Bible Curriculum
Curriculum: Biblical Studies
Since the founding of the school in 1908, Biola has required that its graduates be well grounded and competent in Scripture. A firm foundation in the Word of God is imperative for all God's servants, regardless of the ministry they may enter. Therefore, all Biola graduates are required to have extensive coursework in biblical studies and theology.
A biblical worldview and scriptural perspective are the foundation for all courses taught through the BOLD program. In addition to the theological content integrated into the core curriculum of both the Organizational Leadership and Psychology majors, BOLD students will take 16 units of Bible courses to complete their degree.
To fulfill the residency requirement, 50% of the required Bible units, including BBST 306L Acts, must be taken at Biola University. The number of Bible units transferred to Biola may not exceed the number taken in residence. Allowing for possible transfer courses, a minimum of 14 units of biblical studies coursework must be completed outside of the major. A maximum of 17 units of Bible may be applied toward graduation.
The following Bible courses are required:
| Course Number | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| BBST 150 | Old Testament Survey | 4 units |
| BBST 110L | New Testament History and Literature | 3 units |
| BBST 360L | Acts: Early Christian History | 3 units |
| BBST 340 | Bible Elective I | 3 units |
| BBST 340 | Bible Elective II | 3 units |
COURSE DESCRIPTION
BBST 150 Old Testament Survey (4 units)
An overview of the Old Testament focusing on book outlines, key themes, persons, and events in biblical history, along with personal application.
BBST 110L New Testament History & Literature (3 units)
An overview of the New Testament with emphasis on the purpose of the writers; historical and cultural background; literary genre, structure, and themes; persons involved; together with practical application to Christian living.
BBST 306L Acts: Early Christian History (3 units)
Study of the Book of Acts from a missions perspective, dealing with the activity of the early church and its current expression in evangelism and missions.
BBST 340 Biblical Electives (3 units) *
In-depth study of a specific book or books of the Bible including written reports on the relevance of the book to the student's life. The following Bible electives are offered:
- Apologetics
- Galatians
- Job & Ecclesiastes
- Matthew
- Men & Women in Leadership
- Philippians
- Psalms
- Romans
- Stages of Faith
* Two Bible electives (a total of 6 units) are required.
Biblical Studies Minor
BOLD Program students cannot receive a minor in Bible. However, the biblical and theological content in the program are equivalent to the 30 units required in the traditional program. Because the theological content is embedded in the core curriculum, these units cannot be counted toward a minor.
Options for Meeting Biblical Studies Requirements
BOLD Program
Biblical Studies courses are offered at various times throughout the year at all of the BOLD Program locations. A list of these courses and when they will be offered is available from your Education Center or on the Bible & G.E. electives page.
Challenge Exams
Exams may be taken for New Testament History & Literature and/or Old Testament Survey within your first year (two terms) of enrollment at Biola. Information about dates, cost, study materials, and how to sign up may be requested through your Education Center. If interested in taking a Challenge Exam contact your Academic Counselor.
Christian Colleges
Courses previously taken at another accredited Christian College or University may transfer to Biola University. See your Academic Counselor.
Note: Only a course grade of a “C” (2.00 GPA) or higher may be considered for transfer to Biola University.
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)
Papers may be prepared with the assistance and consent of the Credit for Prior Learning Coordinatorand evaluated by appropriate Biola faculty. [see Credit for Prior Learning]
Distance Education Courses
Distance Education courses (e.g. correspondence, TV, online, and video) should be taken early on in the program to ensure timely completion for graduation. [to sign up, see Appendix 3 ]. A list of pre-approved school and course options is accessible at www.biola.edu/registrar/transfer/courses/. Courses not on this list must be approved by the Registrar’s Office; contact your Academic Counselor.
Important Note: To fulfill the residency requirement, 50% of the required Bible units (a minimum of 7 units), including BBST 306L Acts, must be taken at Biola University. The number of Bible units transferred to Biola may not exceed the number taken in residence. Challenge Exams do not count toward the residency requirement.