FACULTY OF THEOLOGY & RELIGIOUS STUDIES

Transcription

1 FACULTY OF THEOLOGY & RELIGIOUS STUDIES Dean ~ Leonard Masuku Department of Theology & Religious Studies Undergraduate Programme Chair ~ Herbert Ndlovu Faculty ~ Clifford Sibanda, Canaan Mkombe, Youssry Guirguis, Galegkosi Orapeleng Part Time ~ Paul Mhlanga, Ebson Moyo, Jubilate Mkombe PHILOSOPHY We believe that God is the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, and in love He sent Jesus as an atonement for the sins of humanity. This same God has commissioned us to advance His work of reconciling human beings to God and to fellow men, and to do the work of restoring the image of God in humanity in preparation for the return of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. MISSION STATEMENT The mission of the Faculty of Theology & Religious Studies is to develop and prepare pastors and scholars in Religion, through instruction and fellowship to serve God, the church and society as commissioned by the Lord Jesus Christ. OBJECTIVES The aims and objectives of the Department of Theology & Religious Studies are stated broadly below. To provide adequate content in all courses, covering biblical, historical, linguistic, professional and theological fields in order to enhance the students effectiveness as servants in their chosen field. To impart theological and religious knowledge that is biblically, culturally and contextually grounded, and relevant to the realities in Africa. To equip students for general and specialised services with sound biblical knowledge, principles, methods, and procedures for doing effective ministry. To promote engagement and participation in religious activities that are intended to deepen the spiritual life. To foster a stimulating academic and professional environment that provide for development of critical but responsible appraisal and examination of different belief systems and world views. DEGREES OFFERED Bachelor of Arts Theology This is the basic professional degree for those who seek to serve as church pastors and administrators. Bachelor of Arts Religious Studies with Minor This is a pure liberal arts degree with a strong academic inclination. This programme is designed to fulfil the needs of those seeking to be scholars in religious studies or professional educators in religion. It is also intended for those who pursue other disciplines and social services, but need a strong religion background such as legal practitioners, community advisers and counsellors. Minor in Religion A minimum of 23 units from designated areas will fulfil minor requirements for those who major in other disciplines. Bachelor of Education Religion (see Department of Education section of this Bulletin). 222

2 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Admission requirements for this Faculty and Department are stipulated in the admission section of this bulletin. The applicant must have five O levels and at least two subjects at A level. International applicants from other countries are admissible if they qualify to enter a university programme in their home country. Students from countries that require O-levels for university entry are required to complete the Pre-University Programme. (See the Pre-University Programme section in this bulletin) Students may also be admitted on the basis of successful completion of the Mature Age Entrance Examination at Solusi University. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES The degrees offered by the Department of Theology and Religious Studies give ample opportunities for graduates to be employed in and out of church settings. The department of theology equips pastors with professional training to serve the Church in its various organizational structures while the Department of Religious Studies provides students with academic qualifications leading to various forms of services such as teaching religion in schools, counselling, health, legal, and social services, etc. DURATION OF THE PROGRAMME BACHELOR OF ARTS THEOLOGY Due to the professional component of this degree, the programme will take 4 academic years. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS The theology degree is a professional program and those who graduate from this program need a minimum of 140 credits with a minimum cumulative GPA of at least 2.00 and a grade no lower than a C grade. Students must complete the following course/credits: 23 General Education Requirements 25 Biblical Studies 17 Historical Studies 18 Theological & Philosophical Studies 20 Biblical Languages 6 Cognate 4 Field Experience 27 Professional & Pastoral Studies 140 Total Credits Theology students are also expected to participate regularly in the Ministerial Association club for non formal ministerial orientation. DEGREE REQUIREMENTS BACHELOR OF ARTS ~ Theology Total Credits 140 GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS ~ BA ~ THEOLOGY...Total 23 (27) Behavior Development...Total 0 CONV 200 (assessed each semester; grade of S or U) ORIE 100 Orientation (grade of S or U)

3 Health Education:..... Total 2 HLED 115 Healthier Living....2 Languages & Communication Total 3 ENGL 102 Communication Skills...3 Mathematics & Computer Science....Total 9 ACCT 192 Denominational Accounting 3 MATH 181 Business Algebra INSY 100 Computers and Data Processing....3 Social Sciences. Total 2 HIST 276 Selected Themes in Zimbabwean/Rhodesian History... 2 Natural Sciences. Total 2 RELT 389 Science of Origins... 2 Religion & Philosophy...Total 2 RELT 215 Philosophy of Christian Education Research Skills: RELP 199 Religious Academic Writing Total 3 Field Experience.... Total 4 RELP 420 Ministerial Practicum Attachment.. 2 RELP 340 Public Evangelism Biblical Studies ~ BA ~ Theology...Total 25 RELB 150 Law & Writings of the Old Testament RELB 160 Biblical Hermeneutics RELB 180 Studies in the Gospels..3 RELB 241 Prophets of Israel I. 3 RELB 242 Prophets of Israel II... 2 RELB 261 Apocalyptic Studies I....3 RELB 262 Apocalyptic Studies II RELB 371 Acts & Epistles I...3 RELB 372 Acts & Epistles II...3 Historical Studies ~ BA ~ Theology.Total 17 HISDT 200 History of the World Civilization...2 RELH 260 Seventh-day Adventist Heritage.. 3 RELH 320 History of the Christian Church in Africa....3 RELH 381 History of the Christian Church I..3 RELH 382 History of the Christian Church II...3 RELH 350 Biblical Archaeology..3 Theological & Philosophical Studies ~ BA ~ Theology Total 18 RELT 190 Comparative Religions RELT 355 Religion & Ethics in Modern Society....3 RELT 340 Marriage & Family.. 3 RELT 326 Ministry & Message of E. G. White

4 RELT 421 Christian Theology I...3 RELT 422 Christian Theology II...3 Biblical Languages ~ BA ~ Theology....Total 20 BIBL 121 Greek I BIBL 122 Greek II BIBL 221Greek III....3 BIBL 222 Greek IV...3 BIBL 451 Biblical Hebrew I...4 BIBL 452 Biblical Hebrew II..4 Professional & Pastoral Studies ~ BA~ Theology...Total 27 RELP 100 Sabbath School Experience RELP 101 Literature Ministry...S/U RELP 220 Music & Worship....2 RELP 221 Homiletics I...3 RELP 222 Homiletics II RELP 325 Foundations of Youth Ministry.2 RELP 330 Christian Witnessing.. 2 RELP 345 Principles of Church Growth RELP 351 Stewardship & Self-Reliance. 2 RELP 360 Introduction to Pastoral Ministry....3 RELP 400 Church Leadership & Administration...3 RELP 435 Pastoral Counselling..3 Cognate Requirements ~ BA ~ Theology.Total 6 HLED 431 Health & Nutrition PSCY 232 Introduction to Psychology... 2 SOCI 304 Principles of Sociology...2 DURATION OF THE PROGRAMME Bachelor of Arts ~ Religious Studies As a pure liberal arts academic degree, it may be completed within 6 semesters or 3 years. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS To graduate with an undergraduate degree students must successfully complete a minimum of 109 semester credits, with a minimum cumulative GPA of at least 2.00 and a grade no lower than a C in all courses. The major area consists of the following: B.A Religious Studies 22 General Education Requirements 25 Biblical Studies 17 Historical Studies 15 Theological & Philosophical Studies 23 Minor 7 Cognate Requirements 109 Total credits 225

5 DEGREE REQUIREMENTS BACHELOR OF ARTS ~ Religious Studies Total Credits 86 + (23 for Minor) GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS ~ BA ~ RELIGIOUS STUDIES... Total 22 Behaviour Development...Total 0 CONV Convocation (assessed each semester; grade of S or U). 0 ORIE 100 Orientation... 0 Health Education/Physical Education.....Total 2 HLED 115 Healthier Living...2 Social Sciences...Total 2 HIST 276 Selected Themes in Zimbabwean/Rhodesian History.2 Languages & Communication Total 3 ENGL 102 Communication Skills.. 3 Mathematics & Computer Science..Total 6 MATH 181 Business Algebra..3 INSY 100 Computers and Data Processing Natural Sciences:.. Total 2 RELT 389 Science of Origins Religion & Philosophy... Total 2 RELT 215 Philosophy of Christian Education Research Skills....Total 3 RELP 199 Religious Academic Writing...3 Work Experience Education :... Total 2 RELB 200 Attachment Biblical Studies ~ BA ~Religious Studies..Total 25 RELB 150 Law & Writings of the Old Testament RELB 160 Biblical Hermeneutics RELB 180 Studies in the Gospels....3 RELB 241 Prophets of Israel I RELB 242 Prophets of Israel II 2 Apocalyptic Studies I...3 Apocalyptic Studies II..3 RELB 371 Acts & Epistles I. 3 RELB 372 Acts & Epistles II.. 3 Historical Studies ~ BA ~ Religious Studies.Total 17 HIST 200 History of the World Civilization RELH 260 Seventh-day Adventist Heritage....3 RELH 381 History of the Christian Church I 3 226

6 RELH 382 History of the Christian Church II.. 3 RELH 420 History of the Christian Church in Africa 3 RELH 350 Biblical Archaeology.3 Theological & Philosophical Studies ~BA ~ Religious Studies... Total 15 RELT 190 Comparative Religions.3 RELT 355 Religion & Ethics in Modern Society....3 RELT 421 Christian Theology I. 3 RELT 422 Christian Theology II...3 RELT 326 Ministry & Message of E.G. White...3 Cognate Requirements ~ BA ~ Religious Studies Total 7 ENGL 318 Literature of the Bible PSCY 232 Introduction to Psychology SOCI 304 Principles of Sociology....2 Minor Field ~ Religious Studies.. Total RELB 180 Studies in the Gospels..3 RELB - Two middle division courses RELB - Two upper division courses.. 5 RELT 190 Comparative Religions...3 RELT 355 Religion & Ethics in Modern Society..3 RELT Two upper division courses...5 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS Please note that some courses will only be offered every second year. Biblical Languages BIBL 121 Greek I 3 Credits This course is a study of the elements of Koine Greek. It covers the Greek alphabet and grammar, basic forms of tenses, cases, voices, moods, genders, and numbers and their functions. BIBL 122 Greek II 3 Credits This course is a continuation of the study of Greek syntax as found in the New Testament. Vocabulary build up, conjugation, parsing, and translation are emphasised. BIBL 221 Greek III 3 Credits An intermediate study of the functions of Greek forms (i.e. the significance of what was covered in Greek I and II) with an appeal to mature work on the matter of grammatical and syntactical significance. Emphasis is placed on grammatical, exegetical, and syntactical aspects from selected New Testament passages. BIBL 222 Greek IV 3 Credits This is an advanced study of Greek III. It introduces the student to textual analysis, critical apparatus, and the technique of phrasing and Ancient Greek manuscripts. BIBL 451 Biblical Hebrew I 4 Credits This is a study of the fundamentals of biblical Hebrew. This includes practice in vocabulary, an understanding of grammatical structure, and the practice in translation. The aim is to provide the minister with practical study tools. 227

7 BIBL 452 Bible Hebrew II Pre-Requisite: BIBL 451. This course provides development of reading ability in narrative portions of the Hebrew Bible. 4 Credits Bible Studies ~ General RELB 095 Biblical Backgrounds ~ Pre-University 3 Credits An archaeological, cultural, geographical and historical background of the Bible is given, with emphasis on the Hebrew patriarchs, the Exodus, the exile and return, and Inter-Testamental periods. It meets the religion requirements for the Pre-University Programme. RELB 160 Biblical Hermeneutics This course is an introduction to basic principles and methods of biblical interpretation. It introduces students to principles of poetic, prophetic, and apocalyptic interpretation. It also guides students in the presuppositions and practice of various criticisms. Biblical Studies ~ Old Testament RELB 150 Law & Writings of the Old Testament 3 Credits This course is a study of the Pentateuch and the writings (historical books, psalms, and Wisdom Literature). The history of the Ancient Near East serves as a background to the interpretation of these books. RELB 241 Prophets of Israel I 3 Credits This course includes the history of prophecy, the pre-writing prophetic figures, and the books of writing prophets of the 8 th and early 7 th century BCE. A research paper may be required. RELB 242 Prophets of Israel II This course includes the books of the writing prophets of the 7 th century BCE to the prophetic canon. A research paper may be required. RELB 261 Apocalyptic Studies I 3 Credits This is a study of the background, genre, and content of the book of Daniel. An analysis of the hermeneutical principles involved in interpreting biblical apocalyptic literature helps to equip students for an appreciation of the message of Daniel for modern times. Biblical Studies ~ New Testament RELB 180 Studies in the Gospels 3 Credits This course is a study of the person, message and mission of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospels. Various critical approaches are examined and evaluated. The synoptic problem and generally held scholarly positions are surveyed. RELB 262 Apocalyptic Studies II 3 Credits Pre-Requisite: RELB 261. This is an investigation of the biblical, apocalyptic and the historical backgrounds to the book of Revelation, including the nature of apocalyptic literature and its relevance in today s world. Attention is also given to the interpretation of symbolic prophecies. A research paper may be required. RELB 371 Acts & Epistles 3 Credits This course includes studies in the history of the Apostolic Church as documented in the book of Acts. It also 228

8 includes interpretation of the letters of 1 and 2 Corinthians, 1 &2 Thessalonians, and Pastoral Epistles. A research paper may be required. RELB 372 Acts & Epistles II 3 Credits This course is an exegetical study of Romans and Galatians with special focus on their message of righteousness by faith. Also a study of the book of Ephesians, Hebrews, Colossians, and Philippians. An exegetical research paper is required. RELB 499 Special Project in Biblical Studies 1-3 Credits A special course that may be taken for students of advanced standing who need extra credits to complete the requirements in Biblical Studies. Must have permission of the Department Chair. Historical Studies HIST 200 History of World Civilization A survey of the development of world civilization from ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia to early modern Europe. RELH 260 Seventh-day Adventist Heritage 3 Credits Intended to acquaint students with the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, from the Millerite Movement, in which it had its roots, to the present. (Identical to HIST 300). RELH 320 History of Christian Church in Africa 3 Credits A survey of the activities of the Christian Church to enter and become stabilised in Africa. Deals with some of the earliest efforts of missionaries, but the main focus is on the 19 th and 20 th centuries. Particular attention is given to the Church in East and Southern Africa. The role of the Church in the present age of national development is analysed. RELH 381 History of the Christian Church I 3 Credits A study of the development of the Christian Church from Reformation to the 20 th century. Also surveys the theology of reformers, and the rise of modern missionary movements. A research paper is required. RELH 382 History of the Christian Church II 3 Credits Pre-Requisite: RELH 381 A study of the history of the Christian Church from apostolic times to the Reformation. Also surveys major theology of reformers, and the rise of modern missionary movements. A research paper is required. RELH 499 Special Project in Church History 1-3 Credits A course that may be taken by advanced students who need extra credit in Church History. A research paper is required. Permission by the Department Chair is needed. Applied Theology RELP 100 Sabbath School Experience 1 Credit A weekly practical exposure to the real church situation. Students are exposed to and participate in different age level Sabbath school programs. The development of locally relevant materials and resources is encouraged. RELP 101 Literature Ministry S/U Students are expected to fulfil 2-3 months of practical literature evangelism before the completion of their study program. 229

9 RELP 221 Homiletics I 3 Credits The art and practice of sermon preparation and delivery. It focuses on the basics of sermon preparation and delivery and tools used in making biblical sermons. The basics of pulpit management is included. Classroom and church preaching are required. RELP 222 Homiletics II 3 Credits The art of biblical preaching with emphasis on the preparation and delivery of expository and narrative sermons. Classroom and church preaching are required. RELP 225 Foundations of Youth Ministry Designed for students who wish to develop expertise in working with the youth of the church, or to work as a youth director, secondary school teacher, or in any other guidance capacity. A project may be required. RELP 351 Stewardship & Self-Reliance An exploration of selected biblical principles of stewardship, and their application to the current African context. RELP 360 Introduction to Pastoral Ministry 3 Credits An in depth study of the pastoral ministry. Emphasis is placed on the nature and models of the church, pastoral roles, worship, special services, pastoring a multi-church district and other related pastoral services. RELP 420 Ministerial Practicum Attachment Pre-requisite: RELP 360. The attachment program is to provide an opportunity to the students to apply theory under the supervision of ministerial practitioners. This is a 3-month summer attachment program to a particular district. Students are expected to apply for placement 3-8 months in advance before the date of attachment. A detailed attachment report is required. RELP 320 Music & Worship A survey of key issues in the theology and practice of corporate worship in the church, and the role of music in Christian worship. RELP 330 Christian Witnessing A study of the dynamics of Christian witnessing in the community, at work and in casual one-to-one contact. To be offered just prior to RELP 340. A position paper is required. RELP 340 Public Evangelism Pre-Requisite: RELP 330. Offered off-campus in conjunction with an urban public evangelistic crusade. Observation and participation in a practical setting, along with lectures in evangelistic methods and procedures is included. RELP 400 Church Leadership & Administration 3 Credits A study of the minister, and the role as a leader of worship services, church administrator, and soul-winner. Principles and strategies for effective spiritual leadership are also explored. RELP 435 Pastoral Care & Counselling 3 Credits Pre-Requisite: A course in basic psychology or human development, or permission of the lecturer. A study of the current theories and principles of counselling within the setting of pastoral ministry, and their application to the African context. A case study may be required. 230

10 Theological & Philosophical Studies RELT 105 Christian Beliefs 4 Credits An introductory course for general students who need background in religious studies. It focuses on the biblical themes of revelation, the Christian God, salvation, God s law, the covenants, the Sabbath, the sanctuary, the Church, and the Second Advent of Jesus Christ. RELB 150 Law & Writings of the Old Testament 3/4 Credits A study of the Pentateuch and the writings (historical books, psalms, and Wisdom Literature). The history of the Ancient Near East serves as a background to the interpretation of these books. RELT 190 Comparative Religions 3 Credits A survey of the phenomenology, beliefs systems, and practices of major non-christian religions especially those that are found in central and southern Africa. The selected religions are compared with one another and with Christianity. An educative field trip and a report on the trip will be required. RELT 326 Message & Ministry of E. G. White 3 Credits A study of the nature and purpose of the writings and works of Ellen G. White, along with principles that govern the interpretation of those writings. RELT 340 Marriage & Family 3 Credits This course explores the biblical perspective of marriage. Trends in family structure, cultural influences, intimacy, conflict management, parent-child relationships, and factors that create stable marriages and families will be discussed. RELT 350 Biblical Archaeology 2-3 Credits A study of the science of archaeology with particular attention to discoveries which validate and magnify scriptural evidence. RELT 355 Religion & Ethics in Modern Society 3 Credits A study of the biblical and philosophical basis for Christian ethics and its relevance for personal, social, and business decision making. Major approaches such as situationism, relativism, consequentialism, and naturalitism are examined, evaluated and contrasted with revealed Christian ethics. RELT 389 Science of Origins Studies in the scientific explanation of origins in contrast with explanations derived from divine revelation. Selected critical approaches are examined and evaluated. Open to all students and is applicable to the General Education Requirement in natural Sciences. (Identical to BIOL 389 Philosophical Biology.) A photocopy of a recent magazine or journal cutting and summary is required. RELT 421 Christian Theology I 3 Credits Studies in systematic theology covering the doctrine of God, Revelation, creation, human beings and of Christ. A research paper is required. RELT 422 Christian Theology II 3 Credits Studies in systematic theology covering the doctrines of salvation, the Sabbath, the Sanctuary, the Church, and the Last Things (eschatology). A research paper is required. Religious Education RELT 215 Philosophy of Christian Education 3 Credits A study of aims, principles, and theory of education with special reference to church-related schools. The foundational concepts and principles of philosophical thought and schools as they relate to education are 231

11 represented from historical, political, cultural and religious viewpoints. philosophy of education will be highlighted. The Seventh-day Adventist Field Experience RELB 200 Attachment/Teaching Practice Pre-Requisite EDTE 200 Methodologies in Religion A work experience course designed to give BA ~ Religious Studies with education students practical experience in the work field. At the end of this experience students are required to submit a detailed Report and Supervisor s Report. In some special cases, international students may be able to do this course in their respective country, provided prior arrangements, relating to supervision and other logistics, are made with the relevant Department Chair. Cognate Courses HLED 431 Health and Nutrition This course covers disease prevention in general, basic principles of human nutrition, malnutrition and the major deficiency diseases of the developing world. The dietary factors associated with chronic diseases of the modern and post modern society and the effects of drugs, including alcohol and tobacco. Community health is also discussed. PSYC 232 Principles of Psychology A study of the basic principles of psychology including the study of development, perception, learning, thinking, motivation, personality, and mental health. For a Christian Perspective E.G. White s work, Mind, Character and Personality is recommended. SOCI 304 Principles of Sociology This study deals with sociological organisation and interactions, human ecology and social change. Historical development of sociology is also dealt with. A research paper or project may be required. SUGGESTED SCHEDULES Bachelor of Arts Theology Total Credits 140 First Year ~Credits 35 CONV CNOV ORIE ACCT INSY RELB ENGL RELT BIBL BIBL RELB MATH RELB RELP HLED RELP Total Credits 17 Total Credits 18 Total Credits 0 Second Year ~ Credits 36 CONV CONV RELP 101 S/U BIBL BIBL

12 RELP RELP HIST RELT RELB RELB RELB261 3 RELB PSCY RELP HIST RELH Total Credits 18 Total Credits 18 Total Credits 0 Third Year ~ Credits 35 RELP RELT RELB RELB RELH RELH RELT RELT RELH RELP SOCI RELP RELP Total Credits 17 Total Credits 18 Total Credits 0 Fourth Year ~ Credits 34 BIBL BIBL RELP RELT RELT RELP RELT RELP RELT RELP HLED RELP Total Credits 17 Total Credits 13 Total Credits 4 Bachelor of Arts ~ Religious Studies ~ Total Credits 109 First Year ~ Credits 36 CONV 101* 0 CONV 102* 0 ORIE 100* 0 HLED 115* 2 INSY 100* 3 MATH 181* 3 ENGL 102* 3 HIST RELB RELT RELP PSYC RELB RELB Minor 3 Minor 4 Total Credits 18 Total Credits 18 Total Credits 0 Second Year Credits 37 CONV 201* 0 CONV 202* 0 WEED 200* 2 RELT 215* 2 RELH

13 RELB RELB RELB RELB HIST ENGL RELT 389* 2 SOCI Minor 6 Minor 4 Total Credits 18 Total Credits 17 Total Credits 2 Third Year Credits 36 CONV 301* 0 CONV None RELB RELB RELT RELT RELT RELT RELH RELH RELH RELT Minor 3 Minor 3 Total credits 18 Total Credits 18 Total Credits 0 234