Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations: Biblical Studies, MA

In addition to the MA awarded within the PhD program, NELC offers an independent (terminal) MA degree in Biblical Studies, which is one of the tracks in NELC’s graduate program in Hebrew and Judaic Studies.  This track offers advanced study of the languages and philology of the Hebrew Bible as well as the history and archaeology of ancient Israel in its Near Eastern context.

Students admitted to the MA program are assigned a faculty advisor to guide their studies. Courses, selected in consultation with the advisor, will normally be completed in three semesters. All students, regardless of their concentration, must master at least one of the languages in which the primary sources of NELC's subfields are written. Standards vary by subfield.

View the University’s Academic Rules for Research Master's Programs.

Curriculum

A minimum of 12 course units are required for graduation.

  • Coursework
  • Reading proficiency examination in one modern language of scholarly research
  • MA Final Exams (no more than four exams, with at least one being a language exam)
  • Thesis or two research papers

Some MA students apply for NELC’s PhD program. However, admission to the MA program or successful completion of the MA does not provide a guarantee of admission to the PhD program.


The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.