Certificate of Graduate Studies in Biblical Studies
The Certificate of Graduate Studies in Biblical Studies, offered online, is a graduate-level certificate program that will help you gain a basic understanding of the content and interpretation of Christian Scripture. This certificate program is for non-degree-seeking students only.
- Strengthen your ability to interpret Scripture and study the Bible with depth and insight.
- Hone your expertise of Old and/or New Testament Scripture as the revelation of God’s truth.
- Gain a sound introduction to biblical languages.
Please complete the Request Information form on this page to learn more about this program.
This certificate program may help you grow as an expert in your field and advance your calling as a lay minister, pastor or nonprofit team member.
DIV 500 Graduate Foundations for Divinity (2), as required upon admission, plus 12 credit hours from any 500-600 level BIBL courses.
Distinctives of various types of biblical literature, with an emphasis on interpretation and contemporary application. Topics: historical narrative, psalm, wisdom, parable, epistle, prophecy and apocalypse. Emphasis on unity and inspiration of Scripture.
Contents, themes, and genres of the New Testament canon; methodologies for interpreting the texts in light of their historical contexts.
Contents, themes, and genres of the Old Testament canon; methodologies for interpreting the texts in light of their historical contexts.
Biblical theology using the Pauline correspondence within its historical context. Covers the leading themes of Pauline theology, drawn from Paul’s writings.
Basic features of Hebrew and Greek and use of available study aids such as lexicons, concordances, and other exegetical tools. Enables those with little or no prior knowledge of the biblical languages to engage in basic word studies and grammatical exercises.
Directed reading and research into the nature, history and method of Old Testament theology. Examines major theological concepts and themes in the Old Testament. Emphasizes current debate, and familiarity with significant Old Testament and scholarly research on particular topics/issues in O.T. theology.
An investigation of the nature, contents, and message of the Pentateuch, with a focus on understanding its theological message and relevance for godly living in all ages and cultures. Various topics are considered, including hermeneutics and historicity of biblical narrative and the nature of ancient law.
A study of the books of Joshua-Judges with the aim of developing a clear understanding of the content of these books, their relationship to one another, their placement within the deuteronomistic history, and the key concerns they outline.
A study that outlines the development of the Monarchy in ancient Israel. Primary consideration given to 1 Samuel – 2 Kings with due attention paid to the development of the monarchy within the Pentateuch and early Israelite histories as well as to later, theological reflections on the subject.
An exegetical study of the books of Ruth, Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Lamentations, and Daniel.
An exegetical study of the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi.
Introduction to the grammar of Biblical Hebrew. Emphasis is placed on alphabet, vowels, verbs and basic reading vocabulary as a foundation for further studies in Biblical Hebrew.
Resumption of Biblical Hebrew 1 with continued emphasis on grammar and vocabulary. Stress on weak verbs and basic knowledge of syntax. Exercises and reading of selected texts of Hebrew prose. Prerequisite: BIBL 630.
Exercises in translation, vocabulary building and exegesis of select portions of the Hebrew Old Testament. Prerequisite: BIBL 631.
Translation of a select book of the Hebrew OT or select representative passages (e.g., narrative, law, psalms, prophecy, poetry). Analysis of the text with a view toward preparation for biblical exposition, preaching or further academic study. Prerequisite: BIBL 632.
Directed reading and research into the nature, history and method of New Testament theology. Examines major theological concepts and themes in the New Testament. Emphasizes current debate, and familiarity with significant New Testament and scholarly research on particular topics/issues in N.T. theology.
Exploration of the origin, nature and purpose of the first three Gospels in relation to contemporary research, including the synoptic problem, form criticism and redaction criticism. Discusses the contemporary relevance of each Gospel message.
Study of the major themes and texts related to the biblical theology of Luke-Acts. Special emphasis is put on the work and ministry of the Holy Spirit and his renewing influence in the first century Church and application for ministry today.
In-depth study of the distinct contribution of the writings of Paul to the New Testament and canon of Scripture. Emphasis on the major themes and texts of Paul’s epistles and their present day application to church and ministry.
Comprehensive study of the eight general non-Pauline epistles. Emphasis on major themes and texts including Christological, ethical, eschatological facets of each book with a mind toward practical application in church and ministry.
In-depth study of the Gospel of John, his epistles, and the Revelation. Special emphasis is placed on Christology, history, spirituality, theology, and work of the Holy Spirit in John’s writings and their practical application for church and ministry.
Intensive course in basic morphology and syntax of New Testament Greek. Covers basic vocabulary and grammar as a foundation for further studies in biblical Greek.
Continuation of the study of New Testament Greek. Includes translation and exegesis of 1 John. Prerequisite: BIBL 670.
Develops reading vocabulary and exegetical skills of New Testament Greek through intensive study of 1 and 2 Thessalonians in the Greek text. Prerequisite: BIBL 671.
Exercises in translation, vocabulary building and exegesis of select portions of the Greek New Testament and Septuagint (LXX). Prerequisite: BIBL 672.
Provides the knowledge, resources, and essential skills needed for success at the graduate level. Topics include academic writing, online learning, information literacy and advising and support services for Divinity students.
2022-23 Semester Check-In Deadlines
All new students are expected to check-in for the semester two weeks before the session start date. Students should apply, be accepted, enroll in their first courses, and confirm a plan to pay for their courses prior to this date.
| Session | Semester Check-In | Session Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| Session A | Friday, August 12 | Monday, August 22 |
| Session M | Friday, September 9 | Monday, September 19 |
| Session B | Friday, October 14 | Monday, October 24 |
| Session C | Wednesday, January 4 | Monday, January 9 |
| Session T | Friday, January 27 | Monday, February 6 |
| Session D | Friday, March 3 | Monday, March 13 |
| Session E | Friday, April 28 | Monday, May 8 |
| Session F | Friday, June 9 | Monday, June 19 |
Certificate programs are designed for those seeking professional development through continuing education for ministers and pastors. Students earn graduate credit that can be applied toward a ministry degree program if further study is desired. Certificate students wishing to earn an academic degree must apply separately to that degree program and meet full admission requirements. Acceptance into a certificate program does not guarantee acceptance into a degree program.
Application Process:
- Submit Your Application
Complete the School of Divinity Application for Admission. Note: We also require copy of the transcript showing the latest degree conferred. Regent University has partnered with DocuSign to offer a secure, electronic way for your previous college transcripts to be delivered on your behalf once you have registered for your first semester.
Please note: All applicants should understand and accept the Statement of Faith. - Provide Your Unofficial College Transcripts
We require an official transcript indicating successful completion of a bachelor’s degree program. Regent has partnered with DocuSign to offer a secure, electronic way for your previous college transcripts to be delivered on your behalf once you have registered for your first semester.- If you have an unofficial copy of your college transcripts, please email those to apply@regent.edu using the subject line: DIV Certificate Application Pieces.
- If you are an international student, or you earned college credit at non-US institutions, please submit your transcripts for a third-party course-by-course evaluation. Learn more and find recommended agencies.
Mail all documents that are completed offline to the following address:
Regent University
Enrollment Support Services
1000 Regent University Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23464 USA
Phone: 757.352.4127 | Fax: 757.352.4381
| Certificate of Graduate Studies | Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour | Total Credits | Tuition Cost for Certificate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biblical Languages | $515 | 12 | $6,180 |
| Biblical Studies | $515 | 12 | $6,180 |
| Christian Theology | $515 | 12 | $6,180 |
| Church History | $515 | 12 | $6,180 |
| Church Leadership | $515 | 12 | $6,180 |
| Online Ministry | $515 | 12 | $6,180 |
| Spiritual Formation | $515 | 12 | $6,180 |
| Worship & Media | $515 | 12 | $6,180 |
Student Fees Per Semester
| University Services Fee (On-Campus Students) | $850 |
| University Services Fee (Online Students) | $700 |
*Rates are subject to change at any time.
Estimated Cost of Attendance: View the estimated cost of attendance to see an example of the total cost of tuition and fees.
