Biblical and Religious Studies (B.A.)

Program Overview

The Biblical and Religious Studies major equips students to interpret biblical texts responsibly and to reflect on religious beliefs and practices. By acquiring tools for biblical interpretation, theological reflection, and religious understanding, students gain insight into their own faith as well as resources for becoming leaders, servants, and reconcilers in church and society. With its emphasis on the development of reading, writing, and critical-thinking skills, the major prepares students for entry-level positions in a variety of fields, as well as seminary or graduate school. In addition to serving students who pursue this major as their primary field, the Biblical and Religious Studies major serves as an excellent double major for students in other departments who wish to be responsible members of church and society.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates from Messiah’s Biblical and Religious Studies program:

1.    Develop skills necessary for interpreting and applying the biblical text responsibly by understanding the basic content and historical contexts of the Bible, and by utilizing appropriate interpretive methodologies.
2.    Construct and evaluate theological arguments within the historical and global contexts of Christian belief and practice.
3.    Analyze religious beliefs and practices and how they affect individuals and societies.
4.    Describe the church as a contextually situated body.
5.    Develop intercultural and contextual awareness by engaging the complex history and legacy of Christianity as a force for good and evil, including colonialism, white supremacy, and liberating responses.
6.    Write proficiently while engaging in scholarship, utilizing research methods, journal guidelines, and proper citation techniques.
7.    Evaluate one’s gifts, strengths, and limitations with respect to vocational options.

Major Requirements

Complete the following for your major:

Three credits from the following:

Three credits from the following:

Three credits from the following:

Three credits from the following:

Three credits from the following:

General Education Requirements