Online MA in Biblical Studies: Old Testament Emphasis
- Online
Deepen Your Knowledge of God’s Covenant and Teachings
The MA in Biblical Studies: Old Testament explores the richness of God’s covenant and the enduring truths found in Scripture. This program guides students to engage deeply with the Old Testament through the study of original biblical Hebrew and the principles of biblical hermeneutics. This facilitates accurate interpretation and effective communication of its messages.
Students are provided a strong biblical and theological foundation for teaching, ministry and further graduate studies. Graduates can then handle God’s Word with integrity, applying its wisdom across various ministry contexts.
Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Master's)
- Undergraduate Degree*
- 2.8+ GPA
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
- GMAT: 500
- GRE: 300 combined**
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
Study the Language and Meaning of the Old Testament
Choosing Grand Canyon University for your master’s in Old Testament studies means joining a mission-driven Christian university dedicated to integrating faith and learning. The program offers a biblically rooted college education grounded in a Christian worldview and is available online.
GCU offers affordable scholarship opportunities to help you throughout your program. Join a supportive community that fosters both academic and spiritual growth, helping to prepare you for impactful ministry and leadership.
When you choose GCU’s Old Testament studies online program, you can benefit from a flexible learning platform that connects you with faculty and peers through discussion boards, offers mentorship and provides 24/7 tech support. Digital resources like eBooks and interactive forums help keep you engaged and supported throughout your academic program.
Experience an education shaped by a Christian worldview that encourages academic inquiry, ethical leadership and personal purpose. Courses integrate faith with learning, inviting students to consider how Christian principles can inform their professional practice and interactions with others. Throughout your studies, you’ll encounter opportunities for reflection, service and values‑based growth that support both your spiritual development and your commitment to making a positive impact in your field.
Old Testament Studies Coursework
With a curriculum focused on hermeneutics, original Hebrew and theological depth, this program teaches you to interpret and communicate God’s Word effectively. Old Testament courses emphasize Old Testament theology, historical and cultural contexts and practical application, which can prepare you for ministry and teaching roles.
The program culminates in a capstone course where you conduct advanced research and produce a scholarly thesis that demonstrates your ability to interpret and communicate Old Testament Scripture.
Key areas of study include:
Biblical hermeneutics
Hebrew language
Old Testament exegesis
Pentateuch
Historical and cultural contexts
Old Testament theology
Explore Graduate Education in Biblical Studies
GCU’s College of Theology also offers a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies: New Testament emphasis for those interested in exploring the life and teachings of Christ and the early church. This program emphasizes the study of the Greek language, New Testament exegesis and theological interpretation within historical and cultural contexts. Both the Old Testament and New Testament degrees reflect our commitment to academic rigor and preparing graduates for their future.
Career Paths for Master’s in Biblical Studies: Old Testament Graduates
Graduating with an MA in Biblical Studies: Old Testament can open doors to various ministry opportunities. In these academic and leadership roles, you can serve faithfully and lead with biblical insight. With advanced skills in Scripture interpretation, teaching and theological research, our alums are prepared to guide others in understanding God’s Word with clarity and depth.
Graduates can explore careers in ministry, education and leadership, including:
Postsecondary theology educators
Religious leaders
Christian leaders in schools and organizations
Researchers and scholars
Chaplains
Religious educators holding a bachelor’s degree(See disclaimer 1)
Median annual wage for postsecondary philosophy and religion teachers in May 2024(See disclaimer 2)
Earn Your Biblical Studies Degree From an Accredited University
This program is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Associate of Theological Schools (ATS). Grand Canyon University is proud to be institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, and has upheld this accreditation since 1968.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here, you will find quick answers to common questions about the master’s in biblical studies program, helping you make informed decisions about your academic journey.
Is an MA in Biblical Studies: Old Testament degree worth it?
What’s the difference between New Testament and Old Testament studies?
Do Old Testament courses prepare you for ministry and teaching roles?
Program Curriculum
Core Courses
Deepen your understanding of Scripture and strengthen your theological foundation. Apply now for the MA in Biblical Studies: Old Testament program at GCU.
- Zippia. (2025). Religious Educator Demographics and Statistics in the U.S. Zippia. Retrieved December 2025.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary as of May 2024, retrieved December 2025. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as philosophy and religion teachers, postsecondary, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.