Department of Biblical Studies, Theology, and Ministry
The Department of Biblical Studies, Theology, and Ministry is the home of all academic programs in the School of Theology. All programs in the School of Theology are undergraduate; for graduate programs, see the Azusa Pacific Seminary entry in this catalog.
Majors
- Biblical Studies (BA)
- Christian Ministries (BA)
- Philosophy (BA)
- Theology (BA)
- Youth and Family Ministries (BA)
Minors
- Ancient Languages
- Biblical Studies
- Christian Ministries
- Cultural Engagement
- Philosophical Apologetics
- Philosophy
- Practical and Professional Ethics
- Religious Studies
- Theology
- Youth and Family Ministries
Certificates of Distinction
SOT 150, Understanding the Old Testament: Creation, Covenant, Exile, Restoration, 3 Units
This course is an introductory survey of the Old Testament, with a special focus on its various cultural contexts and genres and the theological themes of creation, covenant, exile, and restoration. The survey is accompanied by deeper engagement with selected books of the Old Testament, including exploration of how those texts are relevant for biblically shaped Christian beliefs and practices. Meets the APU Core: Understanding the Old Testament general education requirement.
Prerequisite: CORE 100
SOT 200, Understanding the New Testament: Christ, Redemption, Community, New Creation, 3 Units
This course is a survey of the New Testament, with a thematic focus on some of its key concepts, such as Christ, redemption, community, and new creation. The survey is accompanied by deeper engagement with selected books of the New Testament and how those texts are relevant for biblically-shaped Christian beliefs and practices. Meets the APU Core: Understanding the New Testament general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 150
SOT 201G, Elementary Greek I, 3 Units
The elements of New Testament Greek, with emphasis on the mastery of the basic forms, syntax, and vocabulary, are covered in this two-part beginning course. Classes meet three hours weekly. Two semesters of the same language are required to meet the General Education requirement. Meets the APU Core: Ancient or Modern Language general education requirement.
SOT 201H, Elementary Hebrew I, 3 Units
The basic grammar and syntax of Hebrew are taught. The course aims to provide a reading knowledge of biblical Hebrew prose and an acquaintance with basic conversational, modern Hebrew. Classes meet three hours weekly. Two semesters of the same language are required to meet the General Education requirement. Meets the APU Core: Ancient or Modern Language general education requirement.
SOT 201L, Elementary Latin I, 4 Units
Lecture 3 Hours; Discussion 1 Hour: Elementary Latin is for students with little or no background in Classical Latin. The elements of classical Latin, with emphasis on the mastery of the basic forms, syntax, and vocabulary are covered in this two-part beginning course. Two semesters of the same language are required to meet the General Education requirement. No previous knowledge of Latin is assumed. Meets the APU Core: Ancient or Modern Language general education requirement.
SOT 202G, Elementary Greek II, 3 Units
The elements of New Testament Greek, with emphasis on the mastery of the basic forms, syntax, and vocabulary, are covered in this two-part beginning course. Classes meet three hours weekly. Two semesters of the same language are required to meet the General Education requirement. Meets the APU Core: Ancient or Modern Language general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 201G or instructor consent
SOT 202H, Elementary Hebrew II, 3 Units
The basic grammar and syntax of Hebrew are taught. Using selected readings from the Hebrew Bible, the course provides a reading knowledge of biblical Hebrew prose and an acquaintance with basic conversational, modern Hebrew. Classes meet three hours weekly. Two semesters of the same language are required to meet the General Education requirement. Meets the APU Core: Ancient or Modern Language general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 201H or instructor consent
SOT 202L, Elementary Latin II, 4 Units
Lecture 3 Hours; Discussion 1 Hour: As the sequel of Elementary Latin I, Elementary Latin II is accessible to students who have taken Elementary Latin I. The elements of classical Latin, with emphasis upon the mastery of the basic verb systems (the five declensions and four conjugations), forms, syntax, vocabulary, and techniques in reading and translating simple Latin prose are covered in this two-part beginning course. Two semesters of the same language are required to meet the General Education requirement. Meets the APU Core: Ancient or Modern Language general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 201L
SOT 203G, Elementary Classical Greek I, 4 Units
Lecture 3 Hours; Discussion 1 Hour: Elementary Classical Greek is for students with little or no background in Classical Greek. The elements of classical Greek, with emphasis on the mastery of the basic forms, syntax, and vocabulary, are covered in this two-part beginning course. Two semesters of the same language are required to meet the General Education requirement. No previous knowledge of Classical Greek is assumed. Meets the APU Core: Ancient or Modern Language general education requirement.
SOT 204G, Elementary Classical Greek II, 4 Units
Lecture 3 Hours; Discussion 1 Hour: This is the second semester of a two semester, introductory course in Classical Greek language as well as classical Greek culture. The course is designed for students with little or no background in Classical Greek. The elements of Classical Greek, with emphasis upon the mastery of the basic forms, syntax, and vocabulary are covered in this two-part beginning course. Two semesters of the same language are required to meet the General Education requirement. Meets the APU Core: Ancient or Modern Language general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 203G
SOT 209, Writing for Christian Practice, 3 Units
In this course, students will critically assess the writing styles, questions, and arguments of one or more disciplines in order to better understand what is considered persuasive and effective writing in those fields. Students will respond to and evaluate writing, methodologies, ideas, and arguments and practice rhetorical strategies being employed in their own field.
SOT 210, Introduction to Contemporary Christian Ministries, 3 Units
This course exposes students to various ministry contexts and vocations while they begin to form a philosophy and theology of ministry. Emphasis is on the theological, philosophical, and practical viability of current ministry models while identifying unique emphases relevant to particular contexts. Students engage in an assessment of their own gifts, personality traits, and ministry calling in light of exposure to ministry options.
Prerequisite: CORE 100 (may be taken concurrently)
SOT 211, Introduction to Practical Theology, 3 Units
This course introduces students to practical theology methods for integrating Christian faith with the attitudes and activities of contemporary society. Students examine contemporary practices in various aspects of life and learn how to develop uniquely Christian positions and actions using various approaches associated with practical theology. Special emphasis is given to training students in processes that equip them to discern Christian responses and initiatives in the midst of a rapidly changing global environment.
SOT 212, Studying and Teaching the Bible, 3 Units
This course helps students develop skills in biblical exegesis and teaching biblical principles to youth. Emphasis is placed upon evaluating students' ability to teach the Bible in settings both inside and outside the classroom.
Prerequisite: CORE 100, SOT 150 or SOT 200, or department consent
SOT 213, Evangelism and Discipleship, 3 Units
Students in this course develop a biblically informed approach to evangelism and discipleship as a central purpose of the Church. Students explore this purpose in light of Jesus' mission statement, "Go and make disciples of all nations" (Matt. 28:19). This course carefully examines the necessary building blocks for producing an evangelistic, disciple-making Church community, with a significant focus on understanding the process of individual and corporate spiritual formation.
Prerequisite: 2.5 GPA, SOT 210 or SOT 214, and SOT 209 or SOT 211.
SOT 214, Introduction to Contemporary Youth and Family Ministries, 3 Units
This course exposes students to conceptualizations of local church youth and family ministries in a variety of forms, in an effort to engage students in the process of beginning the formation of their own philosophy and theology of youth and family ministries. Emphasis is on the theological, philosophical, and practical viability of current ministry models, while identifying unique strategies relevant to particular contexts. Students take part in an assessment of their own gifts, personality traits, and ministry calling in light of exposure to ministry options.
Prerequisite: CORE 100 (may be taken concurrently)
SOT 241, Understanding the New Testament through a Latinx Lens, 3 Units
This course introduces New Testament biblical literature, hermeneutics, and literary critical methodologies, with a primary focus on the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, and the primary interpretive lens being that of the Latinx communities in the U.S. Special attention is given to the meaning of the texts with regard to ancient and contemporary political, cultural, religious, and geographical settings; the literary structures and genres employed; and how these texts are relevant for faithful Christian living within a Latinx context. There is also an academic service-learning component. Meets the APU Core: Understanding the New Testament general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 150 or department consent
SOT 250, Theology and the Christian Life, 3 Units
This course introduces students to the beliefs of the Christian Church and their implications for Christian living. It grounds these beliefs and practices in the biblical narrative that students explore in Understanding the Old Testament (creation, covenant, exile, restoration) and Understanding the New Testament (Christ, redemption, community, new creation). Meets the APU Core: Theology and the Christian Life general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 200
SOT 260, World Religions, 3 Units
This course covers global religious traditions in their cultural and historical contexts. Students critically examine various definitions and methodologies of global religious traditions from the perspectives of confessing Christians. Traditions examined include Hinduism, primal religions, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. Meets the APU Core: Intercultural Competence general education requirement.
SOT 301G, Intermediate Greek I, 3 Units
This course consists of continued study of the forms, syntax, and vocabulary of New Testament Greek with an introduction to exegesis of the Greek New Testament. Meets the APU Core: Ancient or Modern Language general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 202G
SOT 301H, Intermediate Hebrew I, 3 Units
This course consists of continued study of the morphology, syntax, and vocabulary of biblical Hebrew with opportunities for reading and exegesis of various genres of the Hebrew Bible. This course counts toward a minor in Ancient Languages.
Prerequisite: SOT 202H
SOT 302G, Intermediate Greek II, 3 Units
Students undertake reading and exegesis of various passages in the New Testament.
Prerequisite: SOT 301G
SOT 302H, Intermediate Hebrew II, 3 Units
This course consists of reading and exegesis of the Hebrew Bible with a particular emphasis on Hebrew in relation to other Semitic languages. Readings of nonbiblical Hebrew and Aramaic material expose students to the development of Hebrew throughout history. This course counts toward a minor in Ancient Languages.
Prerequisite: SOT 301H
SOT 310, Culture and Ministry, 3 Units
This course helps students understand the interplay between cultural awareness and effective ministry. Cultural forces are constantly shifting so emphasis is placed on ethnographic principles and practices as valuable to a minister in order to effectively engage people in various contexts. It will also invest considerable time inside and outside the classroom into enhancing students' written communication as an invaluable tool for expressing their ideas clearly and in a convincing fashion in contemporary cultural contexts.
SOT 311, Adolescent Development in Family Ministry, 3 Units
This course equips students to integrate practical theology and adolescent developmental theory to empower church communities in cultivating ministry to adolescents and their families toward lifelong flourishing and faith commitment. Emphasis is placed on gaining an understanding of current research in adolescent developmental psychology while considering its implications in contemporary family ministry models.
Prerequisite: SOT 210 or SOT 214; SOT 209 or SOT 211; and completed General Education Humanities: Social Sciences requirement, junior or senior standing, or department consent.
SOT 312, Theology and Practice of Ministry, 3 Units
The life and work of the Christian pastor is studied with attention to the broad range of duties, rituals, and responsibilities for which the contemporary Christian pastor is expected to have competency. Topics for study include administration of sacraments, church finance, staff administration, worship, church boards, pastoral visitation, and evangelism.
SOT 313, Intercultural Ministries, 3 Units
The course provides an understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with intercultural ministry in and beyond the local church. Biblical, eschatological, missiological, socio-cultural and practical issues are explored with the goal of providing conceptual tools for analyzing, adapting, and creating practical ways to respectfully reach, embrace and engage those from diverse cultural contexts as members of the body of Christ. Meets the APU Core: Intercultural Competence general education requirement.
SOT 314, Mentoring and Small Groups, 3 Units
The theology and practice of mentoring and small group involvement is studied in the context of relational discipleship and spiritual formation. Topics for study include leadership, group formation, group dynamics, small group models and purpose, program development, the range of mentoring possibilities, communication models, and models for spiritual transformation.
SOT 315, Introduction to Pastoral Care and Counseling, 3 Units
Pastoral counseling as a specialized ministry within the field of pastoral care will be explored didactically and practically in the preparation of persons who plan to do pastoral counseling and pastoral psychology. This course will engage in interdisciplinary examination of the physiological, cultural, theological, and biblical understanding of care and counseling. A survey of counseling theory from an integrative perspective, with attention to particular ministry issues will be incorporated into a practical format in a community setting.
Prerequisite: SOT 210 or SOT 214, SOT 209 or SOT 211, and completed Humanities: Social Science General Education requirement.
SOT 316, Practical Theology and Contemporary Issues, 3 Units
Students in this course learn to apply specific methodologies associated with the discipline of practical theology to reflect on and respond in appropriate ways to a contemporary issue, informed by significant theological reflection and cross-disciplinary insight. The specific topic addressed varies each semester based on issues arising in contemporary culture that require careful theological reflection.
Prerequisite: SOT 209 or SOT 211, SOT 250, PHIL 301, and junior standing or department consent
SOT 317, Family Development and Ministry, 3 Units
This course equips students to design and apply practical theology methods and programs that empower the family. Specific focus is placed upon the family in its cultural setting, and the development needs of various family members at particular stages of life.
Prerequisite: SOT 209 or SOT 211 and PSYC 290 or completed APU Core: Social Science general education requirement.
SOT 318, Effective Teaching in Christian Education, 3 Units
Students study the principles and procedures involved in effective classroom teaching: philosophies of teaching, methods, the teaching-learning process, motivation, guidance, integration, and evaluation.
SOT 319, Ministry to the City, 4 Units
This course provides the student with a broad introduction to the unique challenges and opportunities for Christian ministry in an urban context with special attention to some of the most effective methods and tools for doing urban ministry. Students are encouraged to reflect on their own lifestyles and future ministry choices in light of the needs of the city and the response of the gospel in meeting human need. Exposure to city life and church-based organizations working for the shalom of the city provide a dynamic context for the various learning activities in this course.
SOT 340, The Rise of the King: I and II Samuel, 3 Units
Students study I and II Samuel, giving special attention to the text with regard to its purpose, theological message, politics, culture, religions, geographical setting, and literary genre. This course may also include brief surveys of Joshua and Judges as they relate to the rise of the monarchy in Israel. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 150 and SOT 200, or HON 240, or instructor consent
SOT 341, Old Testament Prophets, 3 Units
This course offers a critical and exegetical study of several selected minor prophets and at least one major prophet (Isaiah, Jeremiah, or Ezekiel). Special consideration is given to their ministry and message in light of the social, political, and religious conditions of their times, as well as the continuing relevance of the prophetic message for our day. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 150; SOT 200 or HON 240; or instructor consent
SOT 342, Ruth and Esther, 3 Units
This course offers an informed and exegetical study of the books of Ruth and Esther with special consideration to their geographical, political, cultural, religious, and literary dimensions. Additionally, attention is given to the various ways in which Ruth and Esther have been used as resources for contemporary communities of faith. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
SOT 343, Psalms and Wisdom, 3 Units
Students undertake an advanced study of poetry and wisdom literature in the Hebrew Bible. Attention is given to the development of the literature as well as an investigation of each book's composition. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 150; SOT 200 or HON 240; or instructor consent
SOT 344, Life and Teachings of Jesus, 3 Units
The life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus Christ are the focus of this course. Special attention is given to the content of the Synoptic Gospels as well as the social, political, and religious conditions of the time. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 150; SOT 200 or HON 240; or instructor consent
SOT 345, The Gospel and Letters of John, 3 Units
This course focuses on literary and theological themes in the Gospel and three letters written by the Apostle John. Students gain understanding of why the Gospel and letters of John are important for them. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
SOT 346, Romans and Galatians, 3 Units
This course provides an analytical, exegetical, and expositional study of the biblical texts of Romans and Galatians. Special attention is given to the nature of Paul's ministry, the theological, social, and practical issues he addressed, and how these texts are relevant for faithful Christian living. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 150; SOT 200 or HON 240; or instructor consent
SOT 347, Thessalonian and Corinthian Epistles, 3 Units
Paul's letters to the churches at Thessalonica and Corinth are studied, with attention given to the nature of Paul's ministry and the doctrinal and practical issues he addresses. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 150; SOT 200 or HON 240; or instructor consent
SOT 348, Biblical Lands and Cultures, 3 Units
This comprehensive course of study emphasizes the geography, history, and archaeology of Israel and its neighbors in biblical and postbiblical times. Students will also be introduced to the complex social, political, and religious issues facing the Middle East today. The course will be taught as a semester class on the Azusa campus or in conjunction with a tour of the Bible lands. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
SOT 349, Near Eastern Archaeology, 3 Units
The history and material culture of the Levant are surveyed from prehistoric times through the Iron Age, with particular emphasis on the contributions of ancient Israel to the development of culture. Attention is also given to the nature, goals, and methods of scholarly inquiry and interpretation. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
SOT 351, Archaeological Field Excavation, 3 Units
An introduction to the theory and practice of archaeological excavation as carried out in Israel and other parts of the Middle East. The student will be trained in the methods of survey, field excavation, recording, and pottery analysis. The student will also learn how to intelligently assess and explain the results of Near Eastern Archaeology as it relates to the Bible. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: Completion of a 300-level General Education Bible requirement or department consent
SOT 361, Judaism: A Story of Hope, 3 Units
This course introduces the texts, traditions, and practices of Judaism as they have developed over the centuries. Students are exposed to the literature of classical Judaism, including the Hebrew Bible, the Mishnah, the Midrash, and the Talmud. These texts are read in conjunction with a study of the historical, sociological, and phenomenological environments in which they developed and which mediated them from one generation to the next. Course material includes a study of how Judaism has responded to the changes wrought by modernity and the creation of the state of Israel. Meets the APU Core: Intercultural Competence general education requirement.
SOT 362, Islam: The Way of Submission, 3 Units
This course introduces the texts, traditions, and practices of Islam as they have developed over the centuries. Course material focuses on rituals, ethics, and practices of Islam, along with discussion of Islam's holiest text, the Qur'an, and also includes study of the historical, sociological, and phenomenological environments in which these elements developed and which mediated them from one generation to the next. Students also explore how the various forms of Islam have responded to the changes wrought by the modern world. Meets the APU Core: Intercultural Competence general education requirement.
SOT 363, Hinduism: Karma, Dharma, and Yoga, 3 Units
Students in this course explore the major indigenous religions of South Asia-with particular emphasis on shared concepts such as karma, the practices of yoga, and the attainment of dharma-in order to equip Christians for global Christian praxis and interreligious theological and philosophical dialogue. Course material traces the evolution of Indian religion from its roots in the Vedas and the Upanishads through the development of Jainism, Hinduism, and Sikhism, and concludes with an examination of "inclusivist" and "exclusivist" approaches to religious pluralism in contemporary Indian thought. Meets the APU Core: Intercultural Competence general education requirement.
SOT 364, East Asian Religions and Mindfulness, 3 Units
Students in this course examine East Asian (or Taoist) religions including Mayahana or Ch'an Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism-with minor emphasis on Chinese folk religions and Shinto in their Chinese, Korean, and Japanese contexts, and on Vietnamese perspectives-in order to equip Christians for global Christian praxis and interreligious theological and philosophical dialogue. Meets the APU Core: Intercultural Competence general education requirement.
SOT 370, Faith and the Arts, 3 Units
This course introduces students to foundational doctrines of the Christian Church through the interaction of biblical texts and various art forms. Students practice the integration of Christian faith with the visual and performing arts, with the resulting creation of praxial theological research that culminates in written and artistic artifacts.
Prerequisite: 3 units of biblical studies, CORE 100, or department consent (CORE 100 is waived as a prerequisite for students transferring 60 or more units; all other prerequisites apply).
SOT 371, Church History: Apostolic Era to the Eve of the Reformation, 3 Units
This course provides a study of the major developments in the history of Christianity from the early Church to the eve of the Reformation. Emphasis is placed on the growth of Christian doctrine.
Prerequisite: 3 SOT units, CORE 100, or department consent
SOT 372, Church History from the Eve of the Reformation to the Present, 3 Units
This course provides a study of the major developments in the history of Christianity from the eve of the Reformation to the present. Emphasis is placed on the development of the Christian Church in the West and recent developments in the two-thirds world.
Prerequisite: 3 SOT units, CORE 100, or department consent
SOT 373, Contemporary Christian Theology, 3 Units
Contemporary Christian theologies are explored in the context of important changes in modern thought in the post-Enlightenment era, emphasizing issues of concern in today's Western, post-Christian culture.
Prerequisite: SOT 250
SOT 401A, Ancient Languages, 1-4 Units
This course is offered according to the needs of the student. It provides opportunity to learn basic grammar and vocabulary in Arabic, Akkadian, Aramaic, Coptic, Latin, Ugaritic, or other ancient languages relevant to the study of biblical history and literature. May be repeated for advanced language study or learning an additional language.
Prerequisite: SOT 202G and/or SOT 202H or instructor consent
SOT 401G, Greek Readings, 1-4 Units
This course requires directed reading in the Greek New Testament. It is offered according to the needs of the student. It can be repeated for credit, thus providing fifth and sixth semesters of Greek.
Prerequisite: SOT 302G, or completion of two years of biblical Greek at another institution or instructor consent
SOT 401H, Hebrew Readings, 3 Units
This course consists of directed reading in the Hebrew Bible and is offered according to the needs of the student. It can be repeated for credit, thus providing fifth and sixth semesters of Hebrew. This course counts toward a minor in Ancient Languages.
Prerequisite: SOT 302H or completion of two years of biblical Hebrew at another institution or instructor consent
SOT 410, Christian Values and Human Sexuality, 3 Units
This course involves an interdisciplinary examination of physiological, sociocultural, psychological, and theological bases of human behavior with attention devoted to student's development of a personal perspective toward sexuality that integrates Christian values and moral integrity. Students learn to assess and understand an adolescent's sexual develoment, problems, and issues that relate to sexological and moral development.
Prerequisite: SOT 210 or SOT 214, SOT 311, or department consent
SOT 411, Christian Ministry Internship I, 3 Units
This course develops a student's ability to blend Christian theology and Christian practice by integrating classroom learning, hands-on practice, spiritual formation, mentoring, and critical reflection on the practice of the Christian faith. Course work covers: biblical and theological foundations of Christian practice, the context in which the Christian faith is to be practiced, and the dynamic relationship between the two. Students are required to serve an average minimum of 6 hours per week in hands-on field experience. Students must also participate in small groups for reflection, mentoring, and spiritual formation.
Prerequisite: SOT 209 or SOT 211, SOT 310, SOT 250, two General Education SOT courses, and GPA 2.5.
SOT 412, Adolescent Issues and Intervention, 3 Units
This course introduces the student to the basic skills and practice of counseling adolescents. The course serves as counseling "first-aid", meaning that students learn basic helping skills but do not qualify as professional counselors. Students are exposed to counseling issues and problems that grow out of the development process, disorders that begin with/are unique to adolescence, and intervention, prevention, and referral strategies. Students also examine a philosophy of counseling from a practical theology and biblical perspective.
Prerequisite: SOT 311
SOT 413, Christian Mission in the 21st Century, 3 Units
This course is an introduction to the biblical, historical, and theological foundations of missions in a contemporary world setting, both globally and locally. The call, context, and preparation for missionary service are examined.
Prerequisite: SOT 210 or SOT 214 and SOT 209 or SOT 211 (not required for non-youth ministry/Christian ministries majors).
SOT 414, The Art of Leadership, 3 Units
This course teaches students to critically integrate Christian theology with best leadership practices in church ministry and non-profit ministry environments. The course equips students to create actions and practices that have a positive, transformative Christian impact in the lives of those we serve and those who serve with us. Students will learn to develop these actions and practices in their internships.
Prerequisite: GPA 2.5, SOT 209 or SOT 211, SOT 250, two General Education SOT courses.
Corequisite: SOT 411
SOT 415, Spiritual Transformation, 3 Units
The course examines the process and contexts by which persons mature, engaging biblical and theological foundations for spiritual transformation that takes developmental characteristics, needs, life cycles, and learning patterns into consideration. The course emphasizes community and individuals.
SOT 416, Senior Preparation in Sports Ministry, 1 Unit
This course connects seniors pursuing a sports ministry concentration with the world of the professional sports minister.
SOT 417, Urban Ministry Practicum, 6 Units
The practicum is intended to provide students with a broad understanding of urban life and ministry. The practicum develops a student's ability to interface theory and practice, theology and ministry, by integrating classroom learning, hands-on practice, spiritual formation, mentoring, and critical reflection on the practice of the Christian faith in an urban setting. During the practicum, the student is required to live, work, worship, and study in the city.
SOT 418, Exegeting the City, 3 Units
This course explores the development of a "hermeneutic" for understanding the built environment as a means to engage the city and enhance ministry opportunities. Discussion centers on physical, sensory indicators of community needs and resources. The goal is to more adequately contextualize Christian urban ministry. Topics include community mapping, needs assessment, resource identification, measurement of change, and strategic ministry development. Course work is taught at a graduate level, but undergraduates are welcome.
SOT 419, Practical Theology and Vocational Engagement, 3 Units
This capstone course for the cultural engagement minor enhances a student's ability to identify and skillfully utilize principles characteristic of the discipline of practical theology to develop a theologically informed perspective regarding issues related to their chosen major or perceived vocational aspirations. Students engage in a cross-disciplinary research project in order to demonstrate their ability to relate methodologies and perspectives associated with practical theology to a specific issue or experience they will encounter in the context of their professional lives.
SOT 421, Senior Seminar: Church and Society, 3 Units
Students use practical theology methods learned in class to create an integrated Christian response to a contemporary social issue. It considers the ethical, spiritual, and community causes and impacts of social issues and teaches students to develop informed Christian responses to them. This course is taught in a seminar format that includes major papers developed over the course of the semester, leading class discussions, and a presentation.
Prerequisite: Senior standing and completion of the majority of the units required from the Biblical and Theology category in General Education.
SOT 422, Principles of Preaching, 3 Units
This course offers a study of classical homiletics and a variety of sermonic methodologies. Sound hermeneutical principles in exegesis of Scripture and the worship setting of the sermon with emphasis on the delivery of effective expository sermons in the contemporary world are covered.
Prerequisite: SOT 209 or SOT 211, SOT 210 or SOT 214, SOT 3xx/4xx.
SOT 423, Communicating the Gospel, 3 Units
This course assists the student in following Jesus' model of a people "filled with grace and truth" (John 1:14). Special attention is given to writing, speaking, teaching, interpersonal communication, body language, problem solving, and other critical tasks necessary to being a Christian and carrying out the Great Commission.
Prerequisite: SOT 209 or SOT 211, SOT 210 or SOT 214, SOT 3xx/4xx.
SOT 424, Suffering: Theological and Practical Perspectives on Disabilities, 3 Units
This course examines theological perspectives to understand the role of suffering in the human experience. Focusing on persons with disabilities, students explore their personal values, gain understanding of bio-psycho-social-spiritual components of disability, access available resources, and develop strategies to help churches/agencies develop inclusive programs.
Prerequisite: 3 units of SOT and Junior standing
SOT 425, Race, Reconciliation, and Ministry, 3 Units
This course prepares students to engage people in ministry in a contemporary culture that is increasingly multiethnic. To equip students to be more culturally intelligent, course material guides them in an exploration of the historical and contemporary relationships between race, theology, and ecclesiology in Western culture, with the intent of developing a commitment to reconciliation grounded in their theological convictions. Meets the APU Core: Intercultural Competence general education requirement.
SOT 426, Children's Educational Ministries, 3 Units
Childhood development, the needs of children in contemporary society, and biblical and theological perspectives on children are examined, with an emphasis on discerning the church's role in nurturing spiritual formation in the faith community.
Prerequisite: SOT 210 or SOT 214, SOT 209 or SOT 211, and PSYC 290; completed Humanities: Social Science General Education requirement.
SOT 427, Ministry Organization and Administration, 3 Units
This course examines the process of ordering the ministry of the church or parachurch community for the greatest effectiveness. This order is to be understood theologically as a means of creating the most ideal context possible for the Holy Spirit to minister to and through people. All aspects of strategic planning, church organization, and administration are addressed.
SOT 440, Prison and Pastoral Epistles, 3 Units
This course is a study of Pauline theology as revealed in these two groups of letters. Special attention is given to Pauline Christology and ecclesiology and their practical relevance for the contemporary Church. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: One 300-level New Testament Course: SOT 344, SOT 346, SOT 347, or department consent
SOT 441, Old Testament World, 3 Units
This course examines the history, religion, and culture of ancient Israel within the broader context of the Ancient Near East from the beginnings of civilization through Alexander the Great. Special attention is given to the political, cultural, and religious systems of Egypt, Mesopotamia, Anatolia, and the Eastern Mediterranean world, and their contributions to present-day culture. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: Completion of a 300-level Old Testament course, or department approval
SOT 442, New Testament World, 3 Units
The social, political, religious, philosophical, ideological, and literary environment of the Greco-Roman world is studied as the cultural context of Second Temple Judaism, early Christianity, and their literature. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 200 and one SOT 300-level New Testament course
SOT 443, Biblical Apocalyptic, 3 Units
Students learn about the rise and development of the apocalyptic literature found in the collections of the Old Testament, Pseudepigrapha, Apocrypha, and New Testament. Special attention is given to Daniel, Matthew 24-25, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, and Revelation and how those texts are relevant for faithful Christian living. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: One 300-level New Testament Course: SOT 344, SOT 346, SOT 347, or department consent
SOT 444, Women in the Biblical Tradition, 3 Units
This course enables students to participate in the discourse community of their major by assessing the rhetorical situations they will encounter when they enter their academic field or profession. Students also create documents in at least two genres, implementing the techniques they have developed in Writing 1 & 2. The writing component will complement an introduction to the students to how women are depicted in biblical tradition. It includes careful reading of narratives about women in the Bible, both Old and New Testaments, as well as the reception of and expansion on those narratives in early Church tradition. Furthermore, the student explores the way contemporary readers/hearers encounter these texts in light of their own cultural location and faith perspectives. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: Completion of GE 100-, 200-, and 300-level General Education SOT requirements
SOT 445, History of Biblical Interpretation, 3 Units
This is an upper-division humanities course that introduces the student to the rich history of the interpretation of biblical writings. The focus rests on the ways in which the various faith communities, Jewish as well as Christian, received the writings, rendered them comprehensible and relevant to contemporary concerns, and passed them on to subsequent generations. The chronological range covered by this course begins during the biblical period itself and extends to the present day. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: Completion of a 300-level SOT course
SOT 446, Global Biblical Interpretation, 3 Units
This course examines how Christians in the non-Western world have received the Bible and have made it meaningful to their own cultural concerns. Students examine alternate approaches to the science and art of biblical interpretation, approaching non-Western interpretation of the Bible from theoretical, sociological, literary-critical, theological, and practical perspectives. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: SOT 150, SOT 200, and one 300-level SOT course or department consent
SOT 447, Postcolonial Biblical Interpretation, 3 Units
This course examines the modern history of biblical interpretation, giving special attention to the development of postcolonial biblical criticism, an innovative approach to reading sacred texts that draws from the life experiences of those who have suffered from colonial and imperial oppression. Students examine the various themes of postcolonial theory in order to assess its strengths and consider its blind spots. Students also learn to apply its various principles to the exegesis of biblical texts. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: Completion of a 300-level SOT course
SOT 448, Biblical Studies Capstone Course: Old Testament Theology, 3 Units
This course provides opportunities to develop skills for engaging basic issues concerning theology in the Old Testament as Christian Scripture. Subjects include the relationship between God and the world, knowledge of God, the sovereignty of God, the holiness of God, the justice and mercy of God, and the people of God. Writing assignments are built on exegetical skills cultivated in other SOT coursework and provide a platform for mastering principled research methods, textual and hermeneutical analysis, and critical evaluation of ancient and modern theological discourse. To meet the biblical studies capstone requirement for majors, this course or SOT 449 may be taken. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: Senior standing, at least one 300-level Old Testament course, or department consent
SOT 449, Biblical Studies Capstone Course: New Testament Theology, 3 Units
Students in this course explore major New Testament themes and how they relate theologically. The course offers a comparative study of New Testament writers (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, the author of Hebrews, and others), with focus upon what they disclose about God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Church, sin, salvation, the coming Kingdom, and other subjects. As a capstone course, attention is given to methodology, biblical literacy, informed thinking, and faith integration. To meet the biblical studies capstone requirement for majors, either this course or SOT 448 may be taken. Meets the APU Core: Upper-Division Bible general education requirement.
Prerequisite: Senior standing, at least one 300-level New Testament course, or department consent
SOT 451, Senior Seminar: Biblical Theology and Ethics, 3 Units
This senior seminar examines an important theological and ethical issue facing Christians today. This course explains selected methods and content from the fields of biblical theology and biblical ethics and prepares students to articulate various ways in which the Christian faith can be lived out in the contemporary world. The seminar format includes an oral presentation and a thesis.
Prerequisite: Senior standing, and completion of a 100, 200, and 300 level SOT General Education course
SOT 470, Systematic Theology I, 3 Units
This is the first in a two-course sequence introducing theological thinking in relation to the great teachings of the Church, and inquiring into the meaning and implications of the doctrines of holiness, revelation, the Trinity, creation, the person and work of Jesus Christ, the person and work of the Holy Spirit, the Church, the sacraments, and eschatology. These courses focus on the witness of Scripture, the historic testimony of the Church, classical and contemporary modes of thought, and the meaning of theological thinking for the life of the student and the Church.
Prerequisite: SOT 250
SOT 471, Systematic Theology II, 3 Units
The second in a two-course sequence introducing theological thinking in relation to the great teachings of the church, and inquiring into the meaning and implications of the doctrines of holiness, revelation, the Trinity, creation, the person and work of Jesus Christ, the person and work of the Holy Spirit, the Church, the sacraments, and eschatology. These courses focus on the witness of Scripture, the historic testimony of the Church, classical and contemporary modes of thought, and the meaning of theological thinking for the life of the student and the Church.
SOT 472, Seminar in Church History, 3 Units
Students explore selected epochs, movements, or issues in the history of the Church.
Prerequisite: CORE 100, SOT 371 or SOT 372, or department consent (repeatable for credit)
SOT 473, The Formation of Early Christianity, 3 Units
Students in this course examine the theological, social, historical, intellectual, cultural, political, and popular influences upon the development of early Christianity through the establishment of the imperial Christian Church in the late 4th century, resulting in the successful completion of a critical analytical research paper using primary and secondary sources.
Prerequisite: CORE 100, SOT 371 or SOT 372, or department consent
SOT 474, American Christianity, 3 Units
In this Church history seminar, students examine the social, historical, intellectual, cultural, political, and popular influences upon the theological development of American Christianity from colonial Puritanism of the 17th century through various revivals, the Civil War, and the Jesus movements of the 20th century, resulting in the successful completion of a critical analytical research paper using primary and secondary sources.
Prerequisite: CORE 100, SOT 371 or SOT 372, or department consent
SOT 475, The History of Christian Spirituality, 3 Units
In this church history seminar, students explore the church's views of healing, miracles, and other gifts of the Holy Spirit from the birth of the church in Acts 2, through the early church fathers, medieval mystics, Protestant reformers, and 19th c. holiness movements to the present-day Pentecostal and Charismatic movements through the successful completion of a critical analytical research paper using primary and secondary sources.
Prerequisite: CORE 100, SOT 371 or SOT 372, or department consent
SOT 476, Global Christianity, 3 Units
In this church history seminar, students examine the historical, cultural, political, and religious influences upon the formation of global configurations of Christianity, including the impact of indigenous religions and worldviews and Western imperialism. Meets the APU Core: Intercultural Competence general education requirement.
SOT 477, The Theology of John Wesley, 3 Units
Students explore aspects of John Wesley, including his thought regarding personal and social ethics. The course emphasizes Wesley's theology of holiness, especially as it is articulated in his understanding of God's sovereign love, the self-giving life of Christ, the work of the Holy Spirit, the Christian life as a radical love for God and other humans, responsibility toward the poor and disenfranchised, and other issues.
Prerequisite: SOT 250
SOT 478, Theologians and Theological Movements, 3 Units
This course examines major Christian theologians and theological movements of importance and interest to students of systematic theology. The course has a seminar format.
Prerequisite: SOT 250
SOT 479, Doctrinal Theology, 3 Units
This course examines in depth one of the major loci in Christian theology. Consideration will be given to its biblical and historical foundations and contemporary expression. This course has a seminar format.
Prerequisite: SOT 250
SOT 480, Theological Ethics, 3 Units
This course is an inquiry into the relationship between God's work in the world and the task of human beings to live well in light of a Trinitarian understanding of faith.
Prerequisite: SOT 250
SOT 481, Christian Traditions, 3 Units
Students are introduced to the three major branches of the Christian Church: Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and Protestantism. The course investigates the history, theology, polity, and worship practices of each tradition.
SOT 482, Theology from the Margins, 3 Units
In this course, students (1) examine systems of power that have developed around the concepts of race, gender and class; (2) the marginalizing effects of these systems upon particular peoples; (3) and the constructive theologies of liberation and resistance that have emerged in response. Meets the APU Core: Intercultural Competence general education requirement.
Prerequisite: Completion of the GE Bible and Theology category
SOT 483, Senior Seminar: Theology and Social Issues, 3 Units
This course is designed for those who wish to further their understanding of an important issue facing Christians today. The course consists of a seminar format, including a major paper and oral presentation. Students combine Christian theology, biblical studies, and ethics to examine various ways in which the Christian faith can be lived out today.
Prerequisite: Senior standing, completion of the majority of the units required for Bible and Theology in the General Education program
SOT 495, Special Topics, 3 Units
Current topics of importance and interest to students in biblical studies, theology, ministry, and/or religious studies are studied. The course has a seminar format. It may be taken more than once as topics change.
SOT 497, Readings, 1-4 Units
This is a program of study concentrating on assigned readings, discussions, and writing arranged between, and designed by, a student of upper-division standing and a full-time professor. May be repeated for credit. An independent study fee is assessed for each enrollment in this class.
SOT 498, Directed Research, 1-4 Units
This course provides instruction in research design and technique, and gives students experience in the research process. The one-unit expectation encompasses no less than 30 hours of work with accompanying reading, log, writing, and seminar presentation within the department or in a university research symposium. No more than one unit may be used to fulfill preparatory readings requirement. An independent study fee is assessed for each enrollment in this class. May be repeated for credit.
Prerequisite: Junior or Senior Standing
PHIL 100, Introduction to Philosophy, 3 Units
This course helps students understand the world better by studying significant interpretations of self, the world, and God-the major concerns of philosophy that have been offered by thinkers past and present. Meets the APU Core: Humanities: Philosophy general education requirement.
PHIL 150, Visions of the Good Life, 3 Units
The central theme of this course is "the Good Life"-that is, a life that is meaningful and fulfilling for a human being. To develop a vision of such a life, we will spend time thinking deeply about the kinds of things that are essential for human flourishing: e.g., the care of the soul, family and friendship, freedom, beauty, and meaning. Our reflections will take us through a series of compelling works, both classic and contemporary, by philosophers, poets, novelists, historians, artists, and political leaders throughout time and around the globe. Our study will culminate in a campus-wide reflection on St. Augustine's Confessions, which presents the vision of a Good Life in which human hearts can ultimately find rest. Meets the APU Core: Humanities: Philosophy, Visions of the Good Life general education requirement.
PHIL 210, Introduction to Critical Thinking, 3 Units
Students study principles of deductive and non-deductive logic. Principles are used to evaluate arguments in a variety of contexts, including the popular media and the professional practices of philosophy, theology, science or law. Students are also expected to assess and improve the logical rigor and clarity of their own reasoning.
PHIL 252, Classical Chinese Ethics, 3 Units
This course provides an introduction to (1) key texts written by a variety of classical Chinese philosophers-e.g., Konzi (Confucius), Mozi, Mengzi (Mencius), Laozi (Lao Tzu), Zhuangzi, and Xunxi-and (2) to their fundamental ethical teachings-e.g., the nature of the dao, the nature of being human, the role of ritual in the moral life, whether virtue requires partiality to one's family and one's culture, and so forth. More importantly, it teaches students to analyze, to evaluate, and to apply the insights of these texts and teachings to their own lives. Through academic study and thoughtful cultural engagement, it offers a life-enriching, cross-cultural encounter with the classical systems of Chinese ethics that shaped eastern Asian cultures and continue to influence eastern Asian immigrant communities around the world. NOTE: This is a lower-division companion course to PHIL 452.
PHIL 301, Practical Ethics, 3 Units
In this course, students both (1) learn the fundamental theories and principles that influence contemporary ethical discourse, and (2) develop the ability to apply these theories and principles to contemporary moral problems.
PHIL 303, Reasons for Faith: Exploring the Rationality of the Existence of God and Christianity, 3 Units
This course equips students to understand and communicate the rich intellectual foundations of a Judeo-Christian worldview. First, students learn various approaches to apologetics, the strengths and weaknesses of those approaches, and a survey of the epistemology of religious belief more broadly. Second, they apply these apologetic approaches with an aim to showcase the rich intellectual foundation for (a) the existence of a perfect Being and (b) the revelation of God through Christ. Third, students study common atheological arguments, ranging from the problem of evil to the problem of hell. Through the course, students learn how to (i) package ideas in clear, organized form, (ii) effectively relate their ideas to their audience, and (iii) think critically and analytically about big, enduring questions relevant to all human beings.
PHIL 305, Critical Thinking and Civil Discourse, 3 Units
This course prepares students for effective civic engagement, politically and professionally, teaching them how to apply essential principles of critical thinking in a way that fosters intellectual virtues. These skills and virtues are applied in a variety of contexts including public policy, popular media, and professional practices such as philosophy, theology, science, business, and law. Consequently, the course helps prepare students to successfully complete graduate school placement exams (e.g., GRE, LSAT, MCAT, GMAT). PHIL 100 is not required as a prerequisite, but is strongly encouraged.
PHIL 310, Formal Logic, 3 Units
This course defines logic as the skill of assessing arguments. The course assists students to recognize arguments in both academic and nonacademic forms, increasing confidence in their ability to form a structure of techniques and values to be used as a basis for critiquing others' arguments and creating their own.
PHIL 315, History of Ancient Philosophy, 3 Units
Students explore the development of philosophy from its early beginnings in Greece to the early thought of Augustine. Special attention is given to the Socratic, Platonic, and Aristotelian contributions to the field.
PHIL 316, Medieval Philosophy, 3 Units
This course helps students understand the importance of the medieval era and its contributions to the historical development of philosophy. Thinkers considered in this class include the late Augustine, Averroes, Avicenna, Maimonides, Anselm, Bonaventure, Aquinas, Duns Scotus, and Ockham. Topics considered include the relationship of theology to philosophy, the divine attributes, ontology, and ethics.
PHIL 320, History of Early Modern Philosophy, 3 Units
This course covers the development of philosophy from the Renaissance through the 18th century.
PHIL 325, History of 19th and 20th Century Philosophy, 3 Units
This course offers a study of the significant philosophical movements and figures from late modernity to the turn of the 21st century.
PHIL 330, Ethics, 3 Units
The basic principles of ethical conduct are examined as applied to personal and social problems. The chief theories of the "good life" are investigated, with special attention given to the principles underlying a consistent ethical outlook on life.
PHIL 340, Concepts of Human Nature, 3 Units
This course explores the significant questions concerning human nature. Special emphasis is placed on philosophical, theological, psychological, and sociological theories of the uniqueness of human activity. Extended attention and instruction will be given to various genres of philosophical writing.
PHIL 360, Social and Political Debates, 3 Units
The aim of this course is to prepare students to use ethical principles to argue for justice in the formation of public policies. With this end in mind, students both (1) examine the fundamental principles of social and political philosophy and (2) deliberate about how to employ these principles in contemporary social and political debates. Finally, they put their deliberations into practice by competing in the California Regional Ethics Bowl
PHIL 362, Business, Virtue, and the Good Life, 3 Units
This course provides students with a moral framework for being wise and just business professionals. Students begin by learning the most prominent ethical theories and principles. They then develop the ability to analyze, to evaluate, and to apply these theories and principles in a way that helps them to lead good and virtuous lives-lives that properly balance often competing moral obligations to one's business associates, to one's fellow citizens, and to one's friends and family members.
PHIL 364, Bioethics, 3 Units
In this course, students both (1) learn the most prominent theories and principles used in contemporary bioethics, and (2) develop the ability to analyze, to evaluate, and to apply these theories and principles in the context of contemporary medical practice.
Prerequisite: PHIL 100 or HUM 224; Recommended: PHIL 300 or PHIL 330
PHIL 366, Environmental Ethics, 3 Units
In this course, students will investigate, craft a proposal for, and practice living according to an environmental philosophy as a way of life based on a virtue approach. Additionally, students will research the arguments for and against various environmentally ethical dilemmas in the modern world, aiming to analyze and respond to these arguments and drawing reasonable and actionable conclusions.
Prerequisite: PHIL 100 or HUM 224; Recommended: PHIL 300 or PHIL 330
PHIL 410, Philosophy of Religion, 3 Units
Religious experience is studied from the standpoint of philosophy. An examination is made of the contributions of philosophy to religion and religion to philosophy.
PHIL 415, Philosophical Theology, 3 Units
The purpose of this course is to analyze rational arguments concerning the divine nature. In it, students apply the laws of logic and principles of sound reasoning to empirical evidence (including claims about the direct experience of God) and introspective intuition concerning the concept of God, enabling us to understand the logical limits of that concept.
PHIL 430, Philosophy of Science, 3 Units
The course explores the nature of scientific method and knowledge and the character of scientific explanations. Ways in which ethics and religion interrelate with the sciences are also covered.
Prerequisite: One Lab Science and PHIL 100
PHIL 440, Epistemology, 3 Units
This course exposes advancing philosophy students to the major problems in the theory of knowledge. While some historical background is covered, the principle focus is on the contours of the contemporary debates about such issues as skepticism, epistemic justification, foundationalism, coherentism, internalism, and externalism. Some application is made specifically to the epistemology of religious belief.
PHIL 445, Metaphysics, 3 Units
This course is an introduction to metaphysics that gives the student a broad perspective into contemporary issues of interest concerning what exists and its nature. This involves classroom discussion of readings from the introductory text and primary source material.
PHIL 450, Special Topics in Ethics, 3 Units
In this course, students utilize their foundational knowledge of ethical theories and principles to analyze contemporary debates concerning recent work in meta-ethics, normative ethics, moral epistemology, or moral psychology.
PHIL 451, Race, Sex and Science, 3 Units
This course examines concepts of race and sex in relation to the history of modern western science. Students analyze readings in feminist philosophy, critical race theory and postcolonial studies, which argue that the sciences often presume and perpetuate Eurocentric, androcentric bias. Through this analysis, students cultivate the virtues of epistemic justice and intellectual humility required for intercultural competence and a Christlike character.
Prerequisite: 3xx PHIL or 3xx BIOL course or instructor consent
PHIL 452, Classical Chinese Ethics, 3 Units
This course provides an introduction both (1) to key texts written by a variety of classical Chinese philosophers - e.g., Konzi (Confucius), Mozi, Mengzi (Mencius), Laozi (Lao Tzu), Zhuangzi, and Xunxi - and (2) to their fundamental ethical teachings - e.g., the nature of the dao, the nature of being human, the role of ritual in the moral life, whether virtue requires partiality to one's family and one's culture, and so forth. More importantly, it teaches students to analyze, to evaluate, and to apply the insights of these texts and teachings to their own lives. Through both academic study and thoughtful cultural engagement, it offers a life-enriching, cross-cultural encounter with the classical systems of Chinese ethics that shaped eastern Asian cultures and continue to influence eastern Asian immigrant communities around the world.
PHIL 495, Seminar in Philosophy, 3 Units
Students are assisted in relating philosophical insights to current moral, political, religious, and social issues. Each seminar offers an area of emphasis for study, such as values or the future. It may be taken more than once as topics change.
PHIL 496, Senior Seminar, 3 Units
In this course, students apply their knowledge of the Bible, Christian tradition, and philosophy to contemporary social challenges that confront a Christian worldview. They use this knowledge to analyze, evaluate, and respond to such challenges wisely and insightfully.
Prerequisite: Senior standing, completion of the majority of the units required for Bible and Theology.
PHIL 497, Readings, 1-4 Units
This is a program of study concentrating on assigned readings, discussions, and writing arranged between and designed by a student of upper-division standing and a full-time professor. May be repeated for credit. An independent study fee is assessed for each enrollment in this class.
PHIL 498, Directed Research, 1-4 Units
This course provides instruction in research design and technique, and gives students experience in the research process. The 1-unit expectation encompasses no less than 30 hours of work with accompanying reading, log, writing, and seminar presentation within the department or in a university research symposium. No more than 1 unit may be used to fulfill preparatory readings requirement. An independent study fee is assessed for each enrollment in this class.
Prerequisite: Junior or Senior Standing