ODP.BSCM - BS Christian Ministries (online)

Program Purpose and Student Learning Objectives

Purpose. The Christian Ministries Major provides an undergraduate knowledge base and foundational skills for careers in church and ministry organizations.

The Christian Ministries Major builds on Point University’s mission, values, and Core Curriculum (General Studies and Character Core) to accomplish the following student learning objectives:

Objective 1:   Students demonstrate awareness of the basic matters of critical introduction and historical background necessary to a proper understanding of the Old and New Testaments.

Objective 2:  Students apply appropriate methods of interpretation to the study, teaching, and preaching of the Old and New Testaments.

Objective 3:  Students demonstrate an understanding of New Testament concepts of ministry and the application of those principles in ministry environments.

Objective 4:  Students demonstrate an understanding of the requirements of leading or serving in a ministry environment.

Objective 5:   Students assess and utilize people’s individual strengths to form teams to accomplish the goals of a particular ministry.

Objective 6:  Students apply the central theological themes of the Old and New Testaments to current issues for teaching and preaching.

Objective 7:   Students apply biblical principles of worship in planning meaningful worship experiences.

Objective 8:  Students demonstrate an understanding of counseling principles and techniques appropriate for ministry settings, including referral.

Objective 9:  Students demonstrate an understanding of accounting and financial principles pertinent to church ministry.

Choosing a Character Core Track. Students who complete all courses in the Theological Track graduate with a Biblical Studies Minor. If students want to combine elements of both tracks while meeting the program learning objectives, they must complete one course in each numbered category in sequence. In other words, they must complete one course labeled [1], and then one course labeled [2], and then one course labeled [3], and then one course labeled [4], and then one course labeled [5]. For details, see the “Character Core” described under the “Biblical Studies Department.”

Recommended Course Sequence. As online students prepare to enter their program, academic advisors prepare a customized course schedule, or “plan of study,” mapping out which courses students should complete in which sessions from start to graduation. These customized plans take into account degree requirements, transfer credits, pace of study, and other factors toward the goal of speeding students to the finish line in the shortest time possible.