Theology | californiauniversity

SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY

Program Description

Theology Studies compliments General Studies by offering the student a contemporary, academic study of the Bible. Using the grammatical-historical method of interpretation, courses provide foundational knowledge of the Old and New Testament, which affords a basis on which to construct well-reasoned theological principles and personal applications. In addition, the student develops an understanding of other worldviews, religions, and contemporary issues. All faculty members are conservative evangelical Christians but realize that intellectual honesty demands exposing the students to differing points of view in order to prepare them for contemporary life. Every Courses are designed for students who desire to minister in the local church or in church-related ministries. Core courses include the philosophical and theological bases of ministry and focuses also on the practical aspects of putting theory into practice in the real world. A major may take a variety of professional courses to fulfill the required program of study.

Mission Statement

Theology’ mission is to provide an exceptional learning environment that prepares students for meaningful leader for the Lord, professional achievement, responsible global citizenship, and servant leadership in accordance with the University's vision, mission and Christian heritage through excellent program of higher education and excellent graduate program of Christian leadership

The purpose of Theology is to pursue knowledge of God, to cultivate leaders for communities of faith, to enrich the academy, and to seek peace with justice in a diverse and interconnected world.

We strive to equip women and men for ministries and academic excellence that foster personal and social transformation, that are oriented to the world’s diversities, and that expand the prophetic legacy of this historic Theology

Vision Statement

The vision of Theology is one of the nation's leading educational institutions at preparing students to participate in and contribute to society and the workplace with the necessary skills, knowledge, and ambition to improve other individuals' lives and societies' conditions though out follow principles:

1. Love. As a community with roots in a Christian tradition, we affirm that love for our neighbor, as an expression of God’s infinite love for humankind, is a compelling command to work towards the well-being of every single member of our community. An offense against one is therefore an offense against all.

2. Justice. As a community with an historic and sometimes prophetic commitment to justice, we must commit ourselves to working for justice and exposing injustice, not only for ourselves, but for every member of the community. That involves positively resisting the evils of violence, racism, hate, discrimination, and silencing.

3. Safety. We all must commit to making our community a safe learning environment where no student, staff, or faculty, regardless of age, sex, color, ethnicity, physical disability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, or religious opinion, is harassed, bullied, or intimidated for any reason. We must commit to support policies that prohibit the mistreatment of any individual or group and provide appropriate avenues for redressing grievances.

4. Rights. Religious liberty and freedom of expression are inalienable rights for all guaranteed by the First Amendment to the U. S. Constitution and by the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights. The purpose of these statements is to safeguard individual rights from the actions of majorities and institutions. Every effort should be made in the Theology community to protect these rights for all students, staff, faculty, and administrators.

5. Responsibilities. As members of the Theology community, we have a solemn responsibility to respect these rights for others, including those with whom we deeply disagree. Rights are best guarded and responsibilities best exercised when each person and group guards for all others those rights they wish for themselves. As fallible beings we acknowledge our failures, past and present, and agree to hold ourselves accountable to one another and to the values we wish to live by.

6. Respect. Frank and open discussions are vital to the health of any educational institution. Every individual within the School of Theology community, whatever the issue under discussion, and wherever the discussion takes place, has a responsibility to treat others with civility and respect, both in speech and in action.

These principles, as approved by CU School of Theology, are not intended to be exhaustive or exclusive, but they at least provide a common denominator of civil discourse, along with mutual love and respect, that will govern our words and behavior in the School community. These are the principles we believe should govern our collective work as a professional/graduate faculty within a large, private urban research university

Bachelor of Theology

Program description

The Bachelor of Theology program offers students an opportunity to academically and critically explore the traditional Christian faith and practice. This program emphasizes a systematic, comprehensive and critical study of the Christian Scriptures and major Christian theological doctrines, spiritual disciplines, and ministry practices.

Admission Requirement

Students seeking admission to Theology Program must provide an official transcript of their high school or college record and Personal Statement. Anyone possessing a high school diploma or its equivalent meets the basic requirement for ad-mission to the program.

A completed and signed application form
Signed enrollment agreement form
Copy of high school diploma and/or official transcript (or equivalent)
Secondary school and college-level transcripts (if applicable)
Personal statement (Childhood, vision, experiences and aspiring career path after graduation)
Passport Copy

Program Requirements

Students receive the Bachelor of Theology degree when they fulfill the following program requirements:

General education course requirements: 27 semester units
Major requirements: 57 units
Elective requirements: 36 units
Unit requirement: A minimum of 120 semester units

Program Objectives

• To provide a basic knowledge of general education with a Christian world view that can be used in all areas of life.
• To provide students with a practical Biblical foundation for Christian living.
• To prepare students to effectively serve in a chosen field of ministry
• To enable students to be conversant in the fields of theology and history of Christianity.
• To engender a grasp of academic study of the Bible, from a number of critical perspectives and hermeneutical methodologies.
• To be able to integrate the historical-critical study of the Bible into a faith environment, such as parish and community contexts of living Christian traditions.
• To prepare the student for further academic study, if desired, in the field of Biblical Studies.

General Education Requirement: 39 Units

GEB101

Intro to the Bible

3 Units

GEB102

Life in Bible Times

GEB103

Introduction to the New Testament

GEB104

Introduction to the Old Testament

GEB105

Introduction to Worship Service

GEB106

Introduction to Counseling

GEB107

Introduction to Missiology

GEB108

Spiritual Life in Community

GEB109

Oral Communication

GEB110

Introduction to Literature

GEB111

Counseling Psychology

GEB112

Biblical Interpretation

GEB113

Intro to the Torah

Major requirement: 57 units

THB201

Systematic Theology 1

3 Units

THB202

Systematic Theology 2

THB203

Prophets

THB204

Gospels

THB205

Acts to Revelation

THB206

Pentateuch

THB207

Theology

THB208

Wisdom and Poetic Literature

THB209

Romans

THB210

Prison Epistles

THB301

Acts of the Apostles

THB302

Isaiah

THB303

Introduction to Biblical Communication

THB304

Galatians and Thessalonians Epistles

THB305

The Epistle to the Hebrews

THB306

Pastoral Epistles

THB307

The Epistles of Peter and Jude

THB308

The Epistle of James

THB309

Daniel/Revelation

Elective Requirement: 36 Units

THB401

John’s Epistles

3 Units

THB402

World Religions

THB403

Capstone Course for Biblical Studies

THB404

Field Education

THB405

Canonical Criticism

THB406

Geography and Archaeology of the Bible

THB407

Acts

THB408

Hebrew I

THB409

Hebrew II

THB410

Greek I

THB411

Greek II

THB412

Philippians and Colossians

Course Description (Bachelor of Theology)

GEB101 Intro to the Bible (3 units)

This course is an introduction to the historical, literary, and theological aspects of the Bible. We will survey the central characters and events of biblical history, examine the variety of genres found in the Bible, and discuss key theological themes emphasized within the Bible. Students will be introduced to methods of biblical criticism and interpretation that integrate skills developed in other disciplines. The entire Bible – both Old and New Testaments – will be covered. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

GEB102 Life in Bible Times (3 units)

This course introduces students to the resources and methodological principles for studying and applying the finds of Bible backgrounds as an integral part of the process of biblical interpretation. Emphasis is given to the geography, history, and culture of the ancient Near East for the Old Testament and the Jewish and Greco-Roman world for the New Testament. This course can be credited as a Bible elective (OT or NT), with the exception of Biblical Studies majors. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

GEB103 Introduction to the New Testament (3 units)

A chronological Introduction to the New Testament people, places, and events, this course highlights the basic message of the New Testament books, their contribution to God’s redemptive storyline, and their significance for Christian thought and practice. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB101

GEB104 Introduction to the Old Testament (3 units)

A chronological Introduction to the Old Testament people, places, and events, this course highlights the basic message of the Old Testament books, their contribution to God’s redemptive storyline, and their significance for Christian thought and practice. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB101

GEB105 Introduction to Worship Service (3 units)

This course provides a framework for thinking together about vital and faithful Christian worship by exploring the Biblical and theological foundations of worship, reviewing the ways the church’s praise has been shaped over the centuries, and analyzing today’s worship spectrum. Key elements in the practice and leadership of worship will be explored including the ordering of worship, the role of prayer and music, and models of collaborative worship planning. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

GEB106 Introduction to Counseling (3 units)

Recommended as initial course in a student’s program to serve as an introduction to the counseling profession. Roles of counselors and related professionals in various settings are presented. Professional goals and objectives; trends; professional associations; ethical and legal issues; history; credentialing; preparation standards for counselors; and essential interviewing and counseling skills, characteristics, and behaviors that influence helping processes are explored. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

GEB107 Introduction to Missiology (3 units)

Missiology is the science of mission. It combines intercultural studies, anthropology, history, cross-cultural communications and theology. This introductory overview of the church's global mission will include a look at biblical motivations, historical background and current strategies. This course does not seek to transform everyone into a global missionary. It will, however, seek to motivate everyone to be a mobilizer for the cause of world evangelism. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB103, GEB104

GEB108 Spiritual Life in Community (3 units)

What is spirituality? How is it formed in private and in community? This course explores the meaning of Biblical Christianity and its relation to faith and practice within contemporary cultural contexts, giving special attention to the corporate dimensions of spirituality and spiritual formation as defined in the New Testament. The lectures analyze and discuss those historical and cultural factors that have led to the privatization of Christianity, and develop a paradigm of spiritual growth and maturity that focuses on the assembly rather than the individual. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

GEB109 Oral Communication (3 units)

This one-semester basic course in speech is designed to develop each student's ability to communicate effectively in his or her academic, business, and social life. The major emphasis is on the preparation and delivery of formal speeches, but many areas of the communication process are explored. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

GEB110 Introduction to Literature (3 units)

An introduction to reading and analyzing these primary genres of literature: fiction, poetry, and drama. The course may also include creative nonfiction. Students will respond critically to readings of different historical and cultural contexts through class discussion and written work. These contexts may include different world views, politics, classes, ethnicity, races, genders, and sexual orientations. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

GEB111 Counseling Psychology (3 units)

Introduction to the practices and concepts of counseling. Theories of counseling are covered along with basic principles necessary to understand the role of the counselor. The applicability of counseling theories to male and female clients from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds and across the life span is examined. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

GEB112 Biblical Interpretation (3 units)

A study of the methods of interpretation of the Bible with special attention to textual, historical and theological issues. . This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

GEB113 Intro to the Torah (3 units)

An introduction to the first five books of Moses in the Hebrew Bible. Course will focus on the texts individually as well as corporately within the canon. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB201 Systematic Theology 1 (3 units)

This course introduces students to the inerrancy and authority of the Scriptures. Students will then explore God’s triune nature and His providence, followed by His work in creation, the nature of mankind, and the entrance and effect of sin in the world. The students will then focus on the significance of angels, Satan, and demons. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB202 Systematic Theology 2 (3 units)

Students will deepen their spiritual life as they study the nature of the Savior and His work in salvation. They will then examine the Spirit in His present ministry in and through the Church as well as eschatological issues. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: THB201

THB203 Prophets (3 units)

This survey places the prophets in their proper historical, literary, and cultural context and features the basic teachings of each prophet. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB204 Gospels (3 units)

Gospels offers an overview of the life of Christ through analytical study of the Four Gospels. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB112

THB205 Acts to Revelation (3 units)

A study of the origin and teachings of the church. Special attention is given to Acts, especially Paul’s missionary journeys, Romans, the Corinthian letters, Hebrews, and eschatological issues in Thessalonians and Revelation. Principles for contemporary living are stressed. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB206 Pentateuch (3 units)

An exposition of the first five books of the Bible. The student will learn about the development of various covenants, characters, and events as well the Exodus from Egypt, the Mosaic covenant, and the institution of Levitical worship. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB104

THB207 Theology (3 units)

This course introduces students to the study of theology. Special focus will be given to the study of the Bible, God, the person and work of Jesus Christ, and salvation. The course will also provide a brief introduction to the study of the Holy Spirit, the church, and end times. Students will learn to discover theology in Scripture and apply the theology learned to everyday life. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB101

THB208 Wisdom and Poetic Literature (3 units)

An in-depth, practical analysis of Job, Psalms, and Proverbs. The genre of Hebrew wisdom literature in general is examined. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB101, GEB104

THB209 Romans (3 units)

A thorough study of Paul’s letter to the church in Rome. The course will emphasize current scholarly debate in Pauline theology. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB101, GEB103

THB210 Prison Epistles (3 units)

An examination of the books of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon with emphasis on the literary structure of each book and how the theological and practical dimension of each book interrelate. Special attention is given to the students’ devotional life through this study. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB103

THB301 Acts of the Apostles (3 units)

A study of the early church against the Jewish and Greco/Roman backgrounds of the first century. Particular attention is given to the uniqueness of the church, the transitional nature of the book and to the life of the apostle Paul. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB101, GEB103

THB302 Isaiah (3 units)

An in-depth analysis of the premier Old Testament prophet and his message. This course emphasizes the Messianic influence throughout the Old Testament. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB104

THB303 Introduction to Biblical Communication (3 units)

This course introduces the student to the skill of crafting messages for preaching and teaching that are faithful to the biblical text and relevant for the intended audience. The course will focus on applying appropriate Bible interpretation methods to the text and crafting messages from the intent of the author that are focused on life transformation. Special focus will be placed on expositional preaching and teaching. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB304 Galatians and Thessalonians Epistles (3 units)

Galatians: A study of Paul, his teaching on salvation through faith and not by works of the Law. Thessalonians: Continued study of Paul and his apocalyptic teaching. Attention will be given to students’ character development in the light of Christ’s second coming. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB103

THB305 The Epistle to the Hebrews (3 units)

A detailed investigation of the New Testament document that emphasizes the theme of Christ’s superiority. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB103, THB204

THB306 Pastoral Epistles (3 units)

An analysis of Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus with special attention to the pastoral practices of early Christianity.. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB307 The Epistles of Peter and Jude (3 units)

An exposition that interrelates the practical and theological teachings of these books while emphasizing suffering and perseverance in the face of evil and persecution. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB103

THB308 The Epistle of James (3 units)

A verse by verse examination of James. Biblical and theological tensions are examined as the students are exposed to the issues surrounding the relationship between faith and works. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB309 Daniel/Revelation (3 units)

A study of the major apocalyptic books of the Old and New Testaments that provide students with an awareness of God’s prophetic program. Major themes of study include prophecy, covenant fulfillment, history, and Christ’s return. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB101, GEB104

THB401 John’s Epistles (3 units)

An exposition and devotional study of John’s three epistles. Special emphasis is given to spiritual development of the student as each letter is examined. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB101, GEB103, THB207

THB402 World Religions (3 units)

This course examines the major world religions and ideologies in order to understand their principal doctrines and practices and the subsequent implications for Christian witness. Special attention is given to Folk Religion (Animism), Islam, Hinduism/New Age, Secularism, and Mormonism. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB403 Capstone Course for Biblical Studies (3 units)

A senior seminar designed to prepare the student for continued professional development through review of biblical and theological studies and discussion of significant, contemporary religious issues. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB404 Field Education (3 units)

A practicum in which the student selects a project, secures approval, outlines objectives and procedures, and implements the plan under the guidance of an instructor and a field supervisor. A minimum of 45 and maximum of 60 hours of practical experience is required for each hour of credit per semester. May be repeated for up to 3 hours of credit. Prior to enrolling, students must complete an Application for Internship form. Prerequisite: Approval of the internship site, supervising instructor and Department Chair is required. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB405 Canonical Criticism (3 units)

A reading of biblical texts with its emphasis on the corporate faith and responsibility of early believing communities that read and transmit the biblical texts and the thrust of their hermeneutical modes. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB406 Geography and Archaeology of the Bible (3 units)

A survey of the topography, climate, historical times, and archaeology of the Bible lands designed to provide background for Bible study. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB407 Acts (3 units)

A detailed study of the Book of Acts with emphasis on the development of the early church and on the life and missionary journey of Paul. Its relationship to the Gospel of Luke will be highlighted, on both a literary and thematic level as well as a theological one. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB408 Hebrew I (3 units)

An introduction to O.T. Hebrew with emphasis on vocabulary, syntax and grammar. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB409 Hebrew II (3 units)

Advanced study of Hebrew grammar with emphasis an improvement of vocabulary. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: THB408

THB410 Greek I (3 units)

An introduction to the grammatical forms, syntax and vocabulary of N.T. Greek. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: None

THB411 Greek II (3 units)

Continued study of vocabulary and advanced grammar with translation of portions of the N.T. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: THB410

THB412 Philippians and Colossians (3 units)

An in depth study of two of Paul’s “prison letters”. Explores the occasion, theology, and purpose of both letters, as well as the possibility that Colossians was written pseudonymously at a later time. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisites: GEB101, GEB103

Master of Divinity

Program Description

The Master of Divinity program is designed to equip dedicated Christians for various ministries in the church setting, including the ordained ministries of instruction and leadership in the church. This program emphasizes developing the capacity to study and communicate the Christian Scriptures and the theological traditions and the capacity to model and facilitate Christian spiritual formation and communal practices.

Admission Requirement

Anyone possessing a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent meets the basic academic requirement for admission to the program. An Application File must include the following:

A completed and signed application form
Signed enrollment agreement form
College-level transcript which indicates bachelor degree is granted
An overall GPA of 2.75 in undergraduate study. (A provisional admission status can be granted below GPA of 2.75)
Copy of bachelor diploma
Personal statement (Childhood, vision, experiences and aspiring career path after graduation)
Passport Copy

Program Requirements

Students receive the Master of Divinity degree upon a successful fulfillment of the following program requirements:

Major requirements: 39 units
Elective requirements: 45 units
Unit requirement: A minimum of 84 semester units

Major requirement: 51 units

MDV501

Survey to Old Testament

3 Units

MDV502

Pentateuch (Exegesis)

MDV503

Wisdom Literature

MDV504

The Prophets

MDV505

Survey to New Testament

MDV506

Pauline Epistles

MDV507

Gospels (Exegesis)

MDV508

Hermeneutics & Theological Research

MDV509

Dissertation Research and Writing

MDV510

Greek 1

MDV511

Hebrew I

MDV512

Life of Jesus

MDV513

Systematic Theology 1

MDV514

Systematic Theology 2

MDV515

Actual Spirituality & Action Theology

MDV516

Contemporary Theology

MDV517

Ethics

Elective Requirement: 81 Units

MDV601

Immigration Theology

3 Units

MDV602

Church History 1

MDV603

Church History 2

MDV604

Homiletics

MDV605

Mission

MDV606

Homiletics Practicum

MDV607

Evangelism

MDV608

Missiology

MDV609

Pastoral Leadership

MDV610

Cultural Anthropology

MDV611

Healthy Church & Church Growth

MDV612

Evangelism Strategy

MDV613

Leadership Formation

MDV614

Church & Culture in the 21st Century Context

MDV615

Vision & Mission of Life

MDV701

Spiritual and Psychological Gifts & Vision Formation

MDV702

Worship & Praise

MDV703

Field Education

MDV704

Spiritual Warfare

MDV705

Senior Integration Seminar

MDV706

Christian Counseling

MDV707

Pastoral Counseling & Ministry

MDV708

Inner Healing

MDV709

Deep Wounds and Transformation

MDV710

Survey to Psychological Assessments and Analysis

MDV711

Theological English for Graduate

MDV712

Christian Education & Ministry

Course Description (Master of Divinity)

MDV501 Survey to Old Testament (3 units)

This course is a study of the Old Testament with emphasis on the historical, theological and literary features. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV502 Pentateuch (Exegesis) (3 units)

This course examines creation, fall, Israel's ancestors, Exodus, and the Law using literary and historical analysis. Theological issues explored include the character of God, human nature, and the covenantal relationship with God. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV 501,

MDV503 Wisdom Literature (3 units)

A study on the basis of the English language of the various books of wisdom literature in the Old Testament, including Job, Ecclesiastes, Proverbs and the Song of Solomon. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV 501

MDV504 The Prophets (3 units)

A study of the historical background, the theological aspect, time, and place of ministry, and personality of each of the authors of the books of Prophets. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV 501

MDV505 Survey to New Testament (3 units)

A study of the New Testament with emphasis on historical, theological and literary features. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV506 Pauline Epistles (3 units)

A study of the letters of Paul in terms of their literary and theological issues and in the context of early Christianity. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV505

MDV507 Gospels (Exegesis) (3 units)

This course will introduce basic tools for interpreting the New Testament. Attention will be given to a working knowledge of biblical Greek on the books of Gospels, and to principles of interpretation as they inform effective preaching and teaching of the New Testament. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV505

MDV508 Hermeneutics & Theological Research (3 units)

This course is an introduction to the tools and methods needed to interpret Scripture. Students gain an understanding of how to use biblical research tools and to integrate materials in an effective and hermeneutically acceptable manner. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV509 Dissertation Research and Writing (3 units)

A study of theological research and writing methods to understand the forms and requirements of dissertation and report writing as well as various research methods and resources. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV510 Greek 1 (3 units)

This is a basic Biblical Greek course with focus on the semantic significance of major word classes and exegetical syntax. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV511 Hebrew I (3 units)

An introduction to the elements of Biblical Hebrew with emphasis on vocabulary, syntax and grammar to equip the student to be able to read the Hebrew text. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV512 Life of Jesus (3 units)

A unique study of the life of Jesus as the key to solve Biblical secrets of the Old Testament and the New Testament: how the Old Testament prophecies were fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus; his identity and mission; and what that means to us now and days to come. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV513 Systematic Theology 1 (3 units)

A study of the questions of theology, methods of asking theological questions, revelation as God’s self-disclosure, revelation, scripture, and church, the problem of authority in modern culture, principles of the interpretation of scripture, the biblical roots of the doctrine of the trinity, the attributes of God, themes of the doctrine of creation, models of creation, belief in providence and the reality of evil, the triune God and human suffering. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV514 Systematic Theology 2 (3 units)

This course is to help the student gain, by his or her own efforts, a profound knowledge of the principal topics of the theology of the universal church, especially as these topics are understood in the Reformed tradition and in comparison with other contemporary theologies. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV515 Actual Spirituality & Action Theology (3 units)

This course is designed to equip students with the practical and experiential spiritual theory. Particular focus is given to the transformation of Christians’ life with action and work which develops a sound spirituality to have one’s faith in the word of God and action in life go hand in hand. Based on the Bible and the study of biblical scholars it promotes that actual spirituality is the way to witness true faith and what Jesus wants in our lives. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV516 Contemporary Theology (3 units)

This course is designed to consider developments in contemporary theology in connection with 1)the principal philosophical and social critiques of Christianity from the 19th century and 2)the 20th century internal critiques of the scope and the character of the contemporary theological project. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV513, MDV514

MDV517 Ethics (3 units)

This course is designed to introduce the basic system of ethics in a broad Christian perspective and its application to practical settings. The course will evaluate the elements and sources of Christian ethics by surveying its models drawn from biblical, historical, and contemporary ethicists and issues. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV601 Immigration Theology (3 units)

A study of the theology to reflect theologically upon the meaning of the immigrant experience, and thereby articulate basic Christian doctrines and Christian practices in the immigrant context. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV513 or MDV514

MDV602 Church History 1 (3 units)

This course is designed to survey the history of Church from its founding at Pentecost to the Middle age. Major goals will include studying the formation, development and perishment of Christian Church; identifying the relation between context and doctrine; studying the tradition of Christianity under diverge political power; identifying historical events, ecclesiastical answers and missions. The course is designed for 3 units of theory. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV603 Church History 2 (3 units)

This course is a study of the Christian movement from the Reformation to the modern and postmodern church including major theologians and their writings, such as Luther, Zwingli, Calvin, Wesley, etc. The relevant topics are Reformation, Counter-Reformation, Puritan Revolution, Rationalism, Pietism, The Great Awakening, and Missions. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV604 Homiletics (3 units)

This class focuses on a study of preparing sermon construction and style of delivery of the sermon. This is a basic course in the theory and practice of developing a sermon. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV605 Mission (3 units)

This course examines biblical and theological foundations of mission with attention to historical, cultural, and methodological issues. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV606 Homiletics Practicum (3 units)

This class focuses on an actual practice of homiletics for the effective preaching ministry. Through this class, students learn various types of communication methods for preaching. Also, they understand their own preaching styles and spirituality as preachers in this postmodern world. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV606

MDV607 Evangelism (3 units)

This course examines biblical foundations and different methods of evangelism and Mission. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV608 Missiology (3 units)

MDV609 Pastoral Leadership (3 units)

A study of theories and styles of leadership in ministry context with attention to a biblical image of leadership and service. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV610 Cultural Anthropology (3 units)

This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts of cultural anthropology from an overtly Christian perspective. Special attention is given to the application of these concepts in Christian mission. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV611 Healthy Church & Church Growth (3 units)

A survey of the biblical principles and crucial factors in church growth, including an analysis of theological, sociological, and missiological elements. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV612 Evangelism Strategy (3 units)

This course examines and exercises biblical foundations and different methods of evangelism. The students will be expected to contribute with their findings through their own research on evangelism and practice it in their own life. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV609

MDV613 Leadership Formation (3 units)

MDV614 Church & Culture in the 21st Century Context (3 units)

This course begins with an introduction to the Church and Culture in a contemporary context. In this course, students will exam the critical relation between Church and culture through exploring the nature of churches and formation of churches as well as the nature of culture. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV615 Vision & Mission of Life (3 units)

Through this course students will be able to pinpoint and sharpen their vision through their analysis of their past, present and future in a temporal sense; their temperament in the psychological sense; social demands from vocational sense; and gifts & talents from a spiritual perspective. At the end of class students will be able to state their firm vision and have substantial plan to complete their vision and mission in life. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV701 Spiritual and Psychological Gifts & Vision Formation (3 units)

A study to know oneself psychologically and theologically to find out the vision of life and to find ways God-given talents fulfill the vision in spiritual and psychological aspects. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV702 Worship & Praise (3 units)

A study of worship and praise for its theology, trends, designs, methods and skills, especially from an integral perspective to coordinate praises within worship setting. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV703 Field Education (3 units)

Unique involvement of Christian services to integrate theological learning and practice at local churches or Christian service centers where students can take internship according to their major field of interest and concentration. This course is designed for 3 units of practice for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV704 Spiritual Warfare (3 units)

This course will introduce students to spiritual warfare providing insights from the Bible, anthropology, and psychology. This course is designed to study the subject of power encounters that result from spiritual warfare as they relate to the purposes of God in the world. In both Old and New Testaments, God's activity in the world is presented in a context of the opposition between His Kingdom and that of Satan. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV709

MDV705 Senior Integration Seminar (3 units)

A final, integrative seminar offers students a summative and integrative experience of the formal curriculum, assessments and mentored leadership experience of each degree program. This course will provide students the opportunity to review, integrate, and reflect on curriculum and experiences of the entire program to apply in life and ministry in the core areas of the bible, theology, history and professional ministry. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: Seniors only

MDV706 Christian Counseling (3 units)

The course provides insights for effective pastoral counseling, with the result that the students can identify basic human problems and respond appropriately through pastoral counseling. In addition, students will develop theoretical and pragmatic approaches to a variety of pastoral counseling needs which include marital counseling, coping strategies, family systems development. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV707 Pastoral Counseling & Ministry (3 units)

MDV708 Inner Healing (3 units)

This course will teach basic concepts of inner healing and skills, motivate students to begin ministry to heal through love and power of the Holy Spirit. Thus, this course will focus on spiritual, emotional and physical healing and freedom beyond cultures. Students will be able to experience and participate in actual healing ministry during and out of the class. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV709

MDV709 Deep Wounds and Transformation (3 units)

A study of human indictment and wounds from an ontological, cultural, theological, psychological perspective and biblical ways of transformation. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV709, MDV708

MDV710 Survey to Psychological Assessments and Analysis (3 units)

This course aims to introduce students to a brief survey of various psychological instruments; and how to develop and use psychological surveys and how to analyze them into use. This course will use the Shalom Quotient and other psychological batteries like Egogram, Spiritual Wellbeing, MBTI and MMPI to understand human traits and mental and spiritual health from holistic perspectives. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: MDV709

MDV711 Theological English for Graduate (3 units)

This course is for a deeper study of English theological scholarship examining the area of theology which is useful for understanding theological words and English ministerial leadership taking the Christian message into the world which is useful for conducting important ministerial duties for Immigration churches. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

MDV712 Christian Education & Ministry (3 units)

A study of educational theories, developments, and applications on educational ministry church setting. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

Doctor of Theology

Program Description

The Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) program offers students an opportunity to explore, academically and critically, the scriptural basis of traditional Christian faith and practice. This program emphasizes systematic, comprehensive, and critical study of the Christian Scriptures and of major Christian theological doctrines that derive from scriptural sources, as well as the socio-historical contexts in which these developed and the debates surrounding them. Special emphasis is placed upon the historical context and development of the Biblical scriptures of the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament, and the canonical processes that brought them to their current states.

The Th.D. in Biblical Studies is designed to prepare students to teach on the undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as that of theological schools; this degree also assists in preparing students for professional leadership in the church and society. It is a historically-oriented theological degree, a research degree, and a professional degree. It requires broad historical-theological knowledge of the Bible and aims at preparing students for competent scholarly research and teaching in academic, secular and religious contexts, with the intent of adding wisdom and grace to the world.

The student is also expected to understand the methodological presuppositions of one’s field of concentration and to become capable of advancing the field through original research. The degree program emphasizes the professional applicability of the field of research by engaging theological and interpretive skills as well as critical methods of scholarship.

Admission Requirement

Anyone possessing a master’s degree or its equivalent meets the basic academic requirement for admission to the program. An Application File must include the following:

A completed and signed application form
Signed enrollment agreement form
College-level transcript which indicates master degree is granted
An overall GPA of 3.0 in graduate study. (A provisional admission status can be granted below GPA of 3.0)
Copy of master certificate of graduation
Personal statement (Childhood, vision, experiences and aspiring career path after graduation)
Passport Copy

Program Requirements

Students receive the Doctor of Theology degree upon a successful fulfillment of the following program requirements:

Major requirements: 27 units
Elective requirements: 18 units
Dissertation: 12 units
Unit requirement: A minimum of 57 semester units
The Th.D. requires 45 units of course work, plus 12 units of a dissertation.

Major requirement: 39 units

THD801

Theology of Ministry

3 Units

THD802

Research and Methodology

THD803

Communication and Preaching

THD804

Theology of Preaching

THD805

Biblical Preaching

THD806

Preaching the Literary Forms of the Bible

THD807

Issues in Contemporary Preaching

THD808

Biblical Foundations of Mission

THD809

The Local Church as Mission

THD810

Doing Theology in Context

THD811

Church Growth

THD812

Introduction to the New Testament

THD813

Introduction to the Old Testament

Elective Requirement: 60 Units

THD901

Systematic Theology

3 Units

THD902

Canonical Criticism

THD903

The Septuagint

THD904

The Book of Job

THD905

John and Johannine Tradition in Context

THD906

Church History

THD907

Theology of Paul

THD908

Exposition of Romans

THD909

Hermeneutics and Bible Exposition

THD910

Exploring the Contours of Ministry

THD911

Leadership and Post-Modernism

THD912

Missiology

THD913

Spirituality and Pastoral Care

THD914

Revitalizing Church and Community

THD915

Healthy Church & Church Growth

THD916

Understanding and Leading Church Organizations

THD917

The Skilled Counselor

THD918

Church & Culture in the 21st Century Context

THD919

Church as Evangelist

THD920

Christian Mission and Social Transformation

Course Description (Master of Divinity)

THD801 Theology of Ministry (3 units)

This course seeks to equip students with theological foundations for church ministry. It offers students an opportunity to pursue theological inquiry in view of a ministry-specific need, problem or challenge they are facing. It serves as a research tool related to the student’s dissertation project, informing the theological/biblical foundations component. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: THD812, THD813

THD802 Research and Methodology (3 units)

This course provides an overview of the major components of a Th.D. dissertation, teaches how to develop a dissertation proposal, and equips students to develop research and writing skills. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD803 Communication and Preaching (3 units)

This course is designed to enhance communication skills of preachers. Specifically, it seeks to equip them to be sensitive to the nature and needs of the postmodern audience, to apply effective communication principles and methods, and to use diverse sermonic forms. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: THD804

THD804 Theology of Preaching (3 units)

This course focuses on a theological understanding of the practice of preaching rooted in God’s communicative action revealed in the Scriptures. How is Christian preaching related to God’s revelation? This course also considers the function of theology in preaching. How do our claims about God inform and give substance to our sermons?. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD805 Biblical Preaching (3 units)

This course is an advanced study of the theological and homiletical dimensions of preaching. It focuses on contemporary methods of effective communication of the message of the Bible to modern audience. It deals with such issues as sermonic form and language, hermeneutical and homiletical tasks, and the relationship between the preacher and the congregation.. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD806 Preaching the Literary Forms of the Bible (3 units)

This course is stresses the importance of the literary genres in interpreting the text and shaping the sermon. It offers the student an opportunity to study the unique literary and rhetorical features of biblical narratives, epistles, apocalyptic literature, poems, and proverbs with a view to incorporating them into sermons.. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: THD805

THD807 Issues in Contemporary Preaching (3 units)

This course is designed to help student research a variety of issues and developments in contemporary American and Korean homiletics. This course offers students an opportunity to assess Korean preaching from historical and homiletical perspectives and to interact with new creative preaching styles that have been advanced in recent years by American homileticians. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: THD805

THD808 Biblical Foundations of Mission (3 units)

An advanced examination of the biblical and theological foundations of mission, encompassing the mission of God expressed in his relationship with his people, the mission of Jesus Christ, and the mission of the Church from Pentecost onward. This course also examines various modern theologies of mission from the evangelical perspective. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: THD812, THD813

THD809 The Local Church as Mission (3 units)

This course enables students to develop a missiological understanding of the local church. It also develops a wide range of skills related to equipping a local congregation to be open to ministry in the world. It deals with issues related to creating and implementing mission strategy for a local church. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD810 Doing Theology in Context (3 units)

This is an advanced study of contemporary attempts to interpret and express the Christian faith with specific considerations of different socio-political contexts. It will enable students to be sensitive to and critically interact with social, cultural realities and to critically assess contemporary models of theological contextualization. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD811 Church Growth (3 units)

An advance understanding of church growth concepts and principles as related to the local congregation, with due emphasis on the Korean context. It encompasses the history of the Church Growth Movement and a wide range of current theological and practical issues related to growth of a local congregation. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD812 Introduction to the New Testament (3 units)

THD813 Introduction to the Old Testament (3 units)

THD901 Systematic Theology (3 units)

THD902 Canonical Criticism (3 units)

THD903 The Septuagint (3 units)

An overview of the most well-known codification of the Greek translation of the Torah, and subsequent translations of the rest of the Hebrew Bible. Focus will include a comparative analysis of the text with the Masoretic Text, emphasizing variations. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD904 The Book of Job (3 units)

The Book of Job has given expression to the pain of countless people over the course of time and expresses the early Israelites’ treatment of the age-old question of why bad things happen to good people. This course provides an in depth study of the Book of Job in its literary-historical context, treating various theories of composition and meaning. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: THD813

THD905 John and Johannine Tradition in Context (3 units)

A study of the Gospel of John with emphasis on its historical, literary and theological aspects in view of modern scholarship. Emphasis will be placed on its Christological innovations, as well as its relationship to Stoic, Platonic, and Proto-Gnostic thought. The Johannine epistles will be studied in the context of the overall tradition of the Beloved Disciple. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: THD812

THD906 Church History (3 units)

THD907 Theology of Paul (3 units)

A study of the theology of Paul’s undisputed epistles with an eye toward the coherency of his theology. It will entail a close reading and exegetical study of key passages in the primary texts, as well as readings in standard text books. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: THD812

THD908 Exposition of Romans (3 units)

In a study of the Greek text, students apply linguistic and exegetical methods for the exposition of the book of Romans. Attention is given to developing a series of lessons or sermons from Romans. This is a basic course in the theory and practice of developing a sermon. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: THD812

THD909 Hermeneutics and Bible Exposition (3 units)

A detailed exposition of hermeneutics (or interpretation) as a discipline and endeavor, dealing with modern methodological issues in understanding the Bible. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD910 Exploring the Contours of Ministry (3 units)

This course helps the student to reflect himself/herself in terms of personality and characteristics as a would-be minister. In order to perceive ministry, he/she must study various materials relevant to ministry including spiritual formation, counseling skill, and Psychology. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD911 Leadership and Post-Modernism (3 units)

This course is aimed to understand post-modernism to develop pastoral leadership. Students will share their ministerial setting and conflicts in this post-modern phenomenon as a meaning of interdisciplinary learning. With theological and theoretical reflections students will learn how to apply their leadership in the immigrant church. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD912 Missiology (3 units)

THD913 Spirituality and Pastoral Care (3 units)

Spirituality and pastoral care are an experience in process education that has been honed over several decades, and remains responsive to cultural developments that facilitate pastoral growth. The heart of pastoral care with spirituality is ministry with the sick, injured, and dying, and learning from that ministry. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD914 Revitalizing Church and Community (3 units)

This course explores theories and theologies of congregational and community changes and transformation. Students will analyze how the changes occur and discover various methods church leaders can use in during the transformations in church and in community. The framework for these learning will be the student’s congregation in its social, political, economic, cultural and religious context. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD915 Healthy Church & Church Growth (3 units)

THD916 Understanding and Leading Church Organizations (3 units)

This course is to look at the church system from various perspectives: structural, human relations, political, open system, and symbolic/cultural. Throughout the course, students will explore the interactions between organizational theory, theological perspectives, and the practice of ministry. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD917 The Skilled Counselor (3 units)

This course introduces students to advanced counseling skills. Included are topics such as empathy, concreteness, confrontation, self-disclosure, attending, listening, responding, decision-making, and action planning. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

THD918 Church & Culture in the 21st Century Context (3 units)

THD919 Church as Evangelist (3 units)

A comprehensive introduction to the church as evangelist as an interdisciplinary theological field (missiology), a socio-historical reality, a biblical-theological imperative, a point of tension in the inner life of the contemporary church around the world and a strategic challenge to the church’s outreach in the world. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: THD912

THD920 Christian Mission and Social Transformation (3 units)

This course Is an overview of the perspective of evangelical missiology in the contemporary church. Its basic intension is not so much to provide practical training for a missionary participation in the contemporary mission field. It is aims rather to enable pastors giving them a theological frame of references to make choices and decide when they become involved in missionary service, especially in relation to social transformation. This course is designed for 3 units of theory for 45 hours. Prerequisite: None

CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY