PURPOSE:
The purpose
of the Master of Theological Studies program is to allow the student to concentrate
on, specialize in, and master a ministry skill needed by the Body of Christ.
This degree is a suitable foundation for the Doctor of Theology (Th.D) in a
related discipline. The MTS program is flexible, allowing the student to design
the precise content of his curriculum. These requirements may fulfill some of
the general licensing criteria required by the student's ministerial licensing
body.
OBJECTIVE:
When
the student completes the degree, he or she should be able to:
- 1
Recognize current schools of theological thought and evaluate them in the
light of Biblical truth.
- 2.
Exhibit a detailed understanding of hermeneutic principles by properly interpreting
the Bible.
- 3.
Demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the contemporary history of Old and
New Testament periods.
- 4.
Demonstrate practical knowledge in the theological disciplines (Ministry,
Christian Counseling or Education) as a basis for further study.
- 5.
Research, in depth, specific books of the Old and New Testament, and demonstrate
a high level of proficiency in Biblical exposition and Biblical languages
Master
of Theological Studies
- CREDIT
REQUIREMENTS: To
obtain this degree, the student must earn 36 credit hours (1-2 years) beyond
the Bachelor's degree and a passing grade on the New Testament History Examination.
The following total number of credits are required:
- 15
credits in Systematic Theology
- A
passing score on the Comprehensive Examination in Theology
- 9
credits in Biblical Studies
- 9
credits in Theological Studies
- 6
credits in Christian Ministry
- 9
credits(optional) in any one of the Optional Elective Tracks
- Thirty
hours per year of active participation in a service-oriented ministry
ADMISSION
REQUIREMENTS: Applicants
must have earned a bachelor's degree or its equivalent before being admitted
to the Master of Theological Studies program. Applicants transferring with a
secular bachelor's degree must pass an oral or written biblical knowledge examination
before being admitted to the program. These examinations are composed by the
MVBI staff and used at their discretion.
ADVANCED
STANDING: Students
may receive advanced standing through credit transfer and credit for life experience
