An MRAM array has a plurality of MRAM devices that are arranged in rows and columns with segmented word lines. A magnetic biasing field is coupled to each of the MRAM devices. The MRAM devices are programmed by providing a bidirectional bit line current to a selected bit line of the plurality of bit lines and a word line current pulse to one word line segment of one row of word line segments by discharging coupled word line segments. The field biasing device may be permanent magnetic layers or write biasing lines in proximity to the fixed magnetic layer of each of the MRAM and has a magnetic orientation equivalent to the magnetic orientation of a word line segment magnetic field generated by the word line current pulse.