Herschel H. Hobbs School of Theology and Ministry
A degree from the Hobbs School of Theology and Ministry formally prepares you for ministry, whether proclaiming the word of God through teaching, preaching or in practical avenues of leading, loving and serving others. Our mission is to empower and inspire future leaders for Kingdom impact.
We offer a variety of program paths in theology and ministry as well a host of programs you can choose as a minor emphasis. Our school can also prepare you through online and master’s degree programs. Each of our academic programs is biblically rooted, theologically faithful and practically relevant.
Hear from the chair of the School of Theology and Ministry, Dr. Brandon Smith, about how a degree from OBU will prepare you to be a future shaper.
Undergraduate Programs
Biblical and Theological Studies
As you pursue the path of biblical and theological studies, you can choose from one of five areas of concentration. Each will guide you through the rich study of biblical texts in their historical, cultural and language contexts. You'll gain valuable insights into scripture and strengthen your scriptural knowledge and theological foundation. The specific areas of emphasis include biblical studies, biblical languages, Bible and theology, history and theology, and practical theology. This program is also taught in an online format.
Christian Ministry
If you have a heart for ministering to others, our Christian ministry degree can prepare you in one of four areas of concentration, including pastoral, student and family, women’s or Christian ministry emphasis. In addition to OBU’s distinctive Christian liberal arts education, you will complete biblical core courses along with your ministry emphasis.
Cross-Cultural Ministry
If you have an interest in engaging with other cultures and nations, OBU’s cross-cultural ministry degree can prepare you in this comprehensive program. As a student, you will gain the knowledge, skills and understanding necessary to engage in work and ministry in diverse cultural contexts including language, customs, geographic impact and more.
Global Marketplace Engagement
Our Global Marketplace Engagement (GME) degree provides you with an innovative onramp to cross-cultural service. If you choose this exciting ministry pathway, you will be prepared to enter the global marketplace by choosing an emphasis in business, global education, political science, math education, Spanish, teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) or graphic design. Each can provide a platform for intentional ministry.
Interdisciplinary
Our Interdisciplinary degree is considered a triple minor and allows you to explore three academic areas. All three minors can be earned from any of our 16 areas of study, or you can choose one or two minors from other OBU academic programs. If you have a specific career or ministry goal that requires multiple kinds of academic education, this degree may be a great fit for you.
Philosophy
As a philosophy student, you will delve into a deep and diverse study of Western philosophy from a Christian worldview. You will learn to think logically and communicate clearly while you examine questions of knowledge, existence, reason, reality and values which provide a foundation for other disciplines. You can learn to answer the big questions in life as you grow in your love of wisdom.
Philosophy, Apologetics Emphasis
OBU is one of the few universities that offers an undergraduate program in Christian Apologetics. By studying apologetics, you will deepen and strengthen your own understanding of God and your commitment to Him. Our program will challenge you to establish stronger intellectual foundations and principles for your beliefs. You will be equipped to gain insights and formulate arguments through your understanding of history, theology, philosophy, science and sociology.
Sports and Recreation, Sports Ministry Emphasis
Having a heart for ministry as well as a love of sports are key elements to consider in OBU’s sports and recreation, sports ministry emphasis. Here, you can learn to lead sports groups and activities at churches, camps, and other religious affiliations in order to enhance others’ mind, body and spirit. You will explore vocation and calling, evangelism, spiritual formation, basic counseling and more.
Worship Studies
Are you passionate about worship and dreaming of becoming an impactful worship leader in your local church? Our Worship Studies program is tailor-made for you! Through engaging classes and hands-on experiences, we aim to equip you with the necessary tools to lead worship thoughtfully, effectively, and with confidence.
BA to MDiv
As an undergraduate, you can earn your bachelor’s degree while progressing towards an MDiv through our Bachelor of Arts to Master of Divinity (BA to MDiv) accelerated program. We enjoy partnerships with all six Baptist seminaries and select others to provide advanced tracks where you can earn up to 25% of your MDiv degree while enrolled at OBU. This is a convenient benefit, propelling you forward while saving you time and further cost of tuition.
Graduate Programs
Master of Arts in Christian Studies
Our Master of Arts degree in Christian studies offers you foundational knowledge and specialized skills for ministry. You will gain a deeper understanding of the Christian faith and Christian worldview. With this degree structure, you can choose from one of three tracks including: biblical and theological studies, leadership or apologetics.
Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies
If you have a heart for advancing the gospel and reaching the world, our intercultural studies program can accelerate your understanding and practical preparation in any discipline at OBU. With an emphasis on the study of various cultures, geographic regions, church planting and missions, you will broaden your vision and develop specialized skills for intercultural ministry.
Integrated MA
As an undergraduate student in any major at OBU, you can begin work on a Master of Arts in Christian studies or Master of Arts in intercultural studies through our integrated MA program. This program allows you to begin work towards a graduate degree at OBU while still completing your bachelor’s degree.
World-Class Faculty
OBU faculty are experts in their fields and will be with you every step of the way.
Dr. Brandon D. Smith
Chair, Herschel H. Hobbs School of Theology and Ministry
Associate Professor of Theology and Early Christianity
Dickinson Chair of Religion
MA Director
Rachelle Helmbacher
Executive Administrative Assistant to the Dean of Theology, Arts and Humanities
Theology, Arts and Humanities Academic Support Staff Coordinator
Amber Meek
Administrative Assistant, School of Theology and Ministry
Dr. Rafael Bello
Assistant Professor of Religious Studies
Ida Elizabeth and J.W. Hollums Chair of Bible
Dr. Matthew Boswell
Visiting Professor of Worship Studies and Ministry
Dr. Matthew Y. Emerson
Co-Provost
Dean of Theology, Arts and Humanities
Floyd K. Clark Chair of Christian Leadership
Professor of Religion
Dr. David Gambo
Reverend A.E. and Dora Hughes Chair of Christian Ministry
Assistant Professor of Christian Ministry
Dr. Keith A. Hess
Jewell and Joe Huitt Associate Professor in Religious Education
Associate Professor of Philosophy and Apologetics
Dr. Bobby Kelly
Ruth Dickinson Professor of Religion
Dr. Micah S. Meek
Associate Dean for Online, Nontraditional and Graduate Education
Assistant Professor of Christian Ethics
Director of the Online BA in Christian Studies
Dr. Mario Melendez
Auguie Henry Chair of Old Testament
Assistant Professor of Old Testament and Biblical Studies
Dr. Bruce Perkins
Associate Professor of Religion
Director of Prison Divinity Program
Dr. Randy Ridenour
Professor of Philosophy
Dr. Paul Sanchez
Assistant Professor of Religion
Assistant Director of Honors
Dr. Elbert Smith
Associate Professor of Missions
Director, Tom Elliff Center for Missions
Dr. Heath A. Thomas
President
Professor of Old Testament
Dr. Joy Turner
Associate Professor of Missions
Dr. Jeffrey DeGiacomo
Lecturer in Student Ministry
Dr. Tom Elliff
Mentor and Facilitator in Missions for the Tom Elliff Center for Missions
Hobbs School Lecturer
Dr. Aaron Fullbright
Lecturer in Student Ministry
Dr. Matthew Kearns
Director of Student Ministry
Lecturer in Student Ministry
Dr. Lawrence Kirk
Hobbs School Lecturer
Dr. Warren McWilliams
Senior Professor of Theology
Dr. Todd Sanders
Lecturer in Student Ministry