The Associate Degree is a comprehensive academic curriculum rooted in biblical apostolic principles and designed to equip students with foundational knowledge and skills for effective pastoral ministry. This 60-credit hour program provides a focused and immersive study of the Scriptures, theology, counseling, and practical pastoral care, preparing students for various pastoral roles within the church and community. This 60-credit hour program provides a focused and immersive study of the Scriptures, theology, counseling, and practical pastoral care, preparing students for various pastoral roles within the church and community.
Core Courses (45 credits):
AIB 100 Introduction to the Bible
This is a foundational course designed for students pursuing an Associate Degree in Pastoral Counseling. This course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the Bible from a biblical apostolic perspective. By exploring the historical, cultural, and theological contexts of the Scriptures, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective pastoral counseling rooted in biblical principles. Primary Textbook: The Holy Bible (New International Version or English Standard Version recommended). Supplementary Textbooks: The Canon of Scripture by F. F. Bruce; How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth by Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart; Scripture and the Authority of God: How to Read the Bible Today by N. T. Wright. (3 credit hours) credits)
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 Scripture 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)
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. The Holy Bible.(NIV, ESV, or KJV). (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. The Holy Bible (NIV, ESV, or KJV). (3 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 credit hours)
AHP 201 Homiletics and Preaching
Homiletics, the art and science of preaching, is a vital skill for any aspiring Christian leader. 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)
APC 123 Pastoral Counseling
This course is designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for providing effective pastoral care and counseling within a Christian context. Drawing from biblical principles and the teachings of the early church, this course will explore the theoretical foundations of pastoral counseling, ethical considerations, and practical strategies for ministering to individuals and communities in need. Textbook: “Christian Counseling: A Comprehensive Guide” by Gary R. Collins. (3 credits)
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 credits)
BPT 400 Pastoral Theology
This course is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for effective pastoral ministry within a biblical and theological framework. Drawing upon the wisdom of the biblical apostles and the teachings of the early church, students will explore the theological, ethical, and practical dimensions of pastoral care, leadership, and shepherding within a Christian community. Textbook: “Pastoral Theology: Theological Foundations for Who a Pastor is and What He Does” by Daniel L. Akin and R. Scott Pace (3 credits)
ACL 170 Church Leadership
This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the biblical principles, practical skills, and ethical considerations essential for effective leadership within the context of the church. Drawing from the teachings of the Bible and the apostolic tradition, this course will explore the role of the pastor as a leader, the dynamics of organizational leadership in the church, and strategies for fostering spiritual growth and community engagement. Textbook: “Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence for Every Believer” by J. Oswald Sanders (3 credits)
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 credits)
BGV 101 Discerning the Voice of God: Principles and Practices
This course explores the biblical principles and practices that enable believers to hear, discern, and distinguish the voice of God amidst the noise of life. Students will delve into the importance of prayer, reading, studying, and meditating on the word of God as essential components for recognizing and understanding the voice of God. Additionally, the course will cover various ways in which God communicates with His people. Primary Textbook: “Hearing God: Developing a Conversational Relationship with God” by Dallas Willard
Secondary textbook: “Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God” by Henry T. Blackaby and Claude V. King. (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).
ACE 202 Christian Ethics
This course is a foundational aspect of Christian leadership, guiding moral behavior and decision-making based on biblical principles. 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).
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) (3 credits)
Elective Courses (15 credits):
ACS 113 Counseling Skills for Pastoral Care
This courses aims to equip students with the foundational principles and practical skills necessary for providing compassionate and effective pastoral counseling within a Christian context. Drawing from biblical teachings and the apostolic tradition, this course will explore essential counseling techniques, ethical considerations, and strategies for supporting individuals and communities in times of need.
Textbook: “The Christian Counselor’s Manual” by Jay E. Adams. (3 credit hours) (3 credits)
AMFC 256 Marriage and Family Counseling
This course provides a biblical perspective on marriage and family counseling, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective pastoral care in the context of marriage and family relationships. Students will explore foundational principles, theories, and practical techniques for counseling couples and families in various situations. Textbook: “The Complete Guide to Crisis & Trauma Counseling: What to Do and Say When It Matters Most” by Dr. H. Norman Wright. Publisher: Bethany House Publishers. Year: 2011 (3 credits)
ACIG 190 Crisis Intervention and Grief Counseling
This course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective crisis intervention and grief counseling from a biblical apostolic perspective. Students will explore theories of crisis intervention, grief counseling strategies, and practical techniques for providing compassionate care to individuals experiencing crisis and loss. Textbook: “Crisis Counseling: A Guide for Pastors and Professionals” by Scott Floyd. Publisher: Kregel Publications. Year: 2014 (3 credits).
AAC 180 Addiction Counseling from a Christian Perspective
This course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of addiction counseling from a biblical apostolic perspective. Students will explore the nature of addiction, the impact of substance abuse on individuals and families, and effective counseling strategies grounded in Christian principles. The course will equip students to offer compassionate and effective support to individuals struggling with addiction. Textbook: “The Heart of Addiction: A New Approach to Understanding and Managing Alcoholism and Other Addictive Behaviors” by Lance Dodes. Publisher: HarperOne. Year: 2002 (3 Credit hours)
ACSJ 156 Pastoral Care and Social Justice
This course explores the intersection of pastoral care and social justice from a biblical apostolic perspective. Students will examine how principles of compassion, mercy, and justice intersect in caring for individuals and communities facing social issues. The course equips students to engage in practical ways to address social injustices and promote healing and wholeness in society. Textbook: “The Justice Calling: Where Passion Meets Perseverance” by Bethany Hanke Hoang and Kristen Deede Johnson. Publisher: Brazos Press. Year: 2016 (3 credits)
BFPP 299 Foundations of Powerful Prayer and Intercession in Christian Leadership
This course is tailored for Pastors, and leaders who desire to pray effectively as they lead, care for and counsel those they oversee. In this course, students will delve into the foundational principles and practices of prayer as taught in the Bible and exemplified by Jesus Christ. By understanding the elements that make prayer effective, students will learn how to align their prayers with God’s will and experience transformative results in their spiritual and daily lives. This course will also explore the role of the Holy Spirit in prayer, the biblical patterns of prayer, and the power of intercession, equipping students to lead others in a vibrant prayer life. Textbook: “The Power Of Effective Prayer” by Michael Mangum. ISBN: 9798362812232 (3 credits)
ASW 124 Spiritual Warfare I
This course is designed to equip students with the biblical understanding and practical skills necessary to engage in spiritual warfare. We will explore foundational principles from a biblical apostolic perspective, addressing the nature of spiritual battles, strategies for victory, and the role of the believer in overcoming spiritual opposition.Primary Textbook: “Victory in Spiritual Warfare: Outfitting Yourself for the Battle” by Tony Evans: Supplementary Readings: “The Bondage Breaker” by Neil T. Anderson. “The Armor of God” by Priscilla Shirer. The Holy Bible (NIV, ESV, or KJV) (3 credits)
ACL 170 Church Leadership
This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the biblical principles, practical skills, and ethical considerations essential for effective leadership within the context of the church. Drawing from the teachings of the Bible and the apostolic tradition, this course will explore the role of the pastor as a leader, the dynamics of organizational leadership in the church, and strategies for fostering spiritual growth and community engagement. Textbook: “Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence for Every Believer” by J. Oswald Sanders (3 credits)
This Associate Degree in Pastoral Care is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in biblical studies, theology, pastoral skills, and counseling techniques essential for effective ministry. Students will explore the principles of pastoral care, ethical considerations in pastoral ministry, and practical approaches to providing spiritual guidance and support to individuals and communities.
Through a combination of core courses and elective options, students will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of specific areas of pastoral ministry that align with their interests and career goals. By the completion of this program, students will be equipped to serve as compassionate and knowledgeable pastoral caregivers, ready to fulfill their calling to minister to others in the spirit of love, grace, and truth as exemplified in the teachings of the Bible and the apostolic tradition.