Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Pastoral Studies

Introduction: 

The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biblical and Pastoral Studies is focused on the basic skills and competencies necessary for ministry training.

The goal of the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biblical and Pastoral Studies is to equip the student for the continued study, application, and ministering of the Word of God. Key studies include biblical languages, biblical research, Old Testament and New Testament, history of the church, theology, preaching and teaching, spiritual counsel, spiritual life, leadership and administration, church growth, healing and evangelism, and a mentored ministry experience.

Degree Aims: 

The Bachelor of Arts Degree program seeks to:

  • Provide students with a biblical, doctrinal, historical, practical, and personal foundation for ministry (from a “Spirit-filled” perspective).
  • Develop research and analytical skills at the undergraduate level necessary for the ministry and for ongoing biblical studies.
  • Develop communication skills necessary for the ministry.
  • Assist students in developing a biblical worldview and lifestyle.
  • Develop a commitment to lifelong learning, growth, and ministry.
Degree Learning Outcomes: 

Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Pastoral Studies program, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate proficiency in areas of authorship, historical background, structure, and themes of the books of the Bible.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in areas of church history and basic doctrines.
  • Perform basic research.
  • Perform basic exegetical analysis of Scripture.
  • Communicate Scripture and theology with clarity and conviction.
  • Apply inductive and deductive methods to study the Bible.
  • Demonstrate competency in areas of Christian ministry.
  • Exhibit the character of a teachable servant-oriented leader.
  • Participate effectively in Christian ministry and leadership.
  • Pursue graduate studies in areas of Christian ministry, theology, or biblical studies.

General Education

The undergraduate degree (Bachelor of Arts) program contains 43 units (semester hours) of general education. The general education courses are designed to support the University’s distinctively Christian mission. General education at Shiloh University consists of the following:

  • Introductory - 1 unit
  • Communications – writing - 6 units
  • Communications – speech - 3 units
  • History / cultures - 6 units
  • Humanities - 9 units
  • Mathematics - 3 units
  • Science - 6 units
  • Social science - 9 units
  • Total - 43 units

General Education Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the general education courses, students will be able to:

  • Write and speak competently in English. 
  • Analyze and calculate basic mathematical problems including the basics of algebra and geometry and apply mathematical concepts to work and daily life.
  • Analyze and evaluate the ideas, values, and events that have formed the historical foundations that influence today’s society.
  • Evaluate how human behavior and social systems affect individual lives.
  • Explain basic scientific principles from a Christian worldview, and identify valid and reliable health resources.
Units Needed: 

The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biblical and Pastoral Studies is a four year program consisting of 120 units. The 120 units necessary for graduation consist of:

  • General Education Courses - 43 units
  • Core Courses - 62 units
  • Elective Courses - 15 units
  • Total Courses - 120 units

Typically, students who have previously earned an Associate of Arts degree will need to complete 62 units of study with Shiloh University to earn their Bachelor of Arts Degree.

Transfer students who have completed 43 units of the required general education requirements for a bachelor’s degree will need to complete 77 units of study with Shiloh University, consisting of core courses and electives, to earn their Bachelor of Arts Degree.

See Admissions section regarding transfer of credits toward degree requirements.

Admissions Prerequisites : 

See Admissions—Bachelor's Program to review prerequisites and other admission requirements.

Credit Hours: 

The bachelor degree courses typically require an average of 9 hours per week for a 3-unit course. Some students may require more (or less) study time than 9 hours depending on the subject being studied.

Graduation Requirements: 

To graduate with the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biblical and Pastoral Studies the student will:

  • Complete the minimum number of units required.
  • Complete the courses in the degree program.
  • Earn a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0.
  • Satisfy any residency/on-campus requirements.
  • Fulfill any outstanding school financial obligations.

See degree course requirements below. Note that only one of the biblical languages (Hebrew Studies 1&2 or Greek Studies 1&2) are required to meet program requirements.

Required Courses