. A student can usually earn a certificate in biblical studies in a year or less.
Financial Aid & Scholarship Information for Bachelor's in Biblical Studies Degrees
To begin the search for financial aid, students must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This shows students what they qualify for in regards to federal loans, grants, or work-study programs. Completing the FAFSA may require numerous documents including the applicant's social security number, parents' social security numbers, driver's license number, and federal tax information.
Schools and Christian organizations also offer scholarships to students earning these degrees, so check with your chosen college or university to see what you may qualify for. In addition, some churches or religious organizations may help pay for your education like an employer might. Check with the church or group you are affiliated with to see if this option is available to you.
