MTS – Biblical Studies
Sharpen Your Biblical Studies Expertise
The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) – Biblical Studies, available entirely online, provides a graduate-level understanding of several theological disciplines and offers a general foundation in biblical studies. Taught from a Christian Renewal perspective, this MTS degree in biblical studies will prepare you to participate in theological research, writing, and teaching. Our coursework includes biblical hermeneutics, spiritual formation, biblical languages, Christian theology, and Old and New Testaments.
Expand Your Expertise
Increase your understanding of biblical languages, hermeneutics, and interpretation.
Advance Your Knowledge
Examine contemporary issues in biblical criticism relating to the interpretation of Scripture and the interconnectivity of the Old and New Testaments.
Customize Your Coursework
Choose additional coursework on topics from Paul’s writings and parables of Jesus to concepts of covenant, according to your area of interest.
Access Faculty Expertise
Be mentored by a renowned faculty of scholars and practitioners that also teaches on campus in Virginia Beach.
To learn more about this program, please complete the Request Information form on this page.
The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) at Regent University is accredited by The Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS).
On completing the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) – Biblical Studies degree, you will be able to:
- Interpret Old and New Testament texts in the light of their historical contexts.
- Recognize basic features of Hebrew and Greek and use study aids to engage in basic word studies and grammatical exercises.
- Apply the knowledge gained from reading and research into Old and New Testament theology.
Career Opportunities
- Pastoral Staff
- Secondary school teaching
- Biblical Education
- Theological research and writing
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.
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.
2020-21 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 14 | Monday, August 24 |
| Session M | Friday, September 11 | Monday, September 21 |
| Session B | Friday, October 16 | Monday, October 26 |
| Session C | Tuesday, January 5 | Monday, January 11 |
| Session T | Friday, January 29 | Monday, February 8 |
| Session D | Friday, March 5 | Monday, March 15 |
| Session E | Friday, April 30 | Monday, May 10 |
| Session F | Friday, June 11 | Monday, June 21 |
*International applicants may begin in the fall or spring semesters only with an application deadline of February 15 (fall) or July 15 (spring).
Admissions Requirements
To be considered for acceptance into the master’s programs at the School of Divinity, the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) requires applicants to have a completed four-year bachelor’s degree (in any field) from a regionally accredited, post-secondary institution or an institution accredited by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Applicants with a bachelor’s degree from a non-regionally accredited institution will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Note: Army active duty, reserve and National Guard members may find detailed information on the application process through GoArmyEd on our GoArmyEd Admissions Guide.
In addition, applicants to master’s level programs should have:
- high intellectual achievement and scholarship as evidenced by college transcripts and the applicant’s writing sample
- spiritual maturity and integrity of character
- personal goals consistent with the mission of Regent University
- understand and accept the Statement of Faith
Application Process
1. Submit Your Application
Complete the School of Divinity Application for Admission. Note: We also require your official transcript from your degree-granting institution, which indicates 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.
2. Pay Your $50 Application Fee
Your application will be fully processed once we have received your nonrefundable application fee. Mail a check payable to “Regent University” to Enrollment Support Services (see address below).
3. Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA.
4. Complete Your Admissions Questionnaire
Please complete a brief admissions questionnaire based on your professional goals and interests, and provide thoughtful and thorough responses. This will give us a better opportunity to get to know you and see how your objectives align with our programs. Once completed, the questionnaire will be sent directly to an admissions counselor who will be in touch with you to help complete the rest of your application. Access the Admissions Questionnaire.
5. Submit your Unofficial College Transcripts*
We are able to examine and view your unofficial transcript from a U.S.-based school, which indicates successful completion of a bachelor’s degree program, in order to review you for an admissions decision. Please submit your unofficial transcript to our Admissions Office by email to apply@regent.edu using the subject line: DIV Master’s Application Pieces.
Non-U.S. transcripts must be evaluated by an NACES-approved company. For further details, please review the International Admissions Checklist on the International Students Admissions page.
International Applicants: Please visit the International Students Admissions page for a more detailed explanation of the Regent University application information and to determine whether or not you qualify as an international student.
*Upon conditional acceptance to the program by review of unofficial transcripts, Regent University’s Admissions Office will attempt to obtain your official transcripts from your U.S. degree-granting institution, which indicate successful completion of a bachelor’s degree program. We will notify you if your previous institution will not release transcripts directly to us.
6. Government-Issued ID
To ensure academic integrity, Regent University requires a copy of a government-issued ID. Please email a scanned copy or photograph of it to apply@regent.edu with the subject line: Government ID.
7. Mail all documents that are completed offline to the following address:
Regent University
Enrollment Support Services
1000 Regent University Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Phone: 757.352.4127 | Fax: 757.352.4381
PART-TIME STUDENTS
| Degree | Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour | Average Credit Hours Per Semester | Average Tuition Per Semester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts (MA) | $500 | 6 | $3,000 |
| Master of Divinity (MDiv) | $500 | 6 | $3,000 |
| Master of Theological Studies (MTS) | $500 | 6 | $3,000 |
| Master of Theology (ThM) | $650 | 3 | $1,950 |
| Doctor of Ministry (DMin) | $650 | 3 | $1,950 |
| Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) | $650 | 3 | $1,950 |
Full-Time Students
| Degree | Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour | Average Credit Hours Per Semester | Average Tuition Per Semester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts (MA) | $500 | 9 | $4,500 |
| Master of Divinity (MDiv) | $500 | 9 | $4,455 |
| Master of Theological Studies (MTS) | $500 | 9 | $4,500 |
| Master of Theology (ThM) | $650 | 6 | $3,900 |
| Doctor of Ministry (DMin) | $650 | 6 | $3,900 |
| Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) | $650 | 6 | $3,900 |
Student Fees Per Semester
| University Services Fee (On-Campus Students) | $800 |
| University Services Fee (Online Students) | $650 |
Part-Time Students
| Degree | Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour | Average Credit Hours Per Semester | Average Tuition Per Semester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts (MA) | $500 | 6 | $3,000 |
| Master of Divinity (MDiv) | $500 | 6 | $3,000 |
| Master of Theological Studies (MTS) | $500 | 6 | $3,000 |
| Master of Theology (ThM) | $650 | 3 | $1,950 |
| Doctor of Ministry (DMin) | $650 | 3 | $1,950 |
| Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) | $650 | 3 | $1,950 |
Full-Time Students
| Degree | Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour | Average Credit Hours Per Semester | Average Tuition Per Semester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts (MA) | $500 | 9 | $4,500 |
| Master of Divinity (MDiv) | $500 | 9 | $4,455 |
| Master of Theological Studies (MTS) | $500 | 9 | $4,500 |
| Master of Theology (ThM) | $650 | 6 | $3,900 |
| Doctor of Ministry (DMin) | $650 | 6 | $3,900 |
| Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) | $650 | 6 | $3,900 |
Student Fees Per Semester
| University Services Fee (On-Campus Students) | $750 |
| University Services Fee (Online Students) | $600 |
*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.