Gardner-Webb School of Divinity Offers New Master’s in Bible and Theology

Students Can Earn Degree to Strengthen Their Ministry and Gain Deeper Understanding of Scripture

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Gardner-Webb School of Divinity is offering a new program in the 2022 Fall Semester. The Master of Arts in Bible and Theology (MABT) is a 36-credit hour concentrated curriculum, providing biblical and theological knowledge to guide others into a deeper understanding of scripture and Christian theology. Up to 17 hours of the 36-hour degree may be taken online.

School of Divinity Dean and Professor of Theology Dr. Robert Canoy expressed his excitement over this new educational opportunity. “The MABT is for men and women who are interested in growing in their calling and in their professional futures,” Canoy observed. “Because ministry today takes various shapes, this new degree is an essential component that will elevate both new and long-term ministers. Focusing specifically on Bible and theology, we look forward to welcoming new students this coming fall who can earn their master’s degree in as few as three semesters (excluding summers).”

Accredited by the Association of Theological Schools, the MABT is intended primarily as professional preparation and equips students with leadership skills for congregational or para-church ministry settings. Students will learn from a faculty with strong ties to Gardner-Webb University’s Baptist tradition, including its historic commitments to biblical authority, the priesthood of all believers, and the separation of church and state. At the same time, the learning community is interdenominational, celebrating the diversity of the many ecclesial traditions represented within the student body.

School of Divinity Associate Dean and Professor of New Testament Interpretation Dr. Jim McConnell noted that the degree aligns with the School’s purpose. “The School of Divinity at Gardner-Webb is called to serve the church,” McConnell affirmed. “Through this new degree, men and women will be prepared for service in the church and beyond, being enabled to understand and proclaim the Good News of the Christian Gospel to a world that is in dire need of this Good News.”

By participating in classes and hands-on learning experiences, students will demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the Bible, including the history of its development, canonization and the variety of literary genres found within its pages. With a strong foundation in basic Christian understanding, graduates will be prepared to equip others to grow in their discipleship and make a difference in the world.

The degree is designed to provide a credential that will support individuals in teaching ministry of the church, leadership in faith-based ministries and organizations, and church staff positions not requiring ordination.

For more information, about the MABT, contact McConnell at [email protected] or (704) 406-3884 or Canoy at [email protected] or (704) 406-4395.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.