Studying Biblical Languages

Our BA, GDip and MTh programmes offer a range of highly-regarded study options for those wanting to learn Hebrew and Greek.

Learning a biblical language is not for everyone, but for those who choose to, we provide several accessible options. Our aim in teaching biblical languages is to give you not only the skills but also the confidence to know that you can fluently read and interpret a text in its original language, whether that’s for your own personal bible reading, sermon preparation or academic studies. Too many students often finish theological studies with just a working knowledge of a language and without the tools and confidence to keep growing their language skills alongside their other commitments. If you study languages with us, we want you to finish your studies with the assurance that you can trust your reading and interpretation of a text and have the tools to keep growing.

Why Study a Biblical Language

With the wealth of resources available to students and preachers today, you might wonder why it’s worth spending the time and energy learning a biblical language. Being able to read a text intelligently in its original language helps you to more easily (and quickly) identify the structure, emphases and punchlines, but also the questions to ask of a text. Understanding the language can also help you to know which of the possible interpretations you might place more weight behind.

Learning Options

If you’re a total beginner to Greek or Hebrew, you can start learning on our campus BA or on the GDip through a Learning Community. Students in Learning Communities are given weekly support and those studying Greek also have two hours of video conferencing with the lecturer. Those who have previously studied languages, or those who have successfully completed the BA or GDip modules, then have the option to further their learning through the MTh language modules. These can either be taken as part of a complete MTh, or simply as standalone modules.

“I’d never studied another language before and even when I did try, I didn’t have much luck! But at UST I chose to study Hebrew and Greek. Week by week the lecturers break the learning down into manageable chunks and help you to see why the effort of studying a language is worth it. My ability and confidence have grown and I’m already seeing the fruit. During my church placement I was preaching a series in John’s Gospel. In the past I would have turned to the commentaries for help rather quickly, but this time I spent most of my time reading and studying the Greek text. When I then turned to the commentaries, I was able to ask informed questions and judge for myself what the best interpretation might be.”

Matt, a third year BA student

Get in touch to see how we could help you study God’s word in the original languages. Email us on admissionenquiries@ust.ac.uk