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 Theology 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.
Christian Ministry
If you have a heart for ministering to others, our Christian ministry courses 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 comprehensive cross-cultural ministry program emphasis can prepare you for ministry work. 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 one of several areas of emphasis of study. Each can provide a platform for intentional ministry.
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.
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.
Related Undergraduate Programs
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.
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.
Graduate Programs
Master of Divinity
Receive foundational knowledge and specialized skills to adequately equip you for ministry as you pursue your Master of Divinity fully online, in-person, in a hybrid format, or through our 5-year Bachelor of Arts / Master of Divinity program.
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 four tracks including: Leadership, Apologetics, Biblical and Theological Studies, or Christian Ministry.
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 and MDiv
As an undergraduate student in any major at OBU, you can begin work on a Master of Arts in Christian studies, Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies, or Masters of Divinity through our integrated graduate programs. These viable options save time and money towards gaining a graduate degree while still completing your bachelor’s degree.
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World-Class Faculty
OBU faculty are experts in their fields and will be with you every step of the way.
Chair, Herschel H. Hobbs School of Theology and Ministry
Associate Professor of Theology and Early Christianity
Dickinson Chair of Religion
Director, Graduate Theology and Ministry Programs