Why Major in Biblical Studies?
No other book has had a greater impact on Western civilization than the Bible. These ancient texts that compose the Word of God are worthy of careful study and close examination.
Belmont's Biblical Studies Program in the School of Theology and Christian Ministry focuses on a deep dive of the Scriptures, and given the ecumenical nature of our program, you’ll also be looking at Scripture from different theological and historical traditions.
What You'll Learn
- Gain a better understanding of the context in which the Scriptures were written.
- Study the literary structure of biblical texts.
- Apply the meaning of Scripture to modern-day life.
- Explore different theological and historical traditions as they relate to the Bible.
Career Possibilities
Scholar
Professor
Pastor
Historian
Program Details
Curriculum
The Biblical Studies major leads to a bachelor of arts. It requires 128 hours of coursework.
- BELL Core requirements: 52 hours
- Major requirement including religion core and area of emphasis: 36 hours
- Minor requirements: 18 hours
- General electives: 16 hours
Courses You'll Take
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- REL 1250, Introduction to New Testament and Exegetical Methods
An advanced Biblical studies course for religion majors which focuses upon the interpretation of the New Testament and introduces the methodology of biblical exegesis.
- REL 2350, Christian Doctrine
A study of the basic doctrines of the Christian faith.
- REL 1410, Vocation and the Christian Life
An introduction to the study of religion with emphasis on research skills, writing and personal development.
- REL 2410, Spiritual Formation
An emphasis upon using an entire lifetime to be formed by God. The course focuses upon personal discipline, spiritual reading, journal keeping and dream interpretation as means of being attentive to God.
- REL 2510, Christian Ethics
An introduction to Christian Ethics, with attention given to methodology, biblical foundations, types of ethical thought and Christian responsibility in relation to current social problems.
- REL 3310, Church History I or REL 3320, Church History II
REL 3310 Church History I: Ancient and Medieval Eras
A survey of the history of Christianity from the first to the fourteenth centuries that explores significant ideas, persons, movements and institutions.
REL 3320 Church History II: Reformation and Modern Eras
A survey of the history of Christianity from the fifteenth century to the present that explores significant ideas, persons, movements and institutions.
- REL 4015, Colloquium for Religion Majors
A colloquium designed as a capstone experience for majors which integrates biblical, theological, historical and practical studies. The course focuses on the student as a practicing theologian.
- World Religions (choose one course)
REL 3090 Spirituality in World Religions
A comparative exploration of spirituality in the major world religions and select indigenous peoples, examining how these traditions perceive the purpose of human life and ultimate concerns in relation to the divine.
REL 3095 Ethics in World Religions
This course is an exploration of ethics and choice in the major world religions, examining how these traditions perceive the purpose of human life and ultimate concerns in relations to the Divine. This course explores the frameworks of Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism and Islam.
REL 4590 World Religions
A phenomenological study of the major world religions with emphasis on the attempts of each to deal with the problems which confront humans.
Any REL 3000 level Study Abroad course
- REL 2360, Hermeneutics
Course explores the practices of interpretation and the influences of culture, environment and presupposition in the interpretive experience. Particular attention given to the role played in biblical interpretation and the development of theological method.
- Select one Religion and Society course elective
- Select one Theological / Historical Studies course elective
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Contact Us
College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
Danielle Walden
Admissions Coordinator
615.460.8340