Theological Studies, Bachelor of Arts

The Bastian School partners with the church to form our students as disciples who think carefully, faithfully, and imaginatively about the difference Christ makes. Doing theology well cannot be separated from drawing closer to God. Theology shapes and changes us personally, and that requires humility and courage as our minds are renewed by the Holy Spirit. This renewal ultimately is a renewal of our imaginations, as we grow in our understanding of who God is and how God works.

The theological studies major educates students in the many fields related to Christian thought and life. This includes training in the history of the church, studying the Bible, and thinking theologically and philosophically. Students majoring in theological studies often pursue graduate studies to deepen their facility in one or more of these fields.

Theological studies works well with other majors. Many of our students double major in majors like art, chemistry, social work, and music. Students are encouraged to ask and explore questions about human life and thriving, and are invited to develop a deep understanding of their faith in light of the rich and diverse Christian tradition.

We encourage constructive dialogue across Christian traditions among our student body and particularly our theological studies and ministry majors. Speaking about God requires patience as we learn to speak carefully, humility as we acknowledge our limitations, and love for others who think otherwise. Developing the character to think imaginatively and faithfully as we embrace the classical Christian faith lies at the heart of a Greenville University education.

The theological studies major requires completion of 27 credits and leads to a bachelor of arts degree.

Theological Studies Major Requirements

Core Courses

PHIL 310	Philosophy Of Religion	3
	OR
PHIL 330	Ethics	3
THEO 343/HIST 343	Early Christianity	3
	OR
THEO 344	Western Christianity II	3
THEO 451	Foundations of Christian Doctrine	3
THEO 452	Methods in Wesleyan Theology	3
BIBL	upper division Biblical studies course	3
BIBL and THEO	Theological Studies electives (Six credits must be upper division)	12

Electives

BIBL 320	Wisdom/Poetic Lit of Old Testament	3
BIBL 321	Pentateuch	3
BIBL 322	Prophets	3
BIBL 352	Pauline Epistles	3
BIBL 353	Synoptic Gospels	3
BIBL 399	Open Titled	3
THEO 200	Orientation To Ministry	3
THEO 245	Jews, Christians, Muslims	3
THEO 275	Free Methodist Polity and Doctrine	2
THEO 285	Historic Methodism	2
THEO 343/HIST 343	Early Christianity	3
THEO 344	Western Christianity II	3
THEO 345	History of Judaism	3
THEO 354/PHIL 354	World Religions	3
THEO 365	Homiletics	3
THEO 366	Introduction to Worship	3

Greek is strongly recommended to meet the language requirement for the bachelor of arts degree.

These courses are in addition to the General Education requirements. Six credits of 200 level Biblical Studies and Philosophy courses are required in addition to the classes listed above.

RELIGION REQUIREMENTS AT A GLANCE
Type of Credit	Required Credits
General Education (For B.A.)*	54
Major	27
Elective	39
Total Credits to Earn Degree	120
*Based on students arriving as first time freshmen. Some general education requirements are met through required major courses. This reduces the number of required general education credits.