School of Biblical & Theological Studies

BITH 502. Hebrew. (4 Credits)

Basic grammar, syntax, and vocabulary with readings from the Old Testament and modern Hebrew authors. Prerequisite: HEBR 101

BITH 503. Language Study I. (2 or 4 Credits)

Graduate-level study of an ancient or modern language in conjunction with a one semester or advanced language course taught at Wheaton College. Requires advisor’s approval and permission of instructor.

BITH 504. Language Study II. (2 or 4 Credits)

Graduate-level study of an ancient or modern language in conjunction with a second semester language course taught at Wheaton College. Requires advisor’s approval and permission of instructor.

BITH 505. Language Study III. (2 or 4 Credits)

Graduate-level study of an ancient or modern language in conjunction with a one semester or advanced language course taught at Wheaton College. Requires advisor’s approval and permission of instructor.

BITH 506. Language Study. (0 Credits)

Graduate-level study of an ancient or modern language in conjunction with a one semester or advanced language course taught at Wheaton College. Requires advisor's approval and permission of instructor.

BITH 508. Intro to Hebrew Exegesis. (4 Credits)

Hebrew language course designed for MA Biblical Exegesis students. Course will continue to develop student language acquisition through review of grammar and syntax, and through intensive reading of selected biblical texts. Introduction will be given to textual criticism, lexical semantics, and the Masoretic text. Prerequisite: HEBR 101 and HEBR 102.

BITH 509. Introduction to Greek Exegesis. (4 Credits)

Greek language course designed for MA Biblical Exegesis students. Course will continue to develop student language acquisition through review of grammar and syntax, and through intensive reading of selected biblical texts. Introduction will be given to textual criticism, lexical semantics, and modern editions of the Greek NT. Prerequisites: GREK 101 and GREK 102; or the equivalent.

BITH 517. Studies in Biblical Lands. (4 Credits)

A study of cultural, historical, geographical, and theological dimensions of the Old Testament, New Testament, and the Church through classroom lecture and travel to Israel, Greece, Turkey, and Rome. In addition, through contact with leaders and communities of non-western churches, Wheaton in the Holy Lands engages students with issues of the theological development of the Church down through the centuries. Summer only.

BITH 518. Studies in Biblical Lands. (4 Credits)

A study of cultural, historical, geographical, and theological dimensions of the Old Testament, New Testament, and the Church through classroom lecture and travel to Israel, Greece, Turkey, and Rome. In addition, through contact with leaders and communities of non-western churches, Wheaton in the Holy Lands engages students with issues of the theological development of the Church down through the centuries. Summer only.

BITH 521. Theology Of Education. (2 Credits)

An examination of fundamental theological issues underlying education, including the relationship of revelation to other disciplines, the Christian conception of persons and knowing, and the relationship of the Church to culture. Required for the Master of Arts in Teaching degree.

BITH 524. Intro to Hermeneutics. (2 Credits)

A theoretical complement to the methodology courses of BITH 542 and BITH 531. This course situates grammatical-historical biblical exegesis in a Christian hermeneutic, with a view to understanding the supporting rationale, life habits, and the aims of our exegetical practices within our life as God’s people. Topics include: the history of hermeneutics; historical and theological approaches to interpretation; World Christian Perspectives; the importance and relations of authors, texts, readers, and divine agency; translation in word and life. This course is a prerequisite for BITH 532, BITH 635, and BITH 646 and a co-requisite for BITH 542 (Old Testament Hermeneutics) and BITH 531 (New Testament Hermeneutics).

BITH 525. Biblical Theology. (4 Credits)

A study of the major theological themes within the Old and New Testaments, based upon the biblical text and the writings of major biblical theologians. The course will also consider the historical development and interrelationship of these themes throughout the successive periods of biblical history.

BITH 526. Biblical Foundations of Worship. (4 Credits)

An examination of worship in the Bible, both Old and New Testament, with a view to developing a theology of worship that is consistent with the teachings of Scripture. Special attention will be given to the role of sign and symbol and the place of visual arts in Christian worship. The course will also explore the interface between the discipline of Positive Psychology and Christian religious belief and practice, especially as it relates to worship and spiritual formation. Undergraduate students, Prerequisite: BITH 211 or 221 or 312, or ARCH 211; or BITH 213 or 317, or ARCH 213.

Tags: SI, VPAV

BITH 528. Introduction to New Testament Exegesis. (2 Credits)

A practical hermeneutics course, orienting students to the principles and praxis of New Testament grammatical-historical exegesis. Focusing on selected Greek texts chosen from various genres, attention will be given to the literary and rhetorical strategies employed by biblical authors to achieve their intended goals. Particular issues to be addressed include textual criticism, lexical and grammatical analysis, compositional style and genre and the broader canonical and historical contexts. This course is a prerequisite for BITH 646 and BITH 532. Prerequisite: Greek language competency.

BITH 531. New Testament Hermeneutics. (2 Credits)

This course will introduce those specific principles, resources, and skills that are necessary for interpreting New Testament texts that are not dependent on a mastery of the biblical languages. Primary attention will be given to genre analysis, socio-cultural worldview, biblical criticism (including issues of authorship and date of composition for individual books), the significance of the history of interpretation and the role of theology in informing interpretation. The focus throughout will be on building methods useful for exegeting the text. Prerequisite: BITH 524 Introduction to Hermeneutics.

BITH 532. Greek Exegesis in the Septuagint. (2 or 4 Credits)

Introduces the Greek Old Testament and modern Septuagintal studies. Exegesis of selected passages of the Greek Old Testament with special reference to the corresponding passage in the Hebrew text and, when relevant, its use in the New Testament. Prerequisite: BITH 524 and BITH 528, completion of Greek competency and one year of Hebrew or instructor’s approval. Counts toward Greek exegesis requirement in Biblical Exegesis program.

BITH 533. Exploring the Old Testament. (4 Credits)

This course explores the Old Testament, with special attention given to the storyline, historical contexts, and genres across all sections of the Old Testament canon with the of mobilizing students to interpret Scripture.

BITH 534. Pentateuch. (4 Credits)

Primeval and patriarchal history. God's sovereign rule as Creator and the choice and development of Israel as his special people. A study of the relationship between law and covenant and of Israel as a worshiping community.

BITH 535. Prophets & Prophecy. (2 Credits)

A study of the phenomenon of prophecy in ancient Israel, in its theological and cultural settings. In addition to the critical issues, the major prophets will be examined and their message and theology studied as part of the mainstream of the prophetic movement.

BITH 536. Old Testament Book Studies from the English Text. (2 or 4 Credits)

Studies of the content, message, and contemporary relevance of selected portions of the Old Testament against the background and the setting of the original writer and recipients.

BITH 537. Old Testament I: Pentateuch & Historical Books. (4 Credits)

A comprehensive study of the first half of the Old Testament, from Genesis through Esther, with special attention given to the place of biblical criticism, cultural backgrounds and biblical theology in scriptural interpretation. This course is only open to students in the MA Biblical Studies program.

BITH 538. Old Testament II: Prophets & Wisdom Books. (4 Credits)

A comprehensive study of the second half of the Old Testament, from Psalms through Malachi, with special attention given to the place of biblical criticism, cultural backgrounds and biblical theology in scriptural interpretation. This course is only open to students in the MA Biblical Studies program.

BITH 539. Ancient Near East Backgrounds of the Old Testament. (2 Credits)

An introduction to background and comparative studies that will focus on methodology and the conceptual world of the ancient Near East. As the cultures and literatures are compared both similarities and differences will emerge and be evaluated for their impact and role in the exegesis of the biblical text.

BITH 541. Issues in Modern Old Testament Studies. (2 Credits)

An introduction to the history and contemporary practice of modern Old Testament studies. Methods will be assessed in terms of their plausibility, theological implications, and contribution to understanding the Old Testament.

BITH 542. Old Testament Hermeneutics. (2 Credits)

This course will introduce and utilize specific principles, resources, and skills that are necessary for interpreting Old Testament texts but not dependent on a mastery of the biblical languages. Primary attention will be given to genre analysis, socio-cultural worldview, biblical criticism (including issues of authorship and date of composition for individual books), and the theological shape of the Hebrew canon, as well as the potential contribution of these subdisciplines to the exegetical task. Prerequisite: BITH 524 Introduction to Hermeneutics.

BITH 543. Issues in Modern New Testament Studies. (2 Credits)

An introduction to the history and contemporary practice of modern New Testament studies. Methods will be assessed in terms of their plausibility, theological implications, and contribution to understanding the new Testament.

BITH 544. New Testament I: Jesus & the Gospels. (4 Credits)

The course introduces the student to the life and teachings of Jesus and to the development of the early church, focusing on the four gospels with special attention given to the place of biblical criticism, cultural backgrounds and biblical theology in scriptural interpretation. This course is only open to students in the MA Biblical Studies program.

BITH 545. New Testament II: Acts to Revelation. (4 Credits)

The course examines the book of Acts, Pauline letters, Catholic epistles and book of Revelation, with special attention given to the place of biblical criticism, cultural backgrounds and biblical theology in scriptural interpretation. This course is only open to students in the MA Biblical Studies program.

BITH 546. New Testament Book Studies from the English Text. (2 or 4 Credits)

The content, message, and contemporary relevance of selected portions of the New Testament against the background of the setting of the original writer and recipients. Logical units of the NT literature.

BITH 547. Life and Teachings of Jesus. (4 Credits)

The events and teachings of Jesus in their contemporary context together with an analysis of current relevant research.

BITH 548. Life and Teachings Of Paul. (4 Credits)

The major aspects of the teachings of Paul in the context of his life and times as reflected in selected parts of his letters and Acts.

BITH 551. Greco-Roman Backgrounds of NT. (2 Credits)

An introductory study of the Greco-Roman world, including its history, society, culture, religion, and literature, in relation to the expansion of early Christianity and the New Testament documents.

BITH 553. New Testament and Early Christian History. (4 Credits)

An investigation of the history, literature, and theology of the New Testament and Christianity prior to A.D. 325.

BITH 554. Topics In Archaeology. (2 or 4 Credits)

Separate courses devoted to specialized topics in archaeology.

BITH 555. Exploring the New Testament. (4 Credits)

The course introduces the student to the life and teachings of Jesus, the development of the early church, Pauline and general letters, and the book of Revelation. The focus is on biblical story and theology, and historical and cultural backgrounds in scriptural interpretation.

BITH 557. Marginalized Voices in Old Testament Studies. (4 Credits)

This course is an introduction to important contributions to Old Testament studies from women scholars and from Latin American and Hispanic (Latino/a), African and African-American, and Asian and Asian-American perspectives.

BITH 558. Topics in Advanced Biblical and Theological Studies. (2 or 4 Credits)

Separate courses devoted to the study of topics of general interest.

BITH 561. Theological Anthropology. (2 Credits)

A theological examination of the nature of persons with special reference to issues raised by modern philosophy and psychology.

BITH 562. Introduction to Old Testament Exegesis. (2 Credits)

A practical hermeneutics course, orienting students to the principles and praxis of Old Testament exegesis. Focusing on selected Hebrew texts, chosen from various genres, attention will be given to the literary and rhetorical strategies employed by biblical authors to achieve their intended goals. Particular issues to be addressed include textual criticism, lexical and grammatical analysis, compositional style and genre and the broader canonical and historical contexts. Prerequisites: HEBR 301, 302, 401.

BITH 563. Apologetics. (2 Credits)

Survey of the theological resources for meeting contemporary challenges to Christianity, including the problems of secularism, pluralism, evil, and the historicity of Jesus.

BITH 565. Christian Theology. (4 Credits)

An introduction to the methods of systematic theology and the major topics within the biblical revelation. Special attention is given to the rationale for these Christian doctrines, their systematic interconnections as well as their development within the history of Christian thought, and their contemporary challenges.

BITH 566. Foundations for Biblical Interpretation. (4 Credits)

A survey of the principles, methods, and issues of biblical and theological interpretation in the past and present. Intended for students in non-theological disciplines, as well as for those in Biblical and Theological studies who have limited theological preparation.

BITH 567. Theology of the Church. (2 Credits)

A study of the doctrine of the church, attending to traditional and contemporary debates and formulations. Prerequisite: BITH 315, 318, 372, 374 or 376.

BITH 568. Foundations for Biblical Interpretation. (2 Credits)

A survey of the principles, methods, and issues of biblical and theological interpretation in the past and present. Intended for students in non-theological disciplines, as well as for those in Biblical and Theological studies who have limited theological preparation.

BITH 569. Christian Traditions. (4 Credits)

A survey of the major Christian traditions with an emphasis on their theological presuppositions and systematic thought, including the common tradition of the early church, as well as the Orthodox, Catholic, Reformed, and modern Protestant traditions.

BITH 571. Introduction to the History of Christianity. (2 Credits)

A summary introduction to the history of Christianity designed to provide a rapid but comprehensive overview to assist students who seek basic understanding of the history of Christianity as a background for other fields of study. The emphasis is upon succinct summary, and the course will focus on key turning points in Church history from the early church to the twentieth century. Graduate students will attend the same lectures as undergraduates in HIST 305 but receive different syllabi with different levels of required work.

BITH 572. Doctrine of Scripture. (2 or 4 Credits)

See BITH 392.

BITH 573. Scripture and Theology. (4 Credits)

An in-depth examination of the ways in which theologians use Scripture in formulating theological proposals, both with regard to Christian doctrine (theology) and Christian practice (ethics). The course explores the nature of Scripture, the authority of Scripture, and ways in which the work of theology moves "beyond" Scripture in order to respond to the contemporary situation of the church.

BITH 576. History of Christianity to 1900. (4 Credits)

An introduction to the history of Christianity from the age of the apostles through the nineteenth century. The course treats the development of institutions, doctrines, and interactions with culture. It is divided into approximately equal sections on the early church, the church in the middle ages, the era of the reformation, and the period 1600-1900. The course is meant to be a complement of BITH 577, which focuses on the worldwide expansion of Christianity in the last two centuries.

BITH 577. World Christianity. (4 Credits)

A survey of the history of world Christianity since the middle of the nineteenth century. This course includes some background on the earlier missionary expansion of the Church, but its emphasis is on the transition of Christianity from a western to a world religion in the last two centuries.

BITH 578. Global Church History. (4 Credits)

A survey of the history of world Christianity from the apostolic era to the modern period, with particular emphasis on seminal events, figures, and theological developments. Attention is given to the history of the church in the majority world, global Bibles, and to the contributions of women.

BITH 581. The Reformation. (4 Credits)

The doctrines and practices of the Reformers (1450-1650) in their political, social, economic, and intellectual contexts. Special attention to Luther, the Reformed (Zwingli and Calvin), Anabaptists, the English Reformation, and the Catholic Reformation.

BITH 585. History of Christianity in North America. (4 Credits)

See HIST 483.

BITH 622. Theological and Religious Issues in Psychotherapy. (2 Credits)

A study of the religious issues that are confronted in psychotherapy, with an emphasis on the practical clinical applications and implications of Christian theology. The role of the psychologist as a healer and minister of grace will be considered, as well as topics such as sin and evil, confession, redemption, forgiveness, and the use of prayer and Scripture. (For Psy.D. students or with permission of instructor and department chair.)

BITH 623. The History of Pastoral Care. (2 Credits)

A survey of the principles and techniques of Christian nurture (the care of souls) from the time of Gregory the Great to the modern church in America. Both primary and secondary sources are read in an effort to understand how the church has ministered to persons with various needs and in varied circumstances. (For Psy.D. students or with permission of instructor and department chair.)

BITH 624. Theological Ethics for Counseling. (2 Credits)

A course designed to explore the biblical and theological foundations for a Christian ethic together with a consideration of the main Christian traditions in ethics. Case study applications will be made to issues in counseling. (For Psy.D. students or with permission of instructor and department chair.)

BITH 626. Majority World Theologies. (4 Credits)

Readings and discussions on the task of Biblical interpretation and theological reflection in the contexts of world Christianity. Prerequisites: BITH 533 and BITH 555.

BITH 631. Intermediate Hebrew. (4 Credits)

A comprehensive study of the basic principles and methods of interpreting the Hebrew Old Testament. Emphasis on reading as a tool to build vocabulary and understanding of Hebrew grammar and syntax. Prerequisite: working knowledge of Hebrew.

BITH 634. Poetic Books. (2 or 4 Credits)

The form and content of Hebrew poetry with its background in ancient Near Eastern literature. An examination of key passages in books such as Psalms, Proverbs, and Job.

BITH 635. Hebrew Exegesis. (4 Credits)

Exegesis of books or selected portions of larger books of the Hebrew Old Testament. Capability of translation is assumed because of the prerequisite. The purpose of the course is not to teach Hebrew grammar, but to interpret the Old Testament from the Hebrew text. Repeatable for different topics. Prerequisite: BITH 524, BITH 508 (Introduction to Hebrew Exegesis). Pre or Corequisite: BITH 542 (Old Testament Hermeneutics).

BITH 636. Hebrew Exegesis. (2 Credits)

Exegesis of books or selected portions of larger books of the Hebrew Old Testament. Capability of translation is assumed because of the prerequisite. The purpose of the course is not to teach Hebrew grammar, but to interpret the Old Testament from the Hebrew text. Repeatable for different topics. Prerequisite: BITH 524, BITH 508 (Introduction to Hebrew Exegesis). Pre or Corequisite: BITH 542 (Old Testament Hermeneutics).

BITH 638. Old Testament Theology. (4 Credits)

The major teachings of the various parts and the whole of the Old Testament with concentration upon some of the most important themes in an attempt to discover the intention of the biblical writers.

BITH 639. Advanced Old Testament Topics. (2 or 4 Credits)

Separate courses devoted to the study of specialized topics, issues, or areas within the Old Testament field.

BITH 641. Current Issues in Old Testament Studies. (2 Credits)

An examination of recent trends in Old Testament scholarship with special attention paid to significant problem areas. Prerequisite: BITH 541.

BITH 645. Canonical Biblical Interpretation. (4 Credits)

An integrative course that is the capstone of the M.A. in Biblical Exegesis program. The course enables students to solidify their ability to exegete scripture with canonical sensitivity. It also guides the student in integrating a canonical perspective into the exegetical and hermeneutical enterprise, including relating parts of the testaments to one another and to their particular relevant historical backgrounds within a biblical-theological framework. Various texts and themes throughout the OT and NT will form the basis for the semester’s work. Four hours to be taken in the student’s last spring semester of the program.

BITH 646. Greek Exegesis. (4 Credits)

Exegesis of books or selected portions of larger books of the Greek New Testament. Capability of translation is assumed because of the prerequisite. The purpose of the course is not to teach Greek grammar but to interpret the New Testament from the Greek text. Repeatable for different topics. Prerequisite: BITH 524, BITH 509 (Introduction to Greek Exegesis). Pre or Corequisite: BITH 531 (New Testament Hermeneutics).

BITH 647. Greek Exegesis. (2 Credits)

Exegesis of books or selected portions of larger books of the Greek New Testament. Capability of translation is assumed because of the prerequisite. The purpose of the course is not to teach Greek grammar but to interpret the New Testament from the Greek text. Repeatable for different topics. Prerequisite: BITH 524, BITH 509 (Introduction to Greek Exegesis). Pre or Corequisite: BITH 531 (New Testament Hermeneutics).

BITH 648. New Testament Theology. (4 Credits)

An investigation of the dominant themes in the New Testament in the light of the cultures in which they were produced and the methods of representative contemporary New Testament theologians.

BITH 649. Advanced New Testament Topics. (2 or 4 Credits)

Separate courses devoted to the study of specialized topics, issues, or areas within the New Testament field.

BITH 651. Current Issues in New Testament Studies. (2 Credits)

An examination of recent trends in New Testament scholarship with special attention given to significant problem areas. Prerequisite: BITH 543.

BITH 653. Historical Theology: Patristic. (2 Credits)

An examination of the theological developments from the second through the fifth centuries. Special attention is given to the formation of the ecumenical creeds, developments in the doctrines of the canon, God, Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, and the sacraments, as well as the nuances differentiating the Orthodox and Roman Catholic traditions.

BITH 654. Historical Theology: Medieval Christianity. (2 Credits)

An examination of the theological developments from the fifth through the fourteenth centuries. Special attention is given to the relationship between reason and revelation, soteriology, ecclesiology, the sacraments, and popular piety.

BITH 655. Historical Theology: Reformation. (2 Credits)

An examination of the key theological writings during the Reformation period, including selections by Lutheran, Calvinist, Anabaptist, and Catholic figures.

BITH 656. Historical Theology: Modern. (2 Credits)

An examination of the theological developments from the Enlightenment to the present, focusing on key figures representing nineteenth-century German liberalism, neo-orthodoxy, post-Vatican II Catholicism, liberation, and postmodern theology.

BITH 657. Historical Theology: Patristic and Medieval. (4 Credits)

An examination of the theological developments from the patristic and medieval periods. Special attention is given to the formation of the ecumenical creeds, developments in the doctrines of the canon, God, Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, and the sacraments, as well as the nuances differentiating the Orthodox and Roman Catholic traditions.

BITH 658. Historical Theology: Reformation and Modern. (4 Credits)

An examination of the theological developments from the Reformation through the modern period. Special attention is given to the nuances differentiating the Protestant and Catholic traditions, the contributions of key Protestant theologians, the impact of the Enlightenment, and key figures representing nineteenth-century German liberalism, neo-orthodoxy, post-Vatican II Catholicism, liberation, and postmodern theology.

BITH 669. Topics In Theology. (2 or 4 Credits)

Selected topics in theology to provide for in-depth study of a selected topic of current interest.

BITH 673. Christian Ethics. (4 Credits)

An investigation of the biblical and theological foundations of Christian ethics, with attention to a range of contemporary moral issues.

BITH 674. Theology and the Liberal Arts. (4 Credits)

An in-depth examination of the interactions that have taken and are taking place between theology and the arts, as well as the natural and human sciences. Students will explore the ways that theology can assist the disciplines to be "for Christ and his kingdom" (and how the disciplines might return the favor to theology).

BITH 675. Advanced Systematic Theology. (4 Credits)

An in-depth examination of theological method and the major theological topics within the traditional loci, employing classical and contemporary theological texts.

BITH 676. Seminar Systematic Theology. (2 or 4 Credits)

676-1 (Section 1) Focused seminars providing for in-depth research of particular persons, movements, events, eras, topics, and themes in Systematic Theology. (2 or 4 credits); 676-2 (Section 2) Focused seminars providing for in-depth research of particular persons, movements, events, eras, topics, and themes in Systematic Theology (assumes an ancient language or modern language research component in primary and/or secondary resource materials). (4 credits)

BITH 677. Topics in the History of Christianity. (2 or 4 Credits)

Separate courses devoted to the study of the Christian church in specific eras or countries, or specific themes in church history.

BITH 679. Seminar in Historical Theology. (2 or 4 Credits)

679-1 (Section 1) Focused seminars providing for in-depth research of particular persons, movements, events, eras, topics, and themes in Historical Theology. (2 or 4 credits); 679-2 (Section 2) Focused seminars providing for in-depth research of particular persons, movements, events, eras, topics, and themes in Historical Theology (assumes an ancient language or modern language research component in primary and/or secondary resource materials). (4 credits)

BITH 682. Colloquium in the History of American Christianity. (2 or 4 Credits)

Special courses in specific aspects or themes of the history of the church in North America. Taught in conjunction with visiting scholars sponsored by the Institute for the Study of American Evangelicals.

BITH 683. Historiography of the History of Christianity. (2 Credits)

Christianity and history, with emphasis on the history of Church History, the implications for the meaning and practice of history, and the relationship of philosophies of history to the Christian faith.

BITH 684. Vocation Formation in Biblical and Theological Studies. (0 Credits)

This course is encouraged for students considering doctoral work, publishing, teaching, or ministry in the fields of History of Christianity, Theology, or Biblical Studies. This course explores Christian vocation formation in scholarship, professional, and ministry contexts. Readings in Christian vocation formation are assigned and discussed. Class sessions dedicate time to equipping students with practical skills such as in academic writing, research, conference participation, and applying to Ph.D. programs. Publishing as a profession as well as teaching and church/para-church ministry are explored in terms of Christian vocation and skills.

BITH 685. Seminar in Ecclesial Theology. (4 Credits)

An introductory course that explores the ways in which the ecclesia—the history and traditions and the life and ministry of the church—shapes how one reads the Bible and thinks theologically.

BITH 686. Historiography. (4 Credits)

Christianity and history, with emphasis on the history of Church History, the implications for the meaning and practice of history, and the relationship of philosophies of history to the Christian faith.

BITH 687. Seminar in American Christianity and Historical Theology. (2 or 4 Credits)

687-1 (Section 1) Focused seminars providing for in-depth research of particular persons, movements, events, eras, topics, and themes in Church History. (2 or 4 credits); 687-2 (Section 2) Focused seminars providing for in-depth research of particular persons, movements, events, eras, topics, and themes in Church History (assumes an ancient language or modern language research component in primary and/or secondary resource materials). (4 credits)

BITH 689. Biblical and Theological Studies Capstone Seminar. (4 Credits)

An integrative exploration of how biblical and theological themes relate to and inform the student’s understanding of their vocational goals, research interests, and personal formation, as well as how this coursework contributes to the life and ministry of the church both locally and globally. This is an integrated capstone course and should be completed in the final semester of the student’s program.

BITH 692. Graduate Comprehensive Exam. (0 Credits)

Prerequisites: The student should be in the final semester of coursework, have completed all core courses, or have completed all coursework. May be repeated once. Fee $25. Graded pass/fail.

BITH 693. Dossier for Biblical Exegesis. (0 Credits)

A culminating portfolio from coursework within the M.A. in Biblical Exegesis that demonstrates a student's attainment of the program learning outcomes. The dossier will consist of a hermeneutics paper, an exegesis paper, a biblical theology paper, and a theology paper, all of which demonstrate an understanding and engagement with diverse ethnic, gender, and majority world perspectives. This course can only be taken during the final semester of a student's degree and is a requirement for the M.A. in Biblical Exegesis program. Graded pass/fail. Prerequisite: Final semester of M.A. in Biblical Exegesis.

BITH 694. Theology Capstone Seminar. (4 Credits)

An integrative exploration of how major themes from the MA Theology degree plan relate to and inform the student’s understanding of the scope of theological studies. Students will consider major areas of theological studies, including systematic, historical, biblical, and interdisciplinary connections. This is an integrated capstone course and should be completed in the final semester of the student’s program whenever possible.

BITH 695. Independent Study. (1 to 4 Credits)

Intensive research on a precisely defined topic related to some phase of Biblical and Theological Studies. Initiative for selecting the topic and proposing the methodology rests with the student. A faculty member must approve, recommend amendments (if necessary), supervise, and evaluate the project. Limit four hours in any one degree program except by special permission.

BITH 696. Internship. (2 or 4 Credits)

BITH 698. Thesis. (4 Credits)

BITH 699. Thesis Continuation. (0 Credits)

See M.A. Thesis/Applied Thesis/Action Research.

BITH 711. Seminar in Ecclesial Theology. (4 Credits)

An introductory course that explores the ways in which the ecclesia—the history and traditions and the life and ministry of the church—shapes how one reads the Bible and thinks theologically. (Course effective Spring 2022)

BITH 712. Global Church History. (4 Credits)

A survey of the history of world Christianity from the apostolic era to the modern period, with particular emphasis on seminal events, figures, and theological developments. Attention is given to the history of the church in the majority world, global Bibles, and to the contributions of women. (Course effective Spring 2022)

BITH 713. Old Testament Book Study. (4 Credits)

Describe in broad outline the historical and geographical context in which the book was written and significance of this context for interpreting the OT. Recount the basic content, major theological themes and grand narrative of the book, identifying key people, places, events and dates. Interpret the text as ancient literature with reference to genre and compositional features. Apply basic principles of hermeneutics to interpretation and application of the book. Relate OT teaching to reflection in other courses and disciplines. (Course effective Spring 2022)

BITH 714. New Testament Book Study. (4 Credits)

A study of the background, content, and theology of a New Testament book with emphasis placed on the application of its message to Christian communities in today’s world.

BITH 751. Introduction to Doctoral Research. (0 Credits)

Orientation to doctoral research in theology and to Wheaton's Ph.D. program in Biblical and Theological Studies.

BITH 793. Directed Study. (2 to 4 Credits)

Supervised independent study in conjunction with the auditing of a regular graduate BTS course.

BITH 794. Directed Study in the Liberal Arts. (2 to 4 Credits)

Supervised independent study in conjunction with a regular undergraduate course in the liberal arts.

BITH 795. Guided Research. (1 to 4 Credits)

Supervised independent study.

BITH 798. Supervised Pedagogical Experience. (2 Credits)

Students participate with a faculty member in teaching a course, complete required readings about pedagogy, and experience additional mentoring as teachers.

BITH 811. Theological Hermeneutics in Ministry. (4 Credits)

An opportunity for DMin students to engage with contemporary developments in biblical theology, theological interpretation of Scripture, and the application of hermeneutical theory to ministry praxis, with a focus on evangelical contexts.

BITH 881. Biblical Interpretation & Theology. (4 Credits)

First year PhD students’ orientation to theological interpretation and contemporary practice in biblical theology, with special attention to hermeneutical issues.

BITH 882. Seminar: Topics in Biblical Theology. (4 Credits)

Intense study of a particular topic in biblical theology, normally including work in both Old and New Testaments.

BITH 883. Seminar: Topics in Systematic or Historical Theology. (4 Credits)

Intense study of a particular topic in systematic or historical theology.

BITH 884. Biblical/Theological Integration. (2 Credits)

Second year PhD students’ capstone regarding theological interpretation of Scripture and contemporary practice in biblical theology, with special attention to developing integrative student case study papers in relation to their dissertation subjects.

BITH 898. Dissertation. (0 Credits)

BITH 899. Dissertation Continuation (Full-time). (0 Credits)

BITH 999. Dissertation Continuation (Part-time). (0 Credits)

ARCH 515. Ugaritic Language and Literature. (4 Credits)

This course introduces students to the language, literature, and culture from the ancient city-state of Ugarit. It is designed to teach students essential morphology and syntax of the Ugaritic prose and poetic texts, to orientate students to the discipline of Ugaritology, and to facilitate a better understanding of the Old Testament through the study of its linguistic and cultural context. Prerequisite: HEBR 301 or permission of instructor.

ARCH 516. Classical Hebrew Inscriptions. (4 Credits)

See ARCH 416.

ARCH 517. Egyptian Hieroglyphics. (4 Credits)

An introduction to Middle Egyptian which involves learning how to read and translate texts.

ARCH 518. Akkadian Cuneiform. (2 or 4 Credits)

An introduction to cuneiform which leads students through the techniques for transcription, transliteration, and translation of Assyrian or Babylonian literature.

ARCH 521. Advanced Archaeology and the Old Testament. (4 Credits)

A study of ancient Near Eastern archaeological methods and materials and their relationship to the historical, social, and religious settings of the Old Testament, with special emphasis on Israel's early history and the monarchic periods.

ARCH 525. Archaeological Field Work. (8 Credits)

Field experience involving excavation, interpretation, and studies in related regional archaeology.

ARCH 526. Method & Theory. (2 Credits)

A basic examination of the field of archaeology and how the history of the field affects current practice. Graded pass/fail unless petitioned for a grade.

ARCH 534. Historical Geography. (2 Credits)

A study of selected biblical episodes which are enriched when understood in the context of Near Eastern history and Palestinian geography. Prerequisite: BITH 211 or 221 or 312, or ARCH 211.

ARCH 545. Archaeology of the Classical World. (2 Credits)

Excavations, monuments, epigraphic materials, and papyri from the Minoan, Mycenaean, Aegean, and Greco-Roman times.

ARCH 554. Topics in Archaeology. (2 or 4 Credits)

Separate courses devoted to specialized topics in archaeology.

ARCH 565. Statecraft and International Relations in the Ancient Near East. (4 Credits)

See ARCH 365.

ARCH 569. Religion of Israel and ANE. (4 Credits)

See ARCH 369.

ARCH 594. Seminar: Current Issues. (2 Credits)

A seminar devoted to exploring the current issues in Near Eastern archaeology that relate to biblical studies, especially those touching on historiography, historicity, social and cultural backgrounds, methodology, and faith.

ARCH 695. Independent Study. (2 or 4 Credits)

Independent Study