PROGRAMS

In order to meet the diverse needs of students, the department offers a major in religion with two emphases: biblical studies or theological studies. Students focus their course of study by selecting one of these emphases based on their particular interests within the field of religion. Both emphases provide preparation for seminary or graduate study in religion, an excellent foundation for pre-law or pre-medicine, a comprehensive education for work in nonprofit areas or other aspects of ministry, and a well-rounded curriculum for those who find religious questions and issues compelling.  A minor in religion is also available for those who wish to do basic study in religion in conjunction with a major in another field.

Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Religion

Requirements (120 hours)

Biblical Studies Emphasis

Biblical studies offers an interdisciplinary, humanities-based curriculum which focuses on the scholarly study of the biblical text. Core courses in both Old and New Testaments concentrate on the use of contemporary methods and tools of biblical exegesis to illumine the text. Students also gain facility in both biblical languages (Greek and Hebrew), which enables them to read and interpret the biblical text and other ancient texts in the original language. Additional courses in theology, ethics, religion, history, archaeology and philosophy sharpen students’ skills in theological reflection and provide a broader perspective on the ancient world in which the biblical authors lived and wrote.

General education (41 hours) including Greek 111,112; Religion 499

Major (36 hours)

At least five courses from Area I (Biblical Studies), including at least two courses in the Old Testament, and at least two courses in the New Testament

At least one course in Greek numbered 300 or above, and at least one course in Hebrew numbered 112 or above

At least three courses from Areas II (Theological and Ethical Studies) and III (Historical and Cultural Studies) at the 200 level or higher, including at least one course from Area II, at least one from a tradition other than Christianity (Religion 212, 213, or some topics taught as Religion 380), and at least one from Religion 210 or 220

At least one course from Archaeology 311, 492; History 312; Philosophy 211

At least one additional course in religion (Area I, II or III)

Additional Foreign Language (6 hours) The Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Religion requires proficiency in or completion of Greek 211 and 212.   

Electives (37 hours)

Students are strongly encouraged to take upper-division courses in religion in addition to those required. Other courses than those listed above may be substituted upon approval.

Theological Studies Emphasis

Theological studies focuses on the academic study of religion, centered in the texts and traditions of Christianity. Students gain an understanding of biblical texts, Christian traditions and Christian theological and ethical thinking in their historical and contemporary contexts. Students engage religious issues and questions of faith and the spiritual quest more broadly, including religious traditions outside Christianity.

General education (41 hours) including Religion 499

Major (36 hours)

At least three courses from Area I (Biblical Studies)

At least three courses from Area II (Theological and Ethical Studies)

At least three courses from Area III (Historical and Cultural Studies): at least one of which must be in a tradition other than Christianity (Religion 212, 213 or some topics taught as Religion 380) and at least one of which must be Religion 210 or 220

At least three other courses from among the three areas in religion; this area can also include up to two courses in either Hebrew or Greek that are not being counted to satisfy general education requirements

Additional Foreign Language (6 hours) The Bachelor of Arts degree requires proficiency in or completion of a foreign language through the course numbered 212.

Electives (37 hours)

Other courses than those listed above may be substituted upon approval.

Religion Minor

The department offers a minor in religion with two emphases: biblical studies or theological studies.

Biblical Studies Emphasis Requirements (18 hours)

At least four courses from Area I (Biblical Studies)

At least one course from Area II (Theological and Ethical Studies) or Area III (Historical and Cultural Studies)

At least one course from Archaeology 311, 492; Hebrew 112; History 312; Philosophy 211; any course in Greek numbered 300 or above

Theological Studies Emphasis Requirements (18 hours)

At least one course from Area I (Biblical Studies)

At least one course from Area II (Theological and Ethical Studies)

At least one course from Area III (Historical and Cultural Studies)

At least one course from a tradition other than Christianity, which can also count to satisfy the Area III requirement above (Religion 212, 213 or some topics taught as Religion 380)

Additional courses in religion to total 18 hours