Biblical Studies

Our BA Biblical Studies degree offers students a dynamic, interdisciplinary experience thoroughly rooted in the life-giving exploration of Christian Scripture. It is designed for students who want to learn to love God more deeply through the patient study of his Word. Introductory courses in both Old and New Testament expose students to the diversity of biblical literature as well as to the interpretive skills needed to read both the Old and New Testaments wisely and with faithful commitment to Jesus Christ. Upper-level electives introduce students to the diversity of biblical interpretation while providing opportunities for more focused study. Consequently, students learn to read widely (often encountering unfamiliar modes of biblical interpretation) while also learning to read closely (often acquiring a profound appreciation for the literary and theological sophistication with which the Bible was written). All Biblical Studies majors complete a four-course language sequence in either Hebrew or Greek in Briercrest’s innovative ancient-language program (with some opting to study both languages and the large majority completing more language study than the program requires). The program provides outstanding preparation for graduate study in biblical studies (but also in theology, pastoral ministry, Bible translation, etc.).

Located amongst the humanities, the BA Biblical Studies degree also opens the door to a wide range of career paths, within and beyond traditional church and parachurch roles. The program’s marked emphasis on close reading, language proficiency, written communication, critical thinking, and research prepares its graduates for careers in fields as diverse as church ministry, social work, education, law, business, and communications. Most importantly, however, the deep and sustained study of God’s Word helps students to integrate the other disciplines to which they are exposed, while their hearts and minds simultaneously awaken to the transformative love of God.

The BA Biblical Studies requires 39 credit hours of Biblical Studies courses (including at least 18 credit hours at 300+ level and six additional credit hours at 400+ level), 12 credit hours of cognate language requirements (Greek or Hebrew), and six credit hours of cognate Theological Studies requirements. Like most Briercrest programs the BA Biblical Studies requires 39 credit hours at the 300+ level within the context of a 120 credit hour degree.

Major Requirements (39 major credit hours + 18 cognate credit hours):

I. Required Courses (6 credit hours)
BLST 111 Introduction to the Old Testament
BLST 109 Introduction to the New Testament
BLST 423 Advanced Hermeneutics 

II. Electives (33 credit hours)
Minimum 6 credit hours must be taken in each of the 3 domains: (a) Old Testament Studies; (b) New Testament Studies; and (c) Backgrounds and Methodological issues. BLST 435 Synoptic Gospels can be used as either a New Testament or Methods elective but can count only once in the major.

A minimum of 18 credit hours must be taken at the 300+ level. An additional 3 credit-hour
elective must be taken at the 400 level. (Note: BLST 426 Biblical Studies Internship may be takenas an elective, but does not count as one of the required 400 level courses.)

III. Cognate Language Requirements (12 credit hours)
GRK 200 Ancient Greek I
GRK 201 Ancient Greek II
GRK 300 Ancient Greek III
GRK 301 Ancient Greek IV
   or
HEB 200 Introductory Hebrew I
HEB 201 Introductory Hebrew II
HEB 300 Hebrew Syntax & Exegesis I
HEB 301 Hebrew Syntax & Exegesis II

IV. Cognate Theological Studies Requirements (6 credit hours with at least 3 credit hours at 300+ level)
Students must complete six (6) credit hours of Theology courses at the 300-400 levels.

V. Free Electives (to bring credit hour total to 120 credit hours)

PRT 400 Senior Portfolio (non-credit)
SL 1-6 Service and Experiential Learning (non-credit)

In addition, all Bachelor of Arts degrees require the completion of Briercrest's core curriculum.