Degree and Graduation Requirements

Instructional Principles

Four principles embody the philosophical perspective behind the university’s academic program, and guide the faculty as they develop coursework and learning experiences:

Head–Students will receive the best training in Biblical/Theological education and professional development that resources can provide. Students will have a basic knowledge of Biblical background and content with a view to applying that knowledge professionally.

Heart–Students will develop effective attributes desirable for ministers. These attributes include a Biblical worldview and philosophy of living, a compassionate and caring personality that is essential for ministers, and an internal value system consistent with Christian living in the twenty-first century.

Hand–Students will be able to apply their learning in practical ministry. Students will be able to apply their knowledge and skills in practical ways that affect what they do in ministry.

Habitat–Students will develop life-long applications of their basic knowledge of the Bible in a relational context, mediated through a Christian value system, and applied in ministry. Learning will become a self perpetuating cycle fed from continuous learning and application to new situations through a series of living exchange relationships.

General Education Core Curriculum

The university provides quality coursework in the arts and sciences and other areas of study with a core of general education courses that emphasize competencies in basic and interpersonal skills, knowledge and comprehension, value-based aptitudes, and higher-order thinking skills.

General Education Core Curriculum Taxonomy

The following student-learning outcomes are incorporated into the general education core curriculum:

BASIC SKILLS

-Read with understanding
-Write effectively
-Apply mathematical concepts
-Utilize technology

VALUE BASED

-Accept responsibility for personal behavior
-Clarify personal values
-Demonstrate an understanding of ethical reasoning processes
-Make ethical decisions
-Participate in humanitarian activities
-Tolerate differences of opinion
-Become involved in citizenship activities
-Demonstrate a positive attitude towards lifelong learning
-Acknowledge an aesthetic appreciation of art, literature, music, etc.
-Demonstrate self-confidence

KNOWLEDGE / UNDERSTANDING

-Analyze information
-Acquire a historical perspective
-Recognize the components of divergent literary styles
-Apply scientific knowledge/skills
-Acknowledge social mores different from their own
-Demonstrate awareness of global issues/events
-Broaden intellectual interests
-Comprehend the impact of technology on society

HIGHER-ORDER THINKING SKILLS

Exercise intellectual curiosity
Synthesize knowledge from various sources
Think critically
Utilize methods of scholarly inquiry
Conduct meaningful self assessment
Exhibit characteristics of a self directed learner
Establish long-term or life goals

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

Communicate with others
Speak effectively
Listen to and understand what others say
Participate as an effective group member
Exercise leadership
Demonstrate openness to new concepts

Degree Requirements: Candidates for a B.A. Degree in Biblical/Theological Studies must satisfy certain basic requirements in addition to major course and elective requirements.