Program Overview
The Pre-Seminary Studies Minor at Concordia University Texas equips students with a deep understanding of Scripture, Christian theology, and ministry skills. Through a combination of coursework, hands-on experience, and small class sizes, the program prepares students for seminary or other ministry-related vocations, including pastoral ministry, non-profit work, and Christian education.
Program Outline
Pre-Seminary Studies Minor at Concordia University Texas
Degree Overview:
The Pre-Seminary Studies Minor at Concordia University Texas is designed for students who feel called to ministry in any capacity and want to deepen their knowledge of Scripture while pursuing other interests. The program emphasizes integrating Biblical studies into a liberal arts education, allowing students to minister to their peers and the surrounding communities.
Objectives:
- Deepen understanding of Scripture and Christian theology.
- Gain hands-on ministry experience.
- Develop leadership and communication skills.
- Prepare for seminary school or other ministry-related vocations.
Program Description:
The Pre-Seminary Studies Minor consists of 18 credit hours, including:
- Biblical Studies: Courses cover topics such as Old Testament Introduction, New Testament Introduction, and Biblical Interpretation.
- Theology: Courses explore topics such as Systematic Theology, Church History, and Christian Ethics.
- Ministry: Courses provide hands-on experience in ministry settings, such as preaching, teaching, and youth ministry.
Outline:
Year 1:
- Fall: Introduction to Biblical Studies, Introduction to Christian Theology
- Spring: Old Testament Introduction, New Testament Introduction
Year 2:
- Fall: Systematic Theology, Church History
- Spring: Christian Ethics, Ministry Practicum
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams: Tests and quizzes assess understanding of course material.
- Papers: Research papers and essays allow students to demonstrate their critical thinking and writing skills.
- Presentations: Students practice public speaking and communication skills through presentations.
- Ministry Practicum: Students receive feedback from supervisors on their ministry performance.
Teaching:
- Small class sizes: The program offers small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and interaction with professors.
- Experienced faculty: The program is taught by experienced faculty with expertise in biblical studies, theology, and ministry.
- Hands-on learning: The program emphasizes hands-on learning through ministry practicum and service opportunities.
Careers:
- Pastoral ministry: Prepare for roles as pastors, youth ministers, and other church leadership positions.
- Non-profit organizations: Work in non-profit organizations focused on social justice, education, or community development.
- Graduate studies: Pursue advanced theological studies at seminary or other graduate programs.
- Christian education: Teach in Christian schools or other educational settings.
- Other ministry-related vocations: Apply Christian values and leadership skills in various fields such as business, healthcare, or law.
Other:
- The program is designed to prepare students for both seminary and other ministry-related vocations.
- Students have opportunities to participate in service learning projects and mission trips.
- The program is open to students of all denominations.
