May 24, 2024  
2019-2020 Graduate Catalog 
    
2019-2020 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


Definition of Credit Hour

A credit hour (one) is defined as student/teacher interaction of not less than one hour and a minimum of two hours out of class work for 15 weeks. Application: Since several courses and some programs are delivered in a variety of formats, including distance learning, the driving force for delivering a credit hour commences with identifying learning objectives that can be delivered in the one hour/2/15 formula as noted in the definition. Using the definition and formula as noted above, granting more than one hour of credit for a course requires using the formula and increasing the student/teacher interaction, etc., via the learning objectives for the equivalent amount of credit hours desired for the course.

 

Special Education

  
  • EGSE 5223 - Building Supportive Learning Environments (3)


    This course covers the key elements of classroom support for a special or regular education classroom. Students will explore various classroom discipline and management models and their relationship to degrees of teacher and student control. Particular attention is given to understanding how a teacher’s behavior and/or instructional strategies, styles, and techniques affect student behavior and learning. The course also includes development of communication, language, and social skills for typically developing children, as well as the deficits seen in these areas in children with disabilities. Students will learn the link between communication and behavior, the importance of developing functional communication  and instructional strategies to develop communication, language, and social skills. Research-based interventions such as social narratives, video-modeling, and functional communication training will also be discussed.

  
  • EGSE 5233 - Complex Disabilities (3)


    Understanding individual student needs is essential for a special educator. The primary purpose of this course is to help students learn about the various needs of students with severe/profound and multiple disabilities as described in the federal law, including issues related to postsecondary transition.  Students will learn how to use assistive technology to meet the needs of students.  This course will also introduce alternative assessment, how to determine when to use and how to implement for appropriate students.

  
  • EGSE 6023 - Special Education Disabilities


    Students are provided with an overview of a variety of conditions including high incidence
    disabilities, low incidence disabilities, spectrum disorders such as autism, attention deficit
    disorders, emotional and behavioral disorders, and the gifted and talented. These are examined
    with consideration to the psychological, physiological, social and educational characteristics of
    each. An emphasis is placed on causes, prevalence, diagnosis and intervention. Ed.S. courses have additional assignments.

  
  • EGSE 6033 - Special Education Law and Ethics


    Special educators are responsible for knowing the federal and state law that governs the supports
    and services for students with disabilities. In this course students will analyze the law and
    develop an understanding of communication and collaboration, preparing for and conducting
    meetings, accommodations and modifications, IEP writing, and transitional planning. This
    course will also cover the ethical and professional role of special educators including
    confidentiality, effective communication and writing skills, and self-reflection. Ed.S. sections have additional course assignments.

  
  • EGSE 6043 - Special Education Methods


    Candidates learn pedagogical strategies and techniques and philosophical underpinnings
    required for teaching exceptional students. Major topics include: characteristics of effective
    teaching; planning for instruction; creating effective lessons using a variety of approaches,
    effectively integrating technology; science instructional methods and math instructional methods. Ed.S. courses have additional assignments.

  
  • EGSE 6213 - Collaboration and Co-Teaching


    The role of the special educator has changed in the last 20 years. Special Educators are now
    serving in a more collaborative role with general educators. They are often consulting and/or
    co-teaching in general education classrooms. This course will prepare students to work with
    other school staff, balance a caseload while supporting the needs of all students, and to
    effectively communicate with paraprofessionals. Specific strategies for collaboration,
    consultation, and co-teaching will be learned. In addition, the importance of communicating with
    families, as well as techniques to collaborate with families, will be discussed. Ed.S. courses will have additional assignments.


Exercise and Nutrition Science

  
  • EXNS 5003 - Advanced Exercise Physiology (3) Fall


    The study of acute and chronic adaptation of the body’s structures and functions during and after physical activity.

  
  • EXNS 5013 - Exercise and Nutrition Strategies (3) Fall, Summer


    The study of exercise and nutrition strategies for optimal wellness in healthy populations.

    (Formally Exercise and Nutrition Strategies I)

    Prerequisite (or concurrent): EXNS 5003 .

  
  • EXNS 5033 - Anatomical Kinesiology and Biomechanics (3) On Demand


    The study of the structure of human movement from an anatomical and biomechanical perspective.

  
  • EXNS 5043 - Exercise and Sports Nutrition (3) Spring


    The study of nutrition requirements for optimal performance in exercise and sports.

  
  • EXNS 5053 - Exercise Testing and Electrocardiography (3) Spring Even


    Study and applications of commonly used graded exercise tests on the treadmill and cycle ergometer. This course will also provide an understanding of the resting and exercise electrocardiogram.

    Prerequisite: EXNS 5003 .
  
  • EXNS 5063 - Research Methods I: Biostatistics (3) Fall, Summer


    The study of statistical methods and concepts appropriate for biomedical research and health related subjects. Topics will include descriptive and inferential statistics including parametric and nonparametric hypothesis testing methods, sample size, statistical significance and power, vital statistics, demographic methods, survival curve analysis, relative risk, odds ratio, chi square modeling, and analysis of variance.

  
  • EXNS 5073 - Dietary and Nutritional Supplementation (3) Spring Odd


    This course surveys the current dietary supplements that have been shown to be effective or trivial and the newest aids that are being used by competitive athletes.  It covers nutritional, physiological and pharmacological ergogenic aids.  Ergogenic aids that improve aerobic performance, anaerobic performance, strength and body composition are discussed.  

    Prerequisite: EXNS 5003
  
  • EXNS 5103 - Research Methods II: Design & Analysis (3) Spring


    The study of qualitative and quantitative methods for designing and analyzing appropriate research projects in exercise and nutrition science.

     

    Prerequisite: EXNS 5063 

  
  • EXNS 5123 - Physiological Adaptations to Exercise Training (3) Fall


    An in-depth study of adaptations of various physiological systems to exercise training and the effects of environmental factors of physiological systems and performance.

    Prerequisite: EXNS 5003
  
  • EXNS 5133 - Laboratory Techniques in Exercise Physiology (3) Summer


    This course will introduce students to laboratory techniques common in a graduate Exercise Physiology Human Performance Laboratory. Students will engage in laboratory sessions designed to analyze cardiovascular function (metabolic and EKG), strength and power performance (isokinetic, Wingate and EMG) and body composition assessment (BIA, Air Displacement Plethysmography-Bod Pod, skin fold).  Laboratory principles will be problem based, meaning students will be presented with research questions and then guided to problem solve using appropriate laboratory equipment.  Course assignments may be required prior to and after the scheduled class meeting times.

    Prerequisite: EXNS 5003
  
  • EXNS 5143 - Exercise Psychology (3) Fall Odd


    This course is designed to introduce the topic of exercise psychology. This course examines the psychological antecedents and consequences of physical activity relationships. Included are the mental health benefits of exercise as well as motivational factors involved in exercising and the many variables that influence exercise behavior, e.g., stress, emotional states, anxiety, and depression.

    Prerequisite: Introduction to Psychology

  
  • EXNS 5203 - Advanced Nutritional Biochemistry (3) Spring


    The study of the biochemistry of digestion, absorption and metabolism of foods and specific nutrients. Special emphasis is given to the interrelationship of metabolic pathways and the impact of biochemistry on health and disease.

    Students with a background in nutrition may choose EXNS 5273: Macronutrients to fulfill this requirement.

  
  • EXNS 5213 - Health Promotion and Disease Prevention (3) Summer Even


    The study of the role of exercise and nutrition in promoting health and preventing disease in the general population.

  
  • EXNS 5223 - Nutrition and Genetics (3) On Demand


    The study of the role of genetics in human nutrition and metabolism, with emphasis on the use of genetic testing in nutrition therapy.

  
  • EXNS 5233 - Nutrition and Exercise in Obesity Treatment (3) Spring


    The study of exercise and nutrition therapies for treating obesity across the lifespan.

  
  • EXNS 5243 - The Business of Exercise & Nutrition (3) Spring


    A study of basic business principles in exercise and nutrition.

  
  • EXNS 5253 - Nutrition Across the Life Span (3) Summer


    The study of nutrition needs at different stages of life, including pregnancy, infancy, child hood, adolescence and aging.

  
  • EXNS 5263 - Micronutrients (3) Spring


    The study of the biochemistry of digestion, absorption, and metabolism of micronutrients, including current research on regulatory mechanisms and use of micronutrients for preventing disease and improving human performance. Special emphasis is given to the interrelationship of micronutrient pathways, and the impact of biochemistry on health and disease.

  
  • EXNS 5273 - Macronutrients (3) Fall


    The study of the biochemistry of digestion, absorption and metabolism of macronutrients, including current research on regulatory mechanisms and use of macronutrients for improving human performance. Special emphasis is given to the interrelationship of metabolic pathways and the impact of biochemistry on health and disease.

  
  • EXNS 5403 - Special Topics in Exercise and Nutrition Science (3) On Demand


    An in-depth discussion of special topics that are of interest to students and faculty. Topics must not be covered in depth in other courses. Titles will be announced in the course schedule.

  
  • EXNS 5423 - Thesis I (3) Fall, Spring, Summer


    Students will identify a thesis advisor and committee, propose the thesis topic and write the first three chapters of the thesis document (Introduction, Literature Review, Methodology and IRB approval).

  
  • EXNS 5433 - Thesis II (3) Fall, Spring, Summer


    Students will collect and analyze thesis data, finalize written document and present/defend the document to the thesis committee

    Prerequisite: EXNS 5423 .
  
  • EXNS 5443 - Advanced Strength & Conditioning Methods (3) Summer


    This course has been designed to introduce and develop knowledge and competencies that are necessary to function as strength and conditioning professionals. Additionally, this course is designed to prepare students to function as performance development coaches in a number of athletic settings.

  
  • EXNS 5453 - Exercise Evaluation & Prescription for Special Populations (3) Fall Even


    This course is designed to introduce the student to the etiology and treatment of multiple chronic diseases and conditions. The role of exercise in disease management will be examined and the risks and benefits associated with exercise will be detailed. Each student will be able to prescribe exercise for patients with special considerations including but not limited to: cardiovascular, metabolic and pulmonary diseases, arthritis, osteoporosis, cancer, and neuromuscular conditions.

  
  • EXNS 5463 - Advanced Medical Nutritional Therapy (3) Summer Odd


    Medical Nutrition Therapy based on modification of the nutrients in a normal diet for prevention or correction of cardiac, hepatic, pancreatic, gastrointestinal, and renal diseases, as well as therapy for diabetes, cancer, metabolic stress, and inborn errors of metabolism.

    Prerequisites: EXNS 5203 or EXNS 5273
  
  • EXNS 5473 - Eating Disorders (3) Fall


    This course will explore eating disorders across numerous populations, examining contemporary and classic psychological theories, research, and applications.

  
  • EXNS 5800 - Thesis Continuation (0)


    Thesis students requiring additional semester(s) to complete thesis work must enroll in this course.

    Course graded as satisfactory or unsatisfactory.
    May be repeated.
    Prerequisites EXNS 5423  and EXNS 5433 .
  
  • EXNS 5900 - Comprehensive Examination (0) Fall, Spring


    This course is required for practicum option students and must be registered for during final semester prior to graduation. 

    Course graded as satisfactory or unsatisfactory.

Film and Creative Media

  
  • FCM 5002 - Story and Structure (2) Full Term Online


    This course explores the basic dramatic principles of story, character and structure from multiple narrative viewpoints. The course work consists of extensive readings in theories of narratology with application to drama, film and other media.

  
  • FCM 5003 - Story and Structure (3) Fall, Full Term Online


    This course explores the basic dramatic principles of story, character and structure from multiple narrative viewpoints. While special attention is given to the storytelling philosophy of modern western culture there is considerable attention given to ancient myth narratives and eastern culture.

  
  • FCM 5022 - Media Entrepreneurship (2) Fall, Term I


    This course explores how the film and media business works in today’s ever-changing marketplace, and provides students with the tools to have what it takes to compete as a professional working in the industry. Throughout the course, students will get an inside glimpse into the economic, political and power structures behind the scenes which help determine how movies and media get made, distributed and seen by the public.

  
  • FCM 5033 - Film Production I (3) Fall, Full Term


    This course introduces students to major aspects of visual storytelling. Students will learn concepts to help achieve maximum psychological impact by studying the director’s decisions in camera placement, blocking, staging and visual image design, as well as fundamental aspects of linear (continuity) editing and sound production.

  
  • FCM 5042 - Development (2)


    This course explores the process of creative content development, the role of the producer and pre-production planning and logistics for any type of film shoot. Students will develop many conceptual ideas during this course including their thesis.

  
  • FCM 5053 - History of TV and Film (3)


    This course is a critical and historical investigation of film and television. Different areas of scholarly study will be examined. including film and television comedy, the western, film noir and social media. Special emphasis will be given to the study of religious films and redemptive storytelling. Script breakdowns for multiple genres will be expected.

  
  • FCM 5063 - Writing for TV I (3)


    This course focuses on traditional television sitcoms and dramas. 

  
  • FCM 5073 - Film Production II (3)


    Further exploration into film production.

  
  • FCM 5083 - Screenwriting I (3)


    This course teaches students to write feature films in the traditional screenplay formats; it facilitates a deeper understanding of the screenwriting process; and enables students to develop character, story and linear structure. 

  
  • FCM 5093 - Distribution (3)


    This course focuses on aspects of media production as they relate to raising financing and creating a marketing plan for a project. Examination of traditional theatrical distribution as well as new distribution avenues, including Web and mobile technologies.

  
  • FCM 5102 - Cinematic Aesthetics (2)


    This course focuses on aesthetic experience in various media. Special emphasis is placed on the visual work of the director. Relevant film theories of the 20th and 21st centuries will be examined.

  
  • FCM 5121 - Professional Practicum (1)


    Provides opportunities for practical and hands-on experience with a professional production company, or the FCM in house production company, in all five of the areas of film production. Such as development, pre-production, production, post-production, distribution.

  
  • FCM 5133 - Portfolio (3) Portfolio I


    In this course the student is required to put together an advanced business plan and production notebook for their final film. They will meet with a thesis advisor regularly and a copy of the product will be delivered to the library.

  
  • FCM 5152 - Writing for TV II (2)


    This course is an extension of Writing for TV I and focuses on writing a pilot script for sitcoms and dramas. Students will complete a script, and select scripts will go into production the following semester.

  
  • FCM 5162 - Redemptive Media (2) Online


    This course is a critical study of theories and practices behind the creation of overtly religious or redemptive films and media. Study will focus on quality connotations and audience reception as well as examining the overall impact these works have on contemporary culture.

  
  • FCM 5173 - Screenwriting II (3)


    This course will be an extension of the first screenwriting course. Designed to develop a deeper understanding of the screenwriting process, special emphasis will be placed on creating compelling plots and memorable characters. Students will write an original full-length screenplay during the course.

  
  • FCM 5203 - Post-Production (3)


    This course will work through a number of topics relating to digital post- production, including editing, sound design, basic compositing, color correction, rendering, basic compression schemes, and exporting high-quality video for broadcast, film, game consoles, web and mobile devices.

  
  • FCM 5233 - Cannes Film Festival (3)


    This is a travel course that meets the MBA global business requirements. Refer to BU 6632  in the MFA/MBA section.

  
  • FCM 5243 - Advanced Digital Entertainment Business & Law (3) Online


    An overview of the legal and ethical issues involved in entertainment law and business. Topics include intellectual property, copyright, options, employment agreements, distribution agreements, music licensing and negotiation strategies. Special emphasis will be placed on standards and practices (or the lack thereof) in entertainment business accounting.

  
  • FCM 5252 - Transmedia Storytelling (2)


    This course will teach the student forms of narrative scriptwriting that exists outside of traditional feature films and TV episodics.  These forms include scriptwriting for the following: Reality TV, Music Videos, TV Commercials, Corporate videos, etc. 

  
  • FCM 5263 - Producing I (3)


    This class will approach film production from prep to post from the perspective of the independent film producer while still considering the studio process. The students will learn how to break down and budget a script, schedule a shoot, create and fill out paper work such as deal memos, call sheets, contracts, location scouting, holding auditions, etc.

  
  • FCM 5272 - Acting for Directors (2)


    This course focuses on the process of directing and evaluating actors for the camera. Student directors work on camera technique, auditions, cold readings, blocking, etc., for both film and television performances. Students will learn by directing their own pieces as well as performing for other directors.

  
  • FCM 5312 - Film Sound (2)


    This class will focus on film and television audio. The course will focus on live sound capture and will begin education on post-audio production.  Students will learn the nuances of audio acquisition and mixing on a Film/TV set and finishing sound for a project including: foley, sound design and multi-layer mixing. 

  
  • FCM 5323 - Film Directing (3)


    This class focuses on the skillsets and knowledge needed for Film/TV directors. The course teaches the students to make professional decisions concerning their approach to a film project in a comprehensive way as well as working with the details of a singular scene. Additionally, students will learn to work with actors getting the very best performances out of them. The course will offer hands-on opportunities for the students to practice analyzing, blocking and directing a small scene. 

  
  • FCM 5332 - Advanced Film Theory (2)


    This course develops an advanced understanding of film as a complex cultural medium through the discussion of key theoretical and critical approaches. The professor will select a specific area of focus at his/her discretion, such as the Coen Brothers movies, the French New Wave, Hitchcock films, etc. The particular focus of each class will be announced within the Cinematic Arts department the previous semester. The course combines weekly viewings with lectures, group discussions, and written assignments.

  
  • FCM 5343 - Cinematography and Lighting (3)


    This course will give an overview of the art and science of cinematography. The course will concentrate on cinematic theory, use of lenses, use of focus, working with lights, thorough knowledge of how a camera works, mise en scene, properly framing shots, storytelling using a camera, and the responsibilities of a camera team on a film shoot. 

  
  • FCM 5352 - Assistant Directing and Set Management (2)


    Although they are often overlooked, two of the most important departments and skillsets on a Film/TV production are the Assistant Director team and overall set management. The students will acquire the knowledge necessary for all positions in the Assistant Directors Team, learn the protocol used on professional sets and overall set management. Additionally, the students will do exercises and attain practical experience on Film/TV sets, in order to master these disciplines. 

  
  • FCM 5363 - Advanced Film Business (3)


    This class will both survey the Film and Television industry and require that students develop usable portfolio assets for their careers. Film Business will cover the following topics and more: Development, Distribution, Film Festivals, marketing, fundraising, career promotion and more.

  
  • FCM 5403 - The Adaptation (3)


    Adapting existing works into screenplays is a recognized form of screenwriting by The Academy which awards an Oscar for best adapted screenplay.  Having a solid adaptation as part of your portfolio as part of your body of work makes you more attractive to executives or agents seeking screenwriters.  This course will take you through the process of discovering good material for adaptation, structuring and writing the story in a new form and seeking and obtaining the rights of a piece of work for adaptation.   

  
  • FCM 5413 - Writers Room Intensive (3)


    The Writers Room Intensive is a two-week course run like a Writers room for a television series.  Students will have the experience of writing two episodes of television series based on a pilot and treatment determined before the course begins.  Students will spend 8 hour days writing with the oversite of a professional LA writer during the Study in LA summer program. 

  
  • FCM 5423 - Digital Disruption in Visual Media (3)


    This course provides a framework for understanding the key marketing and strategic issues facing organizations in the entertainment industry. Key sectors of the quickly changing television and film industries will be the focus. These include the changes in programming, distribution, audience viewing, advertising and data algorithms. This paradigm shift in strategically thinking about this industry, is critical for future success. 

  
  • FCM 5433 - Austin Screenwriting Conference (3)


    In this course students will get involved with the Austin Screenwriting Conference that takes place each fall in Austin Texas.  Prepared students may be chosen to pitch at this conference or receive feedback on their screenplays.  They will also have to opportunity to network with industry professionals.  The class will examine ways to enter the industry as a professional writer, what it takes to get paid and make a living as a professional writer, and getting into the WGA. 


Graduate Bible

  
  • GB 5010 - Introduction to Theological Studies (0)


    An introduction to graduate study in Scripture, theology and ministry. The student will gain an understanding of the purposes, methods, and challenges of theological education. Special attention will be given to the use of library and online resources, research, matters of style, writing and critical thinking.

  
  • GB 5033 - Biblical Greek I (3)


  
  • GB 5043 - Biblical Hebrew I (3)


  
  • GB 5063 - Biblical Hebrew II (3)


  
  • GB 5073 - Biblical Greek II (3)


  
  • GB 5083 - Critical Interpretation of the Old Testament (3)


    This course will introduce students to the hermeneutical issues and methods necessary for competent interpretation of the Old Testament. Special attention will be given to the characteristics of the different genres of this literature. In addition to exegetical skills, students will gain the ability to trace and analyze the theological streams within the Old Testament.

  
  • GB 5093 - Critical Interpretation of the New Testament (3)


    This course will introduce students to the hermeneutical issues and methods necessary for competent interpretation of the New Testament. Special attention will be given to the characteristics of the different genres of this literature. In addition to exegetical skills, students will gain the ability to analyze the theological teachings of the New Testament authors.

     

  
  • GB 5103 - Genesis (3)


    Old Testament

    Category 1: Torah/Narrative

  
  • GB 5113 - Exodus (3)


    The Scripture course offers a serious, in-depth study of the Old Testament book, Exodus. Based on the English text, attention is given to backgrounds, critical issues, and original language insights. Critical issues of the individual book is reviewed in relation to the wider issues of the surrounding biblical material. Characteristic of this course is a careful reading of Exodus, a study of the general contents, and the integrating of the book into Bible history.

  
  • GB 5133 - Deuteronomy (3)


    Old Testament

    Category 1: Torah/Narrative

  
  • GB 5153 - Samuel (3)


    Old Testament

    Category 1: Torah/Narrative

  
  • GB 5203 - Psalms (3)


    Old Testament

    Category 2: Poetry/Prophecy

  
  • GB 5223 - Isaiah (3)


    Old Testament

    Category 2: Poetry/Prophecy

  
  • GB 5233 - Jeremiah, Lamentations (3)


    Old Testament

    Category 2: Poetry/Prophecy

  
  • GB 5253 - Minor Prophets (3)


    Old Testament

    Category 2: Poetry/Prophecy

  
  • GB 5303 - Synoptic Gospels (3)


    New Testament

    Category 1:Gospels

  
  • GB 5313 - Luke-Acts (3)


    New Testament

    Category 1:Gospels

  
  • GB 5323 - Johannine Literature (3)


    New Testament

    Category 1:Gospels

  
  • GB 5333 - Romans, Galatians (3)


    New Testament

    Category 2: Letters

  
  • GB 5343 - Corinthians (3)


    New Testament

    Category 2: Letters

  
  • GB 5363 - General Epistles (3)


    New Testament

    Category 2: Letters

  
  • GB 5383 - Revelation (3)


    New Testament

    Category 2: Letters

  
  • GB 5393 - The Gospels (3)


    Based on the English text, attention is given to backgrounds, critical issues, and original language insights. Critical issues of the individual book are reviewed in relation to the wider issues of the surrounding biblical material. Characteristic of each course is a careful reading of the specific book, a study of the general contents, and integrating the material into the life and practices of ministry.

  
  • GB 5423 - Systematic and Historical Theology I (3)


    A survey of Christian thought from 100 CE to 1600 CE. The thought of influential leaders (including Ignatius, Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Tertullian, Clement, Origen, Cyprian, Augustine, Chrysostom, John of Damascus, Anselm, Bernard, Aquinas, Luther, Calvin, Zwingli, Anglicanism and the Anabaptists), Ecumenical Councils and the division between East and West is studied in view of the theological development of Christian thought. Themes are studied in their historical development, including apologetics and philosophy, scripture and tradition, heresy and Gnosticism, Trinitarianism, Christology, ecclesiology, soteriology, anthropology and the sacraments and in terms of their significance for the contemporary church.

  
  • GB 5443 - Systematic and Historical Theology II (3)


    An analysis of the main themes of Christian thought from the post-Reformation period (1600 CE) to the contemporary postmodern context. The first third of the course surveys the post-Reformation period and the 18th Century Revivals by noting the development of Protestant Orthodoxy, Revivalism and the Enlightenment (Arminius, Protestant Scholasticism, Locke, Hume, Wesley, Edwards, Puritanism, Pietism). The middle third of the courses focuses on the rise of modern theology in the late 18th century through the 19th century (Kant, Schleiermacher, Ritschl, Harnack, Troeltsch) and the response of the early 20th century (Barth, Bultmann, Tillich, Fundamentalism). The final third of the course concentrates on 20th century theology (Pannenberg, Moltmann, Process Theology, Evangelicalism, Liberation Theology, Vatican II) and postmodern theology (Radical Orthodoxy, Post-liberalism, Neo-liberalism, Post-evangelicalism). Theological themes are studied in the light of their significance for the contemporary church.

  
  • GB 5473 - Christian Ethics (3)


    This course examines a number of basic questions: What is the Christian church called to be and do? How does our life together relate to the surrounding, unbelieving culture? To what authority or authorities should the church yield allegiance? How does scripture mediate authority in ethical decision making and character formation? How does “Christian ethics” relate to other philosophical “ethical theories”? In the context of these and similar questions, the course will also examine, with necessarily brief attention, a number of specific issues: money and economics; sex and reproduction; violence and war-making; politics and social justice.

  
  • GB 5483 - Introduction to Theology (3)


    This course introduces students to the theological task, resources, and narrative of the Christian faith in the context of its historic theological trajectories for the practice of theological reflection within a ministry context.

     

  
  • GB 5493 - Global Christianity (3)


    Christianity was a global faith, with its center of gravity in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, before it became a predominantly Western religion. Now, five centuries removed from that shift, it has again re-emerged as a major non-Western phenomenon. This course surveys Christianity’s two thousand year history, with a primary focus on the rise of Christianity in the Global South.

  
  • GB 5503 - Systematic Theology (3)


    An examination of Christian teaching on God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, the church, salvation and eschatology.

  
  • GB 5543 - Ministry, Personhood, and Discipleship (3)


    This course is designed to integrate the three primary stories in which the minister lives: one’s own story, the story of the community, and the story of the Bible.  The purpose of such integration is the development of mind and heart in the pastoral skills of ministry.

  
  • GB 5553 - Spiritual Formation and Guidance (3)


    Focusing on the indispensable personal spiritual formation of the ministry student, this course also trains one to lead and direct others in deepening their devotion to God and more fully participating in his work in the world. This course considers both personal and congregational settings.

  
  • GB 5563 - World Religions (3)


    This course is designed to provide students with an understanding and appreciation for the phenomenon of religion in general and of world religions in particular. The course will begin with an examination of the origin and practice of religion. The bulk of this course will focus on a survey of major religious systems-Tribal religions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Shinto, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. It is intended to introduce the study to the history, myths, beliefs, rituals and moral codes of the world’s major faiths. This course will also examine a few new religious movements with particular emphasis given to the growing influence of Eastern religious thought on the Western World and the language of Spirituality in contemporary culture.

  
  • GB 5573 - Multi-Cultural Ministry (3)


    An examination of ministry issues in multi-cultural contexts, with attention given to the growing ethnic diversity of urban life and the theological foundations for Christian unity in the midst of cultural diversity.

  
  • GB 5583 - Gospel and Culture (3)


    This course analyzes the long held belief that while the cultural circumstances and methods may change, the gospel itself somehow is changeless. Culture and Gospel are always inextricably tied together. Working with both historical and contemporary examples, this course will examine the changing and changeless claims of the Christian faith.

 

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