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Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies

This program of study engages students in biblical studies for personal development, biblical literacy, and preparation for a career in ministry with a focus on Scripture.

Dive into the content and context of Scripture.

This program is ideal for people who want a deeper understanding of Scripture in an academic setting. The courses required for this program focus on the Bible, in addition to general education and elective requirements.  In addition to the 61 credit hours of academic studies, students are required to fulfill the Leadership in Action requirement.

Outcomes
  • Educate (Comprehensive Biblical Knowledge): Students will have a deep and comprehensive understanding of the Bible, hermeneutical techniques, and historical and contemporary theological issues.
  • Equip (Leadership and Practical Application): Students will have skills necessary to translate biblical knowledge into effective leadership within church and community settings.
  • Empower (Further Educational and Vocational Pursuits): Students will have the basic knowledge, skills, and foundation for seamless transitions into bachelor’s degree programs or various roles within their church and community.

Time & Cost

Many people would like to complete a degree and stay out of debt. 

The Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies program requires 20 courses + Student Orientation (or 61 credit hours), which can be completed in 1-2 years for full-time students. Courses are offered on-campus or online (can be entirely online). Manna U’s low tuition rates enable students to receive solid biblical training from accomplished faculty with years of ministry experience and not be hindered financially.

Total Cost: $16,800

2025 - 2026 Undergraduate Tuition Rate

$250 per credit hour

Fees

Scholarships are available for students who do not use military education benefits or federal financial aid.

Courses

Full details can be found in the most recent academic catalog.

Orientation & Exit Course (1 Credit)

Course Number Course Name Credit Hours
ENG 107 Undergraduate Student Orientation 1
ENG 295 Associate Degree Exit Course 0

Bible & Theology Core (18 Credits)

Course Number Course Name Credit Hours
BIB 101 Old Testament Survey 3
BIB 103 New Testament Survey 3
BIB 104 Hermeneutics 3
BIB 201 The Writings of John 3
BIB 220 Defense Against the Dark Arts 3
THE 101 Introduction to Theology 3

General Studies Core (12 Credits)

Course Number Course Name Credit Hours
CNS 110 General Psychology 3
ENG 111 College Writing 3
ENG 112 Research for Writing 3
PHL 101 Philosophy & Worldview 3

General Studies Math & Science Core (3 Credits are required)

Course Number Course Name Credit Hours
MTH 211 College Mathematics 3
SCI 310 Biology 3

Personal Formation Core (9 Credits are required)

Course Number Course Name Credit Hours
BIB 200 Hearing from God 3
CLG 101 Destiny & Calling 3
CLG 201 Spiritual Formation 3
LEA 220 Mentoring & Coaching 3

Biblical Studies Major Courses (18 Credits are required)

Course Number Course Name Credit Hours
BIB 230 Book of Genesis 3
BIB 240 Book of Psalms 3
BIB 303 Book of Romans 3
BIB 305 Prison Epistles 3
BIB 307 Wisdom Literature 3
THE 201 Systematic Theology I 3
THE 202 Systematic Theology II 3

Admissions

To become a student at Manna U, follow these two steps:

1.  Complete an application, which includes:

  • A non-refundable application fee of $50 (linked to application)
  • An essay, written by the applicant, of his/her conversion experience (300-600 words), in a format that is typed and double spaced, using 12 pt. font size;
  • A Pastoral Reference* from the Pastor of the church that the applicant regularly attends;
  • A Personal Reference* from someone who has known you for two years or more and is not related to you.
    Applicants will enter an email address for their selected references and a link to the online reference forms will be sent once the application is submitted.

In addition, Doctoral students require:

  • At least three years of ministry experience and must hold an appropriate master’s degree plus no less than 15 credit hours in Bible or Theology from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university.
  • Additionally, students will be interviewed by the Chief Academic Officer before acceptance.

2.  Order your official high school, G.E.D., or previous college transcripts (minimum 2.0 GPA is preferred for Undergraduate Applicants, and a minimum 2.75 GPA is preferred for Graduate and Doctoral Applicants).

Note: official transcripts are sent directly from one school/college to another. You can arrange to have your transcripts sent electronically to registrar@manna.edu, or a paper copy can be sent to our mailing address:

Manna University
Attn: Registrar’s Office
439 Westwood Shopping Center
PMB 106
Fayetteville, NC 28314

All applicants applying for admission to one of Manna U’s graduate programs must submit official transcripts showing an earned undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, or an equivalent academic achievement approved by Manna U’s Academic Office. Students who plan to use military education benefits must submit transcripts from high school and all colleges attended.

Students who plan to use military education benefits must submit transcripts from high school and all colleges attended.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • This degree is ideal for any number of people interested in studying the Bible in an academic context. Our Certificate in Biblical Studies is ideal for those who want to get right to studying the Bible, but don’t want to take general education courses. Our Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies is the traditional undergraduate degree for students who want to study and apply the Bible. Our graduate degrees in Biblical Studies is ideal for those in Pastoral Ministry who preach or teach, those interested in a career in Biblical Studies or Theology, or those who already have a Bachelor’s Degree and want to know more about the Bible.

Student Story

Effective Leaders Bring Lasting Impact

Jesus chose twelve leaders who were from differing backgrounds. Many religious leaders in that time would have overlooked them. Through teaching and training, He prepared them to lead a movement that changed the world. Whatever your call may be, training at Manna U can help you engage in this kind of transformational leadership.

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