Biblical and Theological Studies - Religious Studies, B.A.

Program Director: Melanie Howard, Ph.D

Overview

The biblical and theological studies major nurtures faithful and critical reflection on Christian tradition through three primary lenses: the study of Scripture, the study of theological and ethical discourse, and the study of other religious traditions. Students are invited to delight in a richer understanding of and witness to the Scriptures in conversation with both the Christian church and the world. A majority of graduates pursue careers in church or church-related ministry or mission; some pursue graduate studies in Bible, theology, or religious studies. Other graduates have been successful in careers in law, community transformation, business, consulting, and teaching.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. Biblical Literacy & Interpretation: Students will demonstrate both knowledge of Old and New Testament biblical texts (with reference to their literary, historical, and social settings) and the application of appropriate exegetical methods to their interpretation of these texts while generating theological syntheses from those texts.
2. Theological, Ethical, & Moral Reasoning: Students will exhibit competency in critical assessment of Christian theological and ethical positions within their contexts, with a special focus on Anabaptist perspectives.
3. Religious Literacy & Interfaith Perspectives: Students will demonstrate an understanding of dimensions of diverse religious traditions and the ways in which Christian and other religious communities engage each other.
4. Integration: Students will integrate their academic biblical, religious, and theological learning with their faith commitments and lived practice.

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno