Bible/Biblical Studies.

Degree Overview

Bible / Biblical Studies (CIP 39.0201) is a humanities and theology-focused field dedicated to the academic study of the Bible as a foundational religious, historical, literary, and theological text. This degree explores the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) and the New Testament in depth, examining their historical contexts, languages, interpretations, and influence on faith, culture, ethics, and society. It is designed for students who want a deep, structured understanding of biblical texts and their role in shaping religious thought and human history.

For a degree search site, Bible / Biblical Studies represents a mission-driven and intellectually rigorous pathway that blends faith-based inquiry with critical scholarship. The Bible remains one of the most influential texts in the world, shaping theology, law, literature, morality, and culture across centuries. This degree appeals to students seeking theological depth, spiritual formation, and analytical understanding of scripture, whether for ministry, education, service, or personal vocation.

What Is a Bible / Biblical Studies Degree?

A Bible / Biblical Studies degree is an academic program centered on the systematic study of biblical texts. Unlike general religious studies programs, which examine many religions comparatively, biblical studies focuses specifically on the Christian scriptures and their Jewish roots.

Students examine the Bible through multiple lenses, including:

• Historical and cultural context
• Literary structure and genre
• Theology and doctrine
• Interpretation and hermeneutics
• Original languages and translations
• Application to faith, ethics, and ministry

Institutions—often faith-based colleges, universities, and seminaries—offer this degree to:

• Prepare students for Christian ministry, teaching, and service
• Develop strong biblical literacy and theological understanding
• Train leaders for churches, nonprofits, and missions
• Provide a foundation for graduate theological or seminary study

Programs may emphasize spiritual formation alongside academic rigor, integrating faith and scholarship.

What Will You Learn?

Students learn how the Bible was written, compiled, translated, interpreted, and applied across history. You’ll explore how biblical texts address questions of faith, morality, suffering, justice, leadership, and human purpose.

Core Skills You’ll Build

Graduates typically develop skills such as:

• Biblical interpretation (hermeneutics)—understanding meaning and context
• Textual analysis—close reading of scripture
• Theological reasoning—connecting biblical themes and doctrines
• Historical analysis—studying ancient cultures and settings
• Ethical reflection—applying biblical principles to moral questions
• Written and oral communication—teaching, preaching, and writing clearly
• Research skills—using scholarly sources and commentaries
• Spiritual discernment and formation—personal growth and reflection

These skills are valuable in ministry, education, counseling, and service-oriented roles.

Topics You May Explore

Coursework varies by denomination and institution, but commonly includes:

• Old Testament / Hebrew Bible: law, history, poetry, and prophets
• New Testament Studies: Gospels, Acts, Epistles, and Revelation
• Biblical Theology: major themes and doctrines of scripture
• Hermeneutics: principles of biblical interpretation
• Biblical History and Geography: ancient Near East and Greco-Roman world
• Biblical Languages: Hebrew and/or Greek (introductory)
• Jesus and the Gospels: life, teachings, and theology of Jesus
• Pauline Literature: letters and early Christian theology
• Biblical Ethics: moral teaching and contemporary application

Many programs also include practicums, ministry experience, or service learning.

What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?

A Bible / Biblical Studies degree often serves as preparation for ministry, teaching, or faith-based service. Career outcomes depend on denomination, additional credentials, and calling.

Common career paths include:

• Pastor or Minister: church leadership (often with ordination)
• Youth or Campus Minister: working with students and young adults
• Missionary or Faith-Based Service Worker: domestic or international service
• Christian Educator or Bible Teacher: teaching in schools or churches
• Church Administrator or Program Director: supporting ministry operations
• Nonprofit or Faith-Based Organization Staff: service and outreach roles
• Chaplain: spiritual care in hospitals, military, or prisons (with training)
• Graduate or Seminary Path: pursuing advanced theological education

Many roles require further theological training, certification, or denominational endorsement.

Where Can You Work?

Graduates work in environments connected to faith, service, and education:

• Churches and religious congregations
• Christian schools, colleges, and seminaries
• Faith-based nonprofit organizations
• Mission agencies and outreach organizations
• Community service and humanitarian organizations
• Hospitals, military, or correctional facilities (chaplaincy)
• Publishing or media ministries

Biblical studies graduates often work in roles focused on teaching, guidance, and service.

How Much Can You Earn?

Earnings vary widely based on role, location, and organization.

Typical ranges include:

• Entry-level ministry or service roles: often $30,000–$45,000
• Pastors, educators, or program directors: commonly $45,000–$70,000
• Senior ministry leaders or administrators: can earn $70,000–$100,000+

Many graduates prioritize mission, calling, and service over salary alone.

Is This Degree Hard?

Bible / Biblical Studies is considered academically and spiritually demanding. While not math- or lab-intensive, it requires extensive reading, writing, interpretation, and reflection. Students must engage deeply with complex texts and differing theological viewpoints.

The challenge lies in thoughtful interpretation, historical understanding, and faithful application.

Who Should Consider This Degree?

This degree may be a strong fit if you:

• Have a deep interest in the Bible and Christian faith
• Enjoy reading, writing, and theological discussion
• Feel called to ministry, teaching, or service
• Want to integrate faith with academic study
• Are considering seminary or graduate theological education

How to Prepare in High School

To prepare for a biblical studies program:

• Take English, history, and literature courses
• Develop strong reading comprehension and writing skills
• Participate in church, youth groups, or faith-based programs
• Read the Bible thoughtfully and reflectively
• Practice discussing ideas respectfully and critically

Bible / Biblical Studies (CIP 39.0201) is a degree for students who want to engage scripture with depth, discipline, and purpose. It equips graduates with biblical literacy, theological insight, and ethical grounding—preparing them to teach, serve, lead, and live thoughtfully in faith-based and service-oriented communities.