Courses List

Using the study area buttons below find detailed information about the courses being offered. *Note: Not all courses are offered each academic year.

If you have questions about any of the courses please contact Academic Services.

Study Areas

Biblical Studies

Develop skills and methods for engaging in sound and thoughtful interpretation of the Bible for use in ministry or mission settings or as a firm foundation for a variety of careers in the marketplace.

BLST 601 Old Testament Survey

The Old Testament describes the nature, character, and actions of God as he creates, is rejected, and then graciously pursues his creation through covenant, temple, kingship, prophet, and other means. This course surveys the historical context, literary styles and genres, and theological themes of the books of the Old Testament. Students will also be introduced to a number of methodological perspectives, including historical-critical, rhetorical, literary, and canonical.

BLST 602 Introduction to Biblical Interpretation

BLST 606 New Testament Survey

The New Testament consists of numerous types of literature, and reflects the activities, beliefs and teachings of Jesus and his followers. This course explores the historical context, literary styles and theological themes of each of the books of the New Testament, and of the New Testament as a whole, with the goal of applying these texts to our Christian discipleship and ministry. The course also introduces students to select critical methods of New Testament study, observing the strengths and weakness of each approach.

BLST 610 Pentateuch

BLST 620 Pauline Epistles

A study of the key themes in the letters of Paul, especially as these relate to his Jewish heritage and Greco-Roman context. The study will include careful analysis of the biblical text as well as critical engagement with the methods and perspectives of leading Pauline scholars. Special attention will be given to a range of issues that have significance for the church including church leadership, the role of women in ministry, the work of the Spirit, and the use of the Jewish scriptures as a frame of reference for Christian life.

BLST 627 Pastoral Epistles: Studies in New Testament Church Leadership

BLST 701 Advanced Hermeneutics

An examination of current issues in hermeneutics, including the problem of meaning, presuppositions behind pre-modern, modern, and postmodern methodologies, and an introduction to major critical methodologies in biblical studies. Students will gain wide exposure to how the Bible has been studied in the last two centuries and gain practice in applying these methods to select texts.

BLST 714 Psalms: The Poetry of Prayer

An introduction to major genres and literary and theological dimensions of the Psalms. We will consider the psalms in their ancient Israelite context, their prefiguring of the ministry, sufferings, and vindication of that greater Davidic King, Jesus Christ, and the application of both laments and hymns to modern disciples of Christ.

BLST 715 Old Testament Wisdom Literature

An introduction to the interpretation of Old Testament wisdom literature. This course will focus on ancient Israelite wisdom as a life skill in church settings (Proverbs), how to minister to those suffering in inexplicable ways (Job), and how Ecclesiastes' theme of 'vanity' provides a way to engage with God's gifts of life and work.

Note: Students with credit for BLST 615 Where Can Wisdom Be Found may not take this course for credit.

BLST 717 The Former Prophets: Joshua through Kings

BLST 719 The Latter Prophets

BLST 721 Studies in the Gospel of Matthew

Early in the church's history, Matthew's Gospel became the place to turn to encounter Jesus' teaching and his mission. This course offers an introduction to contemporary Matthean scholarship and to the critical study of the Gospels, but focuses on a close reading of Matthew's Gospel itself. Special attention will be devoted to the theology that emerges from this Gospel and to its importance for the church today.

BLST 722 Studies in the Gospel of Luke

In recognition of Luke's unique contribution as a literary artist, historian, and theologian, this course aims to provide a forum for analysis and discussion of his distinct treatment of the story of Jesus and his followers. Such an undertaking will entail serious engagement with the biblical text, a critical evaluation of the methods and views of leading scholars of Luke-Acts, and a consideration of how Luke challenges us to become faithful disciples of Jesus.

BLST 723 Sermon on the Mount

BLST 725 The Acts of the Apostles

In recognition of Luke's unique contribution as a literary artist, historian, and theologian, this course provides a forum for study of his vivid account of emergence the nascent Christ-believing community. Special attention will be given to the Jewish heritage and Greco-Roman context out of which this group emerged. The study will include serious engagement with the biblical text, critical evaluation of the methods and views of leading scholars of Luke-Acts, and a consideration of how the book of Acts can inform the beliefs and practices of the contemporary church.

BLST 728 Hebrews: The Supremacy of Christ

BLST 729 Revelation: Jesus' Letter to the Church

In a world that has become increasingly unstable, the message of Revelation is more relevant than ever. Revelation begins with an important promise about what is to follow: "Blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it" (1:3). But how can we respond to its message if we do not understand it? What exactly is the message of the book of Revelation? To answer this question we examine the genre of Revelation and its likely function, and carefully consider the merit and implications of various approaches to interpretation, including futurist (dispensationalist), preterist, historicist, and idealist approaches.

BLST 801 Jewish Backgrounds to Early Christianity

BLST 805 Scripture and Theological Interpretation

This course examines what it means to confess that scripture is the Word of God and is authoritative in all matters of faith and life. Through advanced study in the doctrine of scripture and its theological interpretation, students are exposed to the most influential schools of thought in contemporary theology.

Cross-listed: THEO 805 Scripture and Theological Interpretation

BLST 817 Old Testament Specialty

BLST 825 Romans

BLST 849 New Testament Specialty

BLST 891 MABLE Comprehensive Exam

Christian Ministry

CM 600 Spiritual Formation for Ministry

An exploration of the theology of Christian life and spiritual formation through attention to the biblical theme of union with Christ. Students will also examine the formation of Christian character, as well as the rationale for and practice of spiritual disciplines. (When this course is taken on campus, it culminates in a 24-hour retreat.)

CM 608 Experiential Ministry: MCM and MDiv

This course is an extended ministry experience under the direction of a church or para-church mentor that is designed to further the development of the skills and knowledge necessary for effective ministry. The student may pursue this ministry experience within his/her own home church/organization or seek placement in a new ministry context. This course requires direct ministry experience and typically is taken over at least two semesters of study (eight months), with the preference being ten months, if possible. Note: CM 608 and CM 609 are designed to be taken together for a total of 6 credit hours.

CM 609 Experiential Ministry: MCM and MDiv

CM 621 Theology of Mission and Evangelism

An exploration of some recent thinking about both the centrality and the nature of mission in the teaching of the Scriptures, and an opportunity to reflect on the relevance of a biblically faithful theology of mission for the church's obedience to Christ in our contemporary world. Cross-listed: THEO 621 Theology of Mission and Evangelism

CM 626 Teaching and Learning for Discipleship

This course provides a vision for Christian Education in the life and mission of the church and seeks to understand some of its major challenges today. Drawing from key passages in scripture and the wider field of educational theory, learners will develop a biblical theology for CE and discipleship, be familiar with some key pedagogical theorists, reflect on the character of the teacher, study Jesus' model of teaching, experiment with and evaluate different creative teaching approaches. The goal is to build strong theological and educational foundations for effective CE and discipleship in church and mission.

CM 632 Homiletics

CM 641 Theology of Christian Worship

CM 661 Issues in Ministry Leadership

CM 701 Pastoral Theology and Practice

This course explores the many dimensions of pastoral ministry from a biblical standpoint, with the goal of equipping students to function effectively as pastoral leaders within the contemporary culture. This course covers issues such as planning, scheduling, dealing with the expectations of others, administering the sacraments, performing weddings and funerals, functioning effectively with church staff (paid and volunteer), handling conflict and criticism, avoiding burnout, and other day-to-day aspects of the ministry.

CM 708 Experiential Ministry: MCM and MDiv

This course is an extended Experiential Ministry (EM) carried forward under the direction of a previous or new Ministry Mentor (MM) that is designed to further the development of the skills and knowledge necessary for effective ministry. The student may pursue this ministry experience within his/her own home church/organization or seek placement in a new ministry context. This course requires direct ministry experience and typically is taken over at least two semesters of study (eight months), with the preference being ten months, if possible. Note: CM 708 and CM 709 are designed to be taken together for a total of 6 credit hours.

Prerequisite: Completion of 6 credit hours of study in addition to the completion of CM 608/609 Experiential Ministry, as well as acceptance into the MCM or MDiv program.

CM 709 Experiential Ministry: MCM and MDiv

Prerequisite: Completion of 6 credit hours of study in addition to the completion of CM 608/609 Experiential Ministry, as well as acceptance into the MCM or MDiv program.

CM 720 Approaches in Supporting Clergy Well-Being

This course will focus on the unique features of vocational and multi-vocational ministry and its impact on the spiritual, psychological, social, and physical well-being of the clergy person and their family members. This course will also consider how various caregivers, educators, and leaders can support and enhance clergy well-being, both before and after issues arise. Cross-listed: CO 720 Approaches in Supporting Clergy Well-Being

CM 730 Church Planting and Development

CM 732 Advanced Preaching

An investigation of recent sermon development models in order to add variety and creativity to biblical preaching ministries. Students will discuss recent trends and issues in preaching and will be guided in developing and practicing a basic theology of creativity, especially in relation to preaching.

Prerequisite: CM 632 Homiletics (or approval of Program Coordinator). Students with credit for CM 835 Advanced Preaching may not take this course for credit.

CM 734 Dynamics of Small Church Ministry

CM 814 Ministry Issues in Contemporary Culture

This course will appraise significant theological, missiological and methodological trends and shifts in evangelical ministry in North America. An examination and evaluation of current literature and models of evangelical church and parachurch ministry will also be included. Specific topics and methods of instruction will vary by the instructor's background and ministry expertise.

CM 819 Christian Ministry Specialty

CM 820 Preaching Specialty

CM 832 Contemporary Issues in Preaching

An exploration of a current issue in preaching as addressed by the Evangelical Homiletics Society in its annual conference in mid-October. Students will be guided in their interaction with the papers presented (whether they attend in person or access them from the EHS website). An Associate Membership in EHS is required.

Prerequisite: CM 632 Homiletics (or approval of Program Coordinator)

Counselling

CO 603 Foundations of Marriage and Family Therapy

CO 606 Marriage and Family Therapy

CO 703 Counselling Problems and Procedures

CO 705 Counselling Ethics

CO 707 Procedures in Marriage and Family Therapy

This course takes the marriage and family model of understanding people and relationships and applies it to specific behavioural and relational issues, with a concentration on those issues related to working with families. The focus is on counselling practices, especially the use of questions in the context of family meetings that can help families and individual family members experience change toward health.

Prerequisite: CO 603 Foundations of Marriage and Family Therapy

CO 710 Crisis and Grief Counselling

CO 712 Interpersonal Trauma Counselling

This course will explore the familial and cultural narratives that shape the context in which abusive relationships and trauma are experienced. Contemporary issues like family violence, sexual trauma, spiritual abuse, and professional misconduct involving sexual abuse will set the backdrop for the class discourse. Clinical interventions considered will reflect systemic perspectives and trauma-informed therapy.

Prerequisite: CO 603 Foundations of Marriage and Family Therapy or permission of the professor.

CO 713 Topics in Marriage and Family Therapy

This course focuses on advanced family systems theories and interventions. Students will have the opportunity to gain substantive understanding of specific systems theories and the specialized applied practices related to these theories.

Prerequisite: CO 603 Foundations of Marriage and Family Therapy or permission of the professor.

CO 714 Counselling Systems and Approaches

This survey course looks at a variety of current approaches to counselling and psychotherapy. It includes an extensive survey of systemic approaches, including the influence of postmodern ideas on this work. The course is intended to provide a broad background in systemic approaches for students of counselling and for others interested in the theological, philosophical, and technical bases of systems theory.

CO 717 Group Counselling Strategies

CO 720 Approaches in Supporting Clergy Well-Being

CO 790 Counselling Practicum I

This practicum will focus on the person of the counselor through the experiential integration of counselling skills and concepts into each student's natural way of being. Qualities of highly effective counsellors will be highlighted and gifts within the student explored.

Prerequisite: CO 603 Foundations of Marriage and Family Therapy, CO 703 Counselling Problems and Procedures, and CO 705 Counselling Ethics.

CO 791 Counselling Practicum II

CO 800 Counselling Internship (Non-credit)

The internship course provides students in the Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy program with a context to gain professional counselling experience and receive clinical supervision. The internship course includes a combination of counselling and supervision hours in your clinical setting, along with seminars and assignments within the classroom setting. The counselling internship is a 600-hour internship. Within the required 600 hours, students must provide a minimum of 300-hours of direct counselling and 60-hours of supervision from a qualified supervisor. The remaining 240-hours are typically comprised of case planning, documentation, training, and other various internship related tasks.

Prerequisite: To register for Internship, students must have completed Practicum I and II with a final mark no lower than a ‘B’ in both and have approval from the Counselling Department Head. Also, the internship venue and clinical supervisor must be approved

CO 801 Counselling Internship (Non-credit)

The internship course provides students in the Master of Counselling program with a context to gain professional counselling experience and receive clinical supervision. The internship course includes a combination of counselling and supervision hours in a clinical setting, along with seminars and assignments within the classroom setting. The counselling internship is a 300-hour internship. Within the required 300-hours, students must provide a minimum of 150-hours of direct counselling and 30-hours of supervision from a qualified supervisor. The remaining 120-hours are typically comprised of case planning, documentation, training, and other various internship related tasks.

CO 819 Counselling Specialty

CO 899 External Counselling Training - Independent Study

This course is an independent study (IS) built on the successful completion of counselling training offered by an external body. In consultation with the Counselling Department Head, students create a contractual syllabus that adds reading and written assignments to complete the academic requirements of an 800-level graduate class. This course can be used as a counselling elective.

Prerequisite: Completion of pre-approved external training.

Greek

GRK 600 Ancient Greek I

GRK 601 Ancient Greek II

The second in a sequence of courses designed to help students move toward the goal of reading ancient Greek texts directly in the target language. For pedagogical purposes grounded in research on second-language acquisition, students will not only read but will also write, speak, and listen to ancient Greek. By the completion of the course, students will be able to read very simple narrative texts and summarize them both orally and in writing (in Greek).

Prerequisite: GRK 600 Ancient Greek I

GRK 700 Ancient Greek III

The third in a sequence of courses designed to help students move toward the goal of reading ancient Greek texts directly in the target language. For pedagogical purposes grounded in research on second-language acquisition, students will not only read but will also write, speak, and listen to ancient Greek. By the completion of the course, students will be able to read very simple narrative texts and summarize them both orally and in writing (in Greek).

Prerequisite: GRK 601 Ancient Greek II

GRK 701 Ancient Greek IV

The fourth in a sequence of courses designed to help students move toward the goal of reading ancient Greek texts directly in the target language. Although moving toward fluency in ancient Greek remains the chief emphasis, this course devotes increasing attention to close reading of biblical texts. By the completion of the course, students will be able to read extended narrative texts and summarize them both orally and in writing (in Greek).

Prerequisite: GRK 700 Ancient Greek III

GRK 800 Ancient Greek V

GRK 801 Ancient Greek VI

GRK 802 Advanced Greek Grammar

GRK 803 Ancient Greek VII

GRK 804 Ancient Greek VIII

Hebrew

HEB 600 Introductory Hebrew I

HEB 601 Introductory Hebrew II

This course builds on the introductory offering by deepening students' knowledge of the language and developing their ability to identify weak verbs and rare and difficult constructions in biblical Hebrew. Toward the end of the course, students are introduced to the reading of selected portions of the Hebrew Bible.

Prerequisite: HEB 600 Introductory Hebrew I

HEB 700 Hebrew Syntax and Exegesis I

This course is designed to introduce students of biblical Hebrew to both the challenges and rewards of reading the Biblia Hebraica, offering students an opportunity to both review introductory grammatical concepts and deepen their understanding of the morphological and syntactic issues that arise in our reading of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament. As we work inductively through prose texts drawn from the historiographical and legal traditions, it is hoped that students not only emerge with a deeper understanding of the text and language, but also with a sense of the importance and relevance of biblical Hebrew for contemporary reading of Old Testament texts.

Prerequisite: HEB 601 Introductory Hebrew II

HEB 739 Biblical and Extrabiblical Aramaic

This course will give students basic skills in translating biblical and extrabiblical Aramaic. Students will gain a basic grasp of Aramaic vocabulary, morphology, and grammar. Practice will also be given in translating pre- and post-biblical Aramaic texts. This will only be offered as an independent study.

Prerequisite: HEB 601 Introductory Hebrew II

HEB 800 Hebrew Syntax and Exegesis II

This course is designed to provide intermediate students of biblical Hebrew with a fuller understanding of the textual fabric and linguistic landscape of the Biblia Hebraica. The inductive reading of texts drawn from the Hebrew Bible's prophetic, poetic, and wisdom traditions offers students an opportunity to expand and develop their range of exegetical skills by deepening their existing knowledge of biblical Hebrew syntax, structure, and style. This course is designed to foster a deeper understanding of the text, a greater appreciation of the breadth and diversity of biblical Hebrew, and a constructive idea of the relationship between exegesis and exposition.

Prerequisite: HEB 700 Hebrew Syntax and Exegesis I

Leadership and Management

LE 601 Organizational Development and Renewal

LE 603 Leadership and Management Foundations

This course is an integrative study of the primary features and functions of best practices of leadership and management within organizations, communities and cultural settings. Students will design a philosophy and set of operational principles for best practices that would help move any ministry and/or organization from merely being "good" toward being "great." (It is strongly recommended that this course be taken early in the program and not beyond the midpoint of the program.)

LE 605 Personal and Service Development

The primary goals of this course are to help students discover, rediscover and/or reinvent themselves in a way that enables them to live and serve in their "sweet spot" and to enhance their development in stewarding their lives accordingly. This course is a guided review and reflection on personal career and/or service match with implications for personal and organizational development. The course also identifies continuous renewal strategies for persons in organizational and/or ministry settings. The course will attempt to provide maximum help toward enhanced emotional intelligence.

LE 641 Creative Problem Solving and Polarity Management

This course is designed to help students understand the perspectives, procedures, and processes needed for problem solving, polarity management and vision-setting. Emphasis is given to strategic and creative processes applied to a problem or polarity issue, but these processes are also readily adaptable to numerous leadership/management settings. Problem solving will be presented as one of three strategic planning approaches using a problem reengineering design.

LE 661 Issues in Ministry Leadership

LE 701 Strategic Thinking, Learning, and Planning

This course is an examination of the perspectives and processes necessary to establish and sustain momentum in an organization, utilizing best practices in doing strategic personal and organizational thinking, learning, planning and leading. The course will include strategic assessment, shaping, alignment and delivery of a missional vision and strategy that is designed with a keen sense of need and with careful consideration of both the internal and external environments.

LE 703 Coaching, Mentoring and Group Facilitation

This course offers a careful study and demonstration of individual and group coaching, mentoring and facilitation processes that are useful for influencing individuals and groups toward strategic and improved direction, growth and development. Instruction, conversations, demonstrations, and role plays will be used to ensure that each student perceives the benefits, strategies, processes, and skills of coaching within and beyond leadership and organizational relationships and settings. The course will establish the sense that leadership at its best is a form of individual coaching and group facilitation. Some students may wish to develop their coaching competencies as a specialization with added courses and/or training.

LE 742 Change, Power and Conflict Management

This course provides a careful and thoughtful examination of individual and organizational change, power and conflict dynamics and how to work toward positive outcomes, momentum, and commitment. The course emphasizes discovering, experiencing and applying processes that bring about the resolution, revitalization, renewal, and/or reconciliation needed to move toward a preferred future.

LE 744 Leadership and Team Development

This course maps out biblical and practical approaches to developing leaders and teams in a wide range of organizations and service contexts. This course will examine, provide demonstrations and experiences in regard to the emotional intelligences, style differences, strategies, structures, functions, stages, processes, skills and tools helpful in forming and growing teams within organizational and/or ministry settings. The scope of teamwork will include both professional and lay settings and roles.

LE 819 Leadership Specialty

LE 842 Leadership Communication for a Change

One of the surprising discoveries of leaders is that they are unaware that they do lead every time they communicate and that they could increase their leadership outcome exponentially if they were more intentional about maximizing their communication competencies and opportunities. The course is designed to resource leaders with the understandings, experiences, competence, and confidence toward communicating for a change with every opportunity to do so.

LE 845 Governance and Board Development

The course will explore the theological, historical, philosophical, psychological and structural factors that contribute to the reconceived assumptions regarding governance and board governance. In this study of the different models of governance and types of boards, emphasis is placed on best practice design or redesign, development, and function of governance and board governance within a wide range of organizational and ministry settings. The course will include a study of board and elder work in church environments.

LE 848 Leadership Resilience

This course will examine factors that contribute to resilience in life and leadership along with those factors that break down the high energy and resilience which is so vital to thriving in personal and organizational settings. The primary goal of the course is to address the shaping and/or reshaping of our journey in ways that promote personal and organizational resilience in all dimensions of life- holistic, physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual. The course will examine the realities, perspectives, environments and conditions that contribute to both burnout and resilience. Attempts will be made for each person to define their current condition and the implications.

LE 849 Leadership and Management Current Issues

This study focuses on a particular emphasis of leadership and management that is a burning issue at a given point in time. The primary subject matter and delivery of this course will change each year and hence at least two or more such courses could be applied to the leadership/management core of the MALM program.

Note: This course may be taken more than once as the focus of this course varies from year to year.

LE 850 Leadership and Management Specialization

This course forms part of a 9-credit opportunity for students in the MALM program to focus on their own aspirations and goals for moving forward to the next level of leadership. Accordingly, after identifying his or her area of leadership specialization, in consultation with the program coordinator, each student will establish a contractual agreement that leads to the development of a specialized graduate-level course(s) related directly to the student's chosen area of leadership development. The development of the course(s), together with a contracted plan of study, should happen no later than the midpoint in the program.

LE 899 External Certification Independent Study

This course is an independent study built on the successful completion of certification or training offered by an external body. In consultation with their program coordinator, students create a contractual syllabus that adds reading and reflection work to complete the academic requirements of an 800-level graduate class.

Psychology

PSY 606 Lifespan Development

PSY 607 Child Development

PSY 608 Adolescent Development

Adolescence represents a definable phase in human development. It is one of the most complex of the developmental phases because of the myriad of changes going on during these critical years. This course examines the pilgrimage through adolescence from a number of perspectives. Key developmental theories are examined in light of biblical truth. A historical look at adolescence forms the starting point for exploring adolescent emotional, relational, physiological, moral, and spiritual development.

PSY 611 Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and Psychopharmacology

PSY 701 Psychological Research Methods

This course will serve as an introduction to the approaches and techniques involved in research within applied social sciences, will provide an opportunity for firsthand experience in the use of these techniques, and will assist seminary students in the preparation of their SRP or Thesis proposal. Students will be required to participate in class research projects.

PSY 706 Adult Development

PSY 819 Psychology Specialty

Research and Experiential Integration

RD 700 Experiential Integration (Non-credit)

Experiential Integration (EI) is a non-credit component required for all Master's level programs at Briercrest College and Seminary. EI is designed to take the knowledge, attitudes, and skills acquired in curricular studies and incorporate what students have learned into a practical ministry or work context. Most graduate degrees have a unique Experiential Integration component and separate syllabi are offered for each. Typically, the EI requirement involves 150-250 hours of some kind of supervised ministry or program-related work. Though EI is non-credit, there is a one-time fee of $150 for processing, registration, and supervision. Each program may have additional prerequisites to those noted below, so students should consult the specific EI syllabus for their program.

Prerequisite: Completion of a minimum of 50 per cent of the credit total of the program (e.g., 30 credits of a 60-hour program; 21 credits of a 42-hour program) and permission of the program coordinator.

RD 701 Theological and Ministry Research

This course provides instruction in doing biblical/theological and ministry research as a life-long learner. In addition to exploring the spirituality of scholarship and issues in theological epistemology, students will engage in a practical set of exercises in which they learn to select and narrow a research topic, identify and review relevant literature, design a research methodology, learn intermediate library skills, collect, organize and analyze data, and develop an argument. Students will prepare a preliminary proposal either for a Thesis or a Specialty Research Project SRP as a major component of the course.

RD 703 Research for Leadership and Management

Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the emerging science of scholarly research in the field of leadership and management and will learn the skills necessary for doing reflective research as a leader. This course will provide excellent preparation for students to write their research project and for a lifetime of using research to improve institutional function.

RD 704 MDiv Experiential Integration (Non-credit)

MDiv students are required to complete four months of full-time mentored Experiential Integration (EI). Students should carefully plan for their Experiential Integration requirements with the faculty supervisor. EI is generally three to twelve months in duration, depending upon the number of hours per week students are able to devote to the ministry. The minimum requirement is 3 months (12 weeks or 480 hours). Some students choose to complete EI over a longer period while working or studying part-time. Though EI is non-credit, there is a one-time fee of $150 for processing, registration, and supervision.

Prerequisite: Completion of a minimum of 48 credit hours of the program, including one of: CM 600, 601 or LE 605, and permission of the Program Coordinator.

RD 806 Reading Course

A special 3-credit hour guided study of 3000 to 4000 pages of focused reading, which leads to a 25 to 30-page paper or a three-hour written exam. The course has two main functions: (1) MA Theological Studies and MA Biblical Languages and Exegesis students who do not write a 9-credit hour thesis may replace this requirement with a reading course plus two other 3-credit hour courses (typically in the student's major area). (2) MA Leadership and Management students may replace the Specialty Research Project (SRP) with this 3-credit hour reading course.

RD 808 Thesis

RD 809 Specialty Research Project (SRP)

Theology

THEO 601 Christian Theology Overview

A basic overview of the central doctrines of the Christian faith, designed for those who have no previous, formal training in Christian theology, or for those who need a refresher. Students develop a basic understanding of the method and content of systematic theology as presented in the Apostles' Creed and the classical evangelical tradition. For MATS and MABLE students, this course may be used in the core by permission of the program coordinator.

THEO 621 Theology of Mission and Evangelism

THEO 641 Theology of Christian Worship

THEO 650 Theology of God and Creation

THEO 653 Theology of Christ and Reconciliation

This course examines the person and work of Jesus Christ as the centre of Christian life, faith, and experience. In conversation with historic and current theological literature, the course will outline how the biblical pattern of Christ's birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension, Jesus Christ reconciles fallen sinners with the Father in the Spirit. Special attention may be given to one or more doctrines such as election, adoption, regeneration, atonement, justification, sanctification, or glorification.

THEO 654 Theology of the Holy Spirit and Redemption

This course examines the identity and redeeming work of the Holy Spirit. Special focus is given to understanding the nature of the Holy Spirit; his relationship to the Father and Son; his roles in sustaining creation, in inspiring and canonizing Scripture, in calling, sanctifying and gifting the Church, and in the resurrection. Contemporary issues in pneumatology will also be examined.

THEO 655 Following Christ: An Introduction to Theological Ethics

THEO 751 Life in the Mess: A Theology of Forgiveness and Reconciliation

This course will evaluate contemporary models of forgiveness and reconciliation from both a theological and counseling perspective. A Gospel-centered model of forgiveness and reconciliation will be presented out of which practices of forgiveness and reconciliation can be explored. Issues to be considered may include, but are not be limited to: the semantics of forgiveness and reconciliation; systemic and corporate dynamics of forgiveness and reconciliation; the problem of unrepentance; forgiveness and memory; forgiveness and reconciliation in non-ecclesial/non-Christian contexts; and the role of the local church in fostering forgiveness and reconciliation. Note: May count as a Counselling elective.

THEO 752 The Trinity in History, Theology, and Discipleship

This seminar explores biblical, patristic, and select historical Trinitarian literature of both Western and Eastern theological traditions. Specific attention will be given both to ancient and recent debates within the doctrine of the Trinity proper, as well as the use of Trinitarian doctrine in theology and discipleship. Note: Students with credit for THEO 752 These Three Are One may not take this course for credit.

THEO 753 Thy Kingdom Come: The Church, Politics and Eschatology

After his resurrection, Jesus ascended to the right hand of God the Father. As King, the ascended Christ calls into question the ultimate authority of all political and social structures without completely doing away with them. This course attempts to grapple with the complex problem of Christian political engagement, particularly within a Canadian context. Themes such as the prophetic authority of the church in her proclamation of the kingdom and the eschatological shape of human political relations are explored.

THEO 754 Shepherd the Flock: Theology of Preaching, Pastoral Care, Baptism, and Lord's Supper

This seminar will dialogue with Scripture, theological texts, and peers on four critical aspects of a theology of ministry: preaching, pastoral care, baptism, and the Lord's Supper. Special attention will be given to establishing a theology of ministry founded upon a doctrine of the Church's union with God. Note: Students with credit for THEO 754 Shepherd the Flock: Pastoral Theology of Church, Sacraments, Mission, and Preaching may not take this course for credit.

THEO 756 Marriage, Singleness and Human Sexuality in Theological Perspective

A seminar that explores the rich legacy of theological and moral reflection on marriage, singleness and sexuality. Students will examine influential texts from the breadth of the Christian tradition and give special consideration to how these texts might inform nuanced reflection on contemporary issues in sexual ethics. Note: This course may count as a Counselling elective.

THEO 759 Theology Specialty

THEO 761 The Patristic Fathers

Luke, the New Testament historian, sought to write an orderly account of the early church so that he might instruct Theophilus in the historical reliability of the Christian faith. This course begins where Luke left off and provides an introduction to some of the key issues, events, and personalities of the early church up to the Council of Chalcedon (451 CE), including formative issues in biblical interpretation, the development of an orthodox faith, church-state relations, and the seminal work of the early church fathers.

THEO 805 Scripture and Theological Interpretation

THEO 827 Kingdom and Resurrection: Themes in Eschatology

This course will provide an overview of the history of Christian eschatology from the early church to the present, an examination of debates on the kingdom in the twentieth century, and a particular focus upon two primary theological concepts: "the kingdom of God" and "the resurrection of the body." These concepts will guide exploration of issues such as death, the intermediate state, the return of Christ, the destiny of the cosmos, the Millennium, the judgment of the nations, and the eternal state.

THEO 859 Advanced Seminar in Theology

This seminar guides students in extensive reading and discussion within a selected topic, field, or personality of historical, systematic, or pastoral theology. The topic of study is selected in accordance with the expertise of the faculty member and/or interests of the students.

Note: This course may be taken more than once as the focus of this course varies from year to year.

Worship Arts

WA 2 Private Lessons - Instrument

We offer lessons in guitar, violin, and a variety of other instruments as instructors are available. Ten lessons are offered each semester. For information on cost, please visit the 2024-2025 Tuition and Fees page. To apply for lessons, please contact the Performing and Worship Arts office (performingarts@briercrest.ca). Practice rooms are available on a rental basis for those taking Private Lessons. Students may receive credit for private lessons - we do not charge tuition beyond the regular lesson fee for one-hour credits. All students taking Private Lessons for credit receive a grade for each semester of study.

WA 3 Private Lessons - Voice

We offer lessons in voice as instructors are available. Ten lessons are offered each semester. For information on cost, please visit the 2024-2025 Tuition and Fees page. To apply for lessons, please contact the Performing and Worship Arts office (performingarts@briercrest.ca). Practice rooms are available on a rental basis for those taking Private Lessons. Students may receive credit for applied lessonsâ€”we do not charge tuition beyond the regular lesson fee for one-hour credits. All students taking Private Lessons for credit receive a grade for each semester of study.

WA 4 Private Lessons - Piano

We offer lessons in piano as instructors are available. Ten lessons are offered each semester. For information on cost, please visit the 2024-2025 Tuition and Fees page. To apply for lessons, please contact the Performing and Worship Arts office (performingarts@briercrest.ca). Practice rooms are available on a rental basis for those taking Private Lessons. Students may receive credit for Private Lessons - we do not charge tuition beyond the regular lesson fee for one-hour credits. All students taking Private Lessons for credit receive a grade for each semester of study.

WA 6 Ensemble - College Singers

A multi-voice choir that participates regularly in choral concerts, college musicals, and local church worship services. College Singers collaborates with the orchestra and other choral ensembles. This group offers training, experience, and ministry opportunities within the context of a caring musical community. A two-semester commitment to this group is expected.

WA 7 Ensemble - Resonant

WA 8 Ensemble - Orchestra

A 20-piece group (open to college, seminary, high school students, and community members) that joins with our choirs to participate in local church worship services, choral/instrumental concerts, and college musicals. This group offers training, experience, and ministry opportunities within an instrumental musical setting. A two-semester commitment to this group is expected.

WA 610 Songwriting

This course is a practical study in popular songwriting. Topics include the study of common song forms, lyric structure, the use of figurative language, rhyme and rhythm, and techniques of sustaining creativity as a songwriter. Further topics include writing for a specific audience, the marketing and publishing of songs, the impact of songwriting in popular culture, and the moral dimensions of songwriting in todayâ€™s society. Students are required to write and present their songs in class in addition to submitting their work to the instructor for grading.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor or challenge exam.

WA 650 Keyboard Improvisation

This course provides a practical approach to playing keyboard by ear. Emphasis is given to playing a pop music style, especially for worship services and related ministry. Students gain an understanding of music structure in relationship to performance without written music. Most of the time spent in this class is practical in natureâ€”students actually doing improvisation and learning various techniques for evaluation.

Prerequisite: Basic keyboard ability (equivalent to Grade 6 RCM)

WA 710 Vocal and Instrumental Arranging

WA 737 Worship Arts Internship

WA 743 Worship Leadership

The basic components of worship leadership are studied in this course. Emphasis is given to identifying current effective worship styles and how to provide excellent, effective leadership in these styles. The implications of change and change management in regard to worship ministry are addressed. During this course, students gain personal confidence in worship leading and gain understanding of basic principles of designing a worship service.