Certificate in Biblical and Theological Studies
Overview
The Certificate in Biblical and Theological Studies is a fully online program for anyone who desires to deepen their knowledge of God and his Word. This cost- and time-efficient certificate offers a foundational theological education that is fit for a wide range of students — including church lay leaders, church elders, and ministers without formal training.
The certificate program consists of six courses, including two courses that survey the Old and New Testament, a course on how to understand and interpret Scripture, and three theology courses. All required certificate courses are part of the Master of Arts and Master of Divinity degrees, meaning those wanting to see if a full seminary degree is for them can use this certificate as a “trial run” and apply their credits toward a master’s program.
Students can pursue this certificate online, on campus or a combination of the two.
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Why Pursue a Certificate at Talbot?
Deepen Your Knowledge of God and His Word. Dive into the Old and New Testaments, including each book’s history, genre, purpose and cultural background. Understand the basics of how to interpret and study the Scriptures. Examine the central doctrines of the Christian faith — from the theology of God to Christology to the atonement.
Enjoy the Flexibility of a Fully Online, Cost-Effective, Time-Efficient Program. You can
pursue this fully online program at your own pace and elect to take it online, on campus or as a mixture of both online and residential classes.
Learn from Talbot’s Reputable Faculty. All the courses in this certificate program are part of Talbot’s degree programs, meaning you’ll receive the same high-quality education and training from Talbot’s reputable professors — including scholar-practitioners who have edited and written popular books and Bible commentaries.
Take a “Test Drive” of a Talbot Master’s Program. Not sure whether to pursue a full degree? This certificate program gives you a taste of what Talbot’s academic degree programs can offer. Should you choose to continue, all of your required courses can be applied to a Master of Arts or Master of Divinity degree.
Courses
Below are the course requirements for this academic program. For full program details, visit Biola's academic catalog.
Core Courses
| TTBE 517 | Hermeneutics and Bible Study Methods |
| A study of principles or sound interpretation and application of the Bible, including analysis of presuppositions, general rules and specialized principles for the various biblical genre and phenomena and the development of an exegetical method. Notes: Required of M.Div. and M.A. students. Grade Mode: A. | |
| TTBE 519 | Old Testament Survey |
A broad survey of the Old Testament books, including selected introductory and critical issues, relevant background, major themes and divisions, and crucial problems. Notes: Required of M.Div. and M.A. students. Grade Mode: A. | |
| TTBE 520 | New Testament Survey |
A general overview of the New Testament books, including selected introductory and critical issues, relevant background, major themes and divisions, and crucial problems. Notes: Required of M.Div. and M.A. students. Grade Mode: A. | |
| TTTH 521 | Theology I: God, Scripture, Creation |
| An introduction to theology and theological method. Scripture, including inspiration and inerrancy. God, including his attributes and triune nature. God's work of creation, including God's eternal plan, the angels, and providence. Notes: Required of M.Div. and M.A. students.Grade Mode: A. | |
| TTTH 522 | Theology II: Christ, Humanity, Sin, Salvation |
| Humanity in the image of God, including human nature, the family, and civil government. The fall and the effect of sin upon humanity. The person and work of Christ. The nature and application of salvation, including regeneration, justification, and sanctification. Notes: Required of M.Div. and M.A. students.Grade Mode: A. | |
| TTTH 623 | Theology III: Spirit, Church, Last Things |
The person and work of the Holy Spirit. The inception and nature of the church, both as a living organism and an organization, its function, ordinances, and mission. The broad kingdom purpose of God, including Christ's second coming, the millennial reign of Christ, the resurrection of the dead, judgment, and the eternal state. Notes: Required of M.Div. and M.A. students. Grade Mode: A. | |