Deepen your understanding of the Old Testament with a master’s degree focused on language, context, and careful interpretation. Freed-Hardeman University’s M.A. in Old Testament is one of the few programs that offers this level of focused study, helping you become a stronger teacher, preacher, or Bible student.
Graduate Studies:
College of Biblical Studies
Director of Graduate Theology:
Dr. Richard A. Brumback
Ph.D.
Program Coordinator:
Dr. Justin Rogers
Ph.D.
At FHU, the M.A. in Old Testament is more than a degree – it’s an investment in how you teach, preach, and lead. Offered in a flexible online format, this program lets you study deeply, work with the Hebrew text, and sharpen your ministry – all without stepping away from your current role. It’s a focused, practical path for those who want to go deeper in the Word and make a lasting impact.
At FHU, the M.A. in Old Testament is designed for ministers and Bible teachers who want to go deeper in the Word while continuing to serve. With flexible online courses and a strong emphasis on working directly with the Hebrew text, you’ll gain the tools to preach more effectively, teach with confidence, and shepherd others with greater insight. It’s a practical, ministry-focused degree that sharpens both your knowledge and your impact.
At Freed-Hardeman University, students enrolled in our M.A. in Old Testament can expect a comprehensive journey of the original Old Testament language that will enhance their understanding of biblical texts, explore the Old Testament world, and expand on Old Testament theology.
| BIB | Three (3) Old Testament Text Courses* | 9 |
| BIB 537 | Old Testament Theology | 3 |
| BIB 541 | Elementary Hebrew I** | 3 |
| BIB 542 | Elementary Hebrew II** | 3 |
| BIB 543 | Hebrew Readings | 3 |
| BIB 544 | Hebrew Exegesis | 3 |
| BIB 577 | Biblical Text, Canon, and Inspiration | 3 |
| BIB 585 | Thesis | 6 |
Student is granted 12 hours of advanced standing, due to completion of a bachelor’s degree in Biblical studies, this requirement will be reduced to two (2) courses. Send written request to the director.
**A student who has passed Elementary Hebrew I and II at the undergraduate level with a grade of “A” may be exempted from these two courses. Six (6) more hours of electives will be necessary to meet the program hour requirements.
NOTE: Contingent upon Board approval.
| Next Start Dates: | January 21
(Apply by January 7) |
To be considered for admission into the M.A. Old Testament program at FHU, please submit the following:
Simply put, you will be better equipped to serve in your role as a minister. The advanced knowledge you will receive combined with the mentorship provided by the faculty will transform you in ways you never thought possible!
Additionally, you will be eligible to participate in our annual guided archeological dig in the Holy Lands at a subsidized cost. It’s great to study about the Old Testament world, but it’s even better to see it with your own eyes!
A master’s degree in the Old Testament can certainly make you more attractive to churches seeking to hire. However, the true impact is in the difference you can make with the knowledge you receive from the program. The M.A. in Old Testament program will make you a more effective minister, enabling you to lead others along their spiritual journeys and help them gain a better understanding of the story of God’s people throughout the Old Testament.
The 48 credit hour master’s in New Testament can be completed in as little as two years. However, you can pace yourself as you choose. You can finish quicker as a full-time student (9+ credit hours per semester) or you can slow it down and take 6 or less credit hours per semester.
Advanced standing of 12 credit hours can be given for those with an appropriate undergraduate degree in biblical studies.
We know pursuing a graduate degree can come with a significant cost investment. So, in an attempt to help you further your education without breaking the bank, we offer competitive scholarships to many of our students. If you’re interested, complete the online application as well as the scholarship application. Afterwards, the Director of the Graduate School of Theology will be in touch regarding your potential for a scholarship award.
