All students in the M.A. in Biblical Exegesis are required to complete the biblical language prerequisites previous to or concurrent with their degree.
Prerequisite Courses
In order to mobilize students to exegete Scripture in the original languages within an evangelical framework, we require students to have coursework in the ancient languages prior to enrollment at Wheaton:
- Students in the Old Testament track must have 2 semesters of Hebrew.
- Students in the New Testament track must have 2 semesters of Greek.
- Students in the dual track must have 2 semesters of Hebrew and 2 semesters of Greek.
If you have not met the prerequisite requirements, you may take Hebrew and/or Greek courses at Wheaton concurrently with your M.A. in Biblical Exegesis degree. See the Ancient Language Prerequisite Tuition Rebate for details.
Greek and Hebrew Competency Exams
Completion of the M.A. in Biblical Exegesis requires a language-based comprehensive exam. The exam is designed to establish Greek and Hebrew competency in preparation for the translation portions of the degree. Competency Exams are taken at the conclusion of the following courses during the first semester:
- BITH 508: Introduction to Hebrew Exegesis (4)
- BITH 509: Introduction to Greek Exegesis (4)
Dual track students will complete both Greek and Hebrew competency exams. Old Testament (Hebrew) or New Testament (Greek) students will only take the appropriate language exam within their track.
Students receiving exemptions from BITH 508 or BITH 509 prior to entering the program must pass language competency exams in early August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.
