Online Associate of Arts degree

Online Associate of Arts degree

This two-year program is, first, for students who desire some study in a biblical framework but plan to pursue a collegiate major not offered at Welch College. It provides a solid basis for biblical study plus a core of general education that should provide a good foundation for transferring to another college.

Second, some students who sense no call to full-time Christian service and do not desire a four-year college degree still wish to attend a Bible College for the sake of general biblical knowledge and personal spiritual growth. For such students, this program provides a good foundation for general, lay ministry in a local church.

The Associate of Arts degree may be earned entirely online.

All graduates of this program should be able to:

• develop a broad comprehension of biblical teaching, reflected in Christian character and a Christian worldview;
• demonstrate competency on the basis of reading, writing and speaking;
• develop foundational skills in personal and social relationships

Requirements

62 hours, with a C average (2.0 g.p.a.) in all components of the degree and overall.

Sample Core Courses

BIB 1100. INTRODUCTION TO BIBLICAL STUDIES – Provides a basic introduction to principles foundational for Biblical study. The course examines the doctrines of inspiration and canon and discusses principles of Biblical interpretation as well as transmission and translation of the Biblical text. It also provides necessary Biblical background information for the student including geography, chronology, history, culture, and doctrinal development. BIB 1250. EVANGELISM AND DISCIPLESHIP – A Biblical study of the basics of the Christian life, designed to help students understand what it means to be Christ’s disciple, with primary attention given to such things as authenticity, cost, and the rewards of discipleship. Substantial time is spent discussing the methods, message, and means of personal evangelism, including the memorization of useful Biblical passages and attention to typical errors and difficulties faced by soul-winners. Other key topics include the disciple’s conversion, spirituality, worship, integrity, speech, thought life, stewardship, and witness. IDS 1001. LEADERSHIP AND CALLING: PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT – This course will explore the interconnection of Christian virtue with the cultivation of responsible leadership. Emphasis will be given to such topics as lifelong learning, spiritual formation, self-management (including, e.g., time management and personal financial management), problem-solving, and personal and professional etiquette. IDS 1902 CHRISTIANITY, CULTURE, AND WORLDVIEW – This course will focus on the critical tools and knowledge necessary to forge a basic Christian worldview for Christian leadership in the contemporary world. Each course will cover the same topics but at basic, intermediate, and advanced levels, including such subjects as the relationship of the church and culture; cultural apologetics; apologetics for witness; modernity and postmodernity; Christian discernment in the arts, entertainment, and other cultural products, including popular culture; work, leisure, and sport; the benefits and limits of science and technology; contemporary bioethical issues; creation care; engagement in public and civic life; and economic thought. NOTE: Online courses are designed for non-traditional, adult students. This means that applicants must be at least 23 years old. Underage students may submit a written appeal for an exception to take online courses. Appeals are based on extenuating circumstances such as health-related problems (the student or a family member for whom the student is the caretaker), physical disabilities that preclude traditional enrollment, or military service obligations that prevent traditional enrollment. Appeals that are granted for such reasons may result in the student being permitted to enroll in one or two courses and a periodic evaluation of progress. Written appeals should be submitted to the Provost at gketteman@welch.edu or by U.S. Mail to: Provost Welch College 3606 West End Avenue Nashville, TN 37205