Religion and Philosophy, B.A.

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion and Philosophy supports the University’s Mission in that it prepares students for a broad spectrum of leadership positions within the varied fields of the ministry, and gives them a broad-based knowledge in philosophy that prepares them for various careers. This specialized program is carefully designed to train the student minister in the areas of counseling, church administration, and evangelism. Students are also given the basic tools necessary for further study at graduate or professional schools in philosophy, or at theological seminaries.

Graduates of Religion and Philosophy will:

• Be prepared for seminary or graduate school in religion, theology, and/or philosophy, a variety of leadership positions in a wide range of Christian ministries, including parish/congregation ministry, para-church ministry, chaplaincy, mission work at home and abroad, and other forms of church vocation
• Understand the broad and varied interrelationship of religion, philosophy, and culture (including music, art, media, law, and diverse forms of popular culture).

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

Graduates of the Religion and Philosophy program will

• Bring rigorous biblical, theological, and philosophical reasoning to bear on “real-world” issues
• Demonstrate an understanding of the role religious beliefs and practices play in matters of social justice, particularly the African American legacy of struggle for equality
• Describe and discuss major events and concepts in Christian history and describe the concepts that comprise a religious worldview such as the creation of the world, good and evil, salvation, and the meaning of suffering
• Utilize biblical methods of study, criticism, hermeneutics, sermon preparation and delivery
• Demonstrate general knowledge and practical training of pastoral visitation and counseling, planning liturgy, and effective church/ ministry leadership demonstrate solid writing skills for theological and/or philosophical thinking and arguments.

Graduation Requirements: This degree program requires 121 hours for completion.