2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog

Theology, 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 theology 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. Students majoring in theology often pursue graduate studies to deepen their facility in one or more of these fields.

Theology works well with other majors. Many of our students double major in majors like chemistry, social work, and Spanish. 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 theology majors. Speaking about God requires patience as we learn to speak carefully, with 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 theology major requires completion of 33-39 credits and leads to a bachelor of arts degree.

 

Theology Major Requirements

Core Courses

BIBL 205Old Testament Survey

3

OR

BIBL 215New Testament Survey

3

 

BIBL 230Bible in its World

3

 

BIBL 321Torah

3

OR

BIBL 322Prophets

3

 

THEO 343/HIST 343Early Christianity

3

THEO 451Foundations of Christian Doctrine

3

THEO 452Methods in Wesleyan Theology

3

Selection of a Concentration (must complete all courses listed)

15-21

Theology Concentrations

Biblical Studies Concentration

BIBL 300Introduction to Biblical Languages

3

OR

GREK 101Elementary New Testament Greek I

3

 

BIBL 320Wisdom and Poetic Literature of Old Testament

3

 

BIBL 321Torah

3

OR

BIBL 322Prophets

3

 

BIBL 352Paul's Letters

3

BIBL 353Matthew, Mark, Luke

3

Students completing the Biblical Studies Concentration will need to complete both BIBL 321 and BIBL 322.

Ministry Concentration

THEO 200Introduction to Ministry

3

THEO 220Dynamics of Ministry

3

THEO 320Philosophy of Ministry

3

THEO 365Preaching

3

THEO 366Introduction to Worship

3

THEO 405Internship

6

In addition to the major requirements listed above, students will need to complete a general education curriculum and elective courses to earn 120 credits which is mandatory for earning a Greenville University degree.  Details about the general education curriculum can be found in the Academic Information section of this catalog.  Some general education requirements are met through required major courses which reduces the number of required general education credits.  Students should work closely with their advisor to put together an academic plan to make sure all degree requirements are met in a timely manner.

The outcomes for this program can be found on the Greenville University Institutional Assessment webpage.