The Master of
Divinity Degree

The Master of
Divinity with
Concentration

The Master of
Divinity in
Christian Care
and Counseling

The Master of
Divinity in
Christian
Education

The Master of
Divinity in
Urban Ministry

The Master of
Arts in Religion
Degree

The Area of
Old Testament

The Area of
New Testament

The Area of
Church History

The Area of
Christian Doctrine

The Area of
Christian Ministries

1996–1998 Catalog

The Master of Divinity and Master of Arts in Religion Degree Programs

Admission

Preseminary Studies

On the basis of guidelines issued by The Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada, Emmanuel School of Religion suggests the following general principles concerning the undergraduate education of students preparing to enroll in a theological seminary:

1. Students should give evidence that they have developed to a satisfactory degree the ability to think independently, to communicate effectively, and to research adequately.
2. Students should possess a basic general knowledge of past and present culture through studies in the humanities and the natural and social sciences.
3. The biblical languages are useful tools which students may acquire in the preseminary period. Modern languages such as German, French, and Spanish are also of value in this preparation.
4. The study of the contents of the Bible and of religion in general will provide a foundation for a seminary program of theological study.

Requirements for Admission

Applicants for admission must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college, or must satisfy the Committee on Admissions that their education has been equivalent to that of graduates of accredited colleges. They must present, with evidence of graduation, a certified record of studies and testimonials of character.

Admission is open to qualified students from any church body or theological tradition. Emmanuel does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, disability, color, or national or ethnic origin in its admission or educational policies.

It is desirable that the applicants for admission shall have completed the following courses in their undergraduate studies:

In case the student is deficient in any of the above prerequisites, the deficiency may be removed by taking courses at Milligan College, East Tennessee State University, or other accredited colleges. The Committee on Admissions will determine any such deficiencies and will specify how they are to be made up. Students with such deficiencies may be admitted provisionally, but will be restricted as to the number of Emmanuel courses they may take until the requirements are met. No student can apply for degree candidacy while on provisional admittance status.

A standard psychological inventory is required of all applicants for degrees. This instrument is administered to entering students during the opening week of the fall and spring semester. Additional tests in such areas as English composition and Bible may also be required.

Application for Admission

Applicants for admission must submit the following materials:

• transcripts for all past college work
• a competed application form
• a brief essay as described in the application material
• references, and
• application fee

An application should be received no later than thirty days before the beginning of the semester for which the applicant wishes to enroll. Students applying after this date will be assessed a late application fee of an additional $10.00.

For further information or for an appointment to visit campus, an applicant should write or phone the Director of Admissions, Emmanuel School of Religion, One Walker Drive, Johnson City, Tennessee 37601-9438 (423/461-1535 or 800/933-3771). Email inquiries may be sent to AdmOffice@esr.edu. Administrative offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., September through May, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., June through August. The offices are closed on Saturday, Sunday, and most legal holidays.

Transfer of Credits

Students who have taken courses at other accredited graduate institutions may receive transfer credit for courses that are comparable to offerings in the Emmanuel curriculum. Such credit transfer is not automatic; it is conditional upon approval by the Academic Dean in consultation with the faculty.

For both the M.Div. and M.A.R., at least the last 24 semester hours of the degree program must be completed in the Emmanuel School of Religion curriculum, and the thesis must be completed under the direction of an Emmanuel faculty or faculty-appointed supervisor. For the M.Div. degree, at least 3 of the 6 required semester hours of Supervised Ministerial Experience must be taken at Emmanuel.

In no case can the entire block of courses for the major of the M.A.R. (24 sem. hrs.) or of the M.Div. with Concentration be transferred from another institution.

Special Students

Those who do not plan to take a degree from Emmanuel School of Religion may be enrolled as special students without meeting all the normal undergraduate prerequisites for admission. The Director of Admissions can provide information about an abbreviated application procedure for special students. Faculty advisors are prepared to help such students plan a coherent non-degree program of study.

International Students

This school is authorized under Federal law to enroll nonimmigrant international students (F-1 status only).

Before being permitted to enroll in Emmanuel, an international student must have arranged a means of paying tuition and have deposited with the School an amount equal to one year’s living expenses.

The applicant will be required to make a satisfactory score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) except in special cases when the applicant is a country in which English is the common language.

Department of Veteran’s Affairs

Courses in Emmanuel School of Religion are approved for veterans’ training under regulations administered by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs.

Finances

Expenses

Tuition

165.00 per credit hour; $82.50 per audit hour. (See Types of financial aid: grants-in-aid.)

Matriculation Fees

Miscellaneous Fees

*This fee includes charges for Student Association dues, social events, parking, and the use of recreational facilities and the health clinic of Milligan College.

All charges are subject to change.

Student Health Insurance

All students are required to demonstrate health insurance coverage at the time of enrollment in Emmanuel. For those who do not have appropriate coverage, an agent from an approved agency is available during registration to rite insurance coverage. Payment is arranged directly with the agent. Costs vary, depending on marital status and the number of children. A student is excused from participation only if he or she has comparable insurance.

Note:

Students who plan to terminate their previous health insurance and begin a new policy at Emmanuel should remember that some insurance companies deny coverage for pregnancy and many other conditions that “pre-exist.”

Payments

Charges are to be paid in full at the beginning of the semester or, upon the approval of the Business Manager, in four equal payments during the semester. The first payment is due at registration. No registration for classes is permitted until previous Emmanuel enrollment charges have been paid. All fees and insurance premiums are due at registration.

Refunds

Students who wish to withdraw from one or more classes must receive prior written permission from the Dean and the instructor. Three-fourths of the tuition will be refunded when withdrawal is made during the first two weeks of a semester, one-half during the following two weeks. After the fourth week, there will be no refund except in the case of illness, which must be certified by a physician. (See note under Financial Aid: Grants-in-Aid for information about forfeiture of aid upon class withdrawals.)

Board

Meals at reasonable prices may be obtained conveniently at Milligan College in the McCormick Dining Center and the McMahon Student Center.

Room

Emmanuel owns seven one- and two-bedroom student apartments. Most students must find accommodations elsewhere in the community. Dormitory rooms for single students are sometimes available at Milligan College, as are a limited number of apartments. Private apartments and houses are available for rent throughout the area. An assistant is employed in the Admissions office to assist students in finding suitable housing.

Books

Textbooks are available for purchase in the Emmanuel Bookstore. Students may not charge Bookstore items to their Emmanuel account unless a credit balance exists on the account. Visa and Mastercard are accepted.

Living

Students are urged to make careful, realistic plans each year for funding their living expenses in addition to tuition and fees. These expenses vary widely according to individual circumstances, but approximate guidelines for new students are available from the Director of Admissions.

Financial Aid

Emmanuel offers a comprehensive program of financial aid for students. All M.Div. and M.A.R. students are eligible to apply for financial aid. A financial aid application must be completed each year. If financial need is demonstrated, Emmanuel will attempt to meet a portion of that estimated need. Complete details are available in the Financial Aid Handbook. Awards are made in May for the following academic year.

Types of Financial Aid

Grants-in-Aid

Grants are available to applicants who meet academic and other qualifications for admission and who are taking at least nine semester hours of credit per semester. The exact amount of each grant will be determined on the basis of actual need demonstrated on the student’s application for aid each year and the number of credit hours the student is carrying. A review each semester of the student’s academic performance, in addition to financial need, will determine continuation of the grant-in-aid. Special consideration will be given to entering students whose financial situation is uncertain. A student’s spouse is assured a one-half tuition grant upon enrollment.

Qualifications for receiving and retaining grants-in-aid are fully explained in the Financial Aid Handbook, available in the Office of Admissions and in the Dean’s Office.

Note:

When a student withdraws from a course for which the tuition is being fully or partially paid directly by financial aid, the student must reimburse the School for the nonrefundable portion of the tuition as set forth in the schedule given above under Refunds. Withdrawing to fewer than 9 credit hours usually cancels one’s eligibility for financial aid. See the Financial Aid Handbook for more information.

Loans

Emmanuel participates in the Federal Stafford Student Loan and PLUS/Supplemental Loan programs. The Stafford program allows students to postpone repayment until degree requirements have been completed. Some additional loan money is available to students apart from these programs.

Campus Employment

A limited number of jobs on campus are available to students as funded by the College Work/Study Program and the Emmanuel Work/Study Program. Current minimum wage is credited to student accounts for the hours worked, up to the amount awarded.

Scholarships

Several named scholarships are available to students who meet specified qualifications. These scholarships are awarded through the school’s financial aid program.

Gifts

Friends of Emmanuel contribute to the Timothy Fund, through which some assistance is given to students in need. Students also make assistance available to one another through the Student Emergency Loan Fund.

Employment

Employment of many kinds is available in Johnson City and the Tri-Cities region. An assistant in the Admissions office helps students and their spouses to find secular employment in the area. Students desiring to serve a church in any capacity should contact the Director of Placement in the Office of Admissions, Emmanuel School of Religion, Johnson City, Tennessee 37601-9438. Assistance is available to all students currently enrolled in Emmanuel School of Religion and to incoming students whose applications have been approved by the Admissions Committee.

The Curriculum

Students enrolled in Emmanuel School of Religion have graduated from liberal arts colleges, universities, and Bible colleges. Some enter directly from undergraduate programs, while others have acquired many years of experience in various professions since their college days. Therefore, the degree programs of Emmanuel, while consisting of a common core of requirements, are individually tailored to the needs of each student as much as possible.

At the time of admission, each student is assigned a faculty advisor whose function is to guide the student in planning his or her academic program each term and to be available as a special counselor in the whole process of maturing for ministry through the seminary experience. The student should remain in close contact with his or her advisor. The faculty advisor is ready to help obtain assistance from other professional resource persons should this be needed. Individual growth is significantly assisted by a general review of each student’s progress by the whole faculty at least twice within the program, and an oral examination by a faculty committee at the end of the program.

The Master of Divinity Degree

The Master of Divinity is considered the standard program of ministerial education and is formally required for ordination by many churches. This degree aims at providing a breadth of education in all the areas of theological learning, with special focus on the practice of pastoral ministry.

The Master of Divinity Degree requires the satisfactory completion of 90 semester hours of graduate course work, including a thesis, distributed according to the requirements set forth below:

1. Twelve semester hours in the Old Testament area, including OT 515 and 516 or the equivalent.
2. Twelve semester hours in the New Testament area, including NT 515 and 516 and NT 710 or the equivalent.
3. Twelve semester hours in the Church History area, including CH 615 and 616 or the equivalent.
4. Twelve semester hours in the Christian Doctrine area, including CD 515 and 516 or the equivalent.
5. Twelve semester hours in the Christian Ministries area, including CM 501 and 502 or the equivalent.
6. Six semester hours in Supervised Ministerial Experience (Modules I, II, and III), including CMF 501 and 502 and CMF 705 and 706.
7. CD/CMM 503 (3 semester hours), which may be counted toward either the Christian Doctrine or the Christian Ministries requirement.
8. Twelve semester hours of Greek (Elementary and Intermediate) and 6 semester hours of Hebrew, or the equivalent. Students who have already met all or part of their language requirements before enrolling in Emmanuel may use these hours as free electives.
9. A thesis, for either 3 or 4 semester hours of credit. The amount of credit is the student’s choice; the nature and size of the thesis project do not change according to the number of credit hours given.
10. The additional hours necessary to complete 90 semester hours.

Note:

Students who have taken undergraduate courses that closely parallel required courses in the M.Div. curriculum may be exempted from such courses with written certification by the appropriate Area Chair (usually on the basis of a proficiency examination) that the student has indeed already mastered the subject at issue. The Area Chair will report the results of the examination to the Dean. In such cases, the student is expected to take a different course in the same area, according to the recommendation of the area faculty.

On the transfer of credits from other graduate institutions, see above under Admissions. At least the last 24 semester hours of work, including 3 semester hours of Supervised Ministerial Experience and the thesis, shall be completed in the Emmanuel School of Religion curriculum.

A minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 is required in the curriculum area from which the thesis advisor is appointed, and an overall cumulative grade point average of 2.50 is required for graduation.

The Thesis

Two types of thesis may be undertaken. The first represents the classical academic research project, investigating in depth a defined question within one of the theological disciplines. A thesis of this type is not expected to make a completely original contribution to the discipline (as is a doctoral dissertation), but it is expected to demonstrate the ability to frame a significant question, to identify and collect the pertinent materials, critically to evaluate the available data and to make sound judgments about the central question, and to present a coherent written account of the investigation and its conclusions.

The second type of thesis, termed a divinity thesis, is designed to allow students to focus on their concept of ministry in the context of integrative learning. In this thesis, at least two passages from the Old Testament and two from the New Testament, at least two persons or themes from Church History and two from Christian Doctrine, and at least two issues from Christian Ministries are to be selected and discussed in relation to the candidate’s concept of ministry.

For both types of thesis, a thesis advisor to supervise the student’s work in preparing the thesis is appointed from the faculty of the appropriate curriculum area; a second faculty reader to assist in evaluating and approving the finished thesis is also appointed, usually from a different area. After the advisor and reader have approved the final draft of the thesis, the student must successfully pass an oral examination about one and one-half hours in length, conducted by a committee consisting of the thesis advisor as chair, the reader, and at least one other faculty member appointed by the Dean. This examination centers on the thesis but may range more widely over the student’s whole program of study.

After the student has been admitted to Emmanuel School of Religion, the progression of the Master of Divinity degree program shall be as follows:

Junior Year (1–30 Semester Hours)

1. Successful completion of all required entrance and proficiency examinations; removal of any deficiencies in the undergraduate study program; and completion of any Emmanuel courses recommended by the faculty to the Dean in subjects where educational insufficiencies have been discovered.
2. Enrollment in as many as 30 semester hours of course work as approved by faculty advisor.
3. Formal faculty approval of continuation of studies beyond 30 semester hours on the basis of proficiency examination scores, satisfactory performance in courses taken, and the demonstration of moral character and maturity.

Middler Year (31–60 Semester Hours)

1. Presentation of a proposed degree program to the academic advisor by the end of the eighth week of the semester during which at least 60 semester hours are being completed. The degree program proposal must designate the curriculum area in which the thesis credit will be earned and the name of the faculty member (of the student’s choice) who has agreed to supervise the thesis. When approved by the academic advisor, the degree program is then submitted by the student to the Dean for approval by the whole faculty.
2. Submission of a written thesis proposal to the designated thesis advisor for approval. The advisor-approved proposal is to be submitted by the student to the Dean before the end of the twelfth week of the semester during which at least 60 semester hours are being completed.
3. Faculty approval of the degree program and acceptance by the Dean of the advisor-approved thesis proposal confer upon the student the official status of degree candidate. (Any subsequent change of thesis advisor requires formal petition to the faculty through the Dean.) Faculty approval of the degree program will be based not only on the adequacy of the academic program and the student’s academic performance, but also on the demonstration of moral character and maturity.

Senior Year (61–90 Semester Hours)

1. Presentation to the thesis advisor of the complete first draft of the thesis in acceptable form by the end of the first week of the spring semester of the year during which the student expects to graduate (or the first week of the fall semester, if the student wishes to have the oral examination during the fall semester).
2. Completion of the final draft of the thesis as approved by the thesis advisor and reader, and submission to the Dean of two copies by Tuesday of the ninth week of the semester.
3. Certification by the thesis committee of the final approval and acceptance of the thesis following satisfactory performance in the oral examination.
4. Recommendation by the faculty and approval by the Board of Trustees for the bestowal of the degree.
5. Settlement of all accounts with Emmanuel School of Religion as certified by the Business Manager no later than one week preceding Commencement.

Special Master of Divinity Degree Programs

Although the standard M.Div. program is recommended for most students preparing for ministerial service, four special options are available to qualified students:

The Master of Divinity with Concentration

In some cases, students may be permitted to distribute the hours required for the Master of Divinity degree in such a way as to allow them to concentrate more in one area of study than would otherwise be possible. The diploma for such a program will carry the notation “Master of Divinity with Concentration”. Admission to this program is by petition to the faculty, and requires the following:

• Evidence (ordinarily transcripts) showing that the student has done undergraduate theological study of sufficient quantity and quality to warrant a decrease in the size of the normal M.Div. area core requirements.
• Completion of 30 hours of graduate theological study with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher.
• Demonstration of the capacity for independent study.
• Recommendation by the student’s academic advisor and the chair of the area of concentration, and approval by the faculty.

The Master of Divinity Degree with Concentration requires the satisfactory completion of 90 semester hours of graduate study, including a thesis. The 90 hours shall be distributed as follows:

1. Nine semester hours in the Old Testament area, including OT 515 and 516 or the equivalent.
2. Nine semester hours in the New Testament area, including NT 515 and 516 or the equivalent.
3. Nine semester hours in the Church History area, including CH 615 and 616 or the equivalent.
4. Nine semester hours in the Christian Doctrine area, including CD 515 and 516 or the equivalent.
5. Nine semester hours in the Christian Ministries area, including one course in three of the five fields.
6. Six semester hours in Supervised Ministerial Experience (Modules I, II, and III), including CMF 501 and 502, and CMF 705 and 705.
7. CD/CMM 503 (3 semester hours), which may be counted toward either the Christian Doctrine or the Christian Ministries requirement.
8. Twelve semester hours of Greek (Elementary and Intermediate) and 6 semester hours of Hebrew, or the equivalent. Students who have already met all or part of their language requirements before enrolling in Emmanuel may use these hours as free electives.
9. A thesis, for either 3 or 4 semester hours of credit. The amount of credit is the student’s choice; the nature and size of the thesis project does not change according to the number of credit hours given.
10. The additional courses and seminars necessary to complete the required total of 90 semester hours. Tutorials and independent studies also may be arranged.

At least the last 24 semester hours of work, including 3 semester hours of Supervised Ministerial Experience and the thesis, shall be completed within the Emmanuel School of Religion curriculum.

Either the area thesis or the divinity thesis may be selected. (Descriptions of these theses are to be found above under The Master of Divinity Degree.) The thesis advisor will be appointed from the student’s area of concentration. If the area thesis is chosen, the reader will come from a second area. A third reader/examiner will be selected whose academic qualities warrant inclusion and who is not a faculty member at Emmanuel School of Religion. (The student will be required to pay the $75 fee for this external reader/examiner.) The oral examination for the degree will be conducted by these three people.

Except for the need to apply for admission to the degree program upon the completion of 30 semester hours, the progression of this degree program is the same as described above for The Master of Divinity Degree.

The Master of Divinity in Christian Care and Counseling

The purpose is to offer students a program in Christian Care and Counseling that are grounded in Bible and theology, shaped by the mission of the church, informed by the historic practices of the church, and conversant with the social sciences as they pertain to a ministry of care and counseling. Admission to the program requires the following: declaration at time of admission, or petition to the faculty. The higher GPA averages required in the M.Div. with Concentration do not apply.

The student who successfully completes this program should be able to:

• Understand the meaning of Scripture as it relates to the ministry of Christian care and counseling.
• Relate the practices of Christian care and counseling to the essential practices and theological understandings of the church.
• Articulate a philosophy of Christian care and counseling that contributes to the church’s mission.
• Locate the ministry of Christian care and counseling within the history of the church and particularly within the Reformation of the Nineteenth Century.
• Critically appraise the contributions of the social sciences to the practice of Christian care and counseling.
• Assess people and situations accurately with a view to a genuine ministry of Christian care and counseling.
• Implement and administer a ministry of Christian care and counseling within the local congregation.

The Master of Divinity in Christian Care and Counseling requires the satisfactory completion of 90 semester hours of graduate course work, including a thesis, distributed according to the requirements set forth below:

1. Nine semester hours in the Old Testament area, including OT 515, 516, and an exegesis course.
2. Nine semester hours in the New Testament area, including NT 515, 516, and an exegesis course.
3. Nine semester hours in the Church History area, including CH 615, 616, and an elective.
4. Nine semester hours in the Christian Doctrine area, including CD 503, 515, and 516.
5. Six semester hours of Introduction to Christian Ministries (CM 501–502).
6. Twelve semester hours of Greek (Elementary and Intermediate) and 6 semester hours of Hebrew, or the equivalent. Students who have already met all or part of their language requirements before enrolling in Emmanuel may use these hours as free electives.
7. Concentration:
   • CMC 501 and CME 505 (6 hours)
   • CMC electives (12 hours)
   • Supervised Ministerial Experience (Modules I, II, and III), including CMF 501 and 502, and CMF 722 and 723, and CMF 705 and 706.
8. A thesis for 3 semester hours of credit

The Master of Divinity in Christian Education

The purpose of the program is to offer students a professional program in Christian education that is strongly grounded in Bible and theology as well as the ministry of Christian education. Admission to the program requires the following: declaration at time of admission, or petition to the faculty. The higher GPA averages required in the M.Div. with Concentration do not apply.

The student who successfully completes this program should be able to:

• Understand the meaning of Scripture and the Reformation of the Nineteenth Century as each relates to the ministry of Christian education.
• Articulate an educational mission that is an extension of the mission of the church.
• Teach the Scriptures effectively.
• Function professionally, using sound educational theory.
• Assess people and situations accurately with a view to genuine ministry.
• Function as an effective change agent.
• Enlist commitment from others to the educational mission of the church.
• Equip those who are recruited to the mission of the church to teach effectively.
• Administer a program of Christian education.

The Master of Divinity in Christian Education requires the satisfactory completion of 90 semester hours of graduate course work, including a thesis, distributed according to the requirements set forth below:

1. Nine semester hours in the Old Testament area, including OT 515, 516, and an exegesis course.
2. Nine semester hours in the New Testament area, including NT 515, 516, and an exegesis course.
3. Nine semester hours in the Church History area, including CH 615, 616, and an elective.
4. Nine semester hours in the Christian Doctrine area, including CD 503, 515, and 516.
5. Six semester hours of Introduction to Christian Ministries (CM 501–502).
6. Twelve semester hours of Greek (Elementary and Intermediate) and 6 semester hours of Hebrew, or the equivalent. Students who have already met all or part of their language requirements before enrolling in Emmanuel may use these hours as free electives.
7. Concentration:
   • Foundations—9 hours including CME 505 and 601. The other course may be chosen from CME 502, 602, 701, or 704
   • Administration—CME 501
   • Age-specific Ministry—CME 612. The other two courses may be chosen from CME 607, 611, and 614 or CMC 601
   • Formation/Supervised Ministry—CMF 501, 502, 655 and 656 (or 685 and 686), 705, and 706

The Master of Divinity in Urban Ministry

This degree is a modification of the Master of Divinity with Concentration, intended to provide special preparation for urban ministry by allowing the student to spend one academic year in Chicago in the integrated program of classroom study and field experience at the Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education or the urban church planting program of Lincoln Christian Seminary [see pp. 36]. Admission to the program as an incoming student is by special application; admission as a current student is by petition to the faculty. The following criteria apply:

1. Evidence (ordinarily transcripts) showing that the student has done undergraduate theological study of sufficient quantity and quality to warrant a reduction in the size of the normal M.Div. area core requirements. Note that, whereas an academically weak student will not usually be admitted to the M.Div. in Urban Ministry, the higher grade point average requirements for the M.Div. with Concentration do NOT apply to this degree. The GPA requirements are those of the regular M.Div. degree.
2. Demonstration of a genuine interest in urban ministry.
3. Recommendation by the student’s academic advisor and of the Emmanuel School of Religion representative to SCUPE or of the Emmanuel Dean for the Lincoln program.

Requirements include the satisfactory completion of 91 semester hours of graduate studies, including completion of the SCUPE program in Chicago or the Lincoln program and a thesis. The 91 hours shall be distributed as follows:

1. Nine semester hours in the Old Testament area, including OT 515 and 516 and an exegesis course, or the equivalents.
2. Nine semester hours in the New Testament area, including NT 515 and 516 and an exegesis course, or the equivalents.
3. Nine semester hours in the Church History area, including CH 615 and 616 or the equivalent.
4. Nine semester hours in the Christian Doctrine area, including CD 515 and 516 and CD 503, or the equivalents.
5. Christian Ministries 501 and 502 or the equivalent (6 semester hours).
6. Up to thirty semester hours in the chosen off-campus program (one full academic year); this provides the equivalent of Modules I and II of Supervised Ministerial Experience (5 semester hours). Preferably, this program will be completed during the Middler year.
7. Module III of Supervised Ministerial Experience: CMF 705–706 (1 semester hour).
8. Twelve semester hours of Greek (elementary and intermediate) and 6 semester hours of Hebrew or the equivalent.
9. Either the area thesis or divinity thesis may be selected, but it must be focused in some way directly on urban ministry. (Descriptions of the two types of thesis are found under The Master of Divinity Degree). Procedures for thesis advising, writing, and examination are the same as for the standard Master of Divinity degree, except that no credit hours are given for the thesis.

At least the last 24 semester hours of work and the thesis shall be completed in the Emmanuel School of Religion curriculum.

A minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 is required in the curriculum area from which the thesis advisor is appointed, and an overall cumulative grade point average of 2.50 is required for graduation.

Statute of Limitations

All requirements for the Master of Divinity degrees must be completed within seven years after initial enrollment in Emmanuel School of Religion. The faculty may grant an extension of one year when a degree candidate presents a petition through the Dean; in some cases the faculty may attach conditions to the granting of an extension. The faculty reserves the right to disallow course work originally included in the approved degree program but which has since become more than ten years old. In such cases, the student will be required to enroll in equivalent courses at Emmanuel or other institutions approved by the faculty. Students who have completed all course requirements except the thesis must pay a continuation fee of $45.00 each semester until the degree is granted.

The Master of Arts in Religion Degree

The Master of Arts in Religion is an academic degree for persons interested in pursuing graduate study primarily in one theological discipline, while acquiring minimal introductory exposure to the other areas of classical Christian learning. It is designed to lead to deepened biblical and theological understanding in preparation for further study or for more effective service in the church and in the world while in a “secular” profession. It is not a substitute for the M.Div. as foundational preparation for full-time church ministry. The M.A.R. may not be taken with a major in Christian Ministries.

The Master of Arts in Religion degree requires the satisfactory completion of 56 semester hours of graduate study, including a thesis, distributed as follows:

1. Twenty-four semester hours, including a thesis, in one of the following areas: Old Testament, New Testament, Church History, Christian Doctrine.
2. Twenty semester hours distributed among all four remaining curriculum areas. At least one 3 semester hour course must be taken in each of these four areas.
3. Twelve semester hours of languages. These will normally be 6 hours of Greek and 6 hours of Hebrew, but another language or languages may be substituted or required by the faculty in the area of concentration. Where language competency is determined on some basis other than graduate study hours, the hours involved can be allocated to other courses.

Note:

• Supervised Ministerial Experience courses are not applicable to this degree.
• At least the last 24 semester hours of course work, including the thesis, shall be completed in the Emmanuel School of Religion curriculum.
• A minimum overall cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is required for graduation.

The Thesis

The thesis will be an investigation in depth of some topic of interest within the area of concentration, with special emphasis on original, independent research. A thesis advisor to supervise the student’s work in preparing the thesis is appointed from the faculty of the appropriate curriculum area; a second faculty reader to assist in evaluating and approving the finished thesis is also appointed, usually from a different area. After the advisor and reader have approved the final draft of the thesis, the student must successfully pass an oral examination about one and one half hours in length, conducted by a committee consisting of the thesis advisor as chair, the reader, and at least one other faculty member appointed by the Dean. This examination centers on the thesis but may range more widely over the student’s whole program of study.

After the student has been admitted to Emmanuel School of Religion, the progression of the Master of Arts in Religion degree program shall be as follows:

Junior Year (1–28 Semester Hours)

1. Successful completion of all required entrance and proficiency examinations; removal of any deficiencies in the undergraduate study program; and completion of any Emmanuel courses recommended by the faculty to the Dean in areas where educational insufficiencies have been discovered.
2. Enrollment in as many as 28 semester hours of course work as approved by the faculty advisor.
3. Presentation of a proposed degree program to the academic advisor by the end of the eighth week of the semester during which at least 28 semester hours are being completed. The degree program proposal must designate the curriculum area in which the thesis credit will be earned and the name of the faculty member (of the student’s choice) who has agreed to supervise the thesis. When approved by the academic advisor, the degree program is then submitted by the student to the Dean for approval by the whole faculty.
4. Submission of a written thesis proposal to the designated thesis advisor for approval. The advisor-approved proposal is to be submitted by the student to the Dean before the end of the twelfth week of the semester during which at least 28 semester hours are being completed.
5. Faculty approval of the degree program and acceptance by the Dean of the advisor-approved thesis proposal confer upon the student the official status of degree candidate. (Note that any subsequent change of thesis advisor requires formal petition to the faculty through the Dean.) Faculty approval of the degree program will be based not only on the adequacy of the academic program and the student’s academic performance, but also on the demonstration of moral character and maturity.

Senior Year (29–56 Semester Hours)

1. Presentation to the thesis advisor of the complete first draft of the thesis in acceptable form by the end of the first week of the spring semester of the year during which the student expects to graduate (or the first week of the fall semester if the student wishes to have the oral examination during the fall semester).
2. Completion of the final draft of the thesis as approved by the thesis advisor and reader and submission to the Dean of two copies by Tuesday of the ninth week of the semester.
3. Certification by the thesis committee of the final approval and acceptance of the thesis following satisfactory performance in the oral examination.
4. Recommendation by the faculty and approval by the Board of Trustees for the bestowal of the degree.
5. Settlement of all accounts with Emmanuel School of Religion as certified by the Business Manager no later than one week preceding Commencement.

Statute of Limitations

All requirements for the degree must be completed within five years after initial enrollment in Emmanuel School of Religion. The faculty may grant an extension of one year upon a degree candidate’s petition through the Dean; in some cases the faculty may attach conditions to the granting of an extension. The faculty reserves the right to disallow course work originally included in the approved degree program but which has since become more than ten years old. In such cases, the student will be required to enroll in equivalent courses at Emmanuel or other institutions approved by the faculty. Students who have completed all course requirements except the thesis must pay a continuation fee of $45.00 each semester until the degree is granted.

Study Toward Both a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Religion Degree

Permission to work toward both a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Religion degree at Emmanuel School of Religion is granted only by specific approval of the faculty upon petition by the student through the Dean. Work toward the second degree may be undertaken only after such permission has been officially granted.

The following conditions will apply:

• All specific requirements for each degree must be fulfilled
• No more than 30 hours from the Master of Divinity may be applied to the Master of Arts in Religion; no more than 28 hours from the Master of Arts in Religion may be applied to the Master of Divinity
• The same thesis cannot be submitted for both degrees

Student Load

Students who are taking at least 9 semester hours for credit each semester are officially classified as full-time students. No student may enroll in more than 15 semester hours of credit, unless prior faculty approval is granted upon petition through the Dean.

System of Grading

• A — Excellent, four grade points
• B — Good, three grade points
• C — Adequate, two grade points
• D — Poor, one grade point
• F — Failure, including unapproved withdrawal after the sixth week of the semester, no grade point
• P — Passing, no grade point (given only for Supervised Ministerial Experience and Middle East Study Tour)
• W — Official withdrawal, consisting of the written consent of the teacher concerned and completion of a withdrawal form in the Dean’s office. Note: Withdrawal is not usually permitted after the sixth week of each semester except in the case of extenuating circumstances.
• I — Incomplete, given when the teacher judges that extenuating personal circumstances justify granting additional time past the end of the term for a student to complete course requirements. The student must get the teacher’s written approval, complete the necessary form in the Dean’s office, and pay the required $10 fee before final examinations week. An “Incomplete” grade is automatically changed to “F” by the Registrar if the course work is not completed within six weeks.

Note:

With the exception of Incomplete, a course grade cannot be changed after it is recorded by the Registrar. However, a course may be repeated, in which case only the higher of the two grades will be used in calculating the grade point average.

Academic Probation

General Requirements

In addition to the other requirements set forth, a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.50 is required for the Master of Divinity degrees. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for the Master of Arts in Religion degree.

Entering M.Div. students must achieve an overall GPA of 2.25, and entering M.A.R. students must achieve an overall GPA of 2.50, by the end of their second consecutive semester of enrollment. (A student who has not formally chosen a degree program will be held to the M.Div. requirement).

In subsequent semesters, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.50 (M.Div.) or 3.0 (M.A.R.). For the purposes of this requirement, the cumulative GPA will be calculated at the conclusion of the spring semester in each academic year until the degree is granted.

Probation and Suspension

Students who fail to achieve these GPA requirements at the end of their second or subsequent semesters will be placed on academic probation. After being placed on academic probation, they must achieve the required cumulative GPA by the conclusion of the following spring semester. Students who fail to do so will be suspended. Suspension means the withdrawal of permission to enroll in classes for credit and the termination of any status of degree candidacy that may have been previously conferred.

(a) After a minimum of one semester’s suspension, students may petition the faculty for permission to re-enroll. Such permission will normally be granted only if evidence is presented that makes it appear likely that they will be able to achieve and maintain the required cumulative GPA

(b) If students can show extenuating personal circumstances to be the cause of their failing to achieve the GPA needed to lift the probation, they may petition the faculty for a one-semester extension of the probation.

Reading Courses

A reading course for one or two (rarely three) semester hours of credit may be arranged for an especially capable student of senior standing who wishes to do independent study of a topic that is not available in the regular course offerings of the curriculum. Such a course must be under the immediate direction of a faculty member. The approval process requires that the student obtain a “Request For Reading Course” form from the Dean’s office, on which are to be listed the curriculum area (with the course number 700), title, number of credit hours, instructor, and a full description of objectives and requirements. This form, signed by the student, the instructor, and the Area Chair, is then submitted to the Curriculum Committee no later than its last stated meeting prior to the beginning of the term in which the course is to be taken. If it endorses the proposal, the Curriculum Committee will secure the necessary approval from the general faculty.

Having been fully approved, a reading course is included in the registration process at the start of the term as part of the student’s regular academic load, and is charged tuition. The course is graded and is subject to all pertinent academic regulations. Only one reading course may be taken in any term, and the faculty will not usually allow more than one or two reading courses in a degree program (except the Master of Divinity with Concentration).

It is emphasized that reading courses are not approved merely to help students even out the totals of their credit hours in an area, or to alleviate inconveniences in the class schedule. Their primary function is to provide opportunity for advanced study in a subject of special interest.

Summer and January Intersession Programs

Emmanuel School of Religion offers a number of special two-week courses during the summer and again during the January interval between the fall and spring semesters. These normally carry two semester hours of credit and are designed to offer intensive, specialized study opportunities not usually available from the resident faculty in the regular curriculum. These are often taught by specialists from the faculties of other seminaries or universities or by persons of unique competence in some aspect of church ministry or missions. Occasionally these courses involve clinical or practicum elements that take place away from the Emmanuel campus.

Summer courses are also offered at Milligan College, East Tennessee State University, and other area colleges which can be advantageous to those students who need to make up academic deficiencies in their undergraduate work or who wish to supplement their seminary studies.

Related Academic Programs

The Appalachian Ministries Educational Resource Center

Emmanuel School of Religion holds membership, along with thirty-six other seminaries, in the Appalachian Ministries Educational Resource Center (AMERC), located at Berea College, Berea, Kentucky.

AMERC was founded in order to provide instruction and experience for students preparing for small-town and rural ministry, particularly in the Appalachian region. Through its two educational programs—two three-week summer terms and a three-week winter travel seminar—AMERC offers opportunities to learn about the Appalachian region, its people and history, its culture and religious traditions, and its needs and issues for ministry. The summer program provides a combination of academic coursework and participation in field experience. The winter travel seminar visits various types of Appalachian ministries, alternating between the northern, southern, and central portions of Appalachia, a region covering parts of 13 states and 397 counties.

Students may receive up to six semester hours of academic credit for the summer term and three semester hours for the winter seminar. Scholarship assistance is available. Deadlines for applications and scholarship information are available from the Director of Supervised Ministerial Experience and from the Dean.

Association for Clinical Pastoral Education

Through Emmanuel’s membership in the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, accredited programs of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) are available to students locally and at over 250 hospitals, clinics, correctional and rehabilitation institutions, and other centers. One-half, one, or more accredited units of CPE can be earned.

Two accredited CPE programs are offered in Johnson City. At the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, a one-unit CPE program (400 hours of supervised experience) is offered annually on either a summer (June through August) or extended (September through May) schedule. At the Johnson City Medical Center Hospital, one-half (250 hours of supervised experience) and one-unit CPE programs are available.

Middle East Travel Seminar

Emmanuel has joined with Duke University Divinity School, Union Theological Seminary of Virginia, Emory University Divinity School, Columbia Theological Seminary, and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary to sponsor an annual three-week study tour to Syria, Jordan, Israel, Egypt, and Greece. The program, subsidized by a private foundation, is directed by Dr. J. Maxwell Miller, Professor of Old Testament at Emory University, and Dr. Gerald Mattingly of Johnson Bible College. Students are selected annually from each of the schools to join lay persons from the Southeast to participate in the tour.

The program is designed to fulfill several purposes: to provide a tour, under the guidance of a knowledgeable professional, of the region central to the biblical heritage and to international affairs today; to provide opportunities for students from different seminaries to develop a friendly and supportive relationship; and to unite “lay” persons in key positions in business and community affairs with students preparing for ministry.

On the basis of nomination from the faculty, student selections are made from those who have completed at least one year of seminary study and who are not graduating seniors, who have a primary vocational commitment to the pastoral ministry, and who have not before traveled in the Middle East. Participants pay approximately 1/3 the actual cost of the tour.

One semester hour of credit in Old Testament, New Testament, or Church History may be earned for participation, graded Pass/Fail. Eight hundred pages from the reading list supplied by the Seminar leaders must be read. A signed affirmation that this reading has been completed (listing titles) and a typewritten copy of the reflection paper required by the Seminar must be submitted to the Dean by the due date specified by the Seminar leaders. Registration must be completed and tuition paid no later than two weeks prior to the beginning of the Seminar.

Overseas Ministries Study Center

Emmanuel is one of thirty schools holding membership in the Overseas Ministries Study Center of New Haven, Connecticut, a residential center providing continuing education in Christian world mission for missionaries on furlough, ministers, professors, and students.

Seminary Student Seminars on World Mission are held at the center each January. Emmanuel’s cosponsorship of these courses enables students to pay registration and tuition fees only half those of nonmember schools.

Arrangements for receiving academic credit may be made through the Dean’s office. Information is available from the Dean, or Dr. Taber.

Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education

This program has been suspended under further notice.

Cross-Registration at Milligan College and East Tennessee State University

Emmanuel has a cooperative arrangement by which students may register through Emmanuel for graduate courses at both Milligan College and East Tennessee State University.

A wide range of programs is available at ETSU that can fruitfully supplement the Emmanuel curriculum. Offerings in counseling, philosophy, education, and modern languages are those most often of interest to Emmanuel students. This relationship makes it possible for Emmanuel students to enroll in ETSU courses at in-state tuition rates, which are considerably lower than Emmanuel’s own tuition.

The courses in Milligan College’s Master of Education degree program can also be of benefit to Emmanuel students having a special interest in education. Some students have chosen to earn the M.Ed. (leading to state teacher certification) along with their Emmanuel degree.

Courses of Study

The course numbering system indicates both the general academic level of a course and the semester in which it is usually offered. 500-level courses are the most elementary and introductory; 600-level are somewhat more advanced; 700-level are very advanced. Odd-numbered courses are normally offered during fall semester, even-numbered courses during spring semester.

+ designates required courses which are offered every year. A complete list of all courses to be offered in any academic year is available from the Dean’s office.

Since the specific topic and contents of the 700-level seminars almost always change each time the seminar is offered, a student may enroll in the same seminar more than once.

Occasionally a course is listed in more than one curriculum area. In such cases the student is free to chose the area in which the course is to be credited.

The Area of Old Testament

The area of Old Testament offers opportunity for advanced study of the language, literary features, and theology of the writings that compose the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. The primary goal is for the student to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for a lifetime of responsible and spiritually fruitful interpretation of these writings.

The curriculum stresses historical methods of exegesis as the foundation of the larger task of theological interpretation of the Old Testament as Sacred Scripture. Accordingly, courses in Hebrew language and in exegesis of the Hebrew Bible are central. Study of Old Testament theology and its relation to Christian faith are important concerns throughout this area. Students wishing to concentrate in Old Testament studies are expected to have solid foundational knowledge of the New Testament and of Christian doctrine.

Courses in various Near Eastern languages, literature, and historical topics are available upon request by a sufficient number of qualified students.

Faculty:

• Robert J. Owens Jr., B.A., M.A., M.Div., Ph.D., Professor of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and Area Chair
• Robert F. Hull Jr., B.A., M.Div., Ph.D., Professor of New Testament
• Rollin A. Ramsaran, B.A., M.A., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of New Testament
• William C. Gwaltney Jr., Th.B., B.A., Ph.D. Adjunct Professor of Old Testament

Courses:

+ OT 501–2 Elementary Hebrew
Introduction to the basic grammar and vocabulary of classical Hebrew, with reading of selected biblical texts. (6; credit is not given for OT 501 apart from OT 502)

OT 513 Intertestamental Jewish Literature
A study of the background and contents of the Old Testament deutero-canonical/apocryphal books and other Jewish writings, including the Dead Sea Scrolls, from about 200 B.C. to A.D. 100. (3)

+ OT 515 Introduction to the Old Testament
A study of the basic literary features, historical setting and theological significance of Genesis–Kings, with attention also to the origin of the Old Testament canon and the history of the transmission of the Old Testament text. (3)

+ OT 516 Introduction to the Old Testament
Continuation of OT 515, examining Chronicles–Malachi. (3)

OT 601 Intermediate Hebrew
Review of elementary grammar, followed by advanced study of verb morphology and syntax. Attention is given to vocabulary acquisition with emphasis upon gaining facility in rapid reading of Hebrew prose. (3)

OT 602 Intermediate Hebrew
Continuation of OT 601, with some reading of poetic texts. (3)

OT 603 Biblical Aramaic
Introduction to the basic grammar and vocabulary of Official (Imperial) Aramaic, with reading of the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament Prerequisite: OT 501–502 or equivalent. (3)

OT 605 Septuagint
Introduction to the study of the Greek translations of the Old Testament, including the history of research and the reading of selected texts. The significance of the Greek translations for textual criticism and biblical exegesis is explored. Prerequisites: OT 501–502 and NT 501–502 or their equivalents. (3)

OT 607 Methods and Models of Biblical Exegesis
A working introduction to the principles and techniques of critical biblical study by the application of a variety of methods to selected texts from the Old and New Testaments. The bearing of exegesis on preaching and teaching is emphasized. Prerequisites: OT 501–502 and NT 501–502 or their equivalents. (3) Also NT 607.

OT 609 The Pentateuch
A study of the major themes of Genesis–Deuteronomy, with special attention to such selected topics as creation, the patriarchal narratives, the exodus, the legal traditions, and worship practices. Close reading (English text) of selected passages is included. (3)

OT 610 Eighth-Century Prophets
A study of the rise and development of Hebrew prophetism, and close reading (English text) of Amos, Hosea, Micah, and portions of Isaiah. The contents of these books are studied in terms of their importance in 8th century Israel and Judah and of their continuing significance in Hebrew religion. (3)

OT 611 Seventh-Century and Exilic Prophets
A study of selected portions (English text) of Zephaniah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel, and portions of other books with attention to their immediate historical background and to their contribution to Old Testament theology. (3)

OT 612 Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament
A study of the wisdom tradition in the Old Testament, including close reading (English text) of Proverbs, Job, Ecclesiastes, and selected Psalms. The contribution of the wisdom literature to Old Testament theology is explored. (3)

OT 621 Archaeology and the Old Testament
A study of the history of Near Eastern archaeology and its importance for reconstructing Israelite history and for interpreting the Old Testament Attention is given to basic methods of field archaeology, problems in reporting and interpreting archaeological data, and a survey of recent and current archaeological projects and their reports. (2 or 3)

OT 622 The Dead Sea Scrolls
Study of the archaeology and history of Khirbet Qumran and Ain Feshka and the nearby caves, with special attention to the non-biblical documents found in the caves and their relation to the Old and New Testaments. (2 or 3)

OT 635 Bible Translation
A study of the theory and practice of translation, especially as related to the Bible. (3) Also NT 635 and CMM 635

OT 709 Theology of the Old Testament
A study of the major theological concepts of the Old Testament, with attention to both the unity and the diversity expressed in these writings. Prerequisite: OT 515–516. (3)

OT 780 Exegesis in the Pentateuch
Intensive exegetical study of the Hebrew text of some portion of the Pentateuch. Prerequisite: OT 515–516 and OT 501–502, or equivalent. (2 or 3)

OT 781 Exegesis in the Prophets
Intensive exegetical study of the Hebrew text of some portion of the Former or Latter Prophets. Prerequisite: OT 515–516 and OT 501–502, or equivalent. (2 or 3)

OT 782 Exegesis in the Writings
Intensive exegetical study of the Hebrew text of some portion of the “Writings” (Kethubim) section of the canon. Prerequisite: OT 515–516 and OT 501–502, or equivalent. (2 or 3)

OT 791 Seminar in Semitic Languages
Introduction to the basic grammar of one of the following, with reading of selected texts: Ugaritic, Phoenician, Aramaic, Syriac, Akkadian. Prerequisite: OT 501–502 or equivalent. (3)

OT 792 Seminar in Semitic Languages
Same as or continuation of OT 791. (3)

OT 793 Seminar
Study of a selected topic pertaining to Old Testament literature, history, or theology. (2 or 3)

OT 794 Seminar
Same as or continuation of OT 793. (2 or 3)

OT 797–8 Thesis
Preparation of a thesis on a significant topic approved by the faculty. (3 or 4)

Note:

• For the M.Div. degree, in addition to Elementary Hebrew, twelve hours in the Old Testament, including OT 515 and 516, are required.
• For the M.A.R. degree, in addition to Elementary Hebrew, at least one course in the Old Testament is required.

The Area of New Testament

The area of the New Testament offers opportunity for advanced study of the New Covenant writings with regard to their language, social-historical background, literary features, and theology. Courses in this area are designed to help equip students with the knowledge and skills to function as competent exegetes, preachers, teachers, and lay leaders in the service of church.

The curriculum emphasizes historical and literary methods of exegesis as the foundation of the larger task of theological interpretation of the New Testament as Sacred Scripture. Accordingly the courses give attention to the Jewish and Graeco-Roman matrix out of which the writings were produced and the religious teachings of these writings in their own times. Instruction in the area emphasizes the necessity both of understanding and appreciating the use of the New Testament documents throughout the history of the church and of reading them afresh as Spirit-filled writings that continue to shape the Christian life corporately and individually.

Students wishing to concentrate in New Testament studies are expected to have solid foundational knowledge of the Old Testament.

Faculty:

• Robert F. Hull Jr., B.A., M.Div., Ph.D., Professor of New Testament and Area Chair
• Rollin A. Ramsaran, B.A., M.A., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of New Testament
• Bruce E. Shields, B.A., B.D., Dr.Theol., Professor of Preaching and Biblical Hermeneutics
• Beauford H. Bryant, B.A., M.A., B.D., M.Th., Ph.D., Professor of New Testament, Emeritus

Courses:

+ NT 501–2 Elementary Greek
A study of the elements of the Greek language, including drill on phrases and sentences and the acquisition of vocabulary. (6; Credit is not given for NT 501 apart from NT 502)

NT 512 Archaeology of the New Testament
A survey of the finds of archaeology that bear on the New Testament. (3)

+ NT 515 New Testament Introduction
A study of the Jewish and Graeco-Roman historical, cultural, and religious backgrounds of early Christianity extending from the Persian period until the age of Hadrian. Prerequisite: OT 515–516. (3)

+ NT 516 New Testament Introduction
A continuation of the above, including the study of the historical, literary, and theological features of the writings of the New Testament. Attention is also given to the formation of the canon of the NT and the history of the transmission of its text. (3)

+ NT 601 Intermediate Greek
A review of the forms of koine Greek. A study of syntax and reading of selected portions of the Greek New Testament. (3)

+ NT 602 Intermediate Greek
Continuation of NT 601. (3)

NT 605 Methods and Models of Biblical Exegesis
A working introduction to the principles and techniques of critical biblical study by the application of a variety of methods to selected texts from the Old and New Testaments. The bearing of exegesis on preaching and teaching is emphasized. Prerequisites: OT 501–502 and NT 501–502 or their equivalents. (3) Also OT 607.

NT 607 Synoptic Gospels
Exegesis of one (or more) of the first three gospels with the Greek text as basis. (2 or 3)

NT 608 Exegesis of the Gospel of John
A study of the Greek text of this gospel, with attention to its historical, literary, and theological features. (3)

NT 609 The Acts of the Apostles
A study of the earliest historical summary of Christian beginnings, including the worship, order, mission, and message of the early church. (3)

NT 613 The Life of Jesus
The life and ministry of Jesus in the light of the four gospels, early church tradition, and historical research. (3)

NT 614 The Life of Paul
The life, work, and teaching of Paul in the light of the epistles that bear his name, the Acts of the Apostles, early church tradition, and historical research. (3)

NT 615 Exegesis of Romans
A study of the Greek text of the Letter to the Romans, with attention to its historical, literary, and theological features. (3)

NT 616 Exegesis of Galatians
A study of the Greek text of the Letter to the Galatians, with attention to its historical, literary, and theological features. (2 or 3)

NT 617 Exegesis of I Corinthians
A study of the Greek text of I Corinthians, with attention to its historical, literary, and theological features. (3)

NT 618 Exegesis of II Corinthians
A study of the Greek text of II Corinthians, with attention to its historical, literary, and theological features. (3)

NT 619 Exegesis of Philippians, Philemon, Colossians, and Ephesians
A study of the Greek text of one or more of these letters, with attention to the historical, literary, and theological features. (2 or 3)

NT 620 Exegesis of I and II Thessalonians
A study of the Greek text of these letters, with attention to their historical, literary, and theological features. (2 or 3)

NT 621 Exegesis Of I and II Timothy and Titus
A study of the Greek text of one or more of these letters, with attention to the historical, literary, and theological features. (2 or 3)

NT 622 Exegesis of Hebrews
A study of the Greek test of the book of Hebrews, with attention to its historical, literary, and theological features. (3)

NT 623 Exegesis of James and the Johannines
A study of the Greek text of James and/or I, II, or III John, with attention to the historical, literary, and theological features. (2 or 3)

NT 624 Exegesis of I Peter
A study of the Greek text of this letter, with attention to its historical, literary, and theological features. (2 or 3)

NT 625 Exegesis of II Peter and Jude
A study of the Greek text of these letters, with attention to their historical, literary, and theological features. (2 or 3)

NT 626 Exegesis of Revelation
A study of the Greek Text of this writing, with attention to its historical, literary, and theological features. (3)

NT 635 Bible Translation
A study of the theory and practice of translation, especially related to the Bible. (3) Also OT 635 and CMM 635.

NT 701 Advanced Greek
Advanced study of koine Greek grammar, using texts from the New Testament, Septuagint, papyri, and other literature written in koine Greek. (3)

NT 702 Advanced Greek
Continuation of NT 701. (3)

+ NT 710 New Testament Theology
A study of the major theological concepts of the New Testament, with attention to both the unity and diversity expressed in these writings. Prerequisite: NT 501–502; NT 515–516. (3)

NT 791 Seminar
A study of some aspect of New Testament Christianity. (2 or 3)

NT 792 Seminar
Same as or continuation of NT 791. (2 or 3)

NT 793 Seminar
A study of some issue or issues encountered in churches of New Testament times. (2 or 3)

NT 794 Seminar
Same as or continuation of NT 793. (2 or 3)

NT 797–8 Thesis
Preparation of a thesis on a significant topic approved by the faculty. (3 or 4)

Notes:

• Elementary Greek is required as a prerequisite for all 600- and 700-level courses.
• For the M.Div. degree, in addition to Elementary and Intermediate Greek, 12 hours in the New Testament, including NT 515 and 516 and 710 are required.
• For the M.A.R. degree, in addition to Elementary Greek, at least one course in NT is required.

The Area of Church History

Church history is the study of the formation of Christian identity and ecclesial life in the light of the apostolic witness of the New Testament. It embraces both the story of the Christian faith as it has taken root in diverse historical and cultural settings and the actual development of the corporate life of the church in both its particular and its global manifestations. Thus church history is by nature a contextual and ecumenical discipline, with the constructive task of evaluating critically the church’s ongoing quest of reformation according to the timeless norm of Jesus Christ.

Faculty:

• Frederick W. Norris, B.A., B.D., M.Th., M.Phil., Ph.D., Dean E. Walker Professor of Church History and Professor of Christian Doctrine, and Area Chair
• Paul M. Blowers, B.A., M.Div., M.A., Ph.D., Associate Professor of Church History
• Robert O. Fife, B.A., B.D., Ph.D., Adjunct Professor of Church History
• William J. Richardson, B.Th., B.D., M.A., Ph.D., Professor of Church History, Emeritus

Courses:

CH 581 History of Christian Doctrine
A comprehensive survey of the developments in Christian thought from post-apostolic times to the sixteenth century. (3) Also CD 581.

CH 582 History of Christian Doctrine
A continuation of the above from the sixteenth century to the present. (3) Also CD 582.

CH 601 Studies in the History of the Early Church
An examination, using patristic sources, of key issues in the study of early Christianity: missionary expansion; development of organization and worship; tensions with the empire; theological formulations, through the fifth century. (3)

CH 602 Studies in Eastern Christianity
Investigations in the history, theology, and spirituality of the eastern churches: the Byzantine Christian Empire; the east-west schism; Orthodox doctrine, worship, and asceticism; and major developments in Russian Christianity. (3)

CH 609 The Reformation of the British Isles
An examination of major movements for church reform in Great Britain from Wycliffe to Wesley: the English and Scottish Reformations; the rise of Puritanism and the free churches; and the Evangelical Revival. (3)

+ CH 615 Reformation of the Nineteenth Century I
An investigation of the context, sources, history, and thought of the Stone-Campbell movement in its program to restore “New Testament Christianity” on the nineteenth-century American frontier. (3)

+ CH 616 Reformation of the Nineteenth Century II
An investigation of the context, sources, history, and thought of the Stone-Campbell movement on the nineteenth-century American frontier, and of challenges to and conflicts in the movement in to the late twentieth century. (3)

CH 641 The Western Church in the Middle Ages
An examination of the missionary expansion of Christianity in Europe, the rise and decline of the ideal of Christendom, and major currents in medieval monasticism, spirituality, and theology. (3)

CH 642 The Western Church in the Age of Reform
Developments in Christianity during the Renaissance and Reformation: early reform initiatives of the Christian humanists, the growth of the Protestant revolt, and later currents and countercurrents up to 1650. (3)

CH 651 Christian Ministry in Historical Perspective
An investigation of the theology, patterns, and practices of Christian ministry as they developed in different historical and ecumenical contexts, with a view to enriching theological reflection on ministry in the contemporary church. (3) Also CMC 651.

CH 661 The History of the Church in Africa
A survey of the penetration of Christianity and the development of the church in Africa from the first century to the present, with emphasis on the interaction of the gospel with the cultures and religions of Africa. (3) Also CMM 661.

CH 662 The History of the Church in Asia
A survey of the penetration of Christianity and the development of the church in Asia from the first century to the present, with emphasis on the interaction of the gospel with the cultures and religions of Asia. (3) Also CMM 662.

CH 681 Survey of American Christianity
A study of the place of the Church in the development of the religious, social, and political view of Colonial and Revolutionary America. (3)

CH 682 Survey of American Christianity
A study of theological developments in American Christianity since 1800, and of the changing role of the Church in the development of American industrial society. (3)

CH 721 Seminar in the Reformation of the Nineteenth Century
Extensive examination of a principal theme, document, or author in the intellectual history of the Stone-Campbell (Restoration) movement. (2 or 3)

CH 722 Seminar in the Reformation of the Nineteenth Century
Same as or continuation of CH 721. (3)

CH 781 Seminar in Christianity and Judaism
Analysis of major historical, theological, and exegetical issues in the engagement between Christianity and Judaism from early tensions in the apostolic age to the modern Jewish-Christian dialogue. (3)

CH 791 Seminar: Church and Society
An examination of the manner in which the Church interacts with contemporary social orders in the United States and abroad, together with theological reflection upon problems which such interaction involves. (3) Also CD 791

CH 793 Seminar in Church History
An advanced study of some phase of church history, open to students of demonstrated competence. (2 or 3)

CH 794 Seminar in Church History
Same as or continuation of CH 793. (2 or 3)

CH 797–8 Thesis
Preparation of a thesis on a significant topic approved by the faculty. (3 or 4)

Notes:

• For the M.Div. degree, twelve hours in Church History are required, including CH 615 and 616.
• For the M.A.R. degree, at least one course in Church History is required.

The Area of Christian Doctrine

The Area of Christian Doctrine has three closely related objectives: first, to familiarize the student with the many ways in which Christians from the first century to the present have given formal expression in word and deed to their faith by means of creeds, doctrinal and theological systems, liturgies, and otherwise; second, to enable the student to discriminate and evaluate these expressions by appropriate criteria; third, to help the student discover an appropriate manner of formulating and communicating his or her faith.

Faculty:

• Charles R. Taber, B.A., M.A., Ph.D., Professor of World Mission and Area Chair
• Frederick W. Norris, B.A., B.D., M.Th., M.Phil., Ph.D., Professor of Christian Doctrine
• Fred P. Thompson Jr., B.A., M.A., B.D., S.T.D., Professor-at-Large
• C. Robert Wetzel, B.A., M.S., Ph.D., Professor of Ethics and Philosophical Theology
• David P. Marwede, B.A., Ph.D., Lecturer in Latin and German

Courses:

CD 501 Theological Latin
A basic language study having as its goal the mastery of sufficient grammar and vocabulary to read theological texts. (2 or 3) Offered on request. (This course may not be used to meet the CD area core requirement in any degree program; it can only be used as an open elective.)

CD 502 Theological German
A basic language study having as its goal the mastery of sufficient grammar and vocabulary to read theological texts. (2 or 3) Offered on request. (This course may not be used to meet the CD area core requirement in any degree program; it can only be used as an open elective.)

+ CD 503 Introduction to the Christian World Mission
An introduction to a biblical understanding of the Church’s mission in the world and of appropriate methods for pursuing it. (3) Also CMM 503.

+ CD 515 Introduction to Christian Doctrine
An historical, constructive examination of the Christian faith centered on Biblical revelation. (3)

+ CD 516 The Doctrine of Christ
A constructive examination of Biblical, historical, and contemporary views of Christ. (3)

CD 531 Theology and Mission
A course examining the following questions: (a) What do basic Christian doctrines teach about mission? (b) How can theology evaluate the processes by which Christian faith is expressed via languages and cultures? (c) How does Christian faith relate to other faiths and ideologies? (d) What can we learn from Christians doing theology in non-western contexts? (3) Also CMM 531.

CD 581 History of Christian Doctrine
A comprehensive survey of the developments in Christian thought and practice from post-apostolic times to the sixteenth century. (3) Also CH 581.

CD 582 History of Christian Doctrine
A comprehensive survey of the developments in Christian thought and practice from the sixteenth century to the present. (3) Also CH 582.

CD 604 Philosophy of Religion
An examination of the nature of knowledge concerning God, humankind, moral evil, and freedom as discussed in the developments of philosophy. (3)

CD 621 The Doctrine of God
A constructive examination of Biblical, historical, and contemporary views of God. (3)

CD 622 The Doctrine of the Spirit
A constructive examination of Biblical, historical, and contemporary views of the Spirit. (3)

CD 631 History of Interpretation
Selected Biblical passages in the commentaries of different eras. Biblical exegesis viewed through historical theology. (3)

CD 643 The Nature of Christian Doctrine
A study in the historical development of theology in reference to biblical data, with particular attention to the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. (3)

CD 651 The Nature of the Church
A study of the origin, identity, and mission of the Church as expressed in the thought and organization of significant movements within the Christian people. (2) Also CH 651.

CD 671 Major Religions of the World
A study of the major non-Christian historic religions by which human beings have sought to understand themselves and relate to their world. Consideration of background, development, and major concepts. (2 or 3) Also CMM 671.

CD 673 History of Christian Ethics
A survey of significant ethical considerations in the history of Christian doctrine. (3)

CD 674 Christian Social Ethics
A study of selected problems in Christian social ethics. (3)

CD 701 Seminar in World Mission
A seminar examining in depth some aspect of world mission. (2 or 3) Also CMM 701.

CD 721 Seminar in the Reformation of the Nineteenth Century
Origins, developments, and critique of the Restoration principles in church reform and renewal. (3) Also CH 721.

CD 722 Seminar in the Reformation of the Nineteenth Century
Same as or continuation of CD 721. (3) Also CH 722.

CD 791 Seminar: Church and Society
An examination of the manner in which the Church interacts with contemporary social orders in the United States and abroad, together with theological reflection upon problems which such involves. (3) Also CH 791.

CD 795 Seminar in Theology
An advanced study of some phase of theology. (2 or 3)

CD 796 Seminar in Theology
Same as or continuation of CD 795. (2 or 3)

CD 797–8 Thesis
Preparation of a thesis on a significant topic approved by the faculty. (3 or 4)

Notes:

• For the M.Div. degree, twelve hours of Christian Doctrine are required, including CD 515 and 516 or the equivalent.
• CD/CMM 503 is also required for the M.Div. and may be counted toward either the Christian Doctrine or Christian Ministries requirement.
• For the M.A.R. degree, at least one course in Christian Doctrine is required.

The Area of Christian Ministries

The Area of Christian Ministries seeks to lead students to achieve a deep understanding of the incarnational and global nature of the church and its ministry with competence of performance of the various skills called for by specific ministerial assignments. It recognizes that the majority of students seeking the M.Div. degree will exercise their ministries in the service of local churches, with a minority finding areas of service in chaplaincies, journalism, foreign missions, teaching, etc.

To meet the various vocational needs of students the Area of Christian Ministries is divided into five basic fields: Preaching, Church Administration, Christian Education, Christian Care and Counseling, and World Mission and Evangelism. The required introductory course attempts to lead students to establish a foundation on which they can build a holistic understanding of and competence in these various challenges of leadership ministry. To build on that foundation, students may select those other courses that relate to their specific interests and needs.

Faculty:

• Eleanor A. Daniel, A.B., M.A., M.Ed., Ph.D., Professor of Christian Education
• Susan G. Higgins, B.A., M.A., Ph.D., Adjunct Associate Professor of World Mission.
• Calvin L. Phillips, B.A., M.A., B.D., D.Min., D.D., Lecturer in Christian Ministries
• Bruce E. Shields, B.A., B.D., Dr.Theol., Professor of Preaching and Biblical Hermeneutics and Area Chair
• W. Michael Smith, B.A., M.Ed., D.Min., Director of Supervised Ministerial Experience and Associate Professor of Christian Ministries
• James L. Street, B.A., M.Ed., Ph.D., Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling
• Joseph E. Sutherland, B.A., B.D., D.Min., Adjunct Associate Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling
• Charles R. Taber, B.A., M.A., Ph.D., Professor of World Mission
• Myron J. Taylor, B.A., M.Div., D.D., Adjunct Professor of Preaching

Courses:

+ CM 501 Introduction to Christian Ministry
This introductory integrative course in major facets of Christian pastoral ministry is designed to lead the student to understand the various activities of congregational leadership as parts of the whole life of ministry. The process begins with reflection on the nature of the church, as revealed in scripture, and continues through the contemplation of church administration, worship and preaching, and leadership development as means of working out that understanding. (3)

+ CM 502 Introduction to Christian Ministry
A continuation of CM 501, dealing with: Christian education, pastoral counseling, and evangelism. This two-semester course or its equivalent is a prerequisite for other CM courses. (3)

Supervised Ministerial Experience

A program of Supervised Ministerial Experience is mandatory for the M.Div. degree. It includes a block of activities and courses designed to give the student an extended and intensive exposure to practical field experience under competent supervision and with careful preparation and follow-up.

It is to be taken in its entirety and in the sequence specified. It consists of three modules, one for each year of the student’s progress toward the degree.

Module I: Assessment and Formation

+ CMF 501 Self Assessment
This non-credit—but required—module aims at the student’s self-understanding with reference to the expectations of ministry. Several instruments are used to accomplish this, including self-assessment worksheets, a narrative summary of the student’s personal and spiritual experience, and the Profiles of Ministry (POM I) computer read survey. These are used in personal conference by the student and the SME director or other faculty. (Junior year, fall semester, no credit) Fee: $40.00

+ CMF 502 Formation in Christian Ministry
This course is designed to aid the student in establishing life patterns appropriate to the personal and provisional aspects of ministry in and to the church. It will build on the student’s self-assessment, developing an integrative approach to Christian ministry, emphasizing the theological, spiritual, psychological, social, ethical, and functional dimensions of Christian ministry through the contemporary Church. (Junior year, spring semester, 2)

Module II: Supervised Concurrent Ministerial Experience

The purpose of this module is to provide students experience in leadership ministry under the supervision of experienced ministers. Students are offered a choice among a variety of ministerial experiences in an appropriate church or parachurch context under the supervision, and a peer group experience in which ministry events are the primary focus. The student may choose among these options:

CMF 615–6 Pastoral Ministry
Supervised experience in a local church, involving preaching, administration of ordinances, counseling, pastoral care, church administration, stewardship, Christian education, and evangelism. Requirements: a learning contract agreed upon by the student, the supervisor, and the SME director; a minimum of 10 hours a week for two semesters (the same number of hours may be compressed into one semester or one summer, if agreed to by the SME director); monthly reports by the student and the supervisor; participation in the peer group sessions; and a final report by the student and the supervisor. For students who are already engaged in congregational ministries, the supervision will be provided and the requirements superimposed on the student’s work program so as to make of that ministry a valid learning experience. (Middler year, 3) FEE (in addition to tuition): $25.00

CMF 625 Clinical Pastoral Experience (CPE)
(One-half unit.) A structured experience in ministry under supervision in an approved clinical setting. Requirements: a learning contract agreed upon by the student, the supervisor, and the SME director; a minimum of 250 hours of supervised experience; monthly reports by the student and supervisor; and a final report by the student and the supervisor. Requires special application and registration procedure. See descriptions of CPE programs available in Johnson City on page 35 above. (Middler year, 3) FEE (in addition to tuition): $75.00

CMF 635–6 Urban Ministerial Experience
A structured ministerial experience in an approved urban program or agency. Requirements: a learning contract agreed upon by the student, the supervisor, and the SME director; a minimum of 10 hours a week for two semesters (the same number of hours may be compressed into one semester or one summer, if agreed to by the SME director); monthly reports by the student and the supervisor; and a final report by the student and the supervisor. (Middler year, 3) FEE (in addition to tuition): $25.00

CMF 637–8 Rural Appalachian Ministerial Experience
A structured experience of ministry in a congregation or parachurch organization located in and dealing with the peculiar challenges of rural Appalachia. This will usually be done in connection with the Appalachian Ministries Education Resource Center. Requirements: a learning contract agreed upon by the student the supervisor, and the SME director; a minimum of 10 hours a week for two semesters (the same number of hours may be compressed into one semester, if agreed to by the SME director); monthly reports by the student and the supervisor; and a final report by the student and the supervisor. (Middler year, 3). FEE (in addition to tuition): $25.

CMF 645–6 Cross-Cultural Experience
A structured experience of service in a mission setting culturally alien to the student. Requirements: a learning contract agreed upon by the student, supervisor, and the SME director; a minimum of 10 hours a week for two semesters (the same number of hours may be compressed into one semester or one summer, if agreed to by the SME director); monthly reports by the student and the supervisor; and a final report by the student and the supervisor. (Middler year, 3) FEE (in addition to tuition): $25.00

CMF 655–6 Campus Ministry Experience
A structured experience under supervision in an approved college campus ministry. Requirements: a learning contract agreed upon by the students, the supervisor, and the SME director; a minimum of 10 hours a week for two semesters (the same number of hours may be compressed into one semester or one summer, if agreed to by the SME director); monthly reports by the student and the supervisor; and a final report by the student and the supervisor. (Middler year, 3) FEE (in addition to tuition): $25.00

CMF 675–6 New Church Planting Experience
A structured experience of new church planting under supervision. Requirements: a learning contract agreed upon by the student, the supervisor, and the SME director; a minimum of 10 hours a week for two semesters (the same number of hours may be compressed into one semester or one summer, if agreed to by the SME director); monthly reports by the student and the supervisor; and a final report by the student and the supervisor. (Middler year, 3) FEE (in addition to tuition): $25.00

CMF 685–6 Christian Education Ministry Experience
A structured experience of ministry primarily in the specialty of Christian education in a local congregation or other appropriate venue. This course of experience is required for the M.Div. in Christian Education and may be used, with special permission, in the general M.Div. program. Requirements: a learning contract agreed upon by the student, the supervisor, and the SME director; a minimum of 10 hours a week for two semesters (the same number of hours may be compressed into one semester or one summer, if agreed to by the SME director); monthly reports by the student and the supervisor; and a final report by the student and the supervisor. (Middler year, 3). FEE (in addition to tuition): $25

CMF 695–6 Open Supervised Ministerial Experience
A structured experience of ministry which does not fall under any of the above rubrics, but which has its own validity, as determined by the SME director. Requirements, beyond demonstration of the validity of the experience: a learning contract agreed upon by the student, the supervisor, and the SME director; a minimum of 10 hours a week for two semesters (the same number of hours may be compressed into one semester or one summer, if agreed to by the SME director); monthly reports by the student and the supervisor; and final report by the student and the supervisor. (Middler year, 3) FEE (in addition to tuition): $25.00

Module III: Theological Integration and Readiness for Ministry

+ CMF 705 Theological Integration
A faculty-led seminar meeting weekly and utilizing written ministry incidents to help students learn how to capture, analyze, reflect upon, and evaluate experiences in ministry in the light of biblical, historical, and doctrinal disciplines. (Senior year, fall semester, 1)

+ CMF 706 Readiness for Ministry
This includes a summary update of the student’s resume, the Profiles of Ministry (POM II), and a final interview with the SME director. (Senior year, spring semester, no credit) FEE: $50.00

Field of Preaching

CMP 501 Oral Interpretation for Preaching and Teaching
A course in the fundamentals of speech communication geared to the demands of leadership in churches or church-related schools. Lectures on and practice in the preparation and performance of scripture reading and various types of speeches and public leadership occasions are designed to develop the student’s skills of oral communication. (3)

CMP 502 The Ministry of Preaching
This course is designed with the person in mind who has had little or no previous coursework in preaching. It includes consideration of the person and activities of the preacher/worship leader as well as practice in the art of preparing, leading worship, and preaching. (3)

CMP 503 Music in the Life of the Church
A study of the theological, psychological, and practical implications of music in ministry with local church. (2 or 3)

CMP 521 Principles and Practice of Worship
A study of Biblical, doctrinal, and anthropological principles relating to Christian worship and culminating in an attempt to apply them in actual worship experience. (3)

CMP 603 Biblical Preaching—Old Testament
An advanced course in homiletics, following the process of choice of text, exegesis, theological thinking, and preparation and delivery of sermons, concentrating on the Old Testament. This course is designed to help each student develop his or her special gifts in preaching. In addition to several brief written reports, each student will preach twice. (3)

CMP 604 Biblical Preaching—NT
An advanced course in homiletics, following the process of choice of text, exegesis, theological thinking, and preparation and delivery of sermons, concentrating on the New Testament. This course is designed to help each student develop his or her special gifts in preaching. In addition to several brief written reports, each student will preach twice. (3)

CMP 707 History of Preaching
Analysis of sermons and biographies from the first century to the present offers the student a broad perspective on preaching and should help the student to develop the analytical tools useful in deciding on appropriate sermon forms for differing occasions. Each student will study and report on two representative preachers. (3)

CMP 708 The Nature of Preaching
The reading of selected volumes of the Lyman Beecher lectures and other germane literature, reports, and lectures on preaching and its content, method, and significance are designed to stimulate participants to develop an informal understanding of preaching wherever it is done. Each student will study and report on two outstanding homileticians. (3)

CMP 709 Advanced Homiletics: Types of Preaching
Survey and practice of the great variety of Christian preaching categorized by source, form, occasion, purpose and delivery. (2 or 3)

CMP 710 Advanced Homiletics: A Preaching Program
A study of the year-round schedule of preaching in the local congregation. (2 or 3)

CMP 711 History of Preaching in the Restoration Movement
This course is a study of preachers and sermons from the history of the Reformation of the 19th century. Much of the semester will follow the pattern of a seminar, with student and instructor presenting reports for class discussion. (3)

CMP 791 Seminar in Preaching
Some aspects of preaching and public address. (2 or 3)

CMP 794 Seminar in Preaching
Some aspects of preaching and public address. (2 or 3)

CMP 795 Seminar: Biblical Exegesis and Contemporary Preaching
Study and practice in relating Biblical exegesis, theological reflection, and the act of preaching. (2)

CMP 797–8 Thesis
Preparation of a thesis on a significant topic approved by the faculty (3 or 4)

Field of Church Administration and Worship