Major & Minors

Biblical Studies Major

A Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies is designed to provide in-depth study and preparation in Bible and related subjects. This major is intended for students who wish to pursue graduate studies in preparation for teaching or ministry or those who seek to gain a high proficiency in biblical studies. It contains additional methodology and content courses beyond the 30 credits of Bible required of all Northwestern students, as well as the opportunity to add a minor in Ancient & Classical Languages.

The biblical studies major equips students to:

• Effectively interpret Scriptures using original languages
• Construct a Christian worldview integrating biblical theology and critical scholarship
• Intelligently apply Christian theology to contemporary issues
• Adequately prepare for graduate-level work in biblical and/or theological studies

In addition to coursework, biblical studies majors can volunteer for service projects alongside B&TS faculty, be inducted into the national honor society (Theta Alpha Kappa), earn credits while studying in Israel, present a theological paper to their peers from neighboring Christian institutions, and get involved in local ministry.

Philosophy Major

A Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy is designed to develop capacities and desires for sustained and careful thinking about fundamental questions regarding the world and life and for extenteded critical conversation regarding others’ worldviews, the truth of basic beliefs, and logical relations between beliefs. It is also designed to develop a set of skills needed for these.

All of this is rooted in a background of historic Christian theology, in particular the basic truth that God is acting according to plan for his purpose in Christ. Students completing this major will, therefore, possess intellectual abilities important for life as a whole, beyond the knowledge and skills required for any particular profession. 

Ancient & Classical Languages Minor

For in-depth study of the Bible, it is vital to understand the original languages in which the Bible was written.The ancient & classical languages minor includes the study of Greek, classical Hebrew, classical Latin, biblical Aramaic and Egyptian Hieroglyphics.

Bible Minor

Junior or senior transfers may choose to complete these courses to earn a minor in Bible.

Philosophy Minor

Northwestern's philosophy minor covers ethics, critical thinking, logic and metaphysics. It addresses historical and contemporary views on philosophical questions, such as:

• Does God know the future?
• How could God be absolutely sovereign and people be free?
• Since there is evil, what sense can be made of the claim that “God is good”?

Associate of Arts and Bible

The Associate of Arts and Bible program is designed to prepare the graduate for transfer to an upper-level degree program at Northwestern or another institution.

Certificate in Bible

The Certificate in Bible is designed for those desiring concentrated training in the Word of God. The certificate in Bible is granted upon completion of the same Bible credits included in Northwestern College bachelor's degrees.

Graduate Studies

After graduation, students who want to take their biblical studies education to a higher level can pursue a Master of Arts in Theological Studies from Northwestern's Center for Graduate Studies.