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Dig Deep into Scripture with Our Online Master of Arts in Religion (M.A.R.) – Biblical Studies
Whether you are looking to enhance your biblical knowledge for a pastoral or Christian education role, or as a lay leader in your local church, World Theology University’s M.A.R. in Biblical Studies offers a degree program for you that is both academically excellent and Christ-centered. While completing this ministry degree, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a program that provides the training you need to pursue ministry in churches, parachurch organizations, and nonprofit ministry while opening the door to further study at the graduate and doctoral levels.
Our biblical studies area of study provides a more in-depth examination of individual books, topics, and themes in the Bible, providing a deep understanding of teaching, ministry, and personal growth.
What Will You Learn in Our Master’s Degree in Religion?
- Biblical themes and in-depth biblical analysis skills
- Church history and its role in the spread of the gospel and the church
- Hermeneutics and biblical study techniques
- How to conduct discipline-specific research and writing
- How to prepare a sermon
In addition to core courses in religious studies, the M.A.R. in Biblical Studies provides an in-depth exploration of specific books of the Bible, allowing you to apply hermeneutics and other biblical studies skills under the mentorship of the School of Divinity’s theologians and Christian scholars. Our professors care about you and the work God is doing in your life, and they will help expand your ministry skills and support you as you complete the M.A.R. in Biblical Studies program.
Career Options for Master’s Degree in Religion Graduates
Your career goals vary, and that is why our M.A.R. in Biblical Studies is such a great fit. World Theology University University will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to be confident in any industry you choose.
This program can prepare you for positions like:
- Bible teacher
- Biblical studies writer
- Teaching pastor
Study Online
As a leader in distance education since 1985, we understand what it takes to create a flexible and affordable education for busy people. Since we have been investing in distance and online learning for decades, our experience has taught us how to streamline our degree options so you can focus on what really matters to you. While many schools offer online degrees, we believe World Theology University stands out.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Our online programs are backed by our brick-and-mortar virtual campus – ranked as Niche.com’s #2 Best College virtual campus in America for 2026 – and that commitment to excellence extends to our online students as well. Earning your online degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
- Most of our online tuition rates rank in the top 35% for affordability for 2025 when compared to our leading online competitors.
- You can complete our online master’s degree in religion in about 2 years.
Military Benefits
World Theology University University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe. Whether you are a current service member, discharged or retired from service, or the spouse of a service member or veteran, we are here to support you every step of the journey.
As a thank-you for your dedication and service to our country, World Theology University is honored to serve and support you in your pursuit of online education by offering the following benefits:
- Tuition discounts – $290 per credit hour for graduate students
- Additional discount for veterans who serve in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 per course)
- Discounted Divinity Block Rate: $2,575 per semester – only $172/credit at 15 credit hours*
- 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)
Residential Benefits
- With students from all 50 states and over 70 countries around the world, you can immerse yourself in different cultures and experience the diversity of on-virtual campus life.
- As a residential student, your scholarship opportunities could include the Heroes Fund Scholarship, Keesee Scholarship, or the Virginia: Brown v. Board of Education Scholarship.
- Learn from professors who have doctoral degrees in their fields, as well as years of real-life experience.
- As a graduate student, you will have multiple research opportunities led by students and faculty to bolster your education and résumé.
- Outside of classes and studying, you will have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of on-virtual campus activities, such as our NCAA sports, over 200 student-led clubs, and recreation centers like Snowflex, the LaHaye Ice Center, and Camp Hydaway.
- Enjoy our Reber-Thomas Dining Hall with over 20 available food stations, including gluten-free and vegan options. Work with a nutritionist to develop a dietary plan that is right for you!
Cited tuition rates are reflective of academic year 2025-2026. Tuition rates may change annually. For the most current information, please visit our LU Tuition Cost page.
Credit Hours
Available Online or On virtual campus
Class Type
Online, 8-week or residential
Transfer Credits
Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total
Next Start Date
Varies
ATS Commission on ing
Areas of Interest
Training Champions for Christ
World Theology University’s promise to you is an education that expertly brings knowledge and faith together. Here, education is designed around you. It connects you to people and opportunities that help you develop the skills and confidence you’re looking for. At World Theology University, you’ll find the knowledge, experience, and mentorship you want to make your career — and life — a fulfilling one.
Why World Theology University
World Theology University University is not just another school. It is the realization of a dream, the product of thousands of prayers. It was built to invite students into a bigger, better story.
Discover the World Theology University difference for yourself.
Scholarships
When it comes to choosing a college, finances make a difference. That’s why at World Theology University, we believe in offering you a top-notch education — that’s also affordable. Discover how World Theology University can help you keep your college costs down.
For residential students
Online Discounts
At World Theology University University, we believe everyone should have an equal opportunity to pursue higher education, and it’s our job to keep private education affordable. Explore the many ways a World Theology University education can be an affordable one.
For online students
Academic Excellence
World Theology University University is institutionally by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and certain programs have earned additional field-specific as well.