THEOLOGY
MASTER OF ARTS
PROGRAM (36 CREDITS)
The Master of Arts in Theology is designed to expand the depth of Christian thought from an in-depth biblical and theological position. The focus is to equip students to more effectively wrestle with contemporary and human condition issues in a scholarly fashion. Multiple cultures are taken into account. Students are exposed to the most recent scholarship in the various disciplines of theology. To accomplish this, the program confronts the issues through a biblical, theological, philosophical and sociological grid. This provides a platform for skills in scholarly research and insight into world issues. The program serves those desiring to pursue a Master of Arts degree, additional degrees, those actively involved in academia, church ministries, Christian organizations and parachurch groups.
PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
1. Students will communicate in writing biblical and theological academic research that addresses concerns within the community of faith.
2. Students will analyze empirical and theological concepts in cross- cultural settings and directly assess and formulate theological construct to enrich that particular culture.
3. Students will delineate the historical roots of theological and philosophical developments and identify the societal influences upon those developments.
4. Students will articulate various schools of theological thought and how they apply to the interpretation of Scripture.
5. The student will be able to formulate, organize, and compose academic papers and make presentations in the field in this advanced level of proficiency compatible with graduate studies.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
THE | 505 | Art and Science of Biblical Interpretation | 3 cr |
THE | 510 | Distinctives of Pentecostal Theology | 3 cr |
THE | 515 | Theological Methods | 3 cr |
THE | 520 | Theology: Classic & Contemporary | 3 cr |
THE | 525 | The Interface of Theology & Psychology | 3 cr |
PHL | 505 | Spirituality & Philosophical Thought | 3 cr |
PHL | 520 | Apologetics Classical to Contemporary | 3 cr |
PHL | 530 | Ethics Classical to Contemporary | 3 cr |
THE | 570 | Cross-Cultural Theology | 3 cr |
THE | 595 | Research Dynamics | 3 cr |
THE | 599 | Research Project | 6 cr |
TOTAL |
|
| 36 cr |
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
THE 505 – Art and Science of Biblical Interpretation: 3 credits
This course will examine the science of hermeneutical analysis, processes, and methods in which one can derive the most accurate and valid interpretation of passages of the Bible. Due consideration will be given to the art involved in integrating various lines of thought in the Bible to accomplish an adequate understanding and application of any passage in the Bible.
THE 510 – Distinctives of Pentecostal Theology: 3 credits
This course examines the unique contributions to theology being made by Pentecostal scholars. Attention will be given to the diverse origins of the Pentecostal movement and how various theology streams have shaped and been transformed by Pentecostal theology and practice.
THE 515 – Theological Methods: 3 credits
This course explores various approaches to doing theology so that the student may more effectively evaluate various theological systems and approaches. Students will think critically about the resources, assumptions, goals, and outcomes of various ways of doing theology in global contexts.
THE 520 – Theology: Classic & Contemporary: 3 credits
This course is a discovery of theological systems used throughout Church history and into the present with a particular focus on contemporary developments. Special attention is given to biblical foundations, philosophical presuppositions, psychosocial forces, and the practical consequences of these developments in the life of the Church and the quest for truth.
THE 525 – The Interface of Theology & Psychology: 3 credits
This course will examine the different approaches in relating the long traditions of theological inquiry with the more recent influential theories of psychology. Issues that will be discussed include: human nature, the notion of sin, the concept of salvation/sanctification, and the goal of spiritual and psychological wellness. The role of the Holy Spirit and human agents, as divine and people facilitators respectfully, will be explored.
Prerequisites: THE 505 and 515 or 520
PHL 505 – Spirituality & Philosophical Thought: 3 credits
This course will examine spirituality and its development in philosophical thought through the centuries, how it has shaped Eastern and Western thought and approaches to spirituality and where it has left us in our understanding of spirituality today on a philosophical level. Spiritual formation approaches will be examined in this course.
PHL 520 – Apologetics Classical to Contemporary: 3 credits
This course will consist of an exploration and analysis of the principles of apologetics and their application to contemporary culture. Theological, philosophical, historical, scientific, anthropological, psychological, and other dimensions will be considered.
PHL 530 – Ethics Classical to Contemporary: 3 credits
This course will consist of an exploration and analysis of the principles of ethics and their application to contemporary culture. Theological, philosophical, historical, scientific, anthropological, psychological, and other dimensions will be considered.
THE 570 – Cross-Cultural Theology: 3 credits
This course explores the ways in which culture intersects with and informs the task of theology. Students will explore biblical, historical, and contemporary examples of cultural influences, on theology both positively and negatively. In doing so, students will be better equipped to appreciate the theological contributions of diverse peoples and nations participating in the Missio Dei, “the mission of God”.
THE/SOC 595 – Research Dynamics: 3 credits
This course will train the student in the advanced skills of scholarly research, design, writing and documentation as a direct preparation for the final research project of the degree. The student must receive an “A” or a “B” is this course to proceed to the final Research Project. A “C” or lower will require the student to retake SOC/THE 595.
THE/SOC 599 – Research Project: 6 credits
This course will consist of a major written project that reflects graduate level research and writing on an area of study agreed upon and under the direct supervision of a professor who has specialization in the chosen topic of study in keeping with the degree. The final project must receive committee approval.
Prerequisite: SOC/THE 595