The Department of Biblical Archaeology exists to provide a venue and apparatus for instruction, research, and field experience in archaeology within ancient Near Eastern and Greco-Roman contexts. Biblical archaeology seeks to illuminate our understanding of the biblical world by recovering and investigating its material culture and ancient texts.

At Shepherds, we understand that archaeological findings may be interpreted in multiple ways based on the presuppositions of archaeologists and the prevailing culture. Our desire is to prepare the next generation of archaeologists to demonstrate both world class archaeological skills and biblical fidelity. Shepherds’ Director of Archaeology and Assistant Professor of Biblical Archaeology Titus Kennedy along with staff archaeologist Joel Kramer work together to meet these objectives. Great archaeological work and a high view of God’s Word are not mutually exclusive – at Shepherds, we seek to do both!

Our Biblical Archaeology faculty provide opportunities for our students to participate in scheduled excavations throughout the modern countries representing this historical context. Participants in such excavations will be equipped to demonstrate the skills necessary for all phases of fieldwork, follow-up analysis, conservation, and the publication of such findings.

Shepherds Theological Seminary, Dr. Titus Kennedy, and Joel Kramer have joined forces with renowned archaeologist Dr. Konstantinos Politis to conduct a dig in the region of the Five Cities of the Plain (Gen 18-19). Of these five cities, four have been positively identified, including Sodom and Gomorrah—all four were covered in ash.

The first phase of this dig took place in January 2025 and the planning for future digs is currently underway. Learn more about this project here.

The Master of Arts in Biblical Archaeology (MABA) provides graduate level instruction in Biblical Archaeology. Students learn the history, theory, and practice of archaeology, while engaging in a comprehensive study of the Bible and its theology. Students who choose the optional thesis track will be fully prepared to apply to PhD programs in archaeology.

Distinctives:

► Learn from Professors in the Field – The core faculty in the archaeology
program spend time in the field, engaging in archaeological work.

► Live Dig Experiences – Each student in the program will participate in a live archaeological dig.

► Comprehensive Instruction on Biblical Archaeology – Students in the program study the major archaeological findings from Genesis to Revelation.

► Bible and Theology Rich – This program supports the work of the archaeologist by grounding them in the teachings of Scripture.

Still have questions? Learn more here about the MABA program at STS and how you can apply today! If you would like for someone to contact you directly, please provide your contact information here.