Biblical and Theological Studies

Biblical and theological studies equips students to make a difference in the Church and within their community. Our department teaches the ability to closely read biblical and historical texts and think critically about complex issues. Our students learn to confidently express themselves in writing and speaking while thinking deeply about ethical issues facing this generation according to God’s Word.

On this page Overview Graduate Outcomes Programs / Features Faculty Contact

Program Overview

Our department provides all students with general biblical and theological literacy, specifically according to the Reformed tradition. Our students are trained to seek truth and its relevance for the Church and society then apply this truth as the mold which transforms their heart, renews their mind, and shapes their lives.

We fit our students with the lenses necessary for a biblical view that paves the way to Kingdom activity, equipping them with the biblical rationale for culture-related experiences. This allows them to become acquainted with issues connected with biblical scholarship and the content of the Gospel over against the belief systems of the modern scene.

Through our courses, students develop their talents and skills to maximize the advance of the Kingdom of God in the choice and exercise of their profession. Additionally, we urge students with apparent qualifications and gifts for ministry, whether in the United States or abroad, to consider the possibility of such calling.

Graduate Outcomes

Students who graduate with a major in biblical and theological studies have pursued many vocations including:

Bible Teacher, Briarwood Christian High School
Director of Youth Ministry, Second Presbyterian Church, Memphis
Missionary, Sweden
Maclellan Foundation, Chattanooga
Theology Professor, Edinburgh University
Theology Professor, Whitworth University
Pastor, Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church

Alumni have also pursued further education:

Covenant Theological Seminary
Westminster Theological Seminary
Reformed Theological Seminary
Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
Boston University

Brad Roberts ’15

Read Alumni Profiles

"I love teaching at Covenant College. We so often see such a stunning growth and development from their freshman to senior year. Our students here are eager to learn, they love Christ and the scriptures, and they are willing to work hard as they explore the beauty of their faith. Not only are we able to help them dive deep into the richness of the Bible with them, but also Church history and theology, missions and practice. And part of what is so unique about this education here is that it takes place within a college that values the liberal arts. So all of this teaching is also in conversation with art and literature, history and philosophy, science and sociology. It is hard for me to think of a better environment to teach students theology."

Dr. Kelly Kapic

Professor of Theology

Programs & Features

Students who choose to major in biblical and theological studies can add a concentration in missions to their major.

View Course Catalog

As a religious institution, we train all students to value the study of biblical texts and worldview and believe extensive knowledge of the Bible and ministry will complement any major.

To this end, our department offers a variety of biblical studies minors:

Biblical and Theological Studies Minor
Biblical Languages Minor
History of Christianity Minor
Missions Minor
Youth Ministry Minor

View Course Catalog

The missions concentration is a full 39-credit major course of study that equips graduates for intercultural service in God's global mission, whether that be across the street or around the world. While students in this concentration share many courses in common with the major, they also have specialized study in: theology of mission, mission praxis, evangelism & apologetics, world religions, and community development. Summer mission internship practicums are highly recommended. While students may study Greek or Hebrew for Covenant's core language requirement, they are also permitted to study a modern foreign language in preparation for global service.

Recent missions concentration graduates are serving in a variety of ministries and locations in the world, including in Kenya, Central Asia, Central America, Southeast Asia, and Europe.

VIEW COURSE CATALOG

Students who complete a Bible major at Covenant College may receive up to 17 semester hours of advanced standing toward the MDiv degree at Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri.

View Course Catalog

Students interested in teaching Bible for grades 6-12 should complete a BA degree with a major in biblical and theological studies and then enroll in the one-year Master of Arts in Teaching at Covenant College. It is recommended that the Education Minor be completed.

View Course Catalog

MIS 203 Missionary Methods and Problems
BIB 212 Preparing for Relational Youth Ministry Skills
MIS 302 World Religions
BIB 379 Faith and Suffering
BIB 387 John Calvin and the Reformed Tradition
BIB 395 Current Issues in Biblical Studies

“Continuity & Consistency in the Thought of Dietrich Bonhoeffer”
“Youth Ministry”
“Does the Body Matter?”
“Just War”

Guided Capstone Requirements

Meet the Biblical and Theological Studies Faculty

Jeff Dryden Professor of Biblical Studies

Luke Irwin Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies

Scott Jones Professor of Biblical Studies

Kelly Kapic Professor of Theological Studies

Hans Madueme Professor of Theological Studies

Clift Ward Associate Professor of Church History and Theology
Department Chair

Herb Ward Professor of Biblical Studies

Emmie Thompson Visiting Assistant Professor of Theological Studies

Ready to take the next step?

Thank you for your interest in Covenant! By filling out this form, we'll be able to connect you with the best information regarding your program of interest, as well as your Admissions Counselor.