B.A. in Christian Ministry

Investigation of the nature, contents, and history of the Old Testament with attention to its background and key themes. Students examine themes within their contexts and from the perspective of their New Testament fulfillment.

A study of the nature, contents, and history of the New Testament, with background study in the inter-testamental period.

Provides a broad overview of the historic roots and development of Christian thought.  Identifies and describes historical Christian doctrines, the basics of theological reasoning, significant Christian thinkers, and contemporary global trends and issues.

Study of the dynamics of personal and spiritual growth as understood in the Christian tradition. Practical tools, in combination with historical perspective, provide the backdrop for self-exploration and spiritual development within students.

Students explore the history, geography, and cultures that form contexts to the Old and New Testament scriptures. Students learn an inductive approach to the interpretation of the scriptures that draws on the insights gained from the study of significant background issues. Prerequisite: BIBL 104.

Introduction to research processes for the study of religion, including theology, biblical studies, ethics, and historical studies. Additionally, critical reading, grammatically correct writing, and the use of appropriate style manuals are covered.

Exploration of the inductive method of Bible study and its place in preparing group Bible studies and teaching the Bible in a variety of contexts.  Students examine a wide range of teaching methods and consider their potential for engaging children, adolescents, and adults.  Student projects are to be related to their current or proposed ministry setting.  Prerequisite: BIBL 104 or BIBL 105.

Study of the ministry and teachings of Jesus as presented in the synoptic gospels, taking into consideration the Hebrew, Greek, and Roman cultural contexts. The course familiarizes students with foundational developments in historical Jesus research, examines important themes in the synoptic gospels, and develops students' skills in critical reading (exegesis), interpretation, and writing.  Prerequisite: BIBL 104 or BIBL 105.

Survey of the movements and ideas which have influenced the church from the second century until the Reformation.  Students trace the leaders and movements within the church and the development of major ideas and creeds.  Particular attention is given to the distinctive theological and ethical movements within the western church.

Survey of the movements, leaders, and ideas which have influenced the church in the West from the time of the Reformation to the beginning of the 21st century.  Topics include moral and doctrinal reformation, the formation and distinctions of major church movements, and the interplay and tension between Christianity and the state.

Exploration of the branch of theology that deals with articulating the reasonableness of Christian faith as well as developing meaningful responses to common objections.  Students examine theoretical and applied apologetics and the nature of the relationship between faith and reason, as well as specific problems and implications arising from our postmodern, pluralistic cultural context.

Students learn how to assess cultural influences on human experiences, behavior, and belief systems and develop heightened empathy and respect for individuals from cultures different from their own. They learn how to identify the major components of a worldview as well as the differences between dominant philosophical worldviews.

Study of the writings of the Old Testament prophets, focusing on one of the major prophets or a selection of the minor prophets. The course examines the historical moment and place of the text as well as the role of the prophet in ancient Israel. Students examine texts exegetically, considering theology as suggested by the text(s) as well as the relationship to the New Testament, along with personal applications of the prophets' teachings.  Prerequisite: BIBL 103 or BIBL 105.

Study of the writings of the Apostle Paul.   Students consider the cultural and philosophical background of each text as well as its contents and its place in the canon. The course examines the literature theologically and exegetically while inviting students to develop and consider personal applications of the texts. Prerequisite: BIBL 104 or BIBL 105.

Examination of biblical Wisdom literature within its ancient Near Eastern context, with special attention to the unique literary aspects of Wisdom literature and its function in ancient Israel. Prerequisite: BIBL 103 or BIBL 105.

Study of the New Testament book of Acts and the history and context of first-century Christianity.  Students consider the historical, literary, and cultural background of Acts as well as its theological message and major themes.  Prerequisite: BIBL 104 or BIBL 105.

Exploration of the Psalms, with study of the ancient poetry, rich imagery, historical context, and religious and theological implications of the hymnbook of ancient Israel. Prerequisite: BIBL 103 or BIBL 105.

Exegetical study of the general epistles (James through Jude).  Students examine theological, literary, and cultural aspects of these letters as they consider the application of these texts.  Prerequisite: BIBL 104 or BIBL 105.

Introduction to basic public speaking, reading, and written communication skills necessary for the ministry environment.  The course emphasizes verbal communication (voice, diction, and pronunciation), written communication (specialized publications), and specialized communication strategies for media and pulpit ministry.

Analysis of strengths and weaknesses of current methods of evangelism and discipleship among adolescents in youth ministry contexts.  Students consider the biblical and philosophical foundations of approaches to evangelism and discipleship of youth as these are practiced today with the goal of formulating their own approach to these aspects of youth ministry.

Exploration of core doctrinal and theological beliefs of the Christian faith. Based preeminently on Scripture and on other Christian sources and norms, students study the nature and task of theology, the revelation and knowledge of God, the nature and works of the triune God, creation and providence, the nature of humanity, and the nature and effects of sin. Students also learn to assess doctrine and theology from a variety of theological perspectives.

Continued exploration of core doctrinal and theological beliefs of the Christian faith. Based preeminently on Scripture and on other Christian sources and norms, students study the person and work of Jesus Christ, the identity and function of the Holy Spirit, the nature and process of salvation, the nature and role of the church, and the last things. Students also learn to assess doctrine and theology from a variety of theological perspectives. Prerequisite: BIBL 331.

Examination of major world religions, their belief systems, and their connections with associated cultures. Additional consideration is given to the issue of Christian theologies of religions.

Introduction to special topics that affect ministry in the twenty-first century.  Course examines gender, racial, and post-modern cultural issues that have a major impact on the practice of ministry today.

Survey of the leading pseudo-Christian and non-Christian cults that exist today.  Consideration of the belief systems of cults, how they differ from historic Christianity, and strategies for Christian engagement.

Introduction to various kinds of ministry found in church and parachurch organizations with an emphasis on the leadership and involvement of the laity.  The course also explores team ministry strategies in a ministry context and a model for natural church growth as the basis for ministry health.

Students examine the biblical and philosophical basis of personal spiritual formation and growth as well as strategies that can be used to facilitate formation and growth in church and parachurch ministry.

Exploration, assessment, and application of historical and contemporary approaches to Christian ethics, as well as an examination of the role of Scripture in processes of moral discernment.

Study of the worldwide mission of the Church, presented in the context of world perspectives and evangelism, including the theological basis for world missions, a practical survey of mission strategies, and applications to local church and parachurch ministries.

Introduction to practical strategies for evangelism in local and parachurch ministries.  The course presents a biblical basis for evangelism along with major strategies.  Students apply their learning in a field-based evangelistic guided experience within ministry settings.

Consideration of the history of the church in America from the 17th through the 20th century, noting the development, impact, and societal influence of the American church.  Topics include the tension between church and state, the formation of denominations, and the Holiness and Pentecostal-Charismatic movements.

Study of transformational leadership coaching as the basis for mentoring strategies within local church and parachurch ministries.  Students concurrently examine mentoring-based personal growth strategies in ministry contexts.

Integrative study of religious and theological issues in which students examine one or more contemporary topics in religion.  Students employ the methodologies and approaches used within their particular major in dialogue with other majors in the department.  Prerequisite: Senior standing.

Approved internship in a field of the student's specialty. This guided learning experience is a culminating experience in which the student applies the principles and skills learned, demonstrating competency under the guidance of a specialist in the field. Prerequisite: Junior standing.

Introduction to plants, animals and microbes concerning cell structure and function, DNA and heredity, cell division, species diversity and history, tissue and organ systems, nutrition, reproduction, ecosystems, and the scientific method.  Christian perspectives as appropriate.  Three credit hours lecture with one credit hour lab.

Philosophy and methods of science, biologic molecules, cell structure and function, metabolism, genetics, reproduction and molecular biology.  Three credit hours lecture with one credit hour lab.

First of two-semester series.  Structure and function of the skeletal, muscular and nervous systems, including sense organs.  Three credit hours lecture with one credit hour lab.

Introduction to the principles and practice of effective oral communication. Through formal and informal speaking activities, students develop skills at framing and articulating ideas through speech.  Students learn strategies for speaking extemporaneously, preparing and delivering presentations, formulating persuasive arguments, refining critical clarity of thought, and enhancing general facility and confidence at oral expression. Students gain practice in various speech types—including expositive and informative forms.

Introduction to Earth science, including the sciences that explore Earth and its space environment.  Units on Earth structure, tectonics, rocks and minerals, geologic history, water resources, oceans, climate and weather, astronomy, and the scientific method.  Primarily for IDS majors.  Three credit hour lecture with one credit hour lab.

Survey of economic concepts and systems, including both micro- and macro-economics.  Students examine the American economic system while exploring the impact of the international market. Topics include markets and competition, price, supply and demand, aggregate performance, fiscal policy, and international trade and finance.  This course is not open to business majors.

Examines the concepts, principles, and business practices of market systems, demand and supply economics, market equilibrium, product and resource demands, consumer behavior, forms of competition, governmental policies, market failure and international economics.

Study and development of skills in planning, writing, and revising the expository essay, with attention given to developing a thesis, providing adequate support, and developing paragraphs with clear introductions and conclusions.  This course should be taken in the first year.

Introduction to research skills and academic writing.  Students learn and practice the common steps and formats in writing a university-level research paper, such as writing and submitting proposals, writing literature reviews, following general research paper formats, and using an annotated bibliography.  Prerequisite: Grade of "C-" or better in ENGL 101.

Great literary works in the Western tradition from the ancient to the present.

Explores the development of a Christian worldview and philosophy of life.  Studies some alternative worldviews from a Christian worldview perspective.  Investigates the sacredness of all spheres of human life and the relevance of a Christian worldview to all spheres of human life and action through the works of some of Christianity’s leading thinkers and writers.

Introduction to enduring questions of truth, goodness, and beauty through theological and philosophical investigation, including biblical apologetics and critical thinking.

Various aesthetic approaches for appreciating and evaluating visual art, drama, and music. Artistic creation in relation to a biblical understanding of the character of God and the image of God in human beings.

Explores a Christian worldview framework for leadership and studies the lives of exemplary Christian and non-Christian leaders from a global context and a wide spectrum of disciplines and professions.  Students participate in a ten (10) hour service-learning leadership experience.  Advisor approval required.  Pre-requisite: Senior Standing; IDS majors: Junior Standing.  Cross-listed with GENE 202.

Investigation of the spatial distribution of cultures and regions. Emphasis on defining key geographical concepts, identifying major political boundaries, illustrating current and recent national and ethnic conflicts, exploring economic and social processes that are leading to increasing global interaction, examining the variation religious practices and beliefs and assessing the basis for international disparities in economic development.

Study of the political, social, and economic development of American society from about 1607 through the end of the Civil War era in 1877.  Students consider native American perspectives and the interaction with Europeans.  Topics include the formation and establishment of the new nation as well as the international impact of the birth of a nation.

Study of the political, social and economic development of American society from the post-Civil War era to the present.  Students investigate the development of a party system of government, industrial development, labor issues, the impact of the reconstruction, American involvement internationally, and the present state of American society.

Study of the events, peoples, groups, ideas, institutions, and trends that shaped western civilization from the prehistoric era to 1650. Emphasis on the rise and fall of empires, the legacy those empires left and the impact of religion on the ancient, medieval, and early modern western world.  The multiple perspectives of gender, class, religion, and ethnic groups are explored.  Students investigate historical accounts of civilization and engage in personal reflection and response.

Study of the events, peoples, groups, ideas, institutions, and trends that shaped western civilization from 1650 to the present. The multiple perspectives of gender, class, religion, and ethnic groups are explored, including reference to the interaction among the peoples of the modern world.  Students investigate historical accounts of western civilization and its interaction with non-western cultures and engage in personal reflection and response.

Survey of the history of civilization from its beginnings in both the Middle East and Asia to the growing dominance of the West over non-western civilizations in Asia, Africa, and the Americas that began in the 16th century age of exploration.  Special attention given to the cultural exchanges, interactions, and adaptations that occurred among these civilizations.

Survey of the growth and interactions of civilizations across the world from the 16th century to the present.  Special attention given to their individual cultural vibrancy and to their responses to Western hegemony, modernization, and globalization in subsequent centuries.

Traces the growth of Christianity from its origins in the Apostle Paul’s missionary journeys through its substantial role in preserving Western culture during the middle ages to its spectacular expansion throughout Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and South America since the 16th century.  Prerequisites: HIST 205 or 206, or HIST 211 or HIST 212.

Study of several different fields of mathematics and their applications for liberal arts students.  Through the process of discovery with everyday applications, students consider the beauty and elegance of mathematics as they improve their critical thinking and analytical skills.  Topics include set theory, inductive and deductive reasoning, basic probability and statistics, number theory, algebraic modeling, basic geometry and trigonometry, and finance applications.  Cannot be applied to the mathematics major.

Study of linear equations, systems of equations, inequalities, polynomials, rational expressions, quadratic functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and conic sections.  Emphasis on understanding and applying concepts in real-life settings.  Cannot be applied to the mathematics major.

Introductory study of basic descriptive and inferential statistics with an emphasis on real world applications and the use of current technology.  Topics include sampling, random variables, probability distributions, measures of central tendency and variation, and testing of hypotheses.  Cannot be applied to the mathematics major.

A first course in calculus and analytic geometry.  Limits and continuity.  Differentiation and applications of derivatives.  Integration and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.  Prerequisite: Grade of B- or better in MATH 164 or equivalent, or permission of department chair.

Discrete structures including sets, relations, functions, matrices, graphs and trees.  Symbolic logic, mathematical induction, and introduction to proofs.  Probability, combinations, permutations.  Introduction to linear programming.  Prerequisite: MATH 102, MATH 164, or MATH 211.

Introduction to the Spanish language using a communicative approach with an emphasis on developing introductory listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills as well as an appreciation for Hispanic culture.

Continuation of SPAN 102. Introduction to the Spanish language using a communicative approach with an emphasis on developing introductory listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills as well as an appreciation for Hispanic culture. Prerequisite: SPAN 101 or placement through Department of English.

Development of intermediate-level Spanish language skills and study of the diverse cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. Prerequisite: SPAN 102 or placement through Department of English.

Continuation of SPAN 210. Development of intermediate-level Spanish language skills and study of the diverse cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. Prerequisite: SPAN 210 or placement through Department of English.

Knowledge and resources essential for academic success at Regent University.  Includes foundational skills for future coursework, including use of the library, the University Writing Center, tutorial services, academic advising, and career services.  Only available to online students, except online B.A.S. degree students.