Graduate School| Meet the Director |
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| Dr. John M. Soden, Ph.D. |
Director, Master of Arts |
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| Dr. Soden provides leadership for the graduate certificate and degree programs in Bible. Dr. Soden brings nearly ten years pastoral experience to the classroom along with his academic studies in the Old Testament. He earned his Th.M. and Ph.D. from Dallas Theological Seminary in Semitics and Old Testament Studies. He has been teaching in the Biblical Division at Lancaster Bible College since 1998. |
| Phone: 717.560.8200 ext. 5382 Email: |
Purpose
The Master of Arts in Bible program at Lancaster Bible College is designed to provide individuals the opportunity to pursue an integrated program of graduate study in Bible and theology. This program in English Bible provides an understanding of and appreciation for deeper biblical truth that transforms students’ minds, with a goal of motivating them to sacrificial ministry and service within the contexts of church and community (Romans 12:1–2).
Program of Study
Orientation Seminar 0 credits Advanced Hermeneutics 3 credits Biblical Languages 9 credits Bible/Theology Electives 15 credits Open Elective 3 credits Biblical Research 3 credits Thesis 3 credits Total 36 credits
Admission Requirements
- Accepted Jesus Christ as personal Savior
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Transcript of undergraduate studies with GPA of 2.75 or higher
- Major in Bible or completion of Bible Entrance Courses
- Autobiographical statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Completed application and fee
- Interview with program director
Program Design
Because the M.A.B. program is designed for the part-time student most courses meet one night a week during the fall and spring semesters. In addition, one week modular courses are offered in early January and throughout the summer months. Most students are able to complete the program in four years, with five years being the maximum time allowed.
Program Outcomes
Students in the Master of Arts in Bible programs will:
- Gain understanding in biblical studies and theology necessary to enhance the student’s personal growth, ministry and further education.
- Develop research and exegetical abilities necessary for continuing education in the areas of Bible and theology.
- Enhance skills for applying the Scriptures, shaping their world view for life and ministry.
- Cultivate written and oral skills necessary for effective communication and ministry.
The Graduate Certificate in Bible is a 15-credit program for indivduals who do not need the M.A.B. degree. The only required course is GB 501 Advanced Hermeneutics; the other four classes are Bible or theological courses selected by the student. The Directed Research Project is not required. Program completion is three years. The admission requirements are the same as those for M.A.B. degree students.
Meet the Faculty
- Richard G. Fairman,Th.D.
Grace Theological Seminary - Lester J. Hicks, M.A.R.
Westminster Theological Seminary - Stephen J. Nichols, Ph.D.
Westminster Theological Seminary - Robert D. Spender, Ph.D.
Dropsie University
Adjunct and visiting faculty who teach regularly:
- Richard E. Averbeck, Ph.D.
Annenberg Research Institute- Darrell L. Bock, Ph.D.
University of Aberdeen- Bradford A. Mullen, Ph.D.
Boston University- K. Lawson Younger, Jr., Ph.D.
Sheffield University
Sample List of Program Courses
BI 521 Selected Topics in Old Testament History BI 529 Current Issues in Old Testament Studies BI 530 Selected Topics in the Gospels TH 531 Theological Classics TH 540 Christian Apologetics