May 08, 2024  
Undergraduate Studies 2023-2024 
    
Undergraduate Studies 2023-2024

Course Descriptions


 

Art

  
  • ART 101 - Visual Thinking

    (4)
    Develops creative problem solving through a series of challenges that explore various processes and methods within fine art and design. Weekly sketchbook assignments expand visual literacy and introduce the elements and principles of art. Readings establish a shared understanding and language of the theories and challenges we face in our calling as Christians and as makers.  Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): Occasionally a section may be limited to majors/minors. 
    Formerly ART 115 and ART 116.
  
  • ART 102 - Drawing I

    (4)
    Employing a variety of materials and methods, this observational drawing course develops foundational skills through the study and use of line, value, shape, composition, and spatial organization. Emphasis is placed on disciplined and authentic visual engagement within the created environment. Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): Occasionally a section may be limited to majors/minors.
  
  • ART 110 - Design Concepts and Technologies

    (4)
    Builds a foundation in the primary visual and compositional concepts needed for advanced exploration in art and design with a primary emphasis on color theory and visual communication. These concepts will be explored through digital media, introducing students to vector and page layout software and establishing portfolio design skills.  Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): Occasionally a section may be limited to majors/minors. 
  
  • ART 112 - Spatial Dynamics

    (4)
    Explores three-dimensional making and design through physical, spatial, and temporal work employing a wide range of materials and processes. The core of these studies will be the invention of multiple constructed sculptural forms focusing on connection, dynamic movement, and site specificity. Introduces woodshop and hand tools used in three-dimensional fabrication.  Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): Occasionally a section may be limited to majors/minors. 
    Formerly ART 205.
  
  • ART 150 - Art History: Cave Art to Medieval

    (4)
    Surveys development of art from cave painting through early Renaissance. Includes Western painting, sculpture and architecture as well as parallel non-Western developments.

  
  • ART 151 - Art History: Renaissance to Modern

    (4)
    Continues overview of developments in Western painting, sculpture, architecture and craft from Early Renaissance to 20th century as well as parallel non-Western developments.

  
  • ART 152 - American Art History as Cultural Encounter

    (4)
    Investigates conversation between many cultures and styles that have taken American art from its emergence in the Americas about five thousand years ago, to its position in the European art world during colonial and post-colonial times, to final recognition of America as a modern global art leader. (Offered online, Summer term only.)

  
  • ART 201 - Mid-Program Portfolio Review

    (0)
    Builds competence in documenting work, creating a professional portfolio, and presenting work verbally and in writing. Results in a presentation of work to faculty which provides opportunities for advising and discernment about curricular and vocational calling. 

    Prerequisite(s): Art majors only
  
  • ART 210 - Painting 1

    (4)
    Introduces the materials, history, and practice of oil painting. Projects are primarily from direct observation and include color and compositional studies, still life, master copies, and plein air painting. Exploring color, shape recognition, brush handling, paint mixing, texture, and careful observation, students develop the capacity to create accurate and expressive works that respond to the world around them. Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 102  or permission of instructor.
  
  • ART 212 - Drawing 2

    (4)
    Develops advanced techniques, materials, and practices of drawing. In representational, figurative, and abstract work we will consider drawing as a way of thinking, encountering, and responding. Emphasis is placed on the human figure and studies in anatomy. Consists of daily exercises, readings, sketchbook assignments, and larger projects. Model fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 102  or permission of instructor.
    Formerly ART 202
  
  • ART 214 - Sculpture 1

    (4)
    Focuses on sculptural object-making and installation. The course integrates structured methods and intuitive processes with a focus on aesthetics and craft. Students will be guided through several techniques such as: casting, building, carving, and assemblage. Exercises in scaled drawings and model prototypes help students understand and realize their work. Equal importance is placed on the development of ideas and intent. Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 112  or permission of instructor.
    Formerly ART 225.
  
  • ART 216 - Printmaking 1

    (4)
    Introduces a variety of printmaking processes. Lectures and demonstrations on the technique and history of printmaking will guide a series of media specific projects. Techniques include woodcut, monotype, drypoint, and engraving. Projects will explore printmaking as a medium of communication both as a form of graphic design and artistic response.  Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 102  or permission of instructor.
    Formerly ART 215
  
  • ART 218 - Illustration

    (4)
    Builds skills in illustration, a visual art created in dialog with the written word. Students work with self-selected texts and create imagery using variety of media (gold-leaf, printmaking and painting techniques) and approaches (abstraction, collage, figurative imagery). Projects may also include service projects for the community. (Alternate years.) Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 102  or permission of instructor.
    Formerly ART 367
  
  • ART 250 - Design Studio

    (4)
    Covers various types of design and design technologies as an introduction to the process of design itself. Through two-dimensional work in graphic design and three-dimensional work in industrial design and architecture, projects explore the design practices of careful listening, clear goal setting, and collaborative iterative exploration that unify the open-ended problem-solving that is design. Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 101  ART 102  
    Formerly ART 270
  
  • ART 271 - Selected Topics

    (Variable)
    Topics not regularly taught but of interest to majors. Designated as repeatable; students may enroll more than once if topic changes. (Offered periodically.) Fees determined by instructor as necessary

  
  • ART 280 - Darkroom Photography

    (4)
    Introduces photographic fundamentals including camera types, function, black and white film processing and printing, natural and artificial lighting, composition, and use of photography as medium of communication and artistic expression. The history and theory of photography are explored, including significant discoveries, photographers and movements. (Alternate years.) Lab fee.

    Formerly ART 220
  
  • ART 282 - Digital Photography

    (4)
    Introduces digital photography, equipment, and processes. Photo editing and organization software will be introduced and used as a primary processing application throughout course. Projects will explore the formal, compositional, and ethical aspects of various common types of photos through a series of explorational projects. Cross-listed as: COM 282   (Alternate years.) Lab fee.

    Formerly ART 320
  
  • ART 310 - Painting 2

    (4)
    Develops practice and theory of painting and the communicative and spiritual potential it has as an embodied, responsive activity. Exploration of contemporary and historical approaches to figuration, representation, and abstraction will guide students in the development of individualized projects and research. Emphasis will be place on painting as an interdisciplinary approach that draws on other fields of study.  Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 210  or permission of instructor.
  
  • ART 314 - Sculpture 2

    (4)
    Builds on the fundamentals learned in ART 214 - Sculpture 1, with an emphasis on the development of critical and technical skills. Materials, site selection, scale, and communication are central. Students work in one or two materials.  (Alternate years.) Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 214  or permission of instructor.
    Formerly ART 445
  
  • ART 316 - Printmaking 2

    (4)
    Explores advanced printmaking techniques with an emphasis on intaglio, silkscreen, and relief. Consideration of the political and social practice of printmaking throughout history will inform a series of projects that respond to contemporary life. Projects will explore the various forms of print use and dissemination including: zines, fabric printing, posters, wheatpaste graffiti, and fine art prints.  (Alternate years.) Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 216  or permission of instructor.
    Formerly ART 315
  
  • ART 350 - Typographic Design

    (4)
    Explores the history and practice of typography: The way the design of letters and their combination into words, sentences, and documents communicate concepts, feelings, and identity.  Typographic design projects will include custom typefaces, brand standards, page layout, book design, and environmental graphics.  (Alternate years.) Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 250  or permission of instructor.
    Formerly ART 470
  
  • ART 352 - Motion Graphics Design

    (4)
    Combines skills in graphic design, animation, and communication, exploring how images and text, set in motion, can communicate ideas in compelling ways.  Work will use storyboarding, stop motion animation, and vector graphics as explorational skills and will focus on keyframe animation software to produce shareable motion graphic videos. Cross-listed as: COM 352   (Alternate years.) Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 250  or permission of instructor.
  
  • ART 354 - Industrial Design

    (4)
    Explores the design of the objects we use in our everyday lives that assist with the actions we perform while enfolding meaning into everyday practices. Form, material, ergonomic, and mechanical considerations will be tested through hand sketching, computer modeling, and physical prototyping within a listening and exploratory design process. (Alternate years.) Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 250  or permission of instructor.
  
  • ART 356 - Architectural Design

    (4)
    Extends visual design thinking into the design of the inhabited spaces of everyday life. Projects connecting architecture, interior design, and landscape design consider the formal, spatial, material, and interpersonal dimensions of built space. The design process is explored through freehand and mechanical drawings as well as physical and computer modeling. (Alternate years.) Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 250  or permission of instructor.
  
  • ART 358 - Web Design

    (4)
    Applies design principles and experiences to web and screen environments. Explores design nuances and best practices for screen application of graphic design, planning and storyboarding. Assignments touch on website and application design for both desktop and mobile devices.  Cross-listed as: COM 358   (Alternate years.) Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 250  or permission of instructor.
  
  • ART 370 - Selected Topics: Design Studio

    (4)
    Examines areas of design not regularly taught. Emphasizes developing advanced studio disciplines and preparing an individualized portfolio. Designated as repeatable; students may enroll more than once if the topic is different. Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 250  or permission of instructor.
  
  • ART 371 - Selected Topics: Fine Arts

    (4)
    Examines areas of visual art not regularly taught. Emphasizes developing advanced studio disciplines and preparing individualized portfolio. Designated as repeatable; students may enroll more than once if topic is different. Lab fee when appropriate.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 101  and ART 102 ; or permission of instructor.
  
  • ART 381 - Independent Study

    (1-4)
    Independent course in topic not available in existing curriculum; provides curricular enrichment. Limited availability subject to faculty workload. May require lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): Minimum cumulative average of 2.75, adequate background to support topic, permission of instructor, advisor, department chair and registrar.
     
  
  • ART 425 - Art and Design Internship

    (4)
    Provides a supervised learning experience in appropriate professional setting combining on-the-job work with related academic study. Interns maintain journal, produce portfolio, and write reflective paper in addition to on-site assignments. Must be prearranged with supervisor and Registrar’s Office.

    Prerequisite(s): Minimum cumulative 2.00 GPA.
  
  • ART 491 - Theories of Making

    (4)
    Analyzes visual and material culture and the way they shape individuals, communities, and the world. Informed by faith, and through discussion of contemporary philosophers, theorists, and theologians, students will develop convictions about their participation in culture as both makers and consumers. Students will create visual work and a written proposal in preparation for their thesis projects. 
      Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): Junior or Senior art major or permission of instructor.
    Formerly ART 402
  
  • ART 492 - Senior Thesis

    (4)
    Synthesizes theory, faith, and practice as students develop an individualized project, culminating in an exhibition and presentation of their work. With an emphasis on vocational discernment, visiting professionals will help shape a vision for God’s calling. Discusses the practical concerns of the job market, including: résumé writing, networking, disseminating work, finances, and entrepreneurship. Lab fee.

    Prerequisite(s): ART 491  or permission of instructor.
    Formerly ART 400

Balkans Semester

  
  • BAL 140 - War and Peace through Literature

    (4)
    Explores questions regarding both war and peace as presented in assigned texts. Some of these may address causes of conflicts and possibilities for peace in interpersonal and international relationships, place of individual, communities, political structures, history and religion in inciting war or building peace, the nature of experience of loss and pain, the role of writers and the arts during and following wars, the role of artist as prophets and healers, the ability of art to teach individual and societies self-critique and humility, etc.  

  
  • BAL 312 - Justice

    (4)
    Explores complexities of justice in pluralist society, focusing on United States but with connections to global community. Examines selected Christian and non-Christian theories of justice, both classical and contemporary, and considers several specific debates concerning pursuit of justice in contemporary society.

  
  • BAL 315 - Introduction to the Balkans: History, Culture, Politics and Religion

    (4)
    Serves as broad introduction to the history and culture of the Balkans with special attention to recent events and tensions of political and religious significance. Features guest lectures by local cultural, political, religious and literary figures and excursions to the major regions and cities of the Balkans countries. Program Core.

  
  • BAL 338 - War and Peace: Philosophical and Theological Perspectives

    (4)
    Provides broad understanding of war and peace through three main components: 1) theories of just war and pacifism, 2) changing conceptions of war and peace in Western philosophical tradition, 3) theologically-informed response to recent warfare in the Balkans, with the goal of a distinctively Christian response to war, peace and reconciliation. Elective credit for Philosophy, Political Science, and Peace and Conflict Studies.

  
  • BAL 349 - Religion and International Affairs

    (4)
    Focuses on contemporary relationships between religion and public life internationally, recognizing religion’s contribution to conflict and oppression and to positive political change. Compares church-state relationships; analyzes relationship of religion to conflict, cooperation, society and diplomacy; surveys religion and politics in multiple regions; and reviews theories of religion’s role in society. Cross-listed as: POL 349  

  
  • BAL 371 - Selected Topics

    (Variable)
    Explores various topics relevant to the region. Subject areas may include religion, political science, peace and conflict studies, sociology. See Global Education Office for specifics in each semester.

  
  • BAL 375 - Conflict Transformation and Reconciliation

    (4)
    Explores theological frameworks for shalom, conflict as transformational, and reconciliation as healing process in organizations and communities. Both justice and forgiveness examined, as well as public apology, truth and reconciliation commissions, historical conciliation and postcolonial reconstruction. Cross-listed as: PCS 375  

  
  • BAL 425 - Internship

    (2-4)
    Internships may be arranged in the areas of Communication Arts, Peace and Conflict Studies, Political Science and Sociology.


Biblical Studies and Christian Ministries

  
  • BCM 100 - Introduction to Theological Reflection

    (2)
    An introduction to theological reflection for those participants in Summit, Gordon’s program for incoming freshmen. Building on a broad theological framework (creation, fall, redemption, and consummation), this course offers students the opportunity to develop the skill of reflecting theologically in matters of faith and life in the intensive, intentional community that is Summit.

    Prerequisite(s): Participant in Summit program.
  
  • BCM 101 - Introduction to the Old Testament

    (4)
    Examines the books of the Old Testament in their historical, cultural, and literary contexts. Highlights significant themes and theological messages of the Old Testament books, as well as the overarching narrative of the Old Testament.  

    Fulfills common core requirement.
  
  • BCM 103 - Introduction to the New Testament

    (4)
    Examines the books of the New Testament in their political, social, geographic, literary, and religious contexts. Highlights important themes of each book, as well as the New Testament’s primary message.

    Fulfills common core requirement.
  
  • BCM 104 - Ecclesiology: The Church and Its Ministries

    (4)
    This course explores the question, “What is the Church?” and introduces historic and contemporary responses across Christian traditions (e.g. Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Reformed, Free Churches, Pentecostal). The course introduces the Church’s purpose and ministries (worship, edification and proclamation in word and deed) as essentially related to God’s past, present and future redemptive movement. It examines contemporary challenges and opportunities for the global Church.

  
  • BCM 105 - Foundations of Youth Ministry

    (4)
    Examines purpose of youth ministry, youth in modern American culture, needs of youth and their parents, history and future of youth ministry profession, and elements of programming.

  
  • BCM 107 - Introduction to Practical Theology Research Lab

    (0)
    Students will be introduced to research tools and a practical theology research method.  This research lab includes instruction and practice, which will prepare students to utilize a practical theology method in research projects throughout the Christian ministries’ curriculum.

    Prerequisite(s): Christian Ministries major
  
  • BCM 120 - Introduction to Biblical Studies

    (4)
    As an introduction to the academic discipline of biblical studies, this course provides tools for biblical research in academic, ministerial, and personal contexts. Topics include concepts of inspiration and infallibility, biblical genres, biblical archaeology and geography, extra-canonical Jewish and Christian literature, and the use of Hebrew and Greek for biblical research.

  
  • BCM 201 - Greek I

    (4)
    Introduces fundamentals of Greek of New Testament era. Emphasizes grammar and reading skills.

    Fulfills common core requirement.
  
  • BCM 202 - Greek II

    (4)
    Continues Greek I; extensive reading in Johannine literature of Greek New Testament.

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 201  (with a C or better) or equivalent.
    Fulfills common core requirement.
  
  • BCM 203 - Gospel of Matthew

    (4)
    Examines in detail the first Gospel in light of its literary and historical-cultural milieu. Attention given to the book’s theological distinctives and reception history.

    Prerequisite(s):  BCM 103  
  
  • BCM 204 - Luke/Acts

    (4)
    Studies Christian origins according to Gospel of Luke and Acts of the Apostles. Examines literary features, socio-cultural context and theological themes in narratives. Also comparative analysis of continuity and discontinuity in ministries of Jesus Christ of Nazareth and that of Paul of Tarsus. (Alternate years.)

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 101  BCM 103  
  
  • BCM 205 - Corinthian Correspondence

    (4)
    Surveys Paul’s correspondence with the Corinthian church, problems arising in the clash of Christian faith with pagan culture, and relevance for today’s church. (Alternate years.)

    Prerequisite(s):  BCM 103  
  
  • BCM 209 - Romans and Galatians

    (4)
    Studies two of Paul’s most important letters and basic Christian teachings against background of current thought concerning problems of sin, guilt, faith and religious experience.

    Prerequisite(s):  BCM 103  
  
  • BCM 210 - Prison Epistles

    (4)
    Focuses on historical background, structure, theology and message of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon. Attention also given to issues of authority, literary genre, development of Pauline thought and contemporary relevance of documents studied. (Alternate years.)

    Prerequisite(s):  BCM 103  
  
  • BCM 211 - Pentateuch

    (4)
    Examines in detail history, culture and law of early Israel and role each played in development of Judaism and Christianity. (Alternate years.)

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 101  
  
  • BCM 212 - Foundations of Multicultural Ministries

    (4)
    In an age of globalization this course will offer theological and theoretical foundations of multicultural ministry, the study of racial reconciliation and peace, exegesis of culture, cultural intelligence, and essential practices in multicultural ministry that equip students for effective engagement in multicultural ministries across diverse ministry contexts.

  
  • BCM 215 - Foundations for Global Christianity

    (4)
    Comprehensive introduction to world Christian movement as involved in mission. Course provides systematic and critical understanding based on biblical foundations, historical developments, cultural issues and strategic approaches. Analysis of dynamics of growth of Christian movement from Apostolic era to present day.

  
  • BCM 216 - Contemporary Developments in World Missions

    (4)
    Analysis of recent developments and debates in mission circles. Addresses issues pertaining to traditional missionary service and tentmaking through teaching, government service, international business and healthcare. Special attention given to major leaders in evangelization of new peoples and nations and to diverse structures of mission outreach. Topics include contextualization, demographic shifts, cross-cultural family life, healthcare overseas, relationship between justice and evangelization, and liberation theology.

  
  • BCM 225 - Preparation for World Missions

    (2)
    Designed to be taken spring prior to students embarking on summer missions trips. Prepares students for cross-cultural summer missions experiences focusing on cultural analysis and sensitivity, and cross-cultural living.

  
  • BCM 227 - Prophetic Literature

    (4)
    Studies history and exegesis of selected writings from prophets of ancient Israel. Views New Testament revelation in relation to and applied to modern thought and contemporary literature. (Alternate years.)

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 101  
  
  • BCM 232 - Biblical Archaeology

    (4)
    Studies archaeological discoveries and documents which shed light on the Bible and its world. Emphasizes Dead Sea Scrolls. Field trips to museums. (Alternate years.)

  
  • BCM 234 - Modern Jewish Culture

    (4)
    Studies emergence of contemporary Judaism in comparison with biblical Judaism. Traditions in life of a Jew from birth to death. History of Christian-Jewish relations. Numerous field trips and discussions with rabbis.

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 101 ; not open to freshmen.
  
  • BCM 241 - Family and Adolescent Counseling

    (4)
    Examines needs and problems of normal and troubled adolescent experience. Attention given to developing strategy of ministry through counseling.

  
  • BCM 243 - Justice and Mercy: Theological Anthropology

    (4)
    What does it mean to be human? Theological anthropology explores this question by emphasizing the transformative nature of our relationship to God and our participation in the cultures and societies in which we develop our identities. This course offers students the opportunity for theological reflection on the doctrines of creation, Christology, soteriology, and eschatology in dialogue with current issues of global justice so that we might be agents of God’s mercy toward our fellow human beings. (Alternate years.)

  
  • BCM 245 - Martyrs, Mothers, Mystics

    (4)
    An examination of the development of theology through the lens of women and others on the margins of society (the enslaved, ethnic minorities, and the poor). Through the contributions, relationships, and experiences of women and others on the periphery, this course will shed light on major theological developments such as the formation of the Biblical canon, ecumenical councils, the rise of monasticism, ecclesiological shifts, and mysticism. 

  
  • BCM 246 - Renewals and Reformations

    (4)
    An examination of the theological developments from the Reformation to the present.  This course will explore the central discussions of the Protestant Reformation (nature and grace, sacraments, the doctrine of Scripture) and developments in theology from the Enlightenment to the present, including predominant movements in contemporary and global theology.

  
  • BCM 253 - Leadership Theories and Practice

    (4)
    Surveys variety of philosophies, styles, issues and current challenges for developing leadership in youth ministry. Students challenged to grow as leaders and develop personal philosophy of Christian leadership. Spring semester offering for Christian Ministries majors/minors only.

  
  • BCM 260 - Christian Formation in Cultural Contexts

    (4)
    Examines dynamics of Christian formation in adolescence within sociocultural environments of ancient and contemporary worlds. Emphasizes interrelated and distinct stages of faith formation, theological interplay between Christ and culture, and ways culture influences our understanding of God, ourselves and the Church. Fall semester offering for Christian Ministries majors/minors only.

  
  • BCM 270 - Worship: Theology and Practice

    (2)
    Introduction to theological foundations, history and practice of Christian worship, with special reference to basic forms and practices. Designed to help students develop biblical and practical framework for understanding worship. 

  
  • BCM 271 - Selected Topics

    (Variable)
    Topics not regularly taught but of interest to majors. Designated as repeatable; students may enroll more than once if topic changes. (Offered periodically.)

    Prerequisite(s): Set by instructor as applicable.
  
  • BCM 277 - Future of Youth Ministries

    (2)
    Focuses on broadest possible understanding of youth ministries across cultures and traditions. Students engage in analysis and critique of variety of emerging movements in youth ministries. Course fee and participation at one of national youth ministry conventions required. (Offered alternate fall semesters.)

  
  • BCM 291 - International Seminar: Historical and Geographical Settings of the Bible

    (4)
    Intensive three-week academic field study designed to introduce geography, history and archaeology of Israel. Regional studies, on-site lectures, preparatory lectures on campus and required map work prior to arrival help students apply geographical context of the land to biblical studies. (Summers.)

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 101  BCM 103 
  
  • BCM 303 - Greek III

    (4)
    Requires translation of New Testament Greek materials; emphasizes vocabulary building and mastery of grammar.

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 202  or equivalent.
  
  • BCM 304 - Gospel of Mark

    (4)
    Examines the Gospel of Mark in light of its literary features, socio-cultural context and theological themes.

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 303  or equivalent; BCM 101  BCM 103  
  
  • BCM 308 - Christian Theology

    (4)
    Introduces key ideas, traditions and people who have shaped the development of Christian theology from antiquity to the present. Considers importance of theology as foundation for Christian thought, as guide to the Church, and as a primary resource for living reflective lives and engaging broader world with the gospel.

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 101 , BCM 103 .
    Fulfills common core requirement.
  
  • BCM 310 - Hope Matters: Redemption and Eschatology

    (4)
    This course will introduce contemporary trends, major themes and terminology in Christian eschatology. Using what will be and the coming of God as the starting point, students will assess intersections with different sectors of society to reflect theologically on present redemptive action.

  
  • BCM 311 - Hebrew I

    (4)
    Introduces fundamentals of biblical Hebrew; emphasizes grammar, vocabulary and syntax. (Alternate years.)

    Fulfills common core requirement.
  
  • BCM 312 - Hebrew II

    (4)
    Continues Hebrew I; readings and exegesis of selected prose and poetic portions of Hebrew Bible. (Alternate years.)

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 311 .
    Fulfills common core requirement.
  
  • BCM 313 - Israel’s Story: Joshua to Esther

    (4)
    Studies geographical, economic, social, political, cultural and religious changes in ancient Israel from patriarchs to intertestamental period. Includes focus on land of the Bible stressing relevant biblical, historical and archaeological materials that inform our understanding of biblical Israel. (Alternate years.)

    Prerequisite(s):  BCM 101  
  
  • BCM 314 - Survey of World Religions

    (4)
    Surveys major non-Christian religions of world. Focuses on history, belief structure and relationship to culture; key issues in presenting gospel message to adherents of each religion.

  
  • BCM 315 - Educational Theories and Methods

    (4)
    Investigates historical and contemporary philosophies of education, educational theory, components of curriculum theory; evaluates and critiques published curricular materials, and designs teaching-learning experiences appropriate for Christian ministries.

  
  • BCM 317 - Gospel of John

    (4)
    Studies Gospel of John from number of perspectives, emphasizing literary analysis, historical and exegetical issues as well as theological distinctives. (Alternate years.)

    Prerequisite(s):  BCM 103  
  
  • BCM 318 - Gender in the Church: Biblical and Theological Perspectives

    (4)
    Emphasizes critical study of Scripture that moves beyond experiential arguments concerning gender issues through historic overview, examining relevant Scripture passages alongside interpretations from various perspectives, outlining possibilities for feminist theology, and exploring contemporary gender issues in Church.

  
  • BCM 320 - Expository Communication

    (2)
    Explores communication strategy and elements of homiletical theory in effective presentation of gospel message to youth. Opportunities to design and deliver youth talks.

  
  • BCM 321 - Evangelism and Discipleship

    (4)
    Analyzes spiritual decision-making process, communication theory and strategy for contemporary culture, and art of persuasion; spiritual formation and nurture. Incorporates individual experiences in personal evangelism and small-group discipleship.

  
  • BCM 322 - American Christianity

    (4)
    Studies development of Christianity in America from 17th century to today; people (e.g., Edwards, Rauschenbusch) and movements (e.g., Revivalism, Social Gospel Movement, Fundamentalism) which gave it form. Field trips to Boston.

  
  • BCM 324 - Pastoral Epistles

    (4)
    Studies New Testament documents known as “Pastoral Epistles,” I and II Timothy and Titus, focusing attention on background and occasion of each book, and, more importantly, structure and theology. Considers issues of authority and contemporary relevance to life of Church. (Alternate years.)

    Prerequisite(s):  BCM 103  
  
  • BCM 325 - Wisdom Literature

    (4)
    Examines wisdom writings of biblical period in historical and literary contexts to find meaning and practical application to today; Job, Ecclesiastes, Proverbs, Song of Solomon, Egyptian parallels; selected intertestamental writings and New Testament illustrations. (Alternate years.)

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 101  
  
  • BCM 330 - Persecution to Empire: Theology, Politics, and Culture in Early Christianity

    (4)
    This course explores how early Christians understood their place in redemption history and began to tell that story. As an introduction to early Christian thought at large, this class serves as a foundation for the more intricate theological discussions of the fourth century, such as Trinity and Christology. Students will gain experience reading ancient texts and learn how to navigate the age of Constantine, a period of great political, ecclesiological and theological change.

  
  • BCM 335 - Biblical Hermeneutics

    (4)
    Studies selected critical problems relating to origin, transmission and interpretation of biblical books.

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 101 , BCM 103 .
  
  • BCM 350 - Trinity and Christology

    (4)
    The understanding of God as Trinity and the doctrine of Christology have been the centerpieces of theological reflection in the Christian tradition from the earliest churches to the present day. In this course we will explore the biblical/theological foundations, historical development, and contemporary approaches to the doctrines of the Trinity and Christology. The course, then, is an attempt to explore how various streams in the church formulated the nature of God, the Redeemer figure, and the redeemed people.

  
  • BCM 360 - Christian Apologetics

    (4)
    Introduction to Christian apologetics through critical analysis of theology pertaining to articulation of Christian faith. Challenges students to broaden understanding of what they believe and why they believe it, in order to develop personal statement of faith and verbally explain and defend faith in atmosphere of doubt.

  
  • BCM 371 - Selected Topics

    (Variable)
    Upper-level seminar course focuses on select topics not regularly taught. Designated as repeatable with a different topic.

  
  • BCM 377 - Future of the Church

    (4)
    Focuses on broadest possible understanding of contemporary church. Students engage in analysis and critique of variety of emerging movements in North American and global churches. (Offered alternate fall semesters.) Course fee and participation at church leadership conference required.

  
  • BCM 410 - Readings in Theology

    (2 or 4)
    Reading and research in selected areas of theology. Topics and credits may vary.

  
  • BCM 425 - Practicum in Christian Ministries I

    (2-6)
    Involves 400 hours of ministry experience in church or parachurch setting under supervision of on-site minister. Placements made in summer following junior year or during senior year. Practicum students attend on-campus meetings throughout academic year or are visited by instructor on-site in summer. Repeatable for elective credit if completed in a dissimilar context.

    Prerequisite(s): Pre- and/or concurrent requisites: BCM 104 , BCM 253 , and BCM 260 , or permission of instructor.
  
  • BCM 426 - Practicum in Christian Ministries II

    (2-6)
    Involves 400 hours of ministry experience in church or parachurch setting under supervision of on-site minister. Placements made in summer following junior year or during senior year. Practicum students attend on-campus meetings throughout academic year or are visited by instructor on-site in summer. Repeatable for elective credit if completed in a dissimilar context.

    Prerequisite(s): Pre- and/or concurrent requisites: BCM 104 , BCM 253 , and BCM 260 , or permission of instructor.
  
  • BCM 427 - Missions Practicum

    (0-8)
    Provides students with eight-week cross-cultural experience overseas. Practicum emphasizes completion of particular missions project under direction of field missionary or missions agency. Must be prearranged and approved by instructor. Fee.

    Prerequisite(s): BCM 215 , BCM 216 , BCM 225  and BCM 314 .
  
  • BCM 428 - Jewish Studies Concentration Internship

    (2)
    Provides students opportunity to serve within Jewish community, gaining firsthand experience on community projects and learning about Jews and Judaism with purpose of further fostering positive relationships between Jewish and Christian communities.

    Prerequisite(s): Advance approval by supervising faculty member and registrar, and minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00.
  
  • BCM 429 - Internship

    (1-4)
    Combines on-the-job work experience with related academic study. Must be prearranged and approved by the chair of the biblical studies department and the Registrar’s Office. Maximum of one internship. Does not replace required practicums within the department.

    Prerequisite(s): Biblical Studies majors only; minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00.
  
  • BCM 471 - Research I

    (1-4)
    Research projects under the supervision of faculty member for upperclass students. Often the initial research for an honors thesis.

    Prerequisite(s): Upperclass standing and permission of supervising faculty member.
 

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