The goal of the Ph.D. is to expand and deepen the student's education in Biblical Studies. It prepares students to engage in independent research in various domains pertinent to the study of Scripture, such as Old Testament, New Testament, Septuagint Studies, ancient languages, and more. The degree promotes a thorough and rigorous foundation for research and studies in the area of biblical studies and ancient languages.

Prerequisites

  • M.A. in biblical studies or a degree closely related to this field.
  • Students with an S.S.L. or S.T.L. in biblical theology may be eligible for advanced standing.
  • Nine credits in advanced Hebrew.
  • Nine credits in advanced Greek

Program

  • A minimum of 30 credit hours beyond the M.A.
  • 12 credits in exegetical seminars (in the major Testament).
  • 9 credits in seminars in the minor Testament.
  • 3-credit doctoral seminar, “Textual Criticism of the Bible.”
  • 6 credits in exegesis or related areas such as theology, archaeology, Semitics, the Ancient Near East, ancient languages.
  • Intermediate knowledge of a third ancient language equivalent to one year of study.
  • Reading and comprehension knowledge of German and French in accordance with School norms.
  • A comprehensive doctoral examination.
  • Doctoral guidance as needed.
  • Completion and successful defense of the dissertation.

Languages

The Ph.D. in Biblical Studies requires a superior mastery of languages. Along with the nine credits in advanced Hebrew and Greek already completed in the M.A. program, intermediate in a third ancient language is required. OT specialists are usually encouraged to take Aramaic, Syriac, Arabic, Ugaritic, or Akkadian. NT specialists are advised to take Aramaic, Coptic, or Syriac. Either may find value in Latin. Student might have acquired a third language before beginning the program or developed this skill in a course, but classes to fulfill this requirement do not count toward the 30 credits needed to graduate. 

With regard to modern languages, a reading and comprehension knowledge of German and French must be demonstrated in accordance with School norms. 

Teaching and Fellowships

A well-developed teacher training program provides opportunities to learn about the scholarship of teaching and learning and apply it initially as a teaching assistant in collaboration with a professor and then independently in a class of one’s own. Teaching Fellows receive active mentorship from faculty as they develop and teach their own classes.