Bachelor of Arts
Biblical Studies Major
Counselling Ministry Focus
On Campus
Advisor:
Sheila Ginter, BA
The Counselling Ministry specialization is for students desiring to understand people and for developing skills in counselling people.
The program equips servant leaders with biblical foundations, an understanding of our world, and ministry focus areas. This program highlights spiritual formation and intercultural ministry experiences.
Lucienne's Story
“The biggest decision to come to SBC was solely based on that it was a solid Biblical foundation.
I wanted to get into some counseling. When I thought about the kind of person I wanted to be and develop, I realized that SBC would be something that would develop more than just my education, but myself as a person.
On Bible Study: It has mostly broadened my understanding and given me a deeper thirst to understand it. Wanting to dig into what it’s saying on a literal basis, but also in all the different kinds of literature.
Highlight: Community is the top. I’ve developed some really solid friendships here that I know I will stay connected to. From dorm life, to events like the retreat to Mission X. You just get to know people better... you’re living with them too, you’re eating with them and learning with them.
I think over the course of my life, I tend to put limitations on God based on my experience or my understanding. Mission X is one of those examples that broke open that box for me allowing me to see God in a bigger way. I’ve done lots of mission experiences before, so I wasn’t expecting a lot, and yet He blew the top off of it.
I definitely have a deep sense of respect for [SBC staff] because they are people that have learned a lot more, they have had a relationship with God for a lot longer than I have. So there’s a lot of wisdom there: I see them as a mentor to me.
Career & Ministry Opportunities
Graduates are servant leaders in their churches and communities working in ministry and leadership careers including:
- Proctor with Community Mental Health, Eden Mental Health Services, Envision Community Living
- Support Staff for adults with disabilities (ie: Envision Community Living)
- House Parent for ministries like Today House
- Support worker for homeless and safe-house shelters
- Community Outreach Worker (ie: for El’Dad Ranch)
- MCC programs like Restorative Justice, Voices for Non-Violence, etc.
- Congregational care ministries (ie: how to address things like grief & bereavement, depression, addictions, abuse, burnout with missionaries on furlough, etc.)
- Missions work in areas like human trafficking, abuse, addictions, etc.
- Mentoring ministry
- Support/respite staff for Child and Family Services
- House Manager for adults with disabilities (ie: Dasch Industries, Envision Community Living - additional training/education provided by the agency will be necessary)
Graduates may also go on to serve their communities in areas such as education, nursing, business, social work, TESOL, agriculture, and domestic life.
Some continue in Christian seminaries and graduate schools, university studies, or vocational training.
Counselling Ministry Focus Requirements
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CO201
Introduction to Counselling
An introductory study of counselling. This course examines theories and models of counselling in relation to biblical teaching, with an emphasis on practical application. (3 credits)
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CO301
Crisis Counselling
This course gives students the principles and methods for crisis intervention. A Christian counselling approach will inform topics including death, suicide, abuse, family crisis, divorce, and addictions. (3 credits)
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Counselling Focus Electives
Choose two of the following:
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SS201
Introduction to Psychology
An introduction to the principles, methods, language and major topics of the science of behaviour. Areas to be examined are biological foundations of behaviour, perception, learning, motivation, and emotions. (3 credits)
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SS203
Human Development
A basic overview of the human life cycle from conception to death with attention given to physical, emotional, social, cognitive and moral dynamics of development, and their implications for services to children, youth and adults. (3 credits)
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Counselling Topics (3 x 1cr)
Complete three one-credit-hour counselling topics courses.
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CO210
Counselling Topics
A study of specialized areas and topics in Counselling. May be a guided readings course. (1 credits)
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YO202
Directing Adolescent Spirituality
The course is designed to equip youth workers for effective Christian discipleship of youth & young adults. Students will examine a variety of discipleship models and the dynamics of faith formation resulting in the creation of a personal discipleship model and spiritual nurture plan. Upon completion of the course, students will be better able to create a long-term discipleship strategy for any youth ministry program in a church or para-church setting. (3 credits)
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Learning Outcomes
Counselling Ministry
- Possess an understanding of theories and skills for counselling ministry.
- Have the ability to engage in, and lead others in developing biblical responses to life issues.
- Apply the tools and techniques employed in helping persons to achieve greater potential.
- Develop skills in assisting youth and young adults in their spiritual development.
- Demonstrate the understanding and ability to handle crisis situations.
Biblical Studies
- Demonstrate foundational knowledge of the Bible and evangelical Anabaptist theology.
- Display competent biblical interpretation and practical application.
- Practice the spiritual disciplines necessary for a lifelong faith commitment.
- Develop critical thinking, researching, writing, and communication skills.
- Implement problem solving skills in interpersonal and intercultural contexts.
- Demonstrate servant leadership skills for ministry and work.
Program Requirements
Year One: Engage
Biblical & Theological Studies (12 credits)
BI105
Biblical Interpretation
After a brief historical overview of the interpretation of the Bible in the Church, the key principles of interpretation are studied through their application to a variety of biblical texts. The course is designed to prepare students for exegesis courses as well as giving them the tools for doing inductive Bible interpretation. (3 credits)
This course is scheduled to be available online for the following semesters:
- 2020-2021 Semester 1 (Sep 14, 2020)
- 2021-2022 Summer (May 3, 2021)
- 2021-2022 Summer (May 3, 2021)
- 2021-2022 Summer (May 3, 2021)
- 2022-2023 Summer (May 2, 2022)
- 2023-2024 Summer Online (May 8, 2023)
- 2024-2025 Summer (May 6, 2024)
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BI111
Introduction to the Bible: Old Testament
An introductory study of the historical and geographical background of the Old Testament and an overview of major themes developed within the various sections of the Old Testament. (3 credits)
This course is scheduled to be available online for the following semesters:
- 2020-2021 Semester 1 (Sep 14, 2020)
- 2021-2022 Semester 1 (Sep 13, 2021)
- 2022-2023 Semester 1 (Sep 12, 2022)
- 2023-2024 Semester 1 (Sep 11, 2023)
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BI121
Introduction to the Bible: New Testament
An introductory study of the historical and cultural background of the New Testament and an overview of major emphases of each book within the New Testament. (3 credits)
This course is scheduled to be available online for the following semesters:
- 2019-2020 Summer (May 4, 2020)
- 2020-2021 Semester 2 (Jan 11, 2021)
- 2021-2022 Semester 2 (Jan 10, 2022)
- 2022-2023 Semester 2 (Jan 16, 2023)
- 2023-2024 Semester 2 (Jan 15, 2024)
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TH132
Introduction to Christian Theology
An introduction to Christian theology through its disciplines, conversations, and applications to ministry. Reflection on major Christian doctrines including God, creation, sin, Scripture, Jesus Christ, salvation, the Holy Spirit, the Church, and last things. (3 credits)
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Arts & Sciences (6 credits)
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Communications Elective
Choose from the following courses:
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EN111
English Literature and Composition I
An introduction to the critical analysis of English Literature in the genres of novel, short story and poetry. This course will focus on two objectives: to develop skills in becoming a thoughtful, analytical reader and a clear, articulate writer. (3 credits)
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EN212
English Literature: Faith and Fiction
This course is an introduction to the critical analysis of English Literature selected from the genres of novel, short story, and poetry. This course focuses on two objectives: to develop skills in becoming a thoughtful, analytical reader, and a clear, articulate writer in response to literature written from a Christian faith perspective. (3 credits)
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FA271
Christianity and Imagination
A survey of the arts in the western world and a study of the relationship between Christians and culture. The course will provide students with a perceptual framework for evaluating various artistic traditions such as painting, sculpture, architecture, film, theatre, literature, music and dance. Class work will involve interaction with representative works. (3 credits)
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HU202
Art of Persuasion
This course will provide a space of learning where students will unbox some of the styles and techniques of rhetoric used to convince and persuade people in order that they may understand and interpret the world around them, and in the process, become better at communicating their own ideas and convictions. (3 credits)
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WA222
Drama Production
Students, under the direction of the drama faculty, rehearse and present a major drama. This class is responsible for all aspects of the drama, such as acting, props and set. (3 credits)
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Interpersonal Elective
Choose one of the following courses:
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SS223
Interpersonal Processes
This course helps develop the skills to communicate effectively in interpersonal, group, and intercultural contexts, and to learn to approach conflict in transformative ways. (3 credits)
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SS225
Marriage and Family
A study of the family in contemporary society. The course includes topics like the nature of the family, sexuality, love, relationship building, weddings, parenting, birth order, and divorce/remarriage. While the course has a significant theoretical component, it also provides practical elements to help students reflect on their own families of origin and their own relational contexts. (3 credits)
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Professional Studies (14 credits)
CM101
Ministry 1: Introduction to Ministry
(3 credits)
This course is scheduled to be available online for the following semesters:
- 2020-2021 Semester 2 (Jan 11, 2021)
- 2022-2023 Semester 2 (Jan 16, 2023)
- 2023-2024 Semester 1 (Sep 11, 2023)
- 2024-2025 Summer (May 6, 2024)
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CM114
Spiritual Formation
This course seeks to help us better understand how spiritual formation takes place, while examining some of the key spiritual disciplines and faith traditions that provide some strong moorings for Christian spirituality today. (3 credits)
This course is scheduled to be available online for the following semesters:
- 2021-2022 Semester 1 (Sep 13, 2021)
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Focus/Minor or Open Elective
Choose any 3 credits. (3 credits)
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Open Electives
Choose any 5 credits. (5 credits)
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Service Learning (2 units)
Complete 2 units of Service Learning - non-academic credit.
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SM100
Service Learning
Service Learning involves a practical field experience, which supplements and applies regular classroom study. In order to gain one non-academic unit, a student must successfully complete the equivalent of ten Service Learning assignments (or 20 hours of ministry) per semester in a ministry mutually agreed upon by the student and their Faculty Advisor. (0 credits)
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Year Two: Establish
Biblical & Theological Studies (12 credits)
BI221
Life and Teachings of Jesus
A study of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ as presented in the first three Gospels, with an inductive study of one of the Gospels. Current literary and historical approaches to the gospel narratives will be examined. (3 credits)
This course is scheduled to be available online for the following semesters:
- 2021-2022 Semester 1 (Sep 13, 2021)
- 2022-2023 Semester 1 (Sep 12, 2022)
- 2023-2024 Summer Online (May 8, 2023)
- 2023-2024 Semester 2 (Jan 15, 2024)
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OT Prophets Elective
Choose one of the following courses:
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BI215
OT Prophets: Hosea - Malachi
A study of the prophets from Hosea to Malachi, identifying who the prophets were, where and when they lived, and the nature of their writings. Select passages will be exegeted. (3 credits)
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BI411
OT Prophets: Isaiah
(3 credits)
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BI412
OT Prophets: Jeremiah
(3 credits)
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NT Bible Elective
Choose one of the following courses:
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BI223
NT History: Acts
The book of Acts will be studied to understand the formation and expansion of the early church. Major themes are the work of the Spirit, Christian witness, leadership, and the life and ministry of Paul. (3 credits)
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BI225
NT Letters: Galatians - Philemon
(3 credits)
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TH232
Theology of God, Prayer, and Community
(3 credits)
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Arts & Sciences (12 credits)
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English Literature Elective
Choose one of the following courses:
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EN111
English Literature and Composition I
An introduction to the critical analysis of English Literature in the genres of novel, short story and poetry. This course will focus on two objectives: to develop skills in becoming a thoughtful, analytical reader and a clear, articulate writer. (3 credits)
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EN212
English Literature: Faith and Fiction
This course is an introduction to the critical analysis of English Literature selected from the genres of novel, short story, and poetry. This course focuses on two objectives: to develop skills in becoming a thoughtful, analytical reader, and a clear, articulate writer in response to literature written from a Christian faith perspective. (3 credits)
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HU222
Anabaptist History
A study of the origin, development and spread of the Anabaptist movement, with special emphasis on history, doctrine and biography. (3 credits)
This course is scheduled to be available online for the following semesters:
- 2021-2022 Semester 1 (Sep 13, 2021)
- 2021-2022 Summer (May 3, 2021)
- 2022-2023 Summer (May 2, 2022)
- 2022-2023 Semester 2 (Jan 16, 2023)
- 2023-2024 Semester 1 (Sep 11, 2023)
- 2024-2025 Summer (May 6, 2024)
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HU272
Ethics
An introduction to ethical thinking and ethical systems. A study of biblical principles of right and wrong and their applications to current social and personal issues. (3 credits)
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World Cultures Elective
Choose from the following courses:
HU241
World Religions
(3 credits)
This course is scheduled to be available online for the following semesters:
- 2019-2020 Semester 2 (Jan 6, 2020)
- 2020-2021 Semester 1 (Sep 14, 2020)
- 2022-2023 Semester 2 (Jan 16, 2023)
- 2023-2024 Semester 1 (Sep 11, 2023)
- 2024-2025 Summer (May 6, 2024)
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HU231
Introduction to Philosophy
An examination of deeper human thinking in its endeavour to provide answers to the questions of life, reality, society and God. Historical development and modern trends, as well as methods and systems, will be explored and critically evaluated from the standpoint of the Christian faith. (3 credits)
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SS211
Cultural Anthropology
An introduction to cultural and social anthropology designed to raise awareness of local culture, the dynamics of cultural change, and the contribution anthropology can make to cross-cultural communication. Through the course, the student is introduced to doing basic anthropological research. (3 credits)
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HU212
Greek I
An introductory course in the basic elements of New Testament Greek, with emphasis on grammar and vocabulary, as well as rudimentary reading and analysis of selected passages from the Greek New Testament. (3 credits)
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HU213
Greek II
A continuation of the study of the basic elements of New Testament Greek, with emphasis on grammar and vocabulary, as well as rudimentary reading and analysis of selected passages from the Greek New Testament. (3 credits)
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Professional Studies (8 credits)
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CM201
Ministry 2: Intercultural Ministry
(3 credits)
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Focus/Minor or Open Elective
Choose any 3 credits. (3 credits)
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Open Electives
Choose any 2 credits. (2 credits)
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Service Learning (2 units)
Complete 2 units of Service Learning - non-academic credit.
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SM100
Service Learning
Service Learning involves a practical field experience, which supplements and applies regular classroom study. In order to gain one non-academic unit, a student must successfully complete the equivalent of ten Service Learning assignments (or 20 hours of ministry) per semester in a ministry mutually agreed upon by the student and their Faculty Advisor. (0 credits)
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Year Three: Equip
Biblical & Theological Studies (9 credits)
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OT Bible Elective (Year 3)
Choose one of the following courses:
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BI214
OT Wisdom Literature
A course dealing with the characteristic forms of wisdom literature in the Old Testament. Selections from Job, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes will be studied. (3 credits)
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BI312
OT Poetry: Psalms
A study of the interpretation & origins of the Psalms as well as their inspiration and application today. (3 credits)
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NT Bible Elective (Year 3)
Choose one of the following courses:
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BI421
NT Gospels: John
(3 credits)
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BI321
NT Letters: Romans
(3 credits)
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TH332
Theology of Jesus, Discipleship, and Community
A theological study of Jesus Christ and discipleship in the Anabaptist, evangelical, and Christian traditions. Examines themes such as the person and work of Christ, salvation, and last things with special attention to discipleship in Christian community. (3 credits)
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Arts & Sciences (9 credits)
HU22-
Christian History Elective
Choose from the following courses:
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HU225
Christian History I: Early-1650
A study of the historical development of catholic Christianity primarily in the Mediterranean and Europe, from the first century to the Reformations. Emphasis on churches, discipleship, theology, institutions, culture, traditions, conflicts, and renewals. (3 credits)
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HU226
Christian History: 1650-present
A study of the historical development of Christianity in Europe, North America, and globally from the Enlightenment to the present. Emphasis on the expansion and adaptation of Christianity through engagement with cultures, renewals, and missions, resulting in the global Church today. (3 credits)
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HU221
Christian History
This course will explore the important questions and issues the Church has faced from the time of Christ to the present. By listening to the historic Christian community, students will develop a foundation for faithfully representing the Church’s worship, discipleship, and mission today. (3 credits)
This course is scheduled to be available online for the following semesters:
- 2021-2022 Semester 1 (Sep 13, 2021)
- 2022-2023 Semester 1 (Sep 12, 2022)
- 2023-2024 Summer Online (May 8, 2023)
- 2023-2024 Semester 2 (Jan 15, 2024)
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HU228
History of Christian Worship
(3 credits)
This course is scheduled to be available online for the following semesters:
- 2019-2020 Semester 2 (Jan 6, 2020)
- 2020-2021 Semester 2 (Jan 11, 2021)
- 2022-2023 Semester 2 (Jan 16, 2023)
- 2023-2024 Semester 1 (Sep 11, 2023)
- 2024-2025 Summer (May 6, 2024)
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Integrative Studies
Choose a course from the following:
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FA271
Christianity and Imagination
A survey of the arts in the western world and a study of the relationship between Christians and culture. The course will provide students with a perceptual framework for evaluating various artistic traditions such as painting, sculpture, architecture, film, theatre, literature, music and dance. Class work will involve interaction with representative works. (3 credits)
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HU231
Introduction to Philosophy
An examination of deeper human thinking in its endeavour to provide answers to the questions of life, reality, society and God. Historical development and modern trends, as well as methods and systems, will be explored and critically evaluated from the standpoint of the Christian faith. (3 credits)
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HU236
Faith and Doubt
This course will explore the tension between faith in God as expressed in the Bible and the loss of faith that many people encounter in the church and in the broader culture. The issues that give rise to Christian doubts will be addressed using a multi-dimensional apologetic. (3 credits)
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HU274
Pop Culture
(3 credits)
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HU373
Faith and Science
(3 credits)
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Social Sciences Elective
Choose from the following courses:
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SS201
Introduction to Psychology
An introduction to the principles, methods, language and major topics of the science of behaviour. Areas to be examined are biological foundations of behaviour, perception, learning, motivation, and emotions. (3 credits)
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SS223
Interpersonal Processes
This course helps develop the skills to communicate effectively in interpersonal, group, and intercultural contexts, and to learn to approach conflict in transformative ways. (3 credits)
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SS203
Human Development
A basic overview of the human life cycle from conception to death with attention given to physical, emotional, social, cognitive and moral dynamics of development, and their implications for services to children, youth and adults. (3 credits)
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SS204
Educational Psychology
A study of psychological principles applied to the educational process including theories of learning, and evaluation of the learning process. The course will introduce the skills necessary to develop lesson plans and curriculum that reflects a philosophy of Christian education appropriate to various learning styles and educational models including public, private, and home. (3 credits)
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SS211
Cultural Anthropology
An introduction to cultural and social anthropology designed to raise awareness of local culture, the dynamics of cultural change, and the contribution anthropology can make to cross-cultural communication. Through the course, the student is introduced to doing basic anthropological research. (3 credits)
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SS221
Sociology
An introduction to the basic concepts and methods of sociological investigation and interpretation. Topics for analysis will include associations and institutions, social structure, social processes and social change. (3 credits)
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SS224
Conflict Resolution
This course is an overview to the field of peace and conflict studies introducing theories, key terms, concepts, and skills related to conflict, justice, peace, and conflict resolution. Students will discover and develop their own conflict styles and learn introductory skills for dealing with conflict on an interpersonal level. Students will practice peacemaking in on-campus conflict situations. (3 credits)
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SS225
Marriage and Family
A study of the family in contemporary society. The course includes topics like the nature of the family, sexuality, love, relationship building, weddings, parenting, birth order, and divorce/remarriage. While the course has a significant theoretical component, it also provides practical elements to help students reflect on their own families of origin and their own relational contexts. (3 credits)
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SS271
Urban Social Issues: People, Problems, and Policy
The course will expand the student's knowledge, skills, and understanding of social issues that impact individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations. Particular attention will be given to the analysis and evaluation of what society can do to further impact these problems. Social issues to be explored include, but are not limited to, the changing nature of the family, education, health and illness, drug use, sexual behaviour, inequality, and the economy. (3 credits)
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Professional Studies (14 credits)
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International Ministry or Discipleship and Evangelism
Choose one of the following courses:
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CM301
Ministry 3: International Ministry
(3 credits)
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CM214
Discipleship and Evangelism
This course will examine the meaning and practice of biblical evangelism in the process of Christian discipleship. Students will study how evangelism and mentoring work together in and through the people and the ministries of local churches. (3 credits)
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Leadership Elective
Choose one of the following courses:
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CM312
Leadership Principles
This course is focused on providing students with an understanding of what it means to be a leader and an introduction to leadership within church ministries. Each student will develop their own philosophy of leadership based upon research, class notes, biblical studies, and assigned readings. The course will also explore some models of leadership as practiced by the church & society. (3 credits)
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CM202
Experiential Leadership
(3 credits)
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CM304
Servant Leadership Seminar II
(1 credits)
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Focus/Minor or Open Electives
Choose any 6 credits. (6 credits)
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Open Electives
Choose any 1 credit. (1 credits)
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Service Learning (1 unit)
Complete 1 unit of Service Learning - non-academic credit.
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SM100
Service Learning
Service Learning involves a practical field experience, which supplements and applies regular classroom study. In order to gain one non-academic unit, a student must successfully complete the equivalent of ten Service Learning assignments (or 20 hours of ministry) per semester in a ministry mutually agreed upon by the student and their Faculty Advisor. (0 credits)
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Total Requirements (96 credits)
Course is available to be taken online.
