Biblical Studies

Is a Biblical Studies Graduate Certificate for Me?

The nondenominational Graduate Certificate in Biblical Studies is designed to provide a broad scriptural base for those working in a variety of church or parachurch ministry settings involving youth, young adults, and/or older adults. Learners acquire proficiency in interpreting and communicating the relevance of God’s Word in their church, organization, and community. The certificate is especially well suited for professionals desiring to undertake additional academic work in sacred Scripture.

Courses

Required Courses

SMIN503 Studies of the Old Testament
SMIN505 Studies of the New Testament
THEO570 Pentateuch
THEO575 Gospels
THEO580 Pauline Writings

Course Descriptions

SMIN503 Studies of the Old Testament

This course provides an introduction to the literature and history of ancient Israel with special attention given to the thirty-six books of the Hebrew Bible. Ancient and Near-Eastern texts will be considered in light of the context that they provide for understanding early Judaism. Attention will be given to how to utilize Old Testament Scriptures in a variety of church and para-church ministries.

SMIN505 Studies of the New Testament

This course provides an introduction to the 27 books that constitute the New Testament. This course will take into account the Jewish and Greco-Roman milieu in which the New Testament developed. Attention will be given to how to utilize New Testament Scriptures in a variety of church and para-church ministries.

THEO570 Pentateuch

This course provides an introduction to the literature and history of the Pentateuch or Torah (otherwise known as the first five books of the Hebrew Bible). Special emphasis will be given to the overarching unity of the message and composition of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy and the contribution they make to the ongoing story of salvation found in Scripture. Attention will be given to how to utilize these Old Testament Scriptures in a variety of church and para-church ministries. Prerequisite: SMIN503

THEO575 Gospels

This course provides an introduction to the literature and history of the four Gospels. Special emphasis will be given to the historical, religious, and cultural backgrounds of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John and the contribution each narrative makes to the overall biblical portrait of Jesus’ ministry, message, death, and resurrection. Attention will be given to how to utilize these New Testament Scriptures in a variety of church and para-church ministries. Prerequisite: SMIN505

THEO580 Pauline Writings

This course provides an introduction to the literature and history of the Pauline writings. Special emphasis will be given to the historical, religious, and cultural backgrounds of Paul’s letters and the interconnecting theological themes found within them. Attention will be given to how to utilize these New Testament Scriptures in a variety of church and para-church ministries. Prerequisite: SMIN505

Admission Requirements

Anyone interested in completing the Biblical Studies Certificate may complete a Southwestern College Professional Studies Graduate Application for Admission. The five courses comprising the Biblical Studies Certificate can be completed in eight months or less in convenient 6-week classes.

The first two courses (SMIN 503 and SMIN 505) in the Biblical Studies program may be applied toward a Master of Arts in Specialized Ministries or a Master of Arts in Theological Studies.

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Biblical Studies Certification