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Bachelor of Science in Bible

Location

On Campus

Curriculum

120 credit hours

Program Length

4 years

Accreditation

Accredited by ABHE

Build a Foundation for Life with a Bachelor of Science in Bible

Are you looking for a Bible degree program that not only provides a deep understanding of the Bible, but also integrates faith and learning, hands-on experience and a diverse community of learners? Look no further than Columbia International University! Our Bachelor of Science in Bible degree program offers a unique and comprehensive education that prepares students for success in ministry and beyond. Let us show you why CIU is the right choice for your Bible degree. 

Christian worldview: CIU is committed to providing a biblically-based education that integrates faith and learning. The Bible degree program is grounded in a Christian worldview, providing students with a deep understanding of the Bible and its relevance to their lives and future careers. 

Experienced faculty: The Bible faculty at CIU are highly qualified and experienced educators who are passionate about teaching and mentoring students. They are experts in their respective fields and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom. 

Practical experience: CIU’s Bible degree program emphasizes practical application of biblical knowledge, providing opportunities for students to engage in real-world ministry experiences and service projects. This hands-on experience prepares students for success in ministry and other careers. 

Flexibility: The Bible degree program at CIU offers flexibility in course selection and scheduling, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. This includes a variety of course formats, including traditional classroom settings, online classes and hybrid options. 

Diverse community: CIU is a diverse and inclusive community of learners, with students from all over the world and from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. This diversity fosters a rich and dynamic learning environment that encourages growth and mutual respect. 

Sydney

Why Choose Columbia International University? 

At Columbia International University, the Bible isn’t just a book — it’s at the very heart of who we are. In fact, one of our Five Core Values is the “Authority of Scripture.” As a Bible Major at CIU, you’ll receive a comprehensive education that equips you with the tools and skills you need to understand and apply the Bible to your life and ministry. 

We believe in a well-rounded approach to studying the Bible. That’s why we combine survey courses with challenging studies of Bible interpretation, giving you a strong foundation in biblical scholarship. You’ll then be ready to tackle more in-depth courses on specific books of the Bible and other advanced topics, which will deepen your understanding of the Bible and help you apply its teachings to real-world situations. 

We’re committed to fostering a vibrant community of learners who are passionate about the Bible and its teachings. You’ll be part of a diverse community of students and faculty who share your commitment to biblical scholarship and ministry. Our experienced faculty are experts in their fields and are dedicated to helping you succeed academically and spiritually. 

Whether you’re preparing for a career in ministry, seeking personal spiritual growth or simply interested in deepening your understanding of the Bible, CIU’s Bible Major is the perfect choice for you. Let us help you embark on a journey of discovery and growth in your understanding of the Bible and its relevance to your life and the world around you. 
 

Overall Benefits of This Degree

Earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Bible can provide numerous benefits and open up many career opportunities. Here are some overall benefits of earning a BS in Bible: 

Deep understanding of the Bible: CIU’s Bible degree program provides a deep understanding of the Bible and its teachings, enabling students to apply biblical principles to their lives and careers. 

Well-rounded education: The Bible degree program offers a well-rounded education that includes courses in biblical interpretation, theology, history and pastoral ministry. 

Practical skills: We emphasize practical skills and experiences, providing opportunities for students to engage in real-world ministry experiences and service projects. 

Career opportunities: You will be prepared for a variety of careers, including pastoral ministry, nonprofit work, missions, education, counseling and more. 
 

Featured Faculty

John Crutchfield

Bible and Christian Ministries Division Chair, Middle Eastern Studies Program Director

What Will I Study?

  • BIB 1116 Old Testament Survey

    In this course, you will become familiar with the basic contents of each book of the Old Testament and the broad historical framework of Old Testament events. You will pay special attention to key passages and prominent themes of the Old Testament. You will read the Old Testament with a view to using it for spiritual formation and discipleship.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BIB 1120 New Testament Survey

    This course is an overview of the books of the New Testament and the historical circumstances surrounding these writings. You will focus on the background, content, message, and personal application of each book in the New Testament. You will also examine the process by which the New Testament canon was formed and the New Testament was transmitted through the history of the Church.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BIB 3420 Principles of Bible Interpretation

    This course will guide you through the hermeneutical principles basic to interpreting Scripture. Many of these principles are common to language and literature, while others apply uniquely to the Bible. All of them are based on the way in which the Bible interprets itself. You will begin to lay a foundation of cognitive understanding, with an emphasis on practice in applying the principles.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BIB 3616 Romans

    Within the framework of an exegetical study, you will focus on the New Testament's most organized, thorough exposition of the Christian faith and its relation to human history and implications for Christian living. Giving special attention to the personal application of the message, you will apply principles of biblical interpretation to the study of this book.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BIB 4310 Progress of Redemption

    In this course, you will explore God's plan of redemption as it progressively unfolds in the Bible. You will trace the basic historical revelation in the Old and New Testaments to see what God is doing and by what method. You will consider the spoken revelations as you observe the progress of doctrine.

    3.00 credit hours
  • THE 3310 Christian Theology

    This course provides a study of the theological truths of the Bible, during which you will focus on the basic doctrines necessary for a Christian worldview: Scripture, God, Christ, Holy Spirit, sin and salvation, church, and future events. You will examine the doctrinal teaching of the Bible, supplemented with insights from the theological reflections of the church throughout its history and from contemporary theological discussions.

    3.00 credit hours
  • ENG 1110 Composition and Research

    This course provides you an introduction to reaching well-reasoned conclusions based upon the most credible evidence available, skills fundamental to college writing but also for life as an educated adult. You will develop your abilities with modern academic library resources as evidenced through an annotated working bibliography, among other assignments. You will spend the majority of the course drafting and revising papers which demonstrate the effective use of secondary resources.

    3.00 credit hours
  • ENG 1111 Literature and Research

    This second writing course is designed to foster an appreciation of literature, use literary texts as a platform for strengthening skills in reading, writing, and analysis, and continue to emphasize foundational skills in library research. Texts and genres (such as short fiction, poetry, and drama) will vary.

    3.00 credit hours
  • PHI 2110 Introduction to Philosophy

    In this course, you will explore some of the fundamental issues that must be addressed by anyone attempting to formulate a comprehensive understanding of things (worldview), and will examine primary texts in order to observe some of the very best thinking regarding these fundamental issues.

    3.00 credit hours
  • PHI 4140 Seminar in Ethics

    In this capstone course, you will integrate Scripture, theology, and philosophy as they relate to who we are, what we should do, and living well. You will develop a Christian framework for ethical thinking and decision-making based on the Christian understanding of human nature as bearing the Image of God. Course limited to students classified as seniors.

    3.00 credit hours
  • PSY 2110 General Psychology

    In this survey of scientific psychology, you will focus on historical roots, human development, and the physiological basis of behavior, learning, motivation, perception, emotions, personality, socialization, and pathology. You will learn how to filter psychological data through biblical principles to help produce a biblically-consistent model of human psychology which can then be used in both Christian and non-Christian environments.

    3.00 credit hours
  • MAT 1110 College Algebra

    This course covers standard college algebra such as functions and expressions, linear, quadratic and rational expressions, and financial formulas. The course will also include real numbers, equations and inequalities, linear and quadratic functions, exponential and logarithmic functions. (3)

    3.00 credit hours
  • MAT 2100 Introduction to Statistics

    This course provides an elementary overview of probability and statistics that will prepare students to conduct and interpret research in a variety of scientific fields. The content will include descriptive statistics; probability; discrete and continuous random variables; binomial, normal, and student-t distributions; methods for conducting inference, including confidence intervals and hypothesis tests; and linear correlation and regression. (3 semester hours)

    3.00 credit hours
  • PHI 2610 Introduction to Logic

    This is an introduction of the science of reasoning in both formal and informal logic, so that you can begin to accurately apply the logic/ mathematical properties of validity, satisfiability, consistency, logical truth, and logical equivalence.

    3.00 credit hours
  • HIS 1110 Introduction to World History

    This course gives an overview of the major trends in global history that have created our modern world. The course will explore the major chronology of world history, focusing on the changes, continuities, and connections between major world regions during this period focusing on Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The course will examine the cultural, technological, political, economic, religious and social transformations which shaped the societies. (3)

    3.00 credit hours
  • HIS 2310 United States History and Government

    In this survey from colonial America to the present, you will examine the enduring issues and themes of American history. While the course is structured around historical events, particular effort is made to understand the paradox of American unity through diverse social, economic, political, and cultural factors.

    3.00 credit hours
  • ART 2110 Art Appreciation

    This course introduces students to the fine arts in their various media and period styles, with the goal of developing students' understanding and experience of the role of the arts in life. An ongoing focus on the relationship between art and the Bible will encourage students to develop a theology of art.

    3.00 credit hours
  • MUS 2110 Music Appreciation

    This course will introduce the student to the place that music traditionally held as one of the seven liberal arts as an apologetic to the study and enjoyment of music. The goal of the class is to enhance critical listening skills and to develop a working vocabulary of music that is meaningful to the non-musician. The course will introduce the basic elements of music and a brief overview of the history of Western classical music, American Jazz, World, and Pop music. (3)

    3.00 credit hours
  • BIO 2113 General Biology

    In this course, you will explore the concepts of biology, emphasizing the structure, function, and cellular organization of living organisms. Following an introduction to the general nature of science, the scientific method, and the nature of biology, you will focus on cellular biology, botany, zoology, and human biology.

    3.00 credit hours
  • NTR 2110 Introduction to Nutrition

    This course is designed to provide a foundational knowledge about nutrition as health science that discusses the nutrients essential for human life. Students will begin to learn and better understand the biochemical composition, metabolic action, requirements, and food sources of the nutrients studied. Students will also learn scientific basis for promoting health and quality of life. (3)

    3.00 credit hours
  • PHE 2120 Health Science & Personal Wellness

    This course provides an introduction to health science and personal wellness concepts. You will have the opportunity to build a foundation of knowledge that will help you actively pursue a healthy and well lifestyle. An introduction to and application of the foundations of physical, aerobic, and muscular fitness will be included. Strategies to maintain personal health and wellness, including weight control through nutrients and physical activity, will be covered. You will gain an understanding of the impact physical activity has on personal wellness as well as the broad spectrum of health science issues. This course provides information and experiences that will enable you to make informed decisions by incorporating healthy solutions as they relate to quality of life and longevity.

    3.00 credit hours
  • CSL 0101 Christian Service Learning I

    Having identified a local church during your first semester experience, you will now faithfully attend that church and volunteer at least 20 clock hours of service at that church or within a ministry in the community that is approved by the CSL Director. This service must be documented and approved by the CSL Director and a record submitted to the CSL office. No credit will be given, but completion of the service hours is a graduation requirement. Lack of faithfulness in attending or participating in a local church is an issue related to Christian character; failure to demonstrate faithfulness will be addressed by the Student Life office. (0)

    0.00 credit hours
  • CSL 0201 Christian Service Learning II

    Having identified a local church during your first semester experience, you will now faithfully attend that church and volunteer at least 30 clock hours of service at that church or within a ministry in the community that is approved by the CSL Director. This service must be documented and approved by the CSL Director and a record submitted to the CSL office. No credit will be given, but completion of the service hours is a graduation requirement. Lack of faithfulness in attending or participating in a local church is an issue related to Christian character; failure to demonstrate faithfulness will be addressed by the Student Life office. (0)

    0.00 credit hours
  • CSL 0202 Christian Service Learning III

    Having identified a local church during your first semester experience, you will now faithfully attend that church and volunteer at least 30 clock hours of service at that church or within a ministry in the community that is approved by the CSL Director. This service must be documented and approved by the CSL Director and a record submitted to the CSL office. No credit will be given, but completion of the service hours is a graduation requirement. Lack of faithfulness in attending or participating in a local church is an issue related to Christian character; failure to demonstrate faithfulness will be addressed by the Student Life office. (0)

    0.00 credit hours
  • ICS 1210 Discovering the Mission of God

    This course is designed to help you develop world-Christian characteristics. You will explore the Christian's heritage in the history of the church and missions, begin to develop a scriptural perspective on the purpose of the gospel in confronting ideologies, religions and spiritual needs of the world, and discuss current strategies for identifying and reaching the lost.

    3.00 credit hours
  • MSD 1110 Encountering Spiritual Formation

    This course is designed to introduce the student to the foundational principles of spiritual formation for effective life, ministry, and vocation. The process of the student's spiritual formation includes their relationship with God, their biblical self-image, their relationship with the Body of Christ, their personal relationships, and their relationship with the world. Students are invited into a multiple-year journey of encountering spiritual formation in community. The goal of this course is to help students build a foundation for continued spiritual formation at and beyond their time at CIU.

    3.00 credit hours
  • BIB 3230 Between the Testaments

    A survey of political, cultural, linguistic and religious developments after the writing of Malachi, viewed as divine preparation for the coming of Messiah and the explosion of the Christian movement. (3)

    3.00 credit hours
For a comprehensive list of courses related to this program visit the Academic Catalog.

Accreditation and Accolades

ABHE (The Association for Biblical Higher Education)
SACSCOC (The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges)

Career Path Opportunities 

  • Pastor or Associate Pastor in a church 
  • Youth Pastor or Worship Leader in a church 
  • Nonprofit work, such as social justice or poverty relief organizations 
  • Missions work, both domestic and international 
  • Education, such as teaching or administration in a Christian school or college 
  • Counseling, including licensed counseling or Christian counseling 
  • Chaplaincy in various settings, such as hospitals or prisons 
  • Bible or Theology professor in a college or seminary 
  • Author or Speaker in a Christian ministry or organization 
     

Top FAQs

Can I study Hebrew or Greek as a Bible Major?

Of course, you can! Students can study up to two years (four semesters) of either New Testament Greek or Biblical Hebrew, or they can choose to study one year of each. These courses provide a strong foundation in the original languages of the Bible, which can be beneficial for future ministry or scholarly work.

Are there different concentrations available for the Bible Major at CIU?

Yes! Students who focus on a Bible Major at CIU can choose to focus their studies on either the Old Testament or the New Testament. Additionally, there are study tours available to Israel, as well as a semester abroad program at the university’s sister campus in Jerusalem. Students can also explore a minor in Middle Eastern Studies for more information on these opportunities.

Will I learn how to study the Bible in the Bible Major program?

Yes, biblical interpretation is a significant emphasis in the Bible Major program at CIU. Students are required to take an in-depth course on biblical interpretation and then apply those skills in upper-division Bible classes that focus on specific books or genres of the Bible. This provides a strong foundation for interpreting and understanding the Bible’s teachings.

Can I combine the Bible Major with another major at CIU?

Yes! students pursuing a Bible Major can easily combine it with other courses of study at CIU, such as Business, Sport Management, Psychology, Humanities, and Communication. Since each student at CIU takes a required Bible and Theology core (18 hours), adding the four additional courses required for a Bible Major is a natural fit.

Why should I pursue the Bible Major at CIU instead of another school?

CIU has a strong historical commitment to biblical authority, which continues to this day. The Bible Major curriculum presents a clear progression of study, from survey courses of the Old and New Testaments, to an in-depth course on biblical interpretation, to a survey of Christian Theology, and finally to upper-division courses on specific books or genres of the Bible. Few schools offer such a comprehensive program of the study of Scripture, making CIU a unique and valuable choice for a Bible Major.

Where are your alumni serving?

Our alumni are literally serving all over the world. Some of our Bible majors are teaching in Christian schools in the United States, while others teach overseas. Many serve in pastoral ministry or mission work; others, in social work and counseling. Additionally, a number of our graduates use their experience in the Bible Major to develop a strong foundation of biblical understanding and go on to become ministering professionals in a variety of occupations and careers.

 

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