Bible, Theology, and Apologetics, B.S.

Mission

The B.S. in Bible, Theology, and Apologetics exists to provide adult learners with training in biblical interpretation, theological understanding, apologetics, and practical skills for effective thinking and service in their local contexts.  

Degree Program

The Bachelor of Science in Bible, Theology, and Apologetics is a fully online post-traditional degree delivering Biola’s rich legacy of philosophical, theological, and exegetical excellence to the world. This 120-credit program is built on four interweaving curricular components: 1) Biola’s core curriculum, 2) a broad foundation in Old and New Testament studies, 3) a sequence of systematic and integrative theology courses, and 4) a robust track in cutting-edge apologetics. Along the way, these main academic pillars are fortified with 9 credits focused on ministry application. This degree promises to bring a blend of courses and competencies that are not only unique to the broader marketplace of high education, but uniquely aligned with Biola’s historic cultural contributions and current strengths.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Bible, Theology, and Apologetics, students will be able to:

  1. Identify the basic contents of all books of the Old and New Testaments, including the ancient world contexts of the Bible. Apply the biblical teaching for Christian faith and practice, and for biblical-theological research, through advanced principles of sound interpretation (ULO 1, 2).
  2. Describe a personal relationship with God in a maturing Christian faith and practice, and articulate an intellectually sound case for the Christian faith (ULO 2, 3).
  3. Explain the major doctrines of Christianity from an evangelical perspective, including their biblical basis and canonical progression, diverse perspectives, and contemporary relevance (ULO 1).

Each Program Learning Outcome (PLO) listed above references at least one of the University Learning Outcomes (ULO 1, 2, 3), which may be found in the General Information section of this catalog.

Admission Requirements

  1. Must be a believer in the Christian faith (the applicant's statement of faith will be articulated in the personal essay section of the application).
  2. Must have at least a 2.5 cumulative college GPA.
  3. Must have graduated from high school or earned an equivalent degree (GED). 
  4. Students with fewer than 15 semester credits post high school must apply as transfer students and meet the Admissions requirements for first time college students. In addition, students are required to:
    1. Submit SAT/ACT scores, or
    2. If no test scores, the Post Traditional Test-Optional Rubric process will be used.

Curriculum Requirements

Program-Specific Core Curriculum Courses
The Core Curriculum requirement for Kinesiology and Health Science has been waived for this major.
Bible Requirement
Biblical Interpretation and Spiritual Formation
Foundations of Christian Thought
Old Testament History and Literature
New Testament History and Literature
Early Christian History - Acts
Biblical Backgrounds (Understanding Bible's Context)
Theology I
Theology II
Gospel, Kingdom, and Culture
Integration Seminar
Program Courses
BBST 316Gospel of John3
BBST 330Jesus' Life and Ministry3
BBST 409Topics in Old Testament Ethics3
BBST 440Advanced Study: Old Testament (Geography of Israel)3
Advanced Theology and Apologetics Requirement
BBST 450Advanced Study: Systematic Theology (Apologetics)3
BBST 456God, Evil, and Suffering3
BBST 457Evidence for the Resurrection3
Ministry Application Requirement
BBST 320Methods of Bible Study3
CEED 150Foundations of Ministry3
CEED 330Biblical Interpretation and Teaching3
Program Course Requirements: 30 credits
Core Curriculum Requirements 164
General Electives26
Total Credits120
1

See Core Curriculum Program section for details.