Distance Learning Anglican Biblical Studies Degree Program Overviews

Distance learning programs for specifically Anglican Biblical studies are rare. However, undergraduate and graduate level Biblical studies degree programs are available online. Students can earn an associate's degrees, bachelor's degrees or master's degrees through programs with no residency requirements.

Online Associate's Degree in Biblical Studies

Several schools offer an Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies (AABS) online. Students experience an overview of the Old and New Testaments and an introduction to theology. Associate's degree programs may appeal to students who wish to increase their knowledge of the Bible and theology for academic or personal reasons, or as a means of deepening their involvement with a church or other religious organization.

Program Information and Requirements

An online associate's degree can be completed in two years. Entering students must have a high school diploma or a GED. Students may study part- or full-time. While classes are self-paced, students must meet deadlines for assignments. Students should expect to spend up to 12 hours online each week. Most communication is through e-mail or online discussion boards.
Computers should have up-to-date browsing software and operating systems. Some schools may have specific audio and visual software and hardware requirements. Most of this software can be downloaded for free. Some assignments require Microsoft Word.

List of Common Associate-Level Biblical Studies Courses

Students must complete general education requirements in writing, communication and science. Courses on the Bible are organized around specific sections. Other classes discuss methods of Bible study and interpretation, church doctrines and teaching Christian faith.

Old Testament Overview Course

This course examines the historical, prophetical and poetical books of the Old Testament, introducing major figures. Some classes may focus on a particular theme, such as interactions between God and humans.

New Testament Overview Course

This course explores major segments of the New Testament in a historical context, including epistles, Revelations, gospels and acts. Some classes concentrate closely on particular sections such as the Pauline Epistles.

Ministry Course

Students discuss current theological issues facing postmodern Christian communities and individuals worldwide. For instance, participants may study the role cultural differences play in contemporary Christian conflicts.

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Online Bachelor's Degree in Biblical Studies

Both Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) programs in Biblical studies are available entirely online. Students examine, explain and defend the Bible both from an academic background and a position of faith. Bachelor's degree programs may be useful to students aspiring to enter the ministry or undertake missionary work.

Program Information and Requirements

Bachelor's programs can be completed in four years. Students may take up to 12 classes per year. Some schools require students to complete a ministry internship. In addition to theological courses, students complete a thorough general-education curriculum.
Students should have access to high-speed Internet, with current web browsing software. Interaction between classmates and instructors occurs through e-mail and discussion forums. Students receive and submit their assignments online, but internships or other classes may require in-person commitments.

List of Common Bachelor's Level Biblical Studies Courses

Classes are clustered around categories, such as the Bible, Bible studies, theology, general education and electives.

Hermeneutics Course

Hermeneutics is the study of interpretation. In a Biblical hermeneutics course, students apply interpretive strategies to exploring the history of the Bible and defending the text in its current form.

Romans Course

This course is an in-depth exploration of Paul's letter to the Romans. Students pay close attention to the descriptions of sin and faith and instructions for salvation and sanctification. Lessons from the epistle are suggested for modern living.

Theology Course

Students study the existence, names and nature of God according to the Bible. Additional subjects include Christology (studies concerning the incarnation of Christ), pneumatology (the study of the Holy Spirit), soteriology (study of salvation doctrine), ecclesiology (study of the church's origin) and eschatology (study of the present and end times of humanity).

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Online Master's Degree in Biblical Studies

Master of Arts in Biblical Studies programs are available completely online. Some programs are oriented toward the particular denomination of the school. Students may enter master's degree programs as preparation for a career in the clergy.

Program Information and Requirements

Students must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited school. Undergraduate degrees in religion are preferred. The M.A. program can be completed in two years. Students may log in to their classes at any convenient time. Some classes may be available all year while others have scheduled sessions. Tests may be administered by mail and require a proctor.
Students communicate with faculty and classmates through chats, discussion forums and email. Internet access should be DSL or faster.

List of Common Master's Level Biblical Studies Courses

Students participate in graduate-level studies and discussions of Bibliology, doctrine, hermeneutics and theology. Some classes focus on the duties of a minister.

Old Testament History Course

Students study the cultural and historical implications of the Pentateuch (first five books of the Bible), creation and the story of Israel.

Counseling Course

This course familiarizes students with effective methods of counseling in accordance to Christian doctrines. Focuses may include crisis counseling, substance abuse, marriage and family counseling, sexual issues and eating disorders.

Church History Course

Students explore historical developments of doctrine in various denominations. Many courses focus especially on the period of time from the Reformation to the present, detailing key historical figures.

Continuing Education

Students who wish further academic development studies can pursue a doctorate in Biblical studies or theology. While online doctorate programs are difficult to find, many schools offer on-campus options.

Career Information

Graduates with a degree in Biblical studies are hired as religious leaders and counselors by churches, medical facilities, social service agencies and the military. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov), clergy had a mean annual wage of $46,960 in May 2009. Directors of religious activities and education had a mean annual wage of $40,770 in May 2009.