Graduate Certificate in Sacred Scripture

The goal of the program is to provide students with a Masters-level exploration of foundational components of the biblical Canon.

Upon completion the student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate graduate-level familiarity with foundational components of the biblical Canon

2. Apply a range of biblical methods and hermeneutical principles (orally and in writing) to key books/passages of Sacred Scripture

3. Demonstrate competence in relation to the use of biblical tools and resources (online or hard copies) such as concordances, lexicons, bible encyclopedias, commentaries, books, journals and more.

4. Engage in Bible-based practices such as Scripture study groups, retreats or Lectio Divina.

Candidates must complete a total of 19 credit hours in Scriptural studies. No more than 6 credit hours of graduate studies completed in other graduate schools may be transferred. Ordinarily, credits earned more than ten years prior to admission will not be transferred.

Candidates must complete:

1. 9 credit hours of core courses. These courses cover foundational components of the biblical Canon, provide historical background, and expose students to a diversity of exegetical methods.

2. 2 credit hours of Scripture Practicum. Students will be required to complete 2 credit hours in biblical ministry, or 2 credit hours of supervised Lectio Divina.

3. 8 credit hours of elective courses. Students are required to take 8 credit hours of elective courses, to engage other components of the canon or train in practical approaches to the use of Sacred Scripture (e.g. in contemporary issues, preaching, prayer, liturgy, catechesis, etc.).

4. The program can be completed online, in person, or some combination of both ways.

5. A minimum grade point average of 2.5 is required for all courses applicable to the certificate.

Courses

Note: The second digit in the course code indicates the number of credit hours