Purpose and Objectives
The MA (Theological Studies) program provides students with an interdisciplinary knowledge of biblical studies, church history, intercultural studies, and theology. It prepares students to engage in research and analysis that is informed by those disciplines and contributes to the advance of ministry in the church, missions, or marketplace.
In addition to the mission statement and general objectives and requirements of a Columbia Biblical Seminary (CBS) degree, the objectives of the MA (Theological Studies) degree are to enable students to:
- Analyze the biblical text using a structured exegetical method
- Explain, evaluate, and interact with biblical doctrine
- Apply research findings based on biblical context and doctrine
The MA (Theological Studies) is available fully online in an 8-week format or in a residential 16-week format.
Admission Requirements
- Online application
- Application fee
- Affirm to be a Christian and agree with CIU’s Statement of Faith
- Official transcript for highest earned degree and any master’s level credits earned with a minimum 2.5 GPA for the most recent degree obtained.
- Essay (800 words total)
- Church Leader Reference
Transfer Credit
Students may receive transfer credit for a maximum of two-thirds of the MA (Theological Studies), subject to the provisions of CIU’s Transfer Credit Policy.
Dual Degree Credit
Students may apply credit from a previously completed graduate degree for a maximum of two-thirds of the MA (Theological Studies). Students must satisfy all requirements for both degrees, including the integrative exercise or internship experience of each degree.
Time Limitation
The expected time limit for completing all the requirements for the MA (Theological Studies) degree is ten years, measured from the date a student begins coursework in the degree. Students may request that courses completed outside the expected limit be reviewed by the dean’s office on a case-by-case basis.
Completion Requirements
Students must satisfy the following requirements in order to graduate:
- Complete all required hours of specified coursework with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Complete the integrative exercise of the MA (Theological Studies) degree.
- Complete reading of the entire Bible following admission, including selections assigned in Bible courses. This requirement must be completed six weeks prior to graduation.
- Affirm CIU’s Statement of Faith.
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