Bachelor of Arts in Religion

Purpose of the Program

The Bachelor of Arts in Religion (BAR) is a 180-hour undergraduate program designed for students who wish to prepare for Christian ministry. The program can be taken online or through a combination of online and resident courses. The program requires General Education studies as well as General Bible and General Religion courses. The program is for the following:

1. Christian workers in positions where an undergraduate degree will allow entrance into a Christian vocation or lay ministry which would not otherwise be possible;
2. Those who need a general education and wish to gain further knowledge in the areas of biblical and religious studies; and
3. Those who desire to apply for future admission to a graduate program in an area of Christian studies.

General Admission Requirements

The degree calls for students who demonstrate a potential for ministry, a faithful commitment to the Word of God, a heart for Christian service, and the personal discipline necessary to complete degree requirements. The academic prerequisite for this degree program is a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants must have read and signed that they are in agreement with and will uphold the Doctrinal Statement (pages 14 -15), that they will abide by financial policies and academic policies, and that they will adhere to the regulations described in the Code of Conduct and Drug Policy. All additional requirements can be found on the Application for Admission.

Learning Outcomes

1. Acquire basic liberal arts knowledge through selected general education courses in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences;
2. Acquire an understanding of the basic contents of the Old and New Testaments;
3. Acquire a basic understanding of biblical theology and church history;
4. Acquire an understanding of the relationship between academic studies and practical Christian ministry; and
5. Acquire an understanding of the Christian worldview, its implications for one’s life, and demonstrate an ability to communicate that worldview especially as it relates to other philosophical worldviews and other religions.

Online Access Procedures

Online students must have access to a computer (Windows XP/MAC OS 10.3 or higher) with an Internet connection. Students begin the process by accessing the school’s website at www.faithseminary.edu and linking to Login to Student Access System to register for courses through Populi. Once the online registration is processed, it will prompt the Director of Online Education to forward an email to the student with a link that allows them access to EdVance360. Once in the system the student will find the courses for which he or she has registered. Courses are accessed by each student when they link to “Online Courses Login”and follow the prompts.

Bachelor of Arts in Religion Program Requirements

Note: Students wishing to use this degree as the foundation for eventual graduate education or for vocational opportunities/advancement should check beforehand with their graduate school of choice or current or potential employer to determine the applicability of this degree.