2016-2017 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog & Student Handbook [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
School of Christian Studies
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Mission Of The School Of Christian Studies
The mission of the School of Christian Studies is to produce graduates who model academic excellence and professional competence blended with a passionate devotion to Christ in leading His church to its global mission.
Jesus taught His disciples to love God with heart, soul, mind, and strength. In the School of Christian Studies (SCST), we intentionally train students to use their Heads, Hearts, and Hands for the glory of God. Our H3 Strategy combines rigorous academic training with spiritual disciplines and experiential learning through local ministry team participation, professional internships, and international service projects.
SCST Student Learning Outcomes
The SCST offers baccalaureate majors designed to produce Intercultural Studies, Marketplace Ministry, and Theological Studies graduates who are able to demonstrate the following:
- Competence in Bible knowledge, including its textual, historical, cultural, and geographical contexts;
- Competence in Church history and theological knowledge, including the expansion of orthodox Christian faith internationally;
- Competence in Faith/Learning integration, including theological training for ministry and the marketplace;
- Competence in Written communication, oral communication, and critical thinking skills;
- Competence in Christian ministry and leadership skills, through ministry team, internship, and international service experience; and
- Competence in Intercultural knowledge, language acquisition, and cross-cultural service (Intercultural Studies majors).
The SCST measures student competence through a series of objective assessment tools, including materials from the American Association of Colleges & Universities, the Council of Christian Colleges & Universities, and the Association of Biblical Higher Education.
In addition, the SCST offers minors in Intercultural Studies, Social Justice, and Theological Studies.
SCST majors must successfully complete COM 101 to fulfill oral communication competency requirements.
All majors must successfully complete the writing intensive (WI) requirements as specified in the Scholastic Standards section of this catalog. This includes CMS 110 for all majors. SCST majors will successfully complete CMS 301 and CMS 331 for the Theological Studies major, and CMS 303 and CMS 403 for the Intercultural Studies major.
All candidates for a bachelor’s degree offered by the SCST must successfully compose an original Senior Writing Project on an approved topic. This component is assessed in CMS 499 .
The SCST annually presents the following awards to students:
- Zondervan/University of Mobile Greek Award
- Zondervan/University of Mobile Hebrew Award
- Robert Greene Lee Expository Preaching Award
- Anne Graham Lotz Expository Bible Study Award
- Cecil Taylor Global Missions Award
- Induction into Theta Alpha Kappa theological honor society
- Excellence in Academics Award
- Excellence in Ministry Award
Major
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Intercultural Studies, Creative Access Concentration, B.A.
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Intercultural Studies, Global Studies Concentration, B.A.
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Marketplace Ministry, B.S. ONLINE PROGRAM
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Theological Studies, Academic Ministry Conc., B.A.
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Theological Studies, Church Ministry Conc., B.A.
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Theological Studies, Church Ministry Conc., B.S.
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Theological Studies, Community Ministry Conc., B.A.
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Theological Studies, Community Ministry Conc., B.S.
Minor
Christian Ministries
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CMS 011 Ministry Team Service
Hands-on experiential learning through ministry activity each semester. Required for all TL and ICST majors each semester they are enrolled. Freshman year, first semester. No Credit (S or U). -
CMS 012 Ministry Team Service
Hands-on experiential learning through ministry activity each semester. Required for all TL and ICST majors each semester they are enrolled. Freshman year, second semester. No credit (S or U). -
CMS 021 Ministry Team Service
Hands-on experiential learning through ministry activity each semester. Required for all TL and ICST majors each semester they are enrolled. Sophmore year, first semester. No credit (S or U). -
CMS 022 Ministry Team Service
Hands-on experiential learning through ministry activity each semester. Required for all TL and ICST majors each semester they are enrolled. Sophmore year, second semester. No credit (S or U). -
CMS 031 Ministry Team Service
Hands-on experiential learning through ministry activity each semester. Required for all TL and ICST majors each semester they are enrolled. Junior year, first semester. No credit (S or U). -
CMS 032 Ministry Team Service
Hands-on experiential learning through ministry activity each semester. Required for all TL and ICST majors each semester they are enrolled. Junior year, second semester. No credit (S or U). -
CMS 041 Ministry Team Service
Hands-on experiential learning through ministry activity each semester. Required for all TL and ICST majors each semester they are enrolled. Senior year, first semester. No credit (S or U). -
CMS 042 Ministry Team Service
Hands-on experiential learning through ministry activity each semester. Required for all TL and ICST majors each semester they are enrolled. Senior year, second semester. No credit (S or U). -
CMS 101 Introduction to Biblical Theology
This course is an introduction to the Bible within a Christian context, surveying its literary, historical, cultural, and theological foundations as special revelation from God. Usually offered every fall semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 103 Intercultural Perspectives
An introductory study of the World Christian Movement, with particular emphasis on the biblical basis for intercultural ministry. Usually offered every fall semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 110 Introduction to Christian Worldview
An introduction to Christian worldview, giving special attention to the foundations of historic, orthodox Christian faith, biblical ethics and theology, with application to issues of current interest, such as marriage and family, and citizenship. Other issues addressed include Christian baptism, prayer, faith-learning integration, and testing of worldviews. Prerequisite(s): None. Usually offered every academic period (semester). (WI) Credit, three hours. -
CMS 199 Spiritual Disciplines
A foundational study of spiritual disciplines necessary to develop individual, missional, ethical, practical, and leadership skills for Christian ministries.
This course should be taken during the first semester of enrollment. Usually offered every fall and spring semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 201 Introduction to the Old Testament
A survey of the history, literature and theology of the Old Testament with a specific emphasis on the contemporary application of Old Testament teachings. A critical examination of the concept of covenant in the Old Testament will occur throughout the course. A critical analysis of specific Old Testament passages will contextualize the broader themes and teachings of the Old Testament. Usually offered every fall semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 202 Introduction to the New Testament
A survey of the New Testament including events in the life of Christ, the development of the early church, the work of the followers of Christ, and the influence on organizations and people in the first century and beyond. This knowledge and understanding is extended into applications in the life and personal devotions of the learner. Usually offered every spring semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 203 Intercultural Expansion
A survey of the international expansion of intercultural ministry since the apostolic age, with special emphasis on history and methodology. Usually offered every spring semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 297 Study in Selected Topics
Course offered to provide opportunities for competent students to study in areas of interest other than issues elsewhere defined. This series is primarily a classroom function, either seminar or lecture, permitting flexibility in course offerings. Offered as needed. Credit, one to six hours. -
CMS 298 Study in Selected Topics
Courses offered to provide opportunities for competent students to study in areas of interest other than issues elsewhere defined. This series is primarily a classroom function, either seminar or lecture, permitting flexibility in course offerings. Offered as needed. Credit, one to six hours. -
CMS 299 Turabian Research Seminar
An introduction to basic research methods, critical thinking skills, writing style, and Turabian format. Required for SCM writing intensive courses (CMS 301, CMS 303, CMS 331, CMS 403). Should be taken in the sophomore year. Usually offered every fall and spring semester. Credit, one hour. -
CMS 301 History of Christian Thought
A historical study of the way Christians have thought theologically and philosophically from apostolic times to the present. Prerequisite(s): EN 101 and EN 102 . Usually offered every fall semester. (WI) Credit, three hours. -
CMS 303 Intercultural Foundations
A survey of personal, cultural, and theological dynamics affecting intercultural and international relations. Personal, family, ethnic, and international relationships are explored through individual and team projects. Usually offered every fall semester. (WI) Credit, three hours. -
CMS 315 Psychology of Religion
A study of selected religious experiences and their relationship to human psychological and spiritual development. Usually offered in even numbered fall semesters. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 317 Biblical Interpretation
A study of the process that led to the creation of the English Bible and its authority, as well as a survey of the principles and practice of independent Bible study, including an emphasis on the grammatical historical approach to biblical interpretation.
Prerequisite(s): CMS 201 and either CMS 202 or CMS 321 . Usually offered every fall semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 318 Homiletics
A basic study in the preparation and delivery of expository sermons. Prerequisite(s): CMS 201 and CMS 202 . Usually offered in odd numbered spring semesters. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 321 Mission and Message of Jesus
An intensive study in the mission and message of Jesus as found in the Gospels. Prerequisite(s): EN 101 and EN 102 . Usually offered every academic period (semester). Credit, three hours. -
CMS 322 Ministry Foundations
A course designed to provide insight into the nature of Christian ministry, with special attention given to the various activities, duties, and functions of ministry. Students gain first-hand knowledge of such activities as baptism, the Lord’s Supper, weddings, and funerals. Usually offered every fall semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 331 Christian Theology
An introduction to Christian systematic theology, emphasizing biblical perspectives. Prerequisite(s): EN 101 and EN 102 . Usually offered every spring semester. (WI) Credit, three hours. -
CMS 332 Christian Apologetics
A study of Christian evidences that support, from a rational point of view, the intellectual integrity of an evangelical faith. Contemporary apologetic approaches, as well as the history of Christian apologetics, will be considered. Usually offered every spring semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 345 History of Baptists
Baptist history from its origins to the present, including extensive treatment of the history, structure, and theology of the Southern Baptist Convention. Usually offered in even numbered spring semesters. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 370 Student Ministry
A study of the roles and relationships of a student minister. Attention is given to programming, goal setting, budgeting, organizing, and administering a student ministry within the context of a local church. Offered as needed. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 371 Youth Ministry
A study of the context of youth ministry. Attention is given to cultural influences, peer and family relationships, and academic and social issues. Offered as needed. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 372 English-as-Second-Language (ESL) Ministry
A survey of cross-cultural English teaching locally and globally, addressing cultural, academic, and ministry issues related to ESL. Students are introduced to the foundational principles and hands-on practices of English as a Second Language ministry in meeting the educational, social, and spiritual needs of international students, refugees, and immigrants. Cross-listed as: TE 372. Usually offered every spring semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 373 Social Justice Ministry
A survey of the foundational principles and hands-on practices of ministering to oppressed populations, including: orphans, refugees, immigrants, the impoverished, the persecuted, and those entrapped in human trafficking. Usually offered every even numbered fall semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 374 Non-Profit Ministry
A survey of the foundational principles and key functions needed to create and maintain an entrepreneurial, nonprofit Christian ministry organization including board development, leadership skills, and ministry startup strategies. Usually offered every odd numbered fall semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 375 Ministry Skills for Women
A study of basic ministry skills unique to women. This course explores such ministry skills as personal development, personal evangelism, discipling/mentoring, church staff relations, effective communication, conflict management, and crisis ministry. Usually offered every odd numbered spring. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 376 Church Planting Ministry
A study of the essential principles for planting and multiplying churches with New Testament characteristics. This course establishes biblical, missiological, spiritual, sociological, evangelistic, leadership, strategic and practical foundations for church planting. Students will be assisted in understanding of church planting models that are best suited for them in light of their calling and giftedness within the various contexts. Though this training is focused on church planting principles, particular emphasis will be placed on the student’s discovery of church planting and potential application in most ministries. May be repeated when content changes. Usually offered every even numbered spring. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 377 Ethnic Ministries
A study of one or more people groups, including cultural characteristics, religious practices, political and economic history, and artistic expression. Particular attention is given to evangelistic, discipleship, ministry, and church leadership development among the people group. May be repeated when content changes. Prerequisite or Corequisite: Permission by the Dean or Instructor. Offered as needed. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 378 Urban Ministries
A study of methodologies of Christian ministry within urban contexts. A biblical and historical foundation will be followed by contemporary research relating to 21st Century urbanization and particular domestic and international urban centers. May be repeated when content changes. Prerequisite(s): Permission by the Dean or Instructor. Offered as needed. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 379 Sports Ministries
A study of foundational principles and hands-on practices of ministry through sports, including local church sports outreach, serving in sports chaplaincy, and building partnerships with sports ministry organizations. Prerequisite(s): Permission by the Dean or Instructor. Offered as needed. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 399 Ministry Leadership
An examination of leadership skills necessary for Christian ministry, as well as the ethical issues facing ministry personnel. Usually offered every spring. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 403 Intercultural Leadership
An examination of leadership principles and practices of Christian personnel working in intercultural settings, both domestically and internationally. Special emphasis is placed on the unique roles of volunteer, short-term, and career workers in multicultural environments. Case studies and personal interviews are included. Usually offered every spring semester. (WI) Credit, three hours. -
CMS 405 Ministry Internship
Documented experiential learning under the supervision of a ministry leader. Prerequisite(s): CMS 322 CMS 399 . Usually offered every fall and spring semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 407 Ministry Counseling 1: The Chaplain
This course addresses the foundations of biblical ministry counseling in the marketplace, including the necessity of building a good theological framework from which to provide grief counseling in hospice, chaplaincy, and other ministry settings. Also includes common problems in ministry counseling, as well as the limitations of non-clinical counseling. Offered online in the APS program. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 408 Ministry Counseling 2: Chaplaincy Training
Building on CMS 407, this course addresses biblical ministry counseling issues related to marriage and family dynamics, and other situations faced by community chaplains. Offered online in the APS program. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 409 Global Disciple-Making
An introduction to the biblical foundations, history, and practice of Christian evangelism, intentional discipleship, and global missions. Usually offered in every fall semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 410 Church History
A survey of the history of Christianity from the apostolic era to the present. Prerequisite or Corequisite: Permission by the Dean or Instructor. Offered as needed. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 416 Archaeology and The Bible
A survey of archaeological methods and artifacts related to the ancient Near East and the Roman Empire, which assist in understanding the historical context and the literary background of the Old and New Testaments. Prerequisite(s): CMS 201 and CMS 202 . Permission from the Dean or Instructor. Offered as needed. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 420 Contemporary Religious Faiths
A study of the history, doctrines, and worship practices of a cross-section of denominations, sects, and cults. May include selected world religions. Prerequisite(s): CMS 331 or CMS 332 ; or permission by the Dean or Instructor. Usually offered every fall semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 425 International Service Project
Course designed to implement the connection of head, heart, and hands for global ministry & service. Students receive training in cultural dynamics and spiritual disciplines. The hands-on travel component is completed through a pre-approved UM-sanctioned international trip. Prerequisite or Corequisite: Permission by the Dean or Instructor. Offered every spring semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 431 Independent Study
Course designed to provide students with advanced standing opportunities for an independent study or research project in the major area, with the approval of the advisor, instructor, and the dean of the School of Christian Ministries. Prerequisite(s): Completion of at least eighteen semester hours in the major with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Credit, one to eight hours. -
CMS 432 Independent Study
Course designed to provide students with advanced standing opportunities for an independent study or research project in the major area, with the approval of the advisor, instructor, and the dean of the School of Christian Ministries. Prerequisite(s): Completion of at least eighteen semester hours in the major with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Credit, one to eight hours. -
CMS 453 Intercultural Internship
Documented experiential learning under the supervision of a specialist in intercultural ministry, service, or leadership. Prerequisite(s): CMS 303 and CMS 403 . Offered every fall and spring semester. Credit, three hours. -
CMS 497 Study in Selected Topics
Course offered to provide opportunities for competent students to study in areas of interest other than those elsewhere defined. This series is primarily a classroom function, either seminar or lecture, permitting flexibility in course offerings. Credit, one to six hours. -
CMS 498 Study in Selected Topics
Course offered to provide opportunities for competent students to study in areas of interest other than those elsewhere defined. This series is primarily a classroom function, either seminar or lecture, permitting flexibility in course offerings. Credit, one to six hours. -
CMS 499 Senior Capstone Course
This course is designed to assess competence of seniors relating to the Student Learning Outcomes of the program, including exit exams in Bible, Theology, Church History, Faith/Learning Integration, Communication & Critical Thinking Skills, Ministry Skills, and Intercultural Knowledge & Competence. Students will also complete a networking/portfolio project. Usually offered every fall and spring semester. Credit, one hour.
Greek
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GK 201 Elementary Greek
A study of the basic forms and the functions of these forms as found in the Koine Greek, with some emphasis upon acquiring basic skills in the translation of the Greek New Testament. Usually offered every fall semester. Credit, three hours. -
GK 202 Elementary Greek
A study of the basic forms and the functions of these forms as found in the Koine Greek, with some emphasis upon acquiring basic skills in the translation of the Greek New Testament. Usually offered every spring semester. Credit, three hours. -
GK 301 Greek Exegesis
A detailed study of selected New Testament documents based on the Greek text, giving attention to critical issues, important points of grammar, word studies, and theological themes. This course may be repeated when the documents chosen for exegesis change. Prerequisite(s): GK 201 and GK 202 . Offered as necessary. Credit, three hours. -
GK 302 Greek Exegesis
A detailed study of selected New Testament documents based on the Greek text, giving attention to critical issues, important points of grammar, word studies, and theological themes. This course may be repeated when the documents chosen for exegesis change. Prerequisite(s): GK 201 and GK 202 . Offered as necessary. Credit, three hours.
Hebrew
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HEB 201 Elementary Hebrew
Basics of the Hebrew writing system, basic grammar, and foundational vocabulary for Biblical Hebrew are emphasized. Usually offered every fall semester. Credit, three hours. -
HEB 202 Elementary Hebrew
Basics of the Biblical Hebrew verbal systems, including reading, parsing, and interpreting each of the verbal stems. Usually offered every spring semester. Credit, three hours.
New Testament Studies
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NT 521 New Testament Introduction
Examines critical issues related to New Testament introduction. Credit, three hours. -
NT 522 The Synoptic Gospels
Provides a study of Matthew, Mark and Luke. The historical background, interpretation, and contemporary significance of the gospels are examined, either collectively, in groups, or individually. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours. -
NT 523 The Pauline Epistles
Provides a study of the New Testament letters textually and/or historically linked to Paul. The historical background, interpretation, and contemporary significance of these letters are examined, either collectively, in groups, or individually. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours. -
NT 524 The Johannine Corpus
Provides a study of the New Testament documents textually and/or historically linked to John. The historical background, interpretation, and contemporary significance of these works are examined, either collectively, in groups, or individually. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours. -
NT 525 Acts and the General Epistles
Provides a study of Acts and/or the non-Pauline letters of the New Testament. The historical background, interpretation, and contemporary significance of these works are examined, either collectively, in groups, or individually. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours. -
NT 527 Exegesis in Greek
Presents a detailed analysis of selected books or portions of books from the Greek Testament. Emphasis is given to vocabulary building, location of verbs, and pronunciation as well as exegesis. Use of lexicon is a major component of class work. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours. -
NT 528 Special Topics in New Testament
Analyzes special topics in New Testament designed to meet specific needs and special interests and to explore current issues in the field. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours.
Old Testament Studies
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OT 511 Old Testament Introduction
Examines critical issues related to Old Testament introduction. Credit, three hours. -
OT 512 The Pentateuch
Provides a study of the Law. The historical background, interpretation, and contemporary significance of the books from this section of the Hebrew Bible are examined, either collectively, in groups, or individually. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours. -
OT 513 The Prophets
Provides a study of the Former and Latter Prophets. The historical background, interpretation, and contemporary significance of books from this section of the Hebrew Bible are examined, either collectively, in groups, or individually. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours. -
OT 514 The Prophets
Provides a study of the Former and Latter Prophets. The historical background, interpretation, and contemporary significance of books from this section of the Hebrew Bible are examined, either collectively, in groups, or individually. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours. -
OT 515 The Writings
Provides a study of the Writings. The historical background, interpretation, and contemporary significance of books from this section of the Hebrew Bible are examined, either collectively, in groups, or individually. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours. -
OT 517 Exegesis in Hebrew
Presents a detailed analysis of selected books or portions of books from the Hebrew Bible. Emphasis is given to vocabulary building, location of verbs, and pronunciation as well as exegesis. Use of lexicon is a major component of classwork. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours. -
OT 518 Special Topics in Old Testament
Investigates special topics in Old Testament designed to meet specific needs and special interests and to explore current issues in the field. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours.
Graduate Research
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RH 592 Directed Study and Research in the Old Testament
Provides an opportunity for students to explore through directed readings and research those problems and issues of special significance in the field of Old Testament study. The course may be repeated when subjects change. Requires special permission of the appropriate professor and advisor. Credit, one to three hours. -
RH 593 Directed Study and Research in the New Testament
Provides an opportunity for students to explore through directed readings and research those problems and issues of special significance in the field of Intertestamental and New Testament study. The course may be repeated when subjects change. Requires special permission of the appropriate professor and advisor. Credit, one to three hours. -
RH 594 Directed Study and Research in Theology
Provides an opportunity for students to explore through directed readings and research those problems and issues of special significance in the field of theological studies. The course may be repeated when subjects change. Requires special permission of the appropriate professor and advisor. Credit, one to three hours.
Theological Studies
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TS 532 Patristic Theology
Provides a historical and thematic study of the major themes of Christian reflection from the apostolic period through AD 600. Credit, three hours. -
TS 533 Reformation Theology
Analyzes the events and currents of thought that culminated in Catholic and Protestant reforms in the sixteenth century. Credit, three hours. -
TS 534 Modern Theology
Provides a historical and analytical study of the major themes of Christian reflection from the Reformation through the modern era. Credit, three hours. -
TS 538 Special Topics in Theology
Provides an intensive study of particular doctrines, persons, or movements in the history of Christian thought. The course may be repeated when content changes. Credit, three hours.
Chapel
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ZCH 007 Chapel
In keeping with the stated mission of the institution, the purpose of chapel is to offer students well-planned programs providing for Christian growth and maturation. Required every fall and spring semester for full-time undergraduate students, there is no charge for chapel and no academic credit is awarded for it. Registration for ZCH 007 is necessary in order for students to ensure seating in chapel.
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