The Master of Arts in Ministry is a 36 hour program which provides graduate-level training for working ministry practitioners. Costs are among the lowest charged by accredited programs and courses are offered in convenient formats such as one-week modules and online settings. A very flexible curriculum allows students to choose courses based on their interest from a wide range of options. Top faculty members from IWU and across the country provide relevant and stimulating learning experiences. The program has a strong practical emphasis, making it ideal for persons currently engaged in ministry.
Admission to Graduate Studies in Ministry begins with completing application forms and submitting them with official transcripts and three personal recommendations to the Director of Graduate Studies in Religion of Indiana Wesleyan University. The Director of Graduate Studies in Religion shall determine admission status from the completed forms and student file and notify the applicant in writing of the admission status granted. Regular admission to Graduate Studies constitutes admission to candidacy for the master's degree. The basic criteria for regular admission to Graduate Studies are as follows:
The procedure for changing from unclassified to regular admission is the same as that for changing from conditional admission, except that credit earned as an unclassified student is limited to nine hours, and credit is not automatically applied toward degree requirements. Credits earned an unclassified student may be applied toward the master's degree only after careful evaluation and recommendation of the Director of Graduate Studies in Religion to the Division of Religion and Philosophy and their subsequent approval.
A senior who is currently enrolled at Indiana Wesleyan University and who is within the last semester of completing course requirements for the baccalaureate degree may, with the approval of the Director of Graduate Studies in Religion, register for a maximum of two graduate courses per semester. Such students who desire to take additional graduate courses after earning the baccalaureate degree must follow the regular admission procedure.
Graduate courses may not be counted both for graduate and undergraduate requirements.
Assignment of an advisor will be made upon determination of student's major interest. The advisor will be the key person to work with a student through the Thesis, Practicum, or Project.
Students who have completed all requirements except the Thesis, Practicum, or Project are required to register each semester until graduation with a continuing enrollment fee. Students who fail to do so will not be regarded as active candidates for the degree.
All requirements for the degree must be met within the six-year limitation. A maximum of nine hours may be transferred from another accredited master's program, provided it falls within seven years prior to admission.
| GRE521 Intermediate Greek I |
3 |
| The study of intermediate Greek grammar through the reading and exegesis of selected New Testament passages. Prerequisites: GRE221 and GRE222 (Biblical) |
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| GRE522 Intermediate Greek II |
3 |
| Intermediate Greek - second semester. See GRE521. (Biblical) |
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| MIN501 Bible Lands Tour |
3 |
| This course comprises daily lectures on a tour to the Near East with Israel as the main focus. It involves a study of actual Biblical sites, especially those revealed by archaeological excavations. While the major emphasis will be the biblical history in its geographical setting, much will be learned about the religions of Judaism and Islam, the present social structure of society in Israel, and the existing tensions between Jew and Arab. (Biblical) |
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| MIN505 Public and Private Worship |
2 |
| Examines the Biblical foundations and social expressions that contribute to the wide variety of worship traditions in present-day Christianity. Students also explore the Wesleyan "mean of grace" and more contemporary strategies for developing a vibrant personal relationship with God. |
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| MIN506 Church Rituals |
1 |
| Combines theological reflection with practical application as students acquaint themselves with the basic rituals of worship and passage in the evangelical tradition. |
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| MIN507 Minor Prophets |
3 |
| This course focuses on the primary contribution of the Minor Prophets and examines themes which are central to their prophetic writings. The class will begin with a cursory treatment of the content of the books, continue with an interpretation of crucial components of the books within context, and conclude with a synthesis of primary themes and implications for the church today. (Biblical) |
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| MIN508 Gospel of John |
3 |
| This course will provide a careful look at the fourth Gospel, exploring authorship, background, and other critical issues. Important Johannine themes such as life, light, and Word will be examined. Exegetical skills will be taught, modeled, and practiced, enriching the student's study of the Bible. (Biblical) |
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| MIN509 Greek Exegesis |
3 |
| Intensive reading of Biblical passages in Greek, reading and exegesis of sections of the New Testament with primary concentration on one book. Emphasis on methodological theory and practice of exegesis. This course may be repeated. (Biblical) |
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| MIN510 Biblical Archeology |
3 |
| Each participant is assigned to one of the digging areas. Guidance and instruction are given in every phase of the excavation, including recording and treatment of finds. Weekly surveys are made of the work on the tel, at which time the current progress in each area is summarized. Special finds are exhibited in the study room of the expedition where a study collection of ancient pottery is also displayed. (Biblical) |
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| MIN511 Biblical Interpretation |
3 |
| Designed to prepare the student for in-depth studies in interpretation of the Bible. Hermeneutics and exegesis become important tools for understanding selected passages. Aid is provided both to students of the English Bible and those who wish to concentrate on the original languages. The course is a study of the problems of proof-texting apparent discrepancies, literal and figurative meanings, and progressive revelation as these emerge in varied option in history and theology (e.g., early church, Catholicism, and Reformation). The guiding purpose is to formulate appropriate principles essential to consistent Biblical exposition with additional help in detecting and avoiding fallacies of interpreting and applying Scripture. (Biblical) |
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| MIN512 Interpretation of Old Testament Writings |
3 |
| Critical and exegetical study of a selected Old Testament book using the English Bible. Skills in interpretation will be taught, modeled, and practiced, enriching the study of the Bible. Selections vary from semester to semester. Offering to be determined. May be repeated for credit. (Biblical) |
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| MIN513 Interpretation of New Testament Writings |
3 |
| Critical and exegetical study of a selected New Testament book using the English Bible. Skills in interpretation will be taught, modeled, and practiced, enriching the study of the Bible. Selections vary from semester to semester. Offering to be determined. May be repeated for credit. (Biblical) |
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| MIN514 The Four Gospels |
3 |
| This course will examine the four Gospels from an exegetical and historic perspective. Specific attention will be given to interfacing the Gospels with current practices in both Christian living and ecclesiastical structures. (Biblical) |
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| MIN516 Paul's Letters |
3 |
| This course will examine the letters of Paul in terms of their implication for church trajectories and leadership in our times. Emphasis will be placed on Paul's keen insight into the nature of humankind and his ability to organize effective and efficient resolutions for church-related concerns. (Biblical) |
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| MIN517 Pentateuch |
3 |
| This course centers around the great historical truths of the Pentateuch and ways to understanding them in their historical setting and making application of them in the world today. (Biblical) |
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| MIN519 Isaiah |
3 |
| This course involves an in-depth study of the book of Isaiah. It will center on such themes as the nature of the prophetic message, prophecy, Messianic themes, the nature of divine holiness, and God's perspective on national moral trends. (Biblical) |
| MIN520 Psalms |
3 |
| This course examines the Psalms through the avenue of several interpretive models. Along with exposure to the content of the psalms, it explores several types of psalms, parallelism, poetic imagery, and the intended musical character. (Biblical) |
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| MIN521 American Christianity |
3 |
| A survey of significant events and ideas in American religion from Colonial times to the present. Particular attention will be given to the development of denominationalism, revivalism, and fundamentalism in the context of cultural and theological trends. (Historical/Doctrinal) |
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| MIN523 Life and Ministry of Paul |
3 |
| The course centers around the key events and contributions of Paul as found in the Acts and Pauline corpus. Moving well beyond the historical facts associated with Paul and his ministry, the course expands on his contributions to the theological, philosophical, and ecclesiastical foundations of the Christian church. (Biblical) |
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| MIN524 Petrine Letters |
3 |
| This course gives special attention to the writings generally ascribed to the Apostle Peter with complementary attention to his life and work, especially as exhibited in the book of the Acts. Special attention will be given to unique Petrine positions on such themes as the apostasy at the end of the church age, the atonement, and the nature of the church. (Biblical) |
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| MIN525 Modern Theological Thought |
3 |
| This is a study of theological thought which takes its rise in the philosophy of Immanuel Kant. The theologies of Schleiermacher, Ritschl, Troeltsch, Kierkegaard, and Barth will be examined. (Historical/Doctrinal) |
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| MIN526 Themes in the History of the Church |
3 |
| Courses with this number investigate a particular theme(s) or pattern(s) over the course of church history with a view to transforming the present course of the church. (Historical/Doctrinal) |
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| MIN527 Grace, Faith, and Holiness |
3 |
| This course examines the doctrines of the Christian Faith in their inter-relatedness, as integral parts of an organic whole, examined in the light of their biblical foundations, historical development, philosophical presuppositions, and practical applications. Areas to be studied are prolegomena (including such matters as theological perspective and methodology, the inspiration and authority of Scripture) and the doctrines of God, creation, humanity, and sin. (Doctrinal/Historical) |
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| MIN528 Creationism and Contemporary Culture |
3 |
| From within a framework of the biblical accounts of creation, this course explores the nature of God, the nature and purpose of the human family, the destructive implications of sin, and the ultimate patterns of redemption. The course specifically examines these doctrines vis-a-vis the present culture and their links with God's ultimate purposes as revealed in the book of Revelation. (Practical/Biblical) |
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| MIN529 Non-Profit Management |
3 |
| The course deals with the spectrum of management issues in which pastoral leaders are necessarily involved. It will focus both on the manager as a person, as well as the manager as a professional. (Practical) |
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| MIN531 Theology of Old Testament |
3 |
| This course introduces biblical theology with major emphasis on theological thought and practice. The Old Testament approaches to the nature of man, the problem of sin and evil, the nature of God, the role of wisdom, and the meaning of Israel's history are seen in their development (divergence), as well as in their unification and preparation for the Christian era. (Doctrinal/Biblical) |
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| MIN532 Theology of New Testament |
3 |
| Principles are employed to unlock the main theological concepts of the New Testament. Specific doctrines such as God, Kingdom of God, Christology, the Nature of the Church, and the Christian hope will be explored in their Johannine, Pauline, and Petrine perspectives, with emphasis on a methodological exegesis and interpretation of the New Testament. The New Testament will be seen as a unified corpus with foundations in the Old Testament. (Doctrinal/Biblical) |
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| MIN533 Contemporary Theological Trends |
3 |
| This class engages several strands of theological development which are currently shaping the life and faith of the church. These include emphases on the powers available to the Christian community, the nature of the Christian faith and its intended impact on culture, and the balances among Scripture, reason, tradition, and experience in the current Christian context. (Historical/Doctrinal) |
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| MIN534 Philosophy of Religion |
3 |
| An investigation of the characteristics and significance of the nature of man and his religious experiences. Consideration will be given to the evidences for and nature of theism, the major challenges to the Christian faith, the persistent problems of naturalism versus supernaturalism, and the existence of the non-Christian religions and of evil in God's world. Religious languages, paradox, mysticism, redemptive love, moral freedom versus determinism, the miraculous, and death and the future life will be treated. (Doctrinal) |
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| MIN535 Contemporary Issues in Evangelical Theology |
3 |
| In this course the student will study, discuss, and evaluate theological topics that divide evangelicals today, including such issues as biblical authority, the work of the Holy Spirit, soteriology, the Christian's responsibility to social justice, and eschatological views. (Doctrinal) |
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| MIN536 Wesleyan Church History and Polity |
3 |
| A special study of the doctrines that give distinction to the teachings of John Wesley as they differ from those of other theological traditions. The study includes research into such doctrines as Christian perfection, sin and grace, entire sanctification, justification and regeneration, humanity and holiness, the work of the Holy Spirit, security of the believer, and others. The theological ideas of Reformed and Catholic writers on these doctrines will be explored. The Biblical passages that create the theological differences will be examined. (Doctrinal/Historical) |
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| MIN537 World View/C.S. Lewis |
3 |
| A study of the component parts of a world view with special attention given to the world view of C.S. Lewis as reflected in his religious writings. (Doctrinal) |
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| MIN538 Religions of the World |
3 |
| A careful study from the philosophical perspective of the great oriental religious systems and the more recent cults that have emerged from these systems. Comparisons and differences will be noted and their major influence upon their respective cultures will be assessed. Especially recommended for missionary candidates. (Historical/Doctrinal) |
| MIN540 Prophecy of Daniel |
3 |
| The course offers intensive insight into the book of Daniel from three points of view: historical and exegetical, prophetic and eschatological, homiletical and practical. Considerable time is spent exploring the Biblical text, directed in an attempt to develop creative group interpretation. (Biblical/Doctrinal) |
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| MIN541 Christian Theology I |
3 |
| A comprehensive study of the fundamental doctrines of the Judeo-Christian Scriptures from an evangelical Arminian viewpoint with other interpretations considered. Entails a study of theism, theology, cosmology, anthropology, hamartiology, and Christology. (Doctrinal) |
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| MIN542 Christian Theology II |
3 |
| A comprehensive study of the fundamental doctrines of the Judeo-Christian Scriptures from an evangelical Arminian viewpoint with other interpretations considered. Entails a study of soteriology, pneumatology, ecclesiology, and eschatology. (Doctrinal) |
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| MIN543 Theology of Holiness |
3 |
| A systematic study of the teachings of holiness derived from a study of the Judeo-Christian Scriptures, the writings of Jacobus Arminius, John Wesley, and other classical and contemporary holiness writers. (Doctrinal) |
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| MIN544 Cultural and Theological Trends of the Holiness Tradition |
3 |
| This course traces central themes of the holiness movement from the middle of the Nineteenth Century into the present time. This course is designed to be a selective study of certain themes such as process vs. crisis, the nature of sanctification in its experiential dimension, and the contours of the holiness movement vis-a-vis the larger evangelical movement. (Doctrinal/Historical) |
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| MIN545 Dimensions of Spirituality |
3 |
| In recent years, evangelicals have discovered various modes and disciplines of spirituality which originated outside the Protestant tradition. This course explores several "new" dimensions of spiritual life such as meditation, journaling, and fasting in the light of Biblical, philosophical, and practical concerns. The role of personal experience and reason in one's spiritual journey will be assessed. Special attention will be given to the unique challenges of developing the pastor's spiritual life. (Practical/Historical) |
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| MIN546 Cultivating a Congregational Vision |
3 |
| This course examines the several aspects of congregational guidance which converge into the overall vision and direction of that particular body. It gives attention to areas such as hiring of staff to assist with the vision, management toward specific objectives, public communication and vision, development of a model which unfolds the vision, and other related features of vision cultivation and management. (Practical) |
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| MIN547 Time Management and Lifestyle Strategies |
3 |
| This course explores various dimensions of management such as sequencing of tasks, time allotted to various projects, efficiency in the execution of tasks, and establishing a balance in time-use patterns. Specific analysis of time-use is incorporated into the theory of time management. (Practical) |
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| MIN548 Trinitarian Images of Family and Sexuality |
3 |
| This course contrasts biblical with ecclesial visions of human sexuality in a historical, theological, and biological study of urgent issues. It identifies Creation and Gospel images of wholeness and integrity which call all people to the highest and best vision of themselves "in the image of God, male and female." It offers specialization in recognizing, preventing, and rehabilitating through "class meeting" support for victims of sexual abuse, sexual addiction, and divorce. (Practical) |
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| MIN550 Emerging Strategies in Church Development |
3 |
| This course explores the second generation of the church growth movement with two essential purposes in mind. It first aims to discover those central elements of the original church growth movement which have endured beyond the incipient generation of the movement. Second, it aims to discover those principles of church growth which are unique to the current cultural mores and societal changes of today. (Practical) |
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| MIN551 Contemporary Religious Movements |
3 |
| This is a study of the teachings of the cults as traditionally understood, along with contemporary challenges to Christian faith and practice as found in transcendental meditation, EST, westernized Buddhism, and other forms of the East-West encounters. (Doctrinal) |
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| MIN552 Ancient Neareastern History |
3 |
| This course explores the world of the Ancient Near East to understand the context of the biblical narrative. Special attention will be given to Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the civilizations of the eastern Mediterranean, African, and Near Eastern cultures. This course emphasizes the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Palestine, and the eastern Mediterranean, and analyzes the origins and developments of the contemporary Middle East conflict. Special attention is directed to the Sumerians, Hittites, Egyptians, Persians, Assyrians, Phoenicians, and Hebrews. The contribution of each of these peoples to present day culture will be emphasized. This course's primary purpose is to teach students the history of these peoples and territories during the eras concurrent with the Old Testament accounts. Although modern developments and current boundaries, international conflicts, religions, and demographics are given attention in this course, there is no pretense to cover the history of these regions from 3,000 B.C. to A.D. 2,000. (Historical) |
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| MIN553 Cross-Cultural Ministry |
3 |
| This course is designed to expose students to cultures and cultural mores which are different from their own. Whether by intensive study or by direct exposures to another culture, it allows the student to experience the interfacing of culture with culture. (Practical) |
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| MIN555 Theological Classics |
3 |
| Careful examination of selected theological classics will provide a historical basis for approaching contemporary issues. May be repeated for credit. (Doctrinal/Historical) |
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| MIN556 Wesley's World and Vision |
3 |
| The examination of the course of religious history as John Wesley has contributed to it. The study investigates the doctrinal and experiential antecedents, the general historical period into which he came, his views, his activities, and his impact upon his time. (Doctrinal/Historical) |
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| MIN557 Reformation Theology |
3 |
| During the first half of the sixteenth century, Christianity witnessed the development of several significant theological traditions, generally characterized as "Protestant" along with the refinement of the Roman Catholic tradition which had dominated Europe for centuries. These various traditions provide an excellent panorama of the divergent understandings of the Christian faith that have persisted to the present time. In this course we will examine five major traditions and explore how each has contributed to the shaping of American Christianity and the Wesleyan Church in particular. By comprehending the key elements of these opposing theologies, we should be better equipped to understand and present our own. |
| MIN561 Research Methodology |
1 |
| A basic introduction to writing papers, finding and assessing sources, organizing material, documentation, and style. |
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| MIN562 The Pastor as a Person |
3 |
| This course is designed to focus on the psychological and sociological aspects of the pastor's life. It will deal with the inner world of the minister and seek to discover causal links between a pastor's inner balance and harmony and his outer productivity and focus. (Practical) |
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| MIN563 Power, Change, and Conflict Management |
3 |
| This course examines several theories of the nature of change and change management as they interface with church management and administration. The course particularly examines the nature of power structures within the congregation and how to facilitate constructive change while maintaining fidelity to the mission of the group. (Practical) |
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| MIN567 Communication in Ministry |
3 |
| This course surveys the full spectrum of communication patterns which are necessary to the smooth and positive flow of information within the ecclesiastical community. It examines both the psychological and sociological dimensions as these impact the nature of the Christian community's life and faith. Communication theory is related to actual church life. (Practical) |
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| MIN568 Church Leadership and Parliamentary Law |
3 |
| A study of the principles of management as they apply to the role of the pastor and other professional Christian workers in relation to local churches and other Christian institutions and organizations. Further, a study of approved procedure in deliberative assemblies based on Robert's Rules of Order, accompanied by drills calculated to fix the habit of active, correct, and effective participation in business meetings of any kind. (Practical) |
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| MIN570 Contemporary Ethical Issues |
3 |
| Offers biblical perspectives on contemporary ethical issues facing the church and ministry. Among the issues studied are abortion, capital punishment, euthanasia, sex, social responsibility of the church, and war. (Doctrinal) |
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| MIN571 Practicum |
5 |
| The student will choose one of several options in which to serve: hospital chaplaincy, clinical counseling, pastoral experience, or Christian education. Each of these will be under the supervision of a competent person in that area. |
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| MIN572 Marriage and Marital Counseling |
3 |
| A study of the techniques and goals of premarital counseling. The course will examine some of the tools available with a heavy emphasis on the Taylor-Johnson Temperament Analysis. Each student will role-play a typical marriage-counseling problem. (Practical) |
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| MIN574 Missions Seminar |
3 |
| Special study tours arranged to certain mission fields during scheduled breaks, May Term, or summer vacation periods with credit accordingly, or specialized courses taken in other departments of the university, such as Geopolitical, Sociology, or History courses in a specialized area or culture interest to the student. (Practical) |
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| MIN576 Skills and Practices in Counseling |
3 |
| A study of the interaction of theology and psychology with emphasis upon the task of counseling in ministry. Attention will be given to crisis counseling, terminal illness, and other life stresses. (Practical) |
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| MIN578 The Theological Underpinnings of Worship |
3 |
| Historical and theological examination of the varied forms and emphases of church ritual. Focus will be placed on communion, preaching, music, and religious symbolism in their role in the Sunday morning service. (Practical/Doctrinal) |
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| MIN579 Church and Society |
3 |
| The course focuses on the rapid proliferation of higher concentrated demographic centers in the world and the church's role in responding to the numerous changes that such shifts create for ministry. Specific attention is given to evangelism, follow-up, social care, and homelessness. (Doctrinal/Historical) |
| MIN580 Worship and Church Music |
3 |
| This course will trace the history of Christian music in an effort to set forth those characteristics of music which make it distinctively Christian. It will deal with the various genre of worship music and suggest ways for ascertaining the appropriateness of various lyrical and musical styles to the worship of God and the cultivation of spiritual formation. (Practical) |
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| MIN581 Thesis |
5 |
| A research-based treatment of a topic of interest to the student, under careful faculty supervision. |
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| MIN582 Urban Ministries |
3 |
| This course builds on the substantive literature describing the secular city of our day and seeks to extrapolate from this data the guidelines which are applicable to ministry in such urban centers. The course will involve actual visitation of urban ministry settings in order to observe the range of needs present in these population intensive regions. (Practical) |
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| MIN584 Independent Study |
1 - 3 |
| This course involves an independent study which the student arranges in consultation with the professor. It may focus on any selected area of study in the field of religion and philosophy. |
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| MIN586 Advanced Counseling |
3 |
| This course is an advanced counseling skills class with emphasis on dealing with difficult people. This course will go beyond listening and reflecting to the effective use of advanced counseling skills such as summarizing, immediacy, confrontation, limit setting, etc. This course will also help the pastor define personal and professional limits in counseling and give guidelines for determining when and how to refer. (Practical) |
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| MIN591 Project |
5 |
| An individually designed program accomplished primarily in the candidate's place of ministry. The written report will provide significant insight into the area explored. The project may have use primarily for the student and others interested in that area. |
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| MIN595 Thesis/Project Continuation |
0 |
| Continuation of the process of the research and preparation of a thesis or project. |
