Biblical Studies Emphasis
Students who choose an emphasis in Biblical Studies will find an interdisciplinary, humanities-based curriculum focused on the scholarly study of biblical text.
Through core courses in both the Old and New Testaments, students learn to use contemporary methods and tools to biblical exegesis to illumine the text. You also will become fluent in reading both biblical languages (Greek and Hebrew), enabling you to read and interpret biblical and other ancient texts in their original language.
The program also aims to sharpen students' theological reflection skills by providing a broader perspective on the ancient world in which the biblical authors lived and wrote, through additional courses in:
- Theology
- Ethics
- Religion
- History
- Archaeology
- Philosophy
General education (41 hours) including Greek 111, 112; Religion 499
Major (36 hours)
- At least five courses from Area I (Biblical Studies), including at least two courses in the Old Testament and at least two courses in the New Testament
- At least one course in Greek 300 or above, and at least one course in Hebrew 112 or above
- At least three courses from Areas II (theological and ethical studies) and III (historical and cultural studies) at the 200 level or higher, including at least one course from Area II, at least one from a tradition other than Christianity (Religion 212, 213, or some topics taught as Religion 380), and at least one from Religion 210 or 220
- At least one course from Archaeology 311, 492; History 312; Philosophy 211
- At least one additional course in religion (Area I, II, or III)
- Additional foreign language (6 hours) The Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in religion requires proficiency in or completion of Greek 211 and 212.
Electives (37 hours)
Students are strongly encouraged to take upper-division courses in religion in addition to those required. Other courses than those listed above may be substituted upon approval.