Javascript is currently not supported, or is disabled by this browser. Please enable Javascript for full functionality.

    Lee University
   
    Mar 28, 2024  
Lee University Catalog 2019-2020 
    
Lee University Catalog 2019-2020 [Archived Catalog]

School of Religion Graduate Studies in Bible and Theology


Terry L. Cross, Dean

Lisa P. Stephenson, Director of Graduate Programs in Biblical and Theological Studies

Purpose and Philosophy

The School of Religion offers two graduate degrees in Biblical and Theological Studies: the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies and the Master of Arts in Theological Studies.  The Master of Arts in Theological Studies is also available with an Ethics Emphasis.

Academic rather than professional in nature, these Master of Arts degrees constitute an option to professional degrees for the student seeking advanced study in the discipline, preparing for work in the educational ministry of the church, and/or anticipating the research doctorate. This program is designed for the collegial engagement of peers whose concerns are constructive conversation and productive scholarship and whose goal is disciplinary competence. Predicated upon the conviction that rigorous academic inquiry both enhances and enables the participants, Lee University intends that the community of scholars engaging in this program be more serviceable to the kingdom of God in the world. Lee University welcomes all students who qualify for admission and subscribe to its stated goals and objectives.

The M.A. in Biblical Studies, Theological Studies, and Theological Studies with an Ethics Emphasis is offered as a 36 or 48 hour program. The 36 hour program is for applicants whose undergraduate degrees are in the related areas of religious, biblical, theological, or pastoral studies. Therefore, the usual first year of general introductory studies in religion is not required, and the program begins with upper level graduate courses. The 48 hour program admits students whose undergraduate work is in an area other than religious, biblical, theological or pastoral studies.

The M.A. in Biblical Studies with an emphasis in Pentecostal/Charismatic Studies is offered at ETS (European Theological Seminary) in Kniebis, Germany (http://www.ets-kniebis.de/index.php/en/).

The M.A. in Bible and Theology is offered only at SEMISUD (Seminario Sudamericano) in Quito, Ecuador (http://www.semisud.edu.ec/). It is a combination of the Biblical Studies program and the Theological Studies program offered in a Latin American context.

Goals

Upon the completion of the M.A. in Biblical Studies degree, an individual should possess the following qualities, abilities, and skills:

1. Demonstrate graduate level research and writing skills in the area of biblical and theological studies.

2. Read biblical texts critically, utilizing sound scholarly methodologies.

3. Explain developments in the history of doctrine in connection with major theologians.

4. Develop an understanding of epistemological and/or ethical issues as they relate to religious commitments and communities.

5. Develop an appreciation for the Holy Spirit’s involvement in the pursuit of biblical and theological understanding.

6. Demonstrate an awareness of and capacity to engage with the major trends and schools of biblical scholarship.

7. Contribute creatively to the ongoing scholarly dialogue in biblical studies.

8. Demonstrate reading competency for a specified language in biblical research (Greek or Hebrew).

Upon the completion of the M.A. in Theological Studies degree, an individual should possess the following qualities, abilities, and skills:

1. Demonstrate graduate level research and writing skills in the area of biblical and theological studies.

2. Read biblical texts critically, utilizing sound scholarly methodologies.

3. Explain developments in the history of doctrine in connection with major theologians.

4. Develop an understanding of epistemological and/or ethical issues as they relate to religious commitments and communities.

5. Develop an appreciation for the Holy Spirit’s involvement in the pursuit of biblical and theological understanding.

6. Engage with figures and movements from various ecclesial traditions with ecumenical sympathy.

7. Contribute creatively to the on-going theological dialogue.

8. Demonstrate reading competency for a specified language in biblical or theological research (Greek, German, or Latin).

Programs

Courses