Certificate Courses

The certificate courses listed below are offered by BICU. Applicants need to be literate at the grade 6 level in order to qualify to do these courses. Each course lasts for fifteen (15) hours over three-weeks. A registration and processing fee of $40.00 is required for each course.

i. Introduction to New Testament Greek
ii. New Testament Greek for Lay Church Leaders
iii. Introduction to Hebrew
iv. Biblical Hermeneutics
v. New Testament Backgrounds
vi. Old Testament Backgrounds
vii. Biblical Form Criticism
viii. Biblical Redaction Criticism
ix. Orality and Scripture
x. New Testament Greek Manuscript History- (NT Textual Criticism)
xi. Old Testament Manuscript History
xii. Development of the New Testament Canon
xiii. Development of the Old Testament Canon
xiv. Righteousness by Faith
xv. Pastoral Counseling
xvi. Introduction to Economics
xvii. Introduction to Political Science
xviii. Some area of Computer Technology (computer applications)

Practical Psychology Courses

i) Introduction to Psychology
ii) Worldviews and Psychology for Success
iii) Theories and Practices for Success

BALDWIN INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

COURSE NUMBERING SYSTEM

Below are the descriptions of the courses offered by BICU. The respective course outline(s) issued by each professor will give further details regarding each course. Abbreviations for courses offered according to areas of classification are as follows:

NEW TESTAMENT STUDIES

NTST 474 Canonical Gospels I (3-4 crs)

This course offers an introductory study of the canonical gospels from an exegetical and theological perspective. It explores the major themes in the Gospels and explicates their meanings for their primary audiences, as well as their significance for our present settings. Prerequisite: Introduction to New Testament Greek.

NTST 526 Canonical Gospels II (3-4 crs)

This is a study of the canonical gospels at the intermediate level. It explores major themes in the Gospels and explicates their meanings for their primary audiences, as well as their significance for our present settings. Additionally, many extra-canonical gospels are surveyed so as to provide a comparative framework to the canonical gospels. Prerequisite: Introduction to New Testament Greek.

NTST 301 Pauline Epistles (3-4 crs)

An exegetical and theological study of the primary and secondary Pauline letters with a view towards contemporary applications.

NTST 362 New Testament Apocalyptic I (3-4 crs)

An introductory study of the book of Revelation employing more of a thematic/theological approach. The Christ-centered matrix of the book is emphasized. In pursuance of this goal, the course deliberates on a number of elements that serve as background/context to the book. These 57 are: Apocalypticism, the Old and New Testament, Greco-Roman influences, and the Christ event. Additionally, the course makes pertinent lessons from the book of Revelation relevant to contemporary society.

NTST 632 New Testament Apocalyptic II (3-4 crs)

This course explicates major themes of the book of Revelation primarily from an exegetical and theological approach. The course also offers a survey of Old Testament and New Testament apocalyptic writings that bear on the book of Revelation. Thus, a substantive knowledge of the apocalyptic genre is received. Additionally, the course makes pertinent lessons from the book of Revelation relevant to contemporary society

NTST 222 Beginning Greek 1 (3 crs)

An introduction to the grammar and syntax of the Greek New Testament, laying the foundations for an intermediate study of the subject.

NTST 230 Beginning Greek 2 (3 crs)

A continuation of beginning Greek 1 that further introduces the student to a more in-depth elements of the Greek grammar and syntax.

NTST 352 Intermediate Greek 1 (3 crs)

An intermediate study of the grammar and syntax of New Testament Greek with exegetical applications to selected passages from the Greek New Testament. This builds on the foundations of Beginning Greek 1 and 2. The course also offers an introduction to the manuscript history of the Greek New Testament.

NTST 302 Intermediate Greek 2 (3 crs)

Building on Intermediate Greek 1, this course continues to study the grammar and syntax of New Testament Greek with exegetical readings and analysis of selected passages. The course also offers a more detailed survey of the manuscript history of the Greek New Testament.

NTST 401 Greek Exegesis II (3-4 crs)

This course includes an examination of the grammar and syntax of the Greek New Testament beyond the intermediate level and its use in explicating the hermeneutical principles involved in the interpretation of the Greek New Testament. It will incorporate the exegesis and application of 58 selected passages from the Greek New Testament. In addition, the course also explores the manuscript history of the Greek New Testament and applies the significance of this history to the meaning of the text.

NTST 478 New Testament Textual Criticism I (3-4 crs)

This course presents an introductory investigation of the factors that created textual diversity in the Greek New Testament and introduces students to the tools to re-create the earliest originals from the manuscript tradition. Additionally, the course traces the manuscript history of the Greek New Testament and demonstrates the relevance of that history on the Greek and English renditions of the New Testament. The impact of all of the above elements on the exegesis of the New Testament and on contemporary Christian practice is also amplified.

NTST620 New Testament Textual Criticism II (3-4 crs)

This course presents an advanced investigation of the factors that created textual diversity in the Greek New Testament and explores the methods used to re-create the earliest originals from the manuscript tradition. Additionally, the course further investigates the manuscript history of the Greek New Testament and demonstrates the relevance of that history on the Greek and English renditions of the New Testament. The impact of all of the above elements on the exegesis of the New Testament and contemporary Christian practice is also amplified.

NTST 390 Development of the Biblical Canon I (3-4 crs)

This is an exploration of the processes involved in the formation, development and preservation of the canons of the Hebrew Old Testament and the Greek New Testament. It also includes a comparative survey of other select canons outside of the Judeo-Christian tradition.

NTST 518 Development of New Testament Canon II (3-4 crs)

An intermediate study of the theological, political, cultural, social, historical and religious processes involved in the formation and preservation of the various New Testament canons, with special emphasis on the Protestant Christian canon.

NTST 226 New Testament Background (3-4 crs)

A survey of the historical, social, economic, theological, and philosophical climate within which the New Testament thoughts and texts developed, and how these external factors helped to shape the formation of the New Testament books.

NTST 504 Greco-Roman World (3-4 crs)

An in-depth study of the historical, social, economic, theological, and philosophical climate of the Greco-Roman world, to ascertain the impact of these external factors on the framing of the New Testament thoughts and texts.

NTST 512 Catholic Epistles (3 crs)

An exegetical investigation of the letters of the Catholic Epistles. The manuscript and canonical history of these letters are given special emphasis. Additionally, contemporary relevance to modern life is accentuated.

NTST 514 Judaism and The New Testament (3-4crs)

An investigation into the Jewish roots of Christianity that illustrates how Judaism influenced early Christian theology and practice. The course also relates the continuity and discontinuity of Christianity with Judaism, plus showing the current relevance of the parting of the ways between these two monumental religions.

NTST 516 Theology of Hebrews (3 crs)

An investigation of the theology of the book of Hebrews with special application to the modern Christian Church.

NTST 522 Seminar in New Testament Greek (3-4crs)

An application of the grammar and syntax of New Testament Greek to selected passages within the New Testament.

NTST 624 Acts and Pauline Epistles (3-4crs)

This course offers a study of the book of Acts and the Pauline corpus from an exegetical and theological perspective.

NTST 628 Studies in the Historical Jesus (3-4crs)

This course examines the exegetical, theological, and historical issues involved in understanding who Jesus was in his primary first-century context. It surveys the different models of the historical Jesus in New Testament scholarship and examines the criteria upon which these models are based.

OLD TESTAMENT STUDIES

OTST 203 Old Testament Background (3 crs)

A study of the historical, social, economic, theological and philosophical climate within which the Old Testament thoughts and texts developed and how these external factors helped to shape the formation of the Old Testament.

OTST 480 Hebrew 1 (3 crs)

An introduction to the grammar and syntax of the Hebrew (Old Testament) Bible.

OTST 486 Hebrew 2 (3 crs)

Building on Hebrew 1, this course is a further introduction to the grammar and syntax of the Hebrew (Old Testament) Bible. Applications of the grammar/syntax to specific texts, passages and themes are increased.

OTST 356 Pentateuch (3-4 crs)

This course provides a survey of the development and theology of the individual books of the Pentateuch so as to demonstrate the framing influence of these books on the rest of the Old Testament and later Judaism. Special emphasis is given to key theological concepts/subjects such as covenant, creation, Yahwism, Eloism, holiness/purity and corporate personality.

OTST 234 Old Testament Backgrounds (3 crs)

A survey of the history, literature and Ancient Near Eastern cultural backgrounds that served as a framing influence on the canonical Old Testament.

OTST 476 Deuteronomistic History (3-4 crs)

An overview of the historical, theological and philosophical factors that shaped the books of the Deuteronomistic Historian (Deuteronomy, Joshua Judges 1 st and 2 nd Kings, 1 st and 2 nd Samuel) in addition to the unique theological themes within each of these books. The molding influence on second temple Judaism is also reviewed.

OTST488 Major Prophets (3-4 crs)

An introduction to the theme of each prophetic book (Isaiah to Malachi) and a discussion of the role of these prophets in their primary context as agents of social, economic and spiritual change. Prophecy as an ancient genre is also elucidated showing implications for contemporary faith communities.

OTST 358 Old Testament Apocalyptic (3 crs)

A study of the genre of Old Testament Apocalyptic with special emphasis on the book of Daniel and selected Second Temple Apocalyptic books.

THEOLOGICAL STUDIES

THEO 232 Righteousness by Faith I (2-4 crs)

An introductory study of the process of salvation as presented in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Special emphasis is placed on Paul’s communication of this theme/reality particularly as it impacted on the Jew-Gentile situation within the early Christian church. It also includes a survey of the different understandings of the concept at pivotal historical points in Church history.

THEO 534 Righteousness by Faith II (3-4 crs)

Building on THEO 232 this course offers a more involved study on the process of salvation as presented in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Special emphasis is placed on Paul’s communication of this theme/reality particularly as it impacted on the Jew-Gentile situation within the early Christian church. It also includes a survey of the different understandings of the concept at pivotal historical points in Church history.

THEO 490 Biblical Eschatology (3 crs)

A theological approach that explicates the various biblical presentations of end times at different periods of salvation history, beginning from the Old Testament through to the post New Testament era.

OTST 238 Introduction to Old Testament Theology (3-4 crs)

This course is an introduction to the development and practice of key Old Testament themes and concepts within their Ancient Near Eastern Context. It also focuses on select Old Testament themes as refracted through the lens of the New Testament writers and later Christian perspectives.

THEO 240 Covenantal Formulations I (3 crs)

This course surveys the Ancient Near Eastern formulations of covenants, their reflections throughout scripture with specific applications made to the Christ event.

THEO 540 Covenantal Formulations II (3 crs)

A more advanced study of the Ancient Near Eastern formulations of covenants, their reflections throughout scripture with specific applications made to the Christ event and contemporary life.

THEO 224 Biblical Hermeneutics I (3-4 crs)

An introduction to the principles and methods of biblical interpretation with emphasis on Christocentric interpretation. Students develop the ability to assess various critical methodologies and apply interpretive principles responsibly.

THEO 606 Biblical Hermeneutics II (3-4 crs)

A study of the principles and methods of biblical interpretation with emphasis on Christocentric interpretation. The course surveys some of the different interpretive approaches used at different historical periods and illustrate the continuity and discontinuity between those methodologies and contemporary approaches. Consequently, students develop the ability to access various hermeneutical models and apply interpretive principles critically. Beginning Greek and beginning Hebrew are prerequisites.

OTST 510 Old Testament Theology (3-4 crs)

This course examines the development and practice of key Old Testament themes and concepts within their Ancient Near Eastern Context. It also focuses on select themes from the perspective of the Christian faith.

NTST 552 New Testament Theology (3-4 crs)

A study of the major theological trajectories within the New Testament along with their impact on contemporary Christianity.

THEO 268 Theological Ethics I (3-4 crs)

This course does a survey of ethical norms and principles as exposes from a variety of theological platforms; for example, from the perspective of Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam and possible others. It also interfaces with secular ethical theories.

THEO 562 Theological Ethics II (3-4 crs)

This course studies the ethical norms and principles as exposes from a variety of theological platforms; for example, from the perspective of Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam and possible others. It also interfaces with secular ethical theories. The course uses the New Testament in particular as a prism through which to interpret and apply the ethical findings of the various platforms above to modern politics, religion, business, and family.

CHRISTIAN MINISTRY

CHMI 546 Evangelism and Denominational Practices (2-3 crs)

Along with exploring the biblical foundations for evangelism this course also engages the student in the theory and practice of public evangelism; personal evangelism, church planting, church growth and membership retention. The student is expected to do research as to the specific cultural, theological and philosophical manner in which his or her denomination applies these principles and practices of evangelism. The course also exposes the students to aspects of modern technologies that are relevant to the evangelistic process.

CHMI 368 Evangelism & Denominational Practices (3-4 crs)

This course engages the student in the general theory and practice of effective evangelistic encounters. The student is expected to do research as to the specific manner in which his or her denomination applies the principles and practices of evangelism. The conduct of at least one evangelistic outreach effort is required.

CHMI 256 Pastoral Counseling I (3-4 crs)

This course offers an introduction to the theory and practice of counselling as implemented by the helping professions. It is particularly tailored to the pastor within the context of the church. Lab work is required.

CHMI 370 Pastoral Counseling II (3-4 crs)

This course entails an introduction to the theory and practice of counselling as implemented by the helping professions. It is particularly tailored to the pastor within the context of the church. Lab work is required.

548 Pastoral Counseling III (3-4 crs)

This course offers an intermediate level of study to the principles of counseling particularly as these principles apply to marriage and the family, conflict management, grief counselling, group 65 dynamics, religious orientation, learning styles, pastoral care and human psychology, among other issues.

CHMI 120 Christian Worship (3 crs)

A study of the theology and practice of worship from a biblical and sociological perspective. Additionally, the course also instructs in the best practices of implementing worship experience in the modern church.

RELB 364 Homiletics (3 crs)

The student is instructed in the art and science of writing and preaching effective Christ-centered sermons to diverse audiences. Apart from preaching in the classroom setting, students are required to preach a number of sermons in churches as stipulated by the professor.

CHMI 544 Group Dynamics (3 crs)

This course explores the mechanics, functions and psychology of people within diverse groups. It also studies the science/art of group therapy. Additionally, the course illustrates the relevance of the above elements to the development and survival of the church as a group.

ECON 550 Economics (3-4 crs)

An intermediate study of the principles of economics with special application to the meaning and practice of the gospel in the contemporary world. Topics such as fiscal and monetary policy, unemployment/employment, inflation, supply and demand, money supply, banking, factors of production, wealth, poverty, and multinational corporations are discussed within a Christ-centric framework so as to demonstrate the Church’s responsibility to the economic well-being of society.

CHMI 550 Leadership and Denominational Administration I (3 crs)

An advanced exposure to the principle of leadership and church administration, with special emphasis on leadership models, parliamentary procedures, conflict management; social psychology of leadership, theological foundation of leadership, church finance, group dynamics, religious liberty, church policy and church organizations.The student is expected to engage in research activities to understand the specific or unique ways that his or her denomination applies these principles.

CHMI 354 Leadership and Denominational Administration II (3-4 crs)

An introduction to the principle of leadership and church administration, with special emphasis on leadership models, parliamentary procedures, conflict management; social psychology of leadership, theological foundation of leadership, church finance, group dynamics, religious liberty, church policy and church organizations. In addition, the student is required to write a term paper or portfolio to demonstrate how these principles apply to his or her specific church organization.

CHMI 258 Leadership and Denominational Administration I (3 crs)

An introduction to the principle of leadership and church administration, with special emphasis on leadership models, parliamentary procedures, conflict management; social psychology of leadership, theological foundation of leadership, church finance, group dynamics, religious liberty, church policy and church organizations. The student is expected to engage in observation and reporting exercises.

CHMI 121 Seminar in Denominational Culture and Practices I (3-4 crs)

In this course, the student is required to research the pivotal and distinctive elements pertaining to the culture, history, theology, financial structure, systems of governance, organizational structure. political nuancing and church policies of his or her church organization. This research is to be done in collaboration with a senior pastor, administrator, or professor from the respective organization. A research paper is required as partial completion of this course.

CHMI 560 Seminar in Denominational Culture and Practices II (3-4 crs)

In this course the student is required to research the pivotal and distinctive elements pertaining the culture, history, theology, financial structure, systems of governance, organization structure. political nuancing and church policies of his or her church organization. This research is to be done in collaboration with a senior pastor, administrator or professor from the respective organization. An indept research paper and portfolio is required as partial completion of this course.

CHURCH HISTORY/HISTORICAL STUDIES

CHIS 108 Survey of Church History (3 crs)

An overview of the history of the Christian church beginning from AD 100 to the 21st Century.

CHIS 250 History of Sabbath and Sunday (3-4 crs)

A focused study of some of the primary documents and issues pertaining to the theology of sabbath and sunday observance in the post new testament church. These issues are studied within the matrix of biblical election, law, covenant, eschatology and other related matters.

HIST 118 History of Religious Expressions I (3 crs)

This course discusses the different types of modern religions and key denominational expressions connected to these religions. It examine their historical roots, their socioeconomic, political and spiritual impact nation states.

HIST 400 History of Religious Expressions II (3 crs)

This course offers a knowledge of different types of ancient and modern religions and key denominational expressions connected to these religions. It examine their historical roots, their socioeconomic, political and spiritual impact nation states. Additionally, a project will be assigned to enable students to research the religious expressions in their specific geographical region.

CHIS 372 Reformation History And Theology (3 crs)

This course surveys the social-economic and religious factors that led to the Reformation. It also explores the teachings of leading reformation and post reformation personalities such as Martin Luther, Melancton, Zwingli, Calvin, and others on key topics such as justification by faith, inspiration, law and grace, eschatology, predestination, et cetera. Trends from these historic movements in the modern Christianity are identified.

GENERAL EDUCATION COURSES
COMPULSORY & ELECTIVES

ECON 114 Introduction to Economics (2-3 crs)

An introductory study of the principles of economics with special application to the meaning and practice of the gospel in the contemporary world. Topics such as fiscal and monetary policy, unemployment/employment; inflation, supply and demand, banking; factors of production, wealth, poverty, legislations, multinational co-operations, etcetera are discussed within a Christcentric framework so as to demonstrate the Church’s and the Christian’s responsibility to the economic wellbeing of society.

SOCR 228 Sociology of Religion (3 crs)

This course employs some of the basic tools of sociology to study aspects of the beliefs, practices, organizational and cultural relevance of religion on society in general. Additionally, the relationship between religion and economics as this impact various societies are discussed.

PSYC 104 Introduction to Psychology (3 crs)

This course introduces the student to the basic principles, theories, methodologies and tools of the discipline of Psychology. It further exemplifies how key psychological realities affect the religious life of the church member and the individual and therefore impact on growth and the quality of life.

PHIL 374 Philosophy: A Survey Approach

A survey of the systems of thoughts, logic and reason that undergird key theological and political systems, such as Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Marxism, Democracy. Additionally, the course interfaces with the thoughts of key philosophical thinkers ancient and modern, such as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Kierkegaard, Kant, John Locke with contemporary applications.

PHIL 564 Philosophical Pespectives

This course surveys the social-economic and religious factors that led to the Reformation. It also explores the teachings of leading reformation and post reformation personalities such as Martin Luther, Melancton, Zwingli, Calvin, and others on key topics such as justification by faith, inspiration, law and grace, eschatology, predestination, et cetera. Trends from these historic movements in the modern Christianity are identified.

ENGL 106 English (3-4 crs)

This course is designed to improve student’s ability in oral and written communications. Students will learn the science and art of writing concise, clear, analytical and compelling compositions for a wide array of professional and academic purposes. They will also learn key principles of oral communication. A deliberate effort is made to improve the thinking skills of students and thus empower them to communicate more effectively in the English language.

COMM 122 Communication (3 crs)

In addition to a survey of the various communication theories, tools and methodologies, this course is designed to improve the student’s ability in a wide spectrum of communications competencies, namely, oral, written, audio visual, electronic/ online, radio, television interpersonal and community relations. All these elements are taught in a manner that further equip the student for gospel ministry within the Church and in the wider reaches of society.

MATH 110 Introduction to Mathematics (3-4 crs)

This is a foundational course of some key areas of the discipline of Mathematics. It is designed to improve the critical thinking skills and problem-solving capabilities of students and hence to 70 enhance their research competency. It introduces the students to areas such as statistics, geometry, algebra, inverse functions, probabilities, equations and graphs, trigonometry, computer applications, et cetera. It focuses on extrapolating the principles from these areas and applying them to the academic context and to life situations.

RBTS 112 Research Methods in Biblical and Theological Studies (3-4 crs)

In addition to exposing the student to some of the general principles of research, this course focuses on providing the student with the methodologies and techniques for doing quantitative and qualitative research in the field of Religion. A research paper is mandatory as part of the requirements for this course.

Introduction to Political Science

An introduction and overview of the discipline of Political Science and its subfields. Key concepts and topics include power, the nation-state, political structures, institutions and ideologies.

PLSC 100 Introduction to Political Science (3 crs)

A survey of the theories, philosophies and practices of politics across various geographies. The course further concentrates on the influences of governmental structures, institutions, ideologies and sub-cultures that are characteristic of developed and developing regions. In this course, students will debate their position of responsibility as moral/biblical influence upon the political systems of their country or region.

PLSC 105 Comparative Political Systems (3 crs)

This course introduces students to the theories and methods of comparative analysis. This course will examine intricacies and diversity of different political systems across the world, the formal and informal features of political actors, institutions, cultures and economies.

PLSC 110 Public Law and Human Rights (3 crs)

The principles and the working of the Constitution, the institutions of government, the exercise of public power and relations between the citizen and the state. Controls on the exercise of public power, including an introduction to judicial review. The course also introduces basic human rights philosophy, principles, instruments, and institutions, and an overview of current issues and debates in the field with focus on selected countries.

PLSC 115 Philosophy and Methods of the Social Sciences (3 crs)

This course will involve an analysis of the logic, methodologies, modes of explanation, and methods of inquiry of the social sciences, their degree of validity and credibility.

PLSC 120 Ethical Theories and Anticorruption Strategies (3 crs)

An introduction to the study of ethics and ethical theories. The course also interrogates the systemic, cultural, and structural causes of corruption and its intersections arising from private sector complicity, weak to poor governance, stagnant development, and levels of foreign investments. It covers such topics as integrity and accountability, the development and implementation of a national integrity and anti-corruption plan, and the role of investigative journalism and civil society.

PLSC 125 Ethical Social & Environmental Responsibility of Government (3 crs)

This course examines the roles that governments play in exercising ethical responsibility towards its citizens and the environment. This responsibility can be demonstrated through the integration of social and environmental dimensions as laws, policies, practices, and procedures are developed. The importance of social and ethical responsibility will also be examined via stakeholder relationships and the establishement of guidelines and criteria for sustainable development.

PLSC 200 International Political Economy (3 crs)

A study of the interaction between politics and economics and how this interaction influences developments in the fields of production, trade, and finance at the global level. Theories of global political economy; the historical development of the world economy; economic globalization; the global financial and trading systems; transnational production and corporations; and global governance, the relationship between climate change and the world economy, the rise of the “BRICs” group of developing countries, and debates surrounding the regulation of the financial industry.

PLSC 205 Religion and Politics (4 crs)

This course will involve a focus on the most basic components of human society and culture – Religion and Politics. These two major domains of beliefs, knowledge and practices determine humankinds understanding of good and evil, images of the Divine/God, salvation, punishment, government, diplomacy, law, war and strategy.

PLSC 220 Political Thought & Ethics (3 crs)

An interrogation of freedom, equality, legitimacy, political economy, and liberalismm through the works of Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Kant, and Mill and the radical critiques offered by socialism, feminism, and critical race theory and their relationship to the ethics of their times.

PLSC 225 International Political and Religious Influence (4 crs)

This course is designed to show the international cross pollinating interrelationships between religion and politics and to expand the awareness of students to critically think about the reciprocal influences and thereby become more effective and informed decision-makers for the best good of society. In the proverbial story of the ‘chicken and the egg’, what comes first, religion influencing politics or vice versa? If religion affects political ideation and practice, can an exegetical understanding and consequent practice of religion contribute to better politics? This course will heavily utilize research, debate and synthesis as instructional strategies.

PLSC 305 Ethics and Public Sector Management (3 crs)

This course provides an overview of managing in the public sector, current practices, challenges and contexts. Students will explore the differences and similarities between managing in the public sector and managing in the private sector, and the interplay between critical organizational processes and management functions. This course examines the theory and application of ethics in the public sector, identifying public values and how they apply in the administration of government. It reviews sources of values employed in public sector decision-making, and reviews how values in public administration are managed and applied. Systems of professional ethics are reviewed in the context of public professions..

PLSC 335 Public Sector Financial Management (3 crs)

Public Sector Financial Management Practice focuses on how public sector entities of various kinds make the best use of the vast resources entrusted to them in creating public value. Public sector accounting is a core body of knowledge supporting financial management. This course provides students with the public sector financial management skills necessary to function in public sector environments. Topics addressed include governance and decision-making processes, government budgeting and planning, government financial reporting, financial analysis of government and not-for-profit programs, and public sector auditing.

PLSC 405 Research Methods in the Social Sciences (3 crs)

This course is designed to introduce learners to research paradigms (quantitative, quatlitative, mixed) and data analysis techniques to enable them to write a successful research project proposal. The scientific method is standard but this course also includes innovations in social science inquiry with respect to social media, popular culture platforms and immersive technology.

ELECTIVES IN POLITICAL SCIENCE

PLSC 300 Climate Change, Food Security and Societal Sustainability (3 crs)

examination of the effects of climate change and the challenges of food security on small island societies, emerging economies and advanced societies. The course places emphasis on social responsibility, environmental responsibility, workable solutions, adaptations and sustainability.

OR

PLSC 420 Criminology, Police and Society (3 crs)

This course surveys the major sociological and criminological explanations of crime as well as theories of modern police practice and the fundamental issues of policing in a democratic society.

PLSC 425 Political Science Senior Thesis (4 crs)

A Capstone project which allows the student to demonstrate learning through the selection of a thesis topic and with guidance, produce an acceptable thesis that is methodologically sound, relevant and compelling.

OR

PLSC 490/CHMN Internship/Practicum (4 crs)

The internship experience in Religion & Politics is designed to enable students to be exposed to the practical integrations and nuances in policy and practice within the church, halls of the legistaure or in political and/or religious organizations. Students will be expected to complete an oral or written analysis of their work experience to show how their knowledge and skills developed in this program could assist them to make meaningful recommendations for change.

RCHA 575 Church Administration (3 crs.)

This course equips students with the skills needed for effective church management. Topics include organizational structure, policy development, strategic planning, budgeting, and facilities management. Students will learn to navigate the unique challenges of church administration, ensuring the smooth operation of ministry programs while fostering a healthy church environment.

THE MASTER OF RELIGION AND CHURCH ADMINISTRATION

RCHA 565 Christian Theology (3 crs)

This course provides an in-depth study of the foundational beliefs of Christianity. It covers key topics such as the nature of God, the Trinity, the person and work of Jesus Christ, salvation, the role of the Holy Spirit, and eschatology. The course explores various theological perspectives while grounding students in biblical and historical orthodoxy, preparing them for a lifetime of theological reflection and ministry.

RCHA 570 Biblical Exegesis (3 crs)

In this course, students will learn the principles and methods of interpreting Scripture. Emphasizing both historical and literary context, it covers the languages of the Bible (Greek and Hebrew), as well as the use of critical tools to interpret texts accurately. Students will practice exegesis through analysis of key biblical passages and learn to apply these interpretive methods in preaching, teaching, and personal study.

RCHA 600 The Church in Its Environment (3 crs)

Exploring the relationship between the church and its cultural context, this course examines how the church engages with societal issues such as politics, race, technology, and education. Students will study the church's role in both historical and contemporary settings, considering the theological and practical implications of ministry in a pluralistic world.

RCHA 520 Church History & Global Christianity (3 crs)

This course surveys the major events, figures, movements, and theological developments in the history of the church from the Apostolic Age to the present. Students will examine how the church has responded to various cultural, political, and doctrinal challenges, and how historical context has shaped the global Christian community's beliefs and practices.

RCHA 535 Systematic Theology for Church Leaders (3 crs)

Systematic Theology explores the doctrines of the Christian faith in a structured and comprehensive manner. Topics include the study of God (Theology proper), the study of Scripture (Bibliology), the study of humanity (Anthropology), salvation (Soteriology), and the study of the end times (Eschatology). This course emphasizes the interrelationship of doctrines and their application to modern Christian life.

RCHA 545 Financial Leadership and Management in Churches (3 crs)

Focusing on the financial management of church ministries, this course introduces students to budgeting, accounting, and financial planning within a church setting. Topics covered include stewardship, fundraising, financial ethics, and the legal responsibilities of church leaders. The course aims to develop a leader's ability to make wise, ethical financial decisions that align with the mission and values of the church.

RCHA 555 Leadership Development and Church Growth (3 crs)

This course is designed to cultivate the leadership skills necessary for effective ministry. Students will explore biblical and contemporary leadership models, develop self-awareness, and learn to build high-functioning teams. Key topics include vision casting, decision-making, conflict management, and servant leadership, all grounded in Christian principles.

RCHA 590 Church Governance & Polity (3 crs)

An exploration of the structures and practices of governance in local churches. This course covers the various models of church polity (e.g., congregational, Presbyterian, episcopal), the roles of church leaders (pastors, elders, deacons), and the development of effective leadership teams. Students will gain an understanding of how to implement biblical governance in alignment with church vision and mission.

RCHA605 Human Resources & Volunteer Management in Ministry (3 crs)

This course provides students with the tools to effectively manage human resources within a church setting. Topics include recruiting, training, and retaining staff and volunteers, developing job descriptions, performance evaluations, and fostering a positive workplace culture. Special attention is given to the challenges of balancing volunteer ministry with professional staff.

RCHA 580 Ethical & Legal Issues in Church Administration (3 crs)

This course addresses the ethical and legal challenges faced by church administrators. Students will study issues related to tax-exemption status, compliance with state and federal regulations, and ethical considerations in ministry practice. The course equips students with the knowledge to navigate the complex intersection of law, ethics, and church life.

RCHA 602 Conflict Resolution and Meditation in Church Settings (3 crs)

This course offers strategies for resolving conflicts in the church setting. Students will explore biblical principles of peacemaking, mediation techniques, and the practical steps involved in addressing interpersonal, doctrinal, and organizational conflicts. Emphasis is placed on maintaining unity and promoting reconciliation within the church community.

Elective (3)

An elective course offers students the opportunity to explore specific topics in greater depth according to their interests and career goals. Course topics vary, allowing students to choose subjects that best complement their theological and ministerial development.

RCHA 620 Church Ministry Practicum (3 crs.)

The Church Ministry Practicum is a hands-on, immersive experience where students engage in ministry activities within a local church or ministry organization. Under the supervision of a mentor, students will apply classroom learning to real-world ministry, including preaching, teaching, counseling, or program planning. Reflection and assessment are key components of this course. This capstone project (internship or field experience) is integral and can be done in parallel with other coursework.

Elective (3)

As with the previous elective, students are encouraged to choose a course that aligns with their personal ministry aspirations and theological interests. Elective courses allow for a customized learning experience within a framework of Christian faith and practice.

RCHA 625 Capstone Final Submission/Presentation (3 crs.)

In this culminating course, students will synthesize their learning throughout their program by completing a capstone project or research paper. The project may involve theological reflection, ministry planning, or church-related research, and will culminate in a formal presentation. This course provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their readiness for ministry leadership.