Christian Apologetics
C hristian A pologetics
1. Build an intellectual framework to demonstrate students’ understanding of the faith and formulate responses to future challenges (ULO 1). 2. Display and practice Christ-like character, so as to present and defend the gospel in a winsome manner and gracious spirit (ULO 2). 3. Argue effectively to correct misconceptions about historic Christianity; answer the perennial problems that are offered to discredit Christianity intellectually; and make the case proactively that it is reasonable to put one’s faith in Christ (ULO 3). Graduation Requirements The M.A. in Christian Apologetics is a 36 credit program that includes the following: A. Completing the Required Program of Study: Core Courses in Apologetics (5 Credits): CSAP 510 Apologetics Research and Writing Credit(s): 1. CSAP 628 Why God Allows Evil Credit(s): 1–2. Should be taken for 2 credits. CSAP 691 Seminar: In Defense of the Resurrection Credit(s): 1–2. Should be taken for 2 credits.
Faculty Director:
Craig J. Hazen, Ph.D.
Professors:
Bloom, Hazen
Associate Professors: Assistant Professors:
C. Jones, K. Lewis, S. Smith
S. McDowell
Mission The Master of Arts degree in Christian Apologetics is designed for individuals who desire academic and practical preparation for proclaiming and defending the historic doctrines of the Christian faith. Students are prepared to articulate a Christian worldview reverently, with intelligence, confidence and compassion. The program fosters personal spiritual growth and maturity through guided study of the Scriptures and theology, mutual encouragement in the Christian life and intellectual rigor. Program Description The program incorporates knowledge and perspective from many academic disciplines and provides stimulating graduate education for those who wish to engage unbelievers effectively in the world of ideas. The curriculum is accessible to students who may have little or no formal academic training in biblical studies, theology or philosophy. Many of the courses in this program are available in a distance learning format that combines short-term campus visits with distance learning. The distance learning program is designed to make the M.A. in Christian Apologetics available to students who cannot relocate to southern California for the regular residential program. This program may not qualify for financial aid or deferring of educational loan payments. Restrictions related to the distance learning format may apply to the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Please contact the VA Benefits coordinator. Applicants who might be interested in the distance learning format should contact the Apologetics Program Office for A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a grade point average (GPA) equivalent to a “B” or higher in all undergraduate study. One pastoral and at least one character reference. Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Transcripts must be official, that is, mailed directly from your previous colleges and/or universities in a sealed envelope to the Biola Office of Graduate Admissions. Note: Official documents for admission or evaluation become part of the student’s academic file and normally cannot be returned or This program offers distance-learning courses. Courses, seminars, conferences and related learning experiences are generally scheduled in the evening and on the weekends for the convenience of working adults. Courses are usually four to eight weeks in length with classes meeting once per week in the evening. Alternative scheduling is often employed for enhanced instructional effectiveness. Christian Apologetics, M.A. Program Learning Outcomes Upon completion of the Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics, students will be able to: more information at (562) 906-4570. Admission Requirements copied for distribution. Delivery Formats
Core Courses in Biblical Studies (11 Credits): CSAP 521 Survey of Genesis–Malachi
Credit(s): 3. Credit(s): 3. Credit(s): 3.
Survey of Matthew–Revelation
CSAP 522 CSAP 527
Hermeneutics and Bible Study Methods
Distance learning M.A. students must substitute an elective course for CSAP 527. CSAP 529 Scripture: Authority, Canon and Criticism Credit(s): 1–2. CSAP 529 should be taken for 2 credits.
Core Courses in Theology (7 Credits): CSAP 541
Essential Christian Doctrine I
Credit(s): 1–2.
CSAP 541 should be taken for 2 credits. CSAP 542 Essential Christian Doctrine II CSAP 542 should be taken for 2 credits. CSAP 550 Historical Theology
Credit(s): 1–2.
Credit(s): 3.
Electives (13 Credits): Apologetics Electives: 10 credits Apologetics or University Electives: 3 credits B. Maintaining a 2.5 average with no grade below a “C” in all courses to be credited toward graduation. Students cannot graduate while on probation. C. Completing a minimum of 24 credits in the degree program at Biola University. All degree components must be completed as graded courses. Students taking courses in the distance-learning format are expected to participate in our on-campus Summer lectures for two weeks in June/July. D. Completing the entire program in no more than seven years. E. Meeting with Department Advisor and Graduate Graduation Counselor one year prior to graduation. See Graduate Graduation Check description in Admission, Enrollment and Graduation Requirements section. Distance Learning Course Fees Some courses taken via distance learning have special materials fees. CSAP 521M, 522M and 550M have materials fees of $130. CSAP 601M, 602M, and 603M have material fees of $125. Independent Study Courses Independent study courses offer lectures from audio recordings and additional study materials by outstanding theologians,
179
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker