The Associate Degree in Theology at Impact Christian College and Leadership Institute is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and robust foundation in Christian theology, biblical studies, and practical ministry. This 60-credit hour program offers a balanced curriculum that integrates essential theological principles, historical insights, ethical frameworks, and contemporary applications, preparing students for effective ministry and leadership within the Christian community. Through a combination of foundational courses, core theology studies, practical ministry training, and elective options, students will develop a deep understanding of the Christian faith, hone their interpretive and communicative skills, and cultivate a heart for service and leadership. This program is ideal for those aspiring to further their theological education, engage in various ministry roles, or enhance their personal spiritual growth and understanding.
Foundational Courses (15 credit hours)
BITH 201 Introduction to Theology
This is a foundational course in the Apologetics and Evangelism bachelor’s degree program. This course provides an in-depth exploration of the major themes and concepts in Christian theology from a biblical apostolic perspective. Students will engage with the fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith, learn to articulate their beliefs clearly, and understand how these doctrines shape their personal faith and ministry. Primary Textbook: “Introducing Christian Doctrine” by Millard J. Erickson. Supplementary Readings: “Systematic Theology” by Wayne Grudem. “Foundations of Pentecostal Theology” by Guy P. Duffield and Nathaniel M. Van Cleave. (3 credit hours).
BIB 111 Old Testament Survey
This is a foundational course in the Apologetics and Evangelism bachelor’s degree program. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the Old Testament, exploring its historical context, literary structure, and theological significance. By studying the Old Testament from a biblical apostolic perspective, students will gain a deeper understanding of God’s revelation and his redemptive plan for humanity. Primary Textbook: “A Survey of the Old Testament” by Andrew E. Hill and John H. Walton. Supplementary Readings: “Encountering the Old Testament: A Christian Survey” by Bill T. Arnold and Bryan E. Beyer. “The Epic of Eden: A Christian Entry into the Old Testament” by Sandra L. Richter. (3 credit hours)
BIB 114 New Testament Survey
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the New Testament, examining its historical context, literary structure, and theological significance from a biblical apostolic perspective. Through this study, students will gain a deeper understanding of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, the development of the early church, and the foundational doctrines of the Christian faith. Primary Textbook: “Encountering the New Testament: A Historical and Theological Survey” by Walter A. Elwell and Robert W. Yarbrough. Supplementary Readings: “The New Testament: Its Background and Message” by Thomas D. Lea and David Alan Black. “The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament” by Craig S. Keener. (3 credit hours).
ACE 202 Christian Ethics
This course aims to provide students with an understanding of ethical theories, principles, and practices from a Christian perspective. Students will explore how to apply these principles in personal life, ministry, and broader societal issues, fostering integrity and ethical leadership. Primary Textbook: “Christian Ethics: Contemporary Issues and Options” by Norman L. Geisler. Supplementary Texts: “Kingdom Ethics: Following Jesus in Contemporary Context” by David P. Gushee and Glen H. Stassen. “The Moral Vision of the New Testament: Community, Cross, New Creation: A Contemporary Introduction to New Testament Ethics” by Richard B. Hays. (3 credit hours).
ACH 210 Church History 1
This course provides an in-depth study of the history of the Christian church from its inception to the present day. Students will explore key events, figures, theological developments, and movements that have shaped the Church’s identity and mission, with a focus on understanding the apostolic roots of the Church. Textbook: “Church History in Plain Language” by Bruce L. Shelley. Publisher: Thomas Nelson. ISBN: 978-1401676315. (3 credit hours)
Core Theology Courses (24 credit hours)
AST 120 Systematic Theology I
This course is a foundational course that explores the core doctrines of the Christian faith from an Apostolic perspective. This course will delve into the systematic study of God, the Bible, salvation, the church, and other essential theological topics. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the beliefs that underpin Christian leadership and ministry, equipping them to articulate and defend their faith effectively. Textbook: “Systematic Theology” by Wayne Grudem. Publisher: Zondervan. ISBN: 978-0310286707 (3 hours)
BST 220 Systematic Theology II
This course is an advanced course that builds upon the foundational doctrines of the Christian faith explored in Systematic Theology I. This course will delve deeper into theological topics such as soteriology, ecclesiology, eschatology, and more from an Apostolic perspective. Students will engage with complex theological concepts to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith and its implications for leadership and ministry. Textbook: “Christian Theology” by Millard J. Erickson. Publisher: Baker Academic. ISBN: 978-0801036439. (3 credit hours)
ABH 110 Biblical Hermeneutics
This course provides a study of the principles and methods of biblical interpretation, focusing on understanding the historical, cultural, and literary contexts of the Bible. Students will learn how to interpret and apply scriptures in a manner consistent with apostolic teachings and traditions, with a focus on developing skills for effective leadership rooted in sound biblical interpretation. Textbook: “Introduction to Biblical Interpretation” by William W. Klein, Craig L. Blomberg, and Robert L. Hubbard Jr. (3 credit hours)
ADG 050 Doctrine of God
This course is an essential component of the Associate Degree in Theology. This course offers an in-depth exploration of the nature, attributes, and works of God as revealed in the Christian Scriptures. Students will engage with theological concepts, historical perspectives, and contemporary discussions to develop a comprehensive understanding of the Christian doctrine of God. Textbook: “Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine” by Wayne Grudem. (3 credit hours)
AC 070 Christology
The “Christology” course is a foundational component of the Associate Degree in Theology with a focus on Apostolic perspectives. This course will delve deeply into the study of Jesus Christ, His person, nature, and work, as revealed in the Bible. Students will explore various Christological doctrines, historical developments, and contemporary discussions, leading to a richer understanding of the significance of Jesus Christ in the apostolic faith tradition. Textbook: “Jesus the Messiah: A Survey of the Life of Christ” by Robert H. Stein. (3 credit hours)
APHG 200 Pneumatology (Study of the Holy Ghost)
This course aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the third person of the Trinity, exploring His role and work in the Bible, in the life of Jesus, in the believer, and in the church. Students will engage with theological concepts, scriptural interpretations, and practical applications to develop a comprehensive grasp of the Holy Ghost’s significance in the Christian faith. Textbook: “He Walks with Me” by Michael Mangum (3 credit hours)
ASSS 070 Soteriology (Study of Salvation)
This course focuses on the doctrine of salvation from a biblical Apostolic perspective. This course will explore the nature, process, and effects of salvation as revealed in Scripture. Students will delve into the key components of salvation, including justification, sanctification, and glorification, while examining the role of faith, grace, and works. This comprehensive study aims to provide students with a deep understanding of the Apostolic teaching on salvation. Textbook: “Salvation in Full Color” by Richard S. Taylor. (3 credit hours)
AE 060 Ecclesiology
This course will explore the biblical and theological foundations of the church from an apostolic perspective, examining its role in the life of believers and its function in the world. Through this study, students will gain a deeper understanding of the nature and purpose of the church, as well as practical insights into church leadership and ministry. Textbook: “The Church: A Biblical Understanding of its Origin, Purpose, and Mission” by Dr. David K. Bernard. Publisher: Word Aflame Press (3 credit hours)
Practical Ministry Courses (9 credit hours)
AHP 201 Homiletics and Preaching
This course aims to equip students with the theological understanding, practical skills, and spiritual sensitivity required to deliver effective and impactful sermons. Through the study of biblical principles, rhetorical techniques, and practical exercises, students will learn to communicate the Word of God with clarity, conviction, and compassion. Primary Textbook: “Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages” by Haddon W. Robinson. Supplementary Textbooks: “Preaching: Communicating Faith in an Age of Skepticism” by Timothy Keller. “The Art and Craft of Biblical Preaching” edited by Haddon W. Robinson and Craig Brian Larson (3 credit hours),
APCC 050 Pastoral Care and Counseling
This is an essential aspect of ministry that involves providing spiritual, emotional, and practical support to individuals and communities. This course explores the biblical foundations, principles, and practices of pastoral care and counseling from an apostolic perspective. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to offer effective pastoral support, guide individuals through personal and spiritual crises, and foster healthy, supportive church communities. Textbook: “The Pastor’s Guide to Effective Counseling: Biblical Solutions for the Church and Community” by Dr. James D. Berkley. Publisher: Baker Books (3 credit hours).
BME 460 Missions and Evangelism
This course is designed to explore the biblical, theological, and practical foundations of missions and evangelism. This course will focus on the Great Commission, the role of the church in missions, and effective strategies for evangelism both locally and globally. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to fulfill the apostolic mandate to spread the gospel to all nations. Primary Textbook: “Perspectives on the World Christian Movement: A Reader” edited by Ralph D. Winter and Steven C. Hawthorne. Supplementary readings from “The Mission of God: Unlocking the Bible’s Grand Narrative” by Christopher J.H. Wright and “Evangelism in the Early Church” by Michael Green. (3 credit hours).
Elective Courses (9 credit hours) – Choose 3
BADF 210 Apologetics: Defending the Faith Biblically
In this course we will delve into the art of defending the Christian faith with wisdom, humility, and biblical truth. In a world filled with questions, doubts, and opposing worldviews, it is essential for believers to be equipped to give a reason for the hope that they have, with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). Textbook: “On Guard: Defending Your Faith with Reason and Precision” by William Lane Craig. (3 credit hours)
AFL 120 Foundations of Christian Leadership
This is a comprehensive course designed to equip students with the essential skills, knowledge, and principles necessary for effective leadership within a Christian context. This course will explore key biblical, theological, and practical foundations of Christian leadership, with a focus on developing servant leadership qualities rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Textbook: “Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence for Every Believer” by J. Oswald Sanders. Publisher: Moody Publishers. ISBN: 978-0802416795 (3 credit hours)
PHL 315 World Religions and Systems of Belief
This course examines the major world religions and belief systems, comparing and contrasting them with the Christian faith from a biblical apostolic perspective. Students will gain a thorough understanding of different religious worldviews, enabling them to engage in meaningful dialogue and effectively share the gospel across diverse cultural and religious contexts. Primary Textbook: “Neighboring Faiths: A Christian Introduction to World Religions” by Winfried Corduan. Supplementary Readings: “The Universe Next Door: A Basic Worldview Catalog” by James W. Sire. “Christianity and World Religions: An Introduction to the World’s Major Faiths” by Derek Cooper. (3 credit hours).
ACW 050 Christian Worship
Christian Worship is central to the life of the church, encompassing both personal and corporate expressions of faith. This course will explore the biblical, theological, and historical foundations of Christian worship from an apostolic perspective. Students will examine the elements of worship, various worship practices, and the role of worship in the life of believers and the church community. The course aims to equip students with an understanding and appreciation of worship that is both deeply rooted in Scripture and relevant to contemporary church life. Textbook: “The Dynamics of Worship: Foundations and Practices for an Apostolic Worship Experience” by Dr. David S. Norris. Publisher: Pentecostal Publishing House. (3 credit hours)
ASF 105 Spiritual Formation
This course explores the principles, practices, and disciplines of spiritual formation from an apostolic perspective within the context of Christian leadership. Students will delve into the process of spiritual growth, the cultivation of spiritual disciplines, and the development of a deeper relationship with God. Textbook: “The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives” by Dallas Willard. Publisher: HarperOne. ISBN: 978-0060693336 (3 credit hours)
General Education Courses (12 credit hours)
ACW 101 Christian Writing To Be Read
“Christian Writing To Be Read” is a course designed to equip students with the skills necessary to write engaging, impactful, and theologically sound Christian literature. This course covers various forms of Christian writing, including devotionals, articles, books, and online content. Students will learn the principles of effective writing, understand their audience, and learn how to communicate biblical truths compellingly and clearly. Textbook: “On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction” by William Zinsser. Additional Reading: Selected articles, devotionals, and excerpts from renowned Christian authors and writers. (3 credit hours)
AIPB 040 Introduction to Philosophy as it relates to the Bible and the Christian Faith
This course will explore the intersection of philosophy, the Bible, and the Christian faith. Through the study of major philosophical concepts and thinkers, students will gain a deeper understanding of how philosophical ideas have influenced and interacted with Christian theology throughout history. Textbook: “Philosophy and the Christian Faith: A Historical Sketch from the Middle Ages to the Present” by Colin Brown. Publisher: InterVarsity Press, Year: 1968. (3 credit hours)
AIPC 040 Introduction to Psychology as it relates to the Bible and the Christian Faith
This course aims to explore the field of psychology in relation to the teachings of the Bible and the Christian faith. By examining psychological theories, concepts, and practices through a biblical Apostolic lens, students will gain insight into how psychology intersects with and complements Christian beliefs and practices. Textbook: “Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling” by Mark R. McMinn, Clark D. Campbell. Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Year: 2011. (3 credit hours)
ACRC 030 Christian and its Relationship to Sociology: An Introduction
This course will explore the relationship between Christianity and sociology, examining how social structures, institutions, and interactions intersect with Christian beliefs and practices. By studying key sociological concepts through a biblical Apostolic perspective, students will gain insights into how Christianity influences and is influenced by social dynamics. Textbook: “Sociology through the Eyes of Faith” by David A. Fraser, Tony Campolo. Publisher: HarperOne, Year: 2009 (3 credit hours)
Total: 60 Credit Hours