NON-GRADUATE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

This section contains descriptions of the courses that are regularly offered through the seminary as part of the non-graduate degree programs outlined in the Academic Programs section. A detailed schedule of current courses, including elective offerings, appears in the course schedule published prior to each term. The following course list is subject to change. (Note: The courses below without descriptions are still being developed. Descriptions will be made available as the instructors begin teaching these courses.)

BIBL 100

INTRODUCTION TO BIBLICAL INTERPRETATION (3 CREDITS)

This course introduces students to biblical interpretation and application. The study of approaches to the interpretation of biblical passages will provide background to exercising responsive reading and responsible interpretation. Topics covered will include translations, study helps and identifying historical and literary contexts.

BIBL 110

OLD TESTAMENT OVERVIEW (3 CREDITS)

Many people find the stories, characters, and events of the Old Testament—including God—to be mysterious and remote. This course will help you appreciate the literary, historical, and theological frameworks necessary to understand Israel’s scriptures and see how the unfolding picture of the Old Testament finds its climax in the person of Jesus.

BIBL 120

NEW TESTAMENT OVERVIEW (3 CREDITS)

BIBL 150

INTRODUCTION TO OLD TESTAMENT I (3 CREDITS)

BIBL 151

INTRODUCTION TO OLD TESTAMENT II (3 CREDITS)

BIBL 160

INTRODUCTION TO NEW TESTAMENT I (3 CREDITS)

BIBL 161

INTRODUCTION TO NEW TESTAMENT II (3 CREDITS)

THEO 100

AN OVERVIEW OF CHRISTIAN BELIEF (3 CREDITS)

This course introduces student to significant sections of scripture, but then concentrates on the overview providing insight on how major Christian beliefs are integrated and how they relate to cultures that surround us.

THEO 110

INTRODUCTION TO THEOLOGY I (3 CREDITS)

THEO 111

INTRODUCTION TO THEOLOGY II (3 CREDITS)

HIST 100

CHURCH HISTORY IN PLAIN LANGUAGE (3 CREDITS)

Knowing our history as followers of Jesus Christ is far more important for today’s Christian leaders than many often think. The problems and challenges pastors and leaders face in the 21st century are very similar to the problems and challenges faced in the first two thousand years of Christianity. This class will provide a basic understanding of some of the most critical events in church history and will show how these events inform our day-to-day ministries now. The course will include readings, lectures, discussions, and videos.

HIST 150

SURVEY OF CHURCH HISTORY I (3 CREDITS)

HIST 151

SURVEY OF CHURCH HISTORY II (3 CREDITS)

APPL 110

PREPARATION FOR CHRISTIAN MINISTRY (3 CREDITS)

APPL 200

FAITHFUL PRACTICES IN THE CHRISTIAN LIFE (3 CREDITS)

APPL 300

INTRODUCTION TO PASTORAL CARE (3 CREDITS)

APPL 305

PASTORAL ETHICS & POLITY (3 CREDITS)

APPL 320

INTRODUCTION TO PREACHING AND WORSHIP

Gathering to acknowledge God, to worship the Lord, and inviting others to join with them in this, is central to the life of the people of God. Often listening to the voice of the Lord in the Word of the Lord read and proclaimed is at the heart of worship. This course will focus on defining and developing the basic elements, sensitivities, and skills necessary to form a genuine worship experience and to deliver an effective sermon that will honor God and serve God's people.

APPL 430

SUPERVISED MINISTRY (9 CREDITS)