Program Summary
The biblical studies major offers courses on the content and interpretation of the Bible, biblical languages and the cultures and lands which provided its original context and informed its earliest interpretation, including a study abroad opportunity in Israel.
This major is perfect for anyone preparing for ministry or the mission field, or who is contemplating a career as a biblical scholar or theologian, or for anyone who loves the Bible and recognizes its importance for their lifelong spiritual formation and their ability to live a life shaped by biblical values.
Biblical studies majors called to ministry can apply for Samford's accelerated BA-to-MDiv program. If accepted, they can earn both degrees in six years rather than the typical seven.
Biblical Studies majors who also complete a general business minor as part of their undergraduate program are eligible to enter into Samford University’s fifth-year MBA program.
Objectives & Goals
The major provides the tools, methods and approaches needed to understand and interpret the Bible and discern its message for today’s world.
Is This Program for Me?
The major is for students who wish...
- To gain a deeper knowledge of the Bible.
- To develop skills for a career in Christian ministry, missions, or service.
- To lay a foundation for further study in seminary or graduate school.
- To explore the rich history of Christianity.
- To sharpen their ability to ask good questions, think deeply, and communicate clearly.
- To explore their own faith and discover new ways to serve God and neighbor.
What Makes Us Different?
Personal Attention
The Department of Biblical and Religious Studies offers small classes, one-on-one advising, discussion groups, and informal meetings in professors’ offices and homes to facilitate in-depth conversations, careful directions and life-long friendships.
Scholarship and Ministry
All department faculty hold doctoral degrees in their field and many have seminary degrees and serve in local churches and ministries.
Joint Programs
The major may be easily combined with most other majors in Howard College of Arts and Sciences, or with a fast-track program in Cumberland School of Law or the master of social work degree in the School of Public Health.
Career Preparation
Market Ready
Through internships, directed research, challenging courses, and hands-on advising, Samford biblical studies majors sharpen their skills and knowledge in religious studies and ministry. They have the opportunity to preach weekly through Samford Sunday and develop research skills in independent studies. Students graduate prepared to be leaders in today’s complex religious world.
Internships
Through internships, directed research, challenging courses, preaching opportunities and hands-on advising, Samford biblical studies majors acquire the skills and knowledge required to become leaders in today’s complex religious world.Faculty Honors
- Dean’s Scholarship Award, Will Kynes, 2022
- Dean’s Award for Outstanding Teaching, Lisa Battaglia, 2020
- Co-winner of the Biblical Foundations Book Award (Old Testament), Will Kynes, 2019
- Southeastern Theological Fellowship Award for excellence in scholarship, Roy Ciampa, 2019
- Faculty Teaching Award, Jeffrey M. Leonard, 2019
- Dean’s Award for Teaching, Jeffery M. Leonard, 2017
- Dean’s Award for Research, James R. Strange, 2015
- Lilly Fellows Program in Humanities and the Arts, Regional Conference Grant for conference “Teaching the Christian Intellectual Tradition: Augustine Across the Curriculum,” T. Scott McGinnis 2014
- George Macon Memorial Award for teaching, Penny Long Marler, 2013
- Elected to membership in Studiorum Novi Testamenti Societas (Society for New Testament Studies), Roy E. Ciampa, 2012
- Alpha Iota Epsilon Chapter of Theta Alpha Kappa, the national honor society for religious studies and theology, chartered 2008
- Distinguished Book Award, Society for the Scientific Study of Religion, 1998 (to Penny Long Marler for Being There: Culture and Formation in Two Theological Schools)
