The Bible is central
Bible & Theology Core
The Bible and Theology Core is the foundation of your education here at Grace Christian University. This 30-credit core is built to help you grow spiritually, know Scripture better, and learn to live by biblical principles in every part of life.
Why the Bible & Theology Core Matters
At Grace, we believe every student should be grounded in Scripture, faith, and truth—that’s what biblical higher education is about. In these courses, you’ll learn to interpret God’s Word, understand Christian doctrine, grow in your faith, and get ready to share it with others. These classes shape how you see the world and prepare you to bring Christ into whatever you do next.
Interested in Declaring a Second Major in Christian Studies?
Builds Your Biblical Literacy
You’ll study both the Old and New Testaments, learn how to interpret Scripture, and grow in understanding God’s redemptive story.
Shapes Your Christian Worldview
Core classes cover doctrine, worldview, and theology helping you apply faith in real-world contexts.
Prepares You for Ministry and Service
Courses like Christian Mission and Spiritual Formation encourage spiritual growth, evangelism, and service readiness.
What is included in the Bible & Theology Core?
For all On-Campus Bachelor degree-seeking students who begin their Grace programs with fewer than 60 transfer credits, the Bible & Theology Core consists of 30 credit hours made up of required Bible and theology courses, along with select upper-division electives. Here are all the Bible & Theology Core courses:Â
Old Testament Literature
BBL 102Survey of the literature of the Old Testament in its historical setting, literary types, and main ideas. Attention is given to outstanding persons, events, and major teachings. |
3Credit Hours |
New Testament Literature
BBL 202Survey of the literature of the New Testament in its historical setting, literary types, and main ideas. Attention is given to outstanding persons and major events. |
3Credit Hours |
Bible Study Methods and Application
BIB 205An introduction to the principles and practice of inductive Bible study, with emphasis on the effective communication of biblical truth. This course will include assignments intended to develop skills in expository writing and biblical instruction. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course. |
3Credit Hours |
Biblical Interpretation
BIB 215An introduction to the principles and practice of biblical interpretation as well as the primary tools of biblical research. Intended primarily for students majoring in Biblical Studies, this course seeks to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to correctly interpret and analyze various literary genres, as well as develop skills needed for accurate practical application and teaching. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course. |
3Credit Hours |
Upper Division Old Testament Bible Elective
BIB —Choose any Upper Division Old Testament Bible Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details. |
3Credit Hours |
Upper Division New Testament Bible Elective
BIB —Choose any Upper Division New Testament Bible Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details. |
3Credit Hours |
Christian Worldview
THE 161Investigates the key aspects of Christian Worldview: Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Reconciliation. The study of these topics will then be applied to cultural challenges facing Christians in postChristian world. |
3Credit Hours |
Christian Mission
THE 162Investigates the key aspects of Christian Mission: Spiritual Formation, Evangelism, and Global Mission. The study of these topics will then be applied to cultural challenges facing Christians sharing the gospel in cross-cultural contexts. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course. |
3Credit Hours |
Biblical Christian Thought
THE 213Emphasizes Scripture as the basis of Christian thought about God and surveys a range of Christian doctrine from the standpoint of systematic, historical and dogmatic theology. It also includes a survey of the progressive revelation of God’s plan in Scripture as foundational to a Christian worldview; provides a focused introduction to Pauline dispensational theology and its unique ecclesiological and eschatological interests. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course. |
3Credit Hours |
Theology of Spiritual Formation
THE 363Emphasizes the practical outworking of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. Special consideration will be given to how the Holy Spirit equips God’s people for service, a development of a plan for lifelong spiritual growth, and appreciation for the historic spiritual disciplines. Christian ministry requirements are also embedded in this course. Prerequisite: THE 213. |
3Credit Hours |
Upper Division Theology Elective
THE —Choose any Upper Division Theology Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details. |
3Credit Hours |
Graduate with a double Major
Add a Second Major in Christian Studies
Students who complete every course in the Bible and Theology Core with at least a C– may elect to declare a second major in Christian Studies. This does not serve as a standalone major. Instead, it complements a student’s primary major and deepens their biblical and theological grounding.
To declare this second major, speak with your advisor about your intention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bible & Theology Core optional?
No. The Bible and Theology Core is required for all on-campus undergraduate students. Every student completes it as part of their degree.
Why is the Bible & Theology Core required for graduation?
These courses form a foundational part of a Grace education. They must be completed for graduation and represent a meaningful academic commitment. Yet they also shape students spiritually, offering formation, doctrinal clarity, and preparation for ministry and life.
Who benefits most from the Bible & Theology Core?
Every student gains something valuable, but the core is especially helpful for those exploring ministry, counseling, leadership, or further theological study. It strengthens both calling and practical readiness.
How is the Bible & Theology Core different from a minor?
A minor adds depth in a specific field. The Bible and Theology Core goes deeper. It reflects our identity as a Bible-centered institution and shapes the way students learn, grow, and serve and graduate prepared to make an eternal impact wherever they go.
Do Transfer students take Bible & Theology courses?
Yes. Transfer or Degree Completion students take a reduced Bible & Theology Core. The 30-credit Bible & Theology Core applies only to bachelor’s students who start at Grace with fewer than 60 earned college credits. If you transfer in 60 or more credits, your Bible & Theology requirements are smaller and tailored to your academic background.
Do A.A. students take Bible & Theology courses?
Yes. A.A. students take a reduced Bible & Theology Core. The full 30-credit Bible & Theology Core is required only for bachelor’s degree–seeking students who begin at Grace with fewer than 60 earned college credits. A.A. students complete a smaller set of Bible & Theology courses designed specifically for the associate degree.
Bible & Theology Core
Want to know more about Bible & Theology Core?
Still have questions? Find out more information about the Bible & Theology Core by clicking the button below, or talk to your academic advisor.