Interpret scripture in its original languages Biblical Exegesis (M.A.)

The M.A. in Biblical Exegesis from Wheaton College is a language-based degree that emphasizes the study of both the Old and New Testaments within an evangelical framework. This degree prepares you for both doctoral programs and work in ministry, missions, translation, education, and more. 

Credential Type

  • M.A.

Major Credits Required

  • 42

Program Duration

  • 2 years

Format

  • Residential

Language Tracks

  • Greek, Hebrew

Expert Faculty

Our expert faculty walk alongside you to uncover answers in theology and exegesis. 



Dedicated Mentors

Explore your concentration with expert guidance from a faculty mentor.

 

 

3 Concentrations

Focus on the Old Testament, New Testament, or both.

Request Information

Or reach out to us anytime at graduate.admissions@wheaton.edu.

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Why Wheaton for Biblical Exegesis? A Holistic Approach to Biblical-Theological Studies

As you faithfully study Scripture in the original languages, you'll gain the research skills necessary for advanced study and service to church and society.

Program Overview

This language-intensive graduate program strategically designed to equip you to exegete Scripture in Greek and Hebrew for the betterment of the church and world. The curriculum focuses on three interrelated areas:

  • Biblical and theological knowledge
  • Academic skills and critical reflection
  • Christian life and service

Build a Robust Dossier

When you graduate, you'll have plenty to show. Your dossier -- a collection of essays and papers -- demonstrates that you have met the program learning outcomes. Often, this writing and research is a launching point into continued scholarly or creative work.

Our Curriculum

The M.A. in Biblical Exegesis mobilizes students to faithfully study Scripture in the original languages. The length and specific components of the program will vary based on your concentration and ancient language prerequisites.

Overall, the Biblical Exegesis curriculum builds language competency and cultivates an integrated approach to exegesis, such as factoring in hermeneutical theory, historical and cultural contexts, literary genres, and the theological contours of the canon.

Sample Courses

Your program includes a mix of core and concentration requirements, language study, and electives from across the Wheaton Graduate School. Examples include:

  • Hebrew Exegesis
  • Intro to Hermeneutics
  • History of Christianity
  • Classical Hebrew Inscriptions

Our Faculty Compassionate and Intelligent Educators

As committed Christians, our faculty will walk alongside you as you wrestle through the hard questions of faith and look for God-honoring answers in evangelical theology and exegesis.

Biblical Exegesis faculty bring a wide range of scholarly interests and expertise to the classroom, including Old Testament and the ancient Near East, New Testament and Pauline studies, Bible translation, prophetic literature, biblical criticism and interpretation, and specializations in particular books like Genesis, Job, and Isaiah.

Todd Wilson
Alumni in Action

Engaging With Biblical Texts

“If you're looking for a course of study that will help you engage seriously with the biblical texts in their original contexts -- and place that within a global horizon -- then Wheaton's Biblical Exegesis M.A. is for you. A rigorous curriculum, leading evangelical scholars, a vibrant learning atmosphere!"

— Todd Wilson M.A. ’01

Todd Wilson is the co-founder and president of the Center for Pastor Theologians. He also is the author or editor of over a dozen books related to Christian ministry, theology, and biblical studies.

After earning his bachelor's and master's degrees at Wheaton College, he went on to earn a Ph.D. in New Testament Studies from Cambridge University and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

Investing in You

Financial Wellness

The Wheaton College Graduate School Student Financial Services team can help you understand how much your degree program will cost and what scholarships, loans, and aid may be available to you.

Learn About Graduate Financial Aid

Graduates of the M.A. in Biblical Exegesis program have used their skills and deep-rooted faith in a variety of settings, including:

  • Churches
  • Missions Organizations
  • Christian and Classical Schools
  • Bible and Theological Colleges
  • Publishing Houses

 

Many Biblical Exegesis alumni have gone on to complete doctoral programs right here at the Wheaton College Graduate School and at institutions such as:

  • Cambridge University
  • Duke University
  • Emory University
  • Hebrew Union
  • Marquette University
  • University of Notre Dame
  • Oxford University
  • Princeton University
  • Trinity Evangelical Divinity School
  • University of Chicago
  • University of Edinburgh
  • Yale University

More About This Program Frequently Asked Questions

We've put together a few common questions (and their answers) about this graduate program.

Next Steps

Interested in pursuing master's degree in Biblical Exegesis at Wheaton? Request more information or start your application today.