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Diploma of Biblical Studies
The Diploma of Biblical Studies (D.B.S.) is a terminal diploma program open to qualified men and women who have not completed an undergraduate degree. VBTS offers this educational option to those who desire to prepare for a support role in the local church or in the work of missions, but whose life circumstances have not allowed the completion of an undergraduate degree. Eligible students must manifest spiritual and theological competency. The DBS may be completed in residence only.
The following courses are offered in the Diploma of Biblical Studies program.
Click on each course to learn about its content, professor, requirements, and textbooks.
Christian Ministry & Communication |
6 credit hours |
Biblical Theology & Exegesis |
15 credit hours |
Historical & Systematic Theology |
15 credit hours |
Elective |
3 credit hours |
Total |
39 credit hours |
The prerequisites for admission into the Master of Biblical Studies program are the following:
1. Applicants must not have earned a bachelors degree.
2. Applicants must give proof of a high school graduation by submitting a high school diploma, General Equivalency Diploma (GED), or equivalency. In the event that the applicant is a home school graduate he or she should submit a list of courses taken, work completed and any SAT or ACT test scores.
3. Applicants must be at least 30 years of age. Younger applicants are encouraged to complete an undergraduate degree program prior to seminary.
4. Students entering the Diploma of Biblical Studies Program must carefully read The Moody Handbook of Theology by Paul Enns and Basic Biblical Interpretation by Roy Zuck.
The graduating Diploma of Biblical Studies student will be able to:
1. Interpret the biblical text with sound methodological principles and practices.
2. Articulate theology in a manner consistent with the biblical text.
3. Apply a biblical and theological framework to local and global ministry.
