Theology

Why Theology?

A major in theology gives students an opportunity to deepen their knowledge of God, His Word and His World. It also provides excellent preparation for Christian leadership in a variety of settings. The development of critical thinking and writing skills, which are required for theological study, may lead graduates to diverse professions in a fast-changing society.

The curriculum focuses on three broad areas. The first is textual, in that it is directed towards the development of skills in the interpretation of primary Biblical texts. The second area is devoted to contextual study. By means of the study of philosophy, history and culture, as well as systematic theology, students learn to see the texts in relation to the larger world. The third area is the practical application of insights gained through the study of text and context. Practice is held to be critical to good understanding.

Mission Statement

The Theology department provides instruction in the Bible as the authoritative Word of God, and in Christian history, thought, and practice with the purpose of commending Christ as Lord and Saviour and so contributing to the formation of Christian character, worldview, and service.

Major Programs

The major in Theology at LCC is intended to provide the student with a broad conceptual framework for Christian thought and practice. It is a serious academic study of the various theological disciplines from the standpoint of historic Christian faith.

The curriculum focuses on three broad areas. The first is textual, in that it is directed towards the development of skills in the interpretation of primary biblical texts. The second area is devoted to contextual study. By means of the study of philosophy, history and culture, as well as systematic theology, students learn to see the texts in relation to the larger world. The third area is the practical application of insights gained through the study of text and context. Practice is held to be critical to good understanding.

A major in theology provides a good foundation for those considering some form of Christian service. It can also equip individuals to make a Christian contribution to their communities in other professions. The central content and concepts of the Bible, theology and ministry prepare students for further work or study.

It is strongly recommended that students majoring in theology take Introduction to Theology and Biblical Interpretation by the first semester of the third year since they are prerequisites for a number of theology electives.

The Theology major consists of 66 credits.

BIB 210 Biblical Interpretation
BIB 241 Synoptic Gospels
CLM 330 Spiritual Formation
PHI 201 Introduction to Philosophy
REL 361 Religions of the World
THE 261 History of Christianity
THE 490 Comprehensive Examination
THE 491 Thesis Writing and Defense

Theology Required Electives

Required electives within the major:
20 elective credits must be taken (one per category below).

Old Testament
BIB 212 Hebrew Wisdom and Poetry
BIB 312 The Pentateuch
BIB 411 Hebrew Prophets
New Testament
BIB 341 The Life and Letters of Paul
BIB 440 General Epistles
BIB 441 The Book of Revelation
Historical Theology
THE 342 Theology of the Seven Councils
THE 344 Reformation: Protestant and Catholic
THE 371 Major Christian Thinkers
THE 430 Systematic Theology
THE 441 Catholic Theology Since Vatican II
Theology and Culture
PHI 301 Scientific Method and Christian Faith
REL 331 Faith Themes in Pop Culture
THE 320 Peacemaking and Justice
THE 420 Contemporary Theology
Practical Theology
CLM 260 Spiritual Care and Counseling
CLM 380 The Church: Its Nature, Life and Ministry
CLM 381 Christian Education
CLM 450 Christian Ministry Practicum
CLM 481 World Missions

Electives within the major

18 elective credits must be taken.

REL 385 New Testament Greek I
REL 386 New Testament Greek II
REL 485 Hebrew I
REL 486 Hebrew II
REL/ENG 350 Faith Themes in Literature
REL/LTH 315 Theological Themes in Lithuanian Literature
BIB/ENG 343 The English Bible as Literature
ENG 341 Oral Interpretation of Literature
ENG 381 Introduction to Translation and Interpretation
ENG 481 Principles of Written Translation
HIS 355 Christian Perspectives on Government, Politics and Civil Society
PHI 310 Philosophy of Religion
PSY 221 Interpersonal Communication
PSY/SOC 430 Group Dynamics and Leadership
SOC 361 Leadership Development Practicum
SOC 470 Mediation and Conflict Transformation
PHI/BUS 320 Business Ethics
XXX 410 Special Topics (may be available in all categories)
THE 479 Thesis Research and Proposal (2)*
* Required for THE 491

Additional Theology Electives

Bible & Interpretation
BIB 210 Biblical Interpretation
BIB 212 Hebrew Wisdom and Poetry
BIB 241 Synoptic Gospels
BIB 312 The Pentateuch
BIB 341 The Life and Letters of Paul
BIB/ENG 343 English Bible as Literature
BIB 411 The Hebrew Prophets
BIB 440 General Epistles
BIB 441 The Book of Revelation
History & Theology
THE 261 History of Christianity
THE 320 Peacemaking and Justice
THE 342 Theology of the Seven Councils
THE 371 Major Christian Thinkers
THE 420 Contemporary Theology
THE 441 Catholic Theology since Vatican II
THE 489 Research and Proposal
THE 490 Comprehensive
THE 491 Thesis Writing and Defense
Practical Theology
CLM 260 Spiritual Care and Counseling
CLM 330 Spiritual Formation
CLM 380 The Church: It's Nature, Life and Ministry
CLM 381 Christian Education
CLM 450 Practicum
CLM 481 World Missions
Religion
REL/LTH 315 Theological Themes in Lithuanian Literature
REL 331 Faith Themes in Pop Culture
REL/ENG 350 Faith Themes in Literature
REL 361 Religions of the World
REL 385 New Testament Greek I
REL 386 New Testament Greek II
REL 485 Elementary Hebrew I
REL 486 Elementary Hebrew II
Philosophy
PHI 201 Introduction to Philosophy
PHI 301 Scientific Method and Christian Faith
PHI 310 Philosophy of Religion

Theology Plus: Double Majors at LCC

LCC International University allows and encourages students to major in two fields during their studies. As a liberal arts college we encourage broad learning and multi-disciplinary approaches. Up to four courses may be applied to both majors. Doing a double major may require an extra semester or year of study.
Students often choose another major alongside theology. Taking two majors allows for greater flexibility in employment and voluntary service. During the course of a career, professionals often work in a variety of settings. The broad training of a double major can be a significant asset.

Specific combinations

  • Theology/Business
  • Theology/English
  • Theology/Social Science

Career Opportunities

A graduate in Evangelical Theology is prepared for further graduate level theological study and for various forms of Christian ministry in churches or in Christian service organizations. A graduate is prepared to make a Christian contribution to their communities and churches while working in other professions. A graduate is also prepared for any career which requires a broad-based liberal arts education.