
Overview
Finely-honed language skills are central to the programme’s engagement with the Bible, the world that produced it, and its later readers. The Biblical Studies programme from The University of Edinburgh provides expert in-depth study of the Hebrew Bible and New Testament, the wider ancient Near East and Mediterranean World, and related extra-biblical literature including the Dead Sea Scrolls.
You will be taught by leading academics with research interests in the Hebrew Bible, New Testament, early Judaism and early Christianity.
You will benefit from weekly research seminars in biblical studies, and from our Centre for the Study of Christian Origins.
This programme can be taken either as a Master of Theology (MTh) or as a Master of Science (MSc); the difference is only in the name.
Career opportunities
This programme is designed to provide a strong foundation for postgraduate research in the field or for employment in a range of areas requiring critical analysis and empathetic understanding.
Get more details
Visit official programme websiteProgramme Structure
You will be given training in research methods which offers a practical approach to postgraduate level skills of critical investigation and writing, and receive individual supervision for your 15,000 word dissertation.
Compulsory courses
Compulsory courses comprise two biblical language/reading courses, in Greek or Hebrew/Aramaic, and two in research methods. Many scenarios for language study can be chosen in consultation with the Programme Director. If you have only one year’s prior biblical languages study you may take Intermediate Biblical Hebrew or Intermediate New Testament Greek.
Option courses
You will choose three options. At least two must be from courses in biblical studies, of which the following are examples:
- Hebrew Bible in Historical Critical Perspective
- Hebrew Scripture Theology
- The New Testament in its Graeco-Roman Context
- Science and Scripture
Check out the full curriculum
Visit official programme websiteKey information
Duration
- Full-time
- 12 months
- Part-time
- 24 months
- Flexible
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before
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Language
Delivered
Disciplines
Philosophy & Ethics Religious Studies & Theology Christian Studies View 251 other Masters in Philosophy & Ethics in United KingdomExplore more key information
Visit official programme websiteAcademic requirements
English requirements
Other requirements
General requirements
- A UK 2:1 honours degree with a mark of at least 65%, or its international equivalent, in theology/religious studies or a related field in which biblical studies features prominently.
Make sure you meet all requirements
Visit official programme websiteTuition Fee
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International
25300 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 25300 GBP per year during 12 months.
Home fees have still to be agreed
Part-time fees:
- International/EU - £12,650
Living costs for Edinburgh
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
On average around 50% of Divinity postgraduate students are awarded some level of scholarship funding.
- Scholarships are awarded on academic merit. Most are open to all, but some are ring-fenced for applicants from certain parts of the world.
- Awards are made for both masters and PhD programmes.
- Typically, awards are for full or partial fee costs. Fully funded awards are exceptional and highly competitive.
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.