Click on the course names below to access the full course descriptions.
Viejo Testamento (Old Testament)
Este curso es un estudio de los libros, la cultura, el contexto histórico y la teología del Antiguo Testamento. Se prestará atención a los orígenes y el desarrollo del Antiguo Testamento, incluyendo los autores, las principales personalidades y los principales temas de los libros. Los temas principales que se discutirán incluirán una introducción al antiguo Cercano Oriente y al Creciente Fértil, antecedentes históricos y culturales del Antiguo Testamento en el contexto del antiguo Cercano Oriente, las diversas épocas de la historia de Israel antigua y los diversos métodos utilizados para interpretar muchos de los textos del Antiguo Testamento, principalmente las perspectivas de América Latina.
Intro to Old Testament
This course provides a survey of the Old Testament, focusing on the texts in their historical and literary contexts. Students will learn to read the texts from various perspectives and evaluate the notion of the literature as sacred texts both for ancient readers as well as contemporary faith communities. Evaluation will be based on participation in interactive discussions, content quizzes, written assignments and examinations. This course meets in a blended format.
New Testament
New Testament for Bachelor’s Equivalency Program (English)
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the collection of writings that we come to call the New Testament. Students will learn about the New Testament through reading, writing, discussions, along with other artistic mediums. As an introductory course students will become familiar with the historical context, culture, and the politics that lead to the production of this text. In addition to the traditional historical critical approach to the text, students will be introduced to other methods such as feminist, postmodern, and post-colonial readings that will help us deconstruct these texts and reconstruct interpretations that are socially, ethically, and politically relevant to the world we live. This course has no pre-requisites.
Ensayos Teologicos (Theological Essays)
En este curso se estudian los elementos basicos para elaborar un ensayo teologico como un ejercicio academico. Este curso tiene como objetivo principal proporcionar al estudiante las herramientas y fundamentos basicos que le permitira redactar un ensayo academico, en particular en el ambito teologico.
Intro to Theology
This course will begin with a brief introduction to philosophy and how its different traditions have been foundational to the development of Christian doctrine. Secondly, it will provide a thorough understanding of the importance of methodology in theological development throughout history and, finally, it will focus on the doctrines of Revelation, the Trinity, God, and human being.
Preaching Sermons that Matter
This course will be taught by one of the premier preachers in the Bay Area.
Intro to Pastoral Care
In Pastoral Care, students acquire the skills to exercise active listening, empathy, and compassion with special attention to the needs of the Latino culture. This class offers a holistic understanding of our relationship with others. It includes a review of theological positions regarding pastoral care.
Introduccion a la Sicologia (Introduction to Psychology)
Este curso de Psicología comprende el estudio de las diferentes etapas del desarrollo de la persona (áreas física, sicológica, spiritual, intelectual moral, entre otras), a la luz de diversas teorías psicológicas. Se le dará preferente atención a las implicaciones que esas etapas tienen para la implementación de un ministerio eficiente en la iglesia local.
En la clase, los estudiantes tendrán la oportunidad de entender los diversos acercamientos que han existido históricamente para tratar con la realidad psicológica de las personas.
Para aprobar este curso, los participantes tendrán que cumplir con la presentación de un proyecto práctico.
New Testament Voices
In this introductory course, students will examine the origins and development of the texts, language, authors, dates, personalities, and significant themes that make up the New Testament through various interpretive approaches. Indeed, by reading and analyzing these texts from the perspective of multiple voices, students will appreciate not only the complexity of NT authorship but also the subsequent paradigms and theologies generated out of these texts, including their own. In this course, special attention will be given to the Hebrew Bible (LXX) and its role in the formation of the NT. This course is appropriate for masters-level students and satisfies part of the core requirements at Berkeley School of Theology. Students from across the GTU are welcome and encouraged to attend the course.
Earliest Christian Doctrine
The course will survey the history of christianity from its earliest beginnings up to the eve of the Reformation. Special attention will be given to prominent leaders who help shape Christian doctrine. In addition, key theological, political and social issues will be addressed and primary text wil be used to enhance group discussion.
Fomat: Lecutre, oral reports and group discussion
Assignments: Student/s will be requried to write one reseach paper or several theolgical reflection papers.
Old Testament Speaks Today
This course will provide a basic introduction to the study and message of the OT. The successful student will have 1) acquired a socio-cultural and theological overview of the Old Testament with foci on basic content, critical issues and exegetical and hermeneutical methodologies; as well as 2) developed a self-awareness concerning his/her own social location and its relationship to the reading, thinking, and doing of biblical, historical, and theological work; as well as 3) applied methods, theologies, and interpretations to contemporary social justice concerns.
Theological Writing 1
First semester of a required course for entering BST seminarians – open to other GTU students. Students will learn skills of academic writing, critical analysis, and articulation of objectives. Writing samples and instructor feedback integrate theory and praxis.
Using Biblical Languages
Students will be introduced to the basic elements of biblical Hebrew and Greek. The course is designed for those seeking to understand the components of the biblical languages for ministerial purposes, however, any who are interested in Hebrew and Greek are encouraged to attend. The course content and curriculum will include preparation in the use of Hebrew and Greek lexical aids, an introduction to the fundamentals of linguistic theory, and exposure to exegetical and hermeneutical methods. This course is a requirement for all BST students; however, students from across the Graduate Theological Union are welcome and encouraged to take the course.
Transformative Word
This introductory preaching course is designed to enable the students to learn the theoretical and practical elements of contemporary preaching from diverse traditions. There will be lectures, presentations, and weekly writings and discussions around topics related to today’s diverse understanding of preaching and students will preach three sermons for the class. Open to all degree students.
Ministry in a Digital World
This course will help students maximize the use of technology in their ministry. Students will critically assess where their ministry is in the digital world, strengthen the technological tools they are using already, and then discover new tools for ministry. This course examines the place of technology in ministry. Students will have hands-on learning experience on various methods to use technology and how it can contribute to the effectiveness for ministry.
Intermediate Hebrew
The goals of this course are: to review the grammar (morphology and syntax) learned in first year; to increase vocabulary knowledge; to introduce students to prose readings from the Hebrew Bible (especially from the Books of Genesis, Ruth, Jonah & Tall Tales). Weekly Oral Reading & Quizzes, Mid-term and Final Exam.
Internship I & II
Supervised ministry in approved placements for MDiv and MCL students. Format: Lecture, discussion, small groups, onsite internship. Assignments: a learning covenant, reflection papers, timely completion of evaluation forms. BST students in first semester of field education. Pass/Fail only. Students must have made arrangements for an approved placement. [Auditors excluded].
BST Internship II - Spring Semester (BST students only)
An integral part of the academic credit that BST students receive for their Internship is to meet site-specific praxis expectations. The internship at a teaching church or other non church ministry setting is under the oversight of a qualified supervisor and BST faculty coordinator. Students engage in periodic class sessions, assigned text and written assignments, and shared discourse on student experiences.
Morality in Society and Religious Spheres
This course examines issues of morality in society with ethical questions as well as biblical/theological frames that provide a moral basis for public policy. Interactive dialogue and use of audio-visual tools to look at past and present moral challenges will facilitate students’ leadership skill development to assess the ramifications upon those least able to protect and defend their own interests. Project theme: How do issues of faith and beliefs in God’s sovereignty get used or abused in public/religious spheres? Students will explore public advocacy groups and “watch dog” agencies, secular and faith-based practitioners. Class dialogue / assigned sharing, readings, and final critical analysis presentations. master and doctoral students welcome.
Leading Diversity Oriented Churches
This course will examine the theological foundations, competencies and practices of leaders in diversity-oriented churches. Diversity-oriented churches are Christian congregations that distinguish themselves as multicultural, multiracial or multiethnic churches. We will examine how leaders of diversity-oriented churches promote diversity, equity and inclusion, and effectualize reconciliation, justice and fellowship among different people groups.
White Supremacy & the Bible
The Bible has been used throughout the centuries to create, support, and sustain the institutions of white supremacy, racism, and slavery as well as the colonization of the world by euro-centric powers. This course will survey the history of biblical interpretation that under-girds the movements mentioned above as a means of stimulating new ways of thinking about and interpreting the Bible for a contemporary inter-cultural and inclusive society.
Intercultural Leadership
This course will address theories and practices for effective leadership in an inter-cultural context. We will consider biblical examples of leadership, the Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership by Kouzes and Posner, along with cultural intelligence as building blocks towards developing inter-cultural leadership. Special attention will be paid to biblical and contemporary examples of leadership practices that are aimed at reconciling cultural dilemmas.
Understanding Religious Pluralism
This course focus on religious pluralism and inter-faith dialogue in communities. It will provide a historic overview of American religious pluralism and where it stands today. Beyond religious diversity, religious pluralism requires understanding religious communities in context and considers the avenues for the open engagement of believers from different faiths and perspectives. The course offers an opportunity to consider ministry in communities other than one’s own.
Protestant Reformation & Contemporary Church
This course will survey The Age of Reformation (1517-1648), The Age of Reason and Revival (1648-1789), and The Age of Progress (1789-1914). Special attention will be given to prominent leaders who help shape Christainity during these periods. In addition, key theological, political and social issues will be addressed and primary sources will be used to infrom group discussion. Lastly, we will spend a few extra weeks on the Reformation and Couter Reformation, since it sets the tone for what is to follow in Western Christianity.
Fomat: Lecture, oral reports and group discussion
Assignments: Student/s will be requried to write one reseach paper or several theolgical reflection papers
Preach Environmental Issues
Crafting Theoethical Counter-Rhetoric to Nationalism's Religious Ripples
As witnessed in the Jan 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, religious zeal, political partisanship, and supremacist factions were visible ingredients in the nationalist rhetoric of patriotism as mobs sought to overturn the country’s electoral due process. In the aftermath of nearly 2 years, the ripples continue as congressional hearings on insurrectionist actions conclude with limited public scrutiny of the influences that biblical symbolism and theological rhetoric have on justifying or critiquing violence. Students engage multi-media sources to deliberate the ramifications of crafting theological and ethical narratives in our faith communities and the public square to counter separatist rhetoric. Critical analysis and interactive discourse include helping to plan a possible Spring symposium with guest speakers / panelists.
1st & 2nd Generation Latinx Youth
This course has been specially created for BST’s Latinx DMin cohort on how to work to meet the needs of 1st & 2nd generation immigrant youth. The following competencies will be addressed: . First generation youth: i. How to meet linguistic challenges early on; ii. How to maneuver in a new context and culture; iii. Jobs and job training; iv. Educational needs; b. Second generation youth: i. Managing the gap – living with one foot in each culture (country of origin & US); ii. Maintaining or becoming bi-lingual (Spanish and English; iii. Creating life giving and supportive social groups (English & Spanish); iv. Moving through the educational system (K-12—college—and beyond). The course will be taught remotely and in Spanish.
Theological Reflections on 1619
In 2019 the New York Times Magazine published a special edition entitled The 1619 Project. Since then, this project has been turned into a book edited by Nikole Hannah-Jones (originator of the 1619 Project), et. al., that has become accessible to the general public. In this 6 session summer course, Judge Wendell Griffen of the Sixth Judicial Circuit and Pastor of New Millennium Church in Little Rock, Arkansas will team with Dean LeAnn Snow Flesher to provide a theological walk through The 1619 Project. The course may be taken for credit for 3 units or 1.5 units. Auditors are welcome. Class will meet once a week for two hours. Summer 2022 dates and times 6/21, 6/28, 7/5, 7/12, 7/19, 7/26; 5pm to 7pm PDT.
Reading the Bible in Real Life
Reading the Bible in Real Life: How Contexts Matter is an introduction to the study of lived biblical interpretation. The discipline of Biblical Studies has increasingly come to affirm that all interpretation is contextual. This course widens the conversation even further by engaging biblical interpretation beyond the academy. Students will observe biblical interpretation in pulpits, pews, Bible study groups, or other settings, and gain tools to analyze those observations. These social-scientific tools illuminate how context and culture dynamically interact. Students will choose a context for observation that is cross-cultural for them. Most sessions will follow a seminar format, with students leading and presenting in the second half of the semester. Evaluation is based on seminar participation and leadership, one book review, and the iterative stages of a semester-long research project. This course is open to masters and doctoral students (with an additional assignment).
Policing in Black & Brown Communities
This course will survey the history of Policing in America during the 20th and 21th century. Specifically we will examine police brutally in black and brown communities with the aim of underwstanding its cause and how it can be changed. We will discuss specific cases, to see what went wrong (bad laws, bad practices, blatant rsicsim, etc), again with the hope of finding answers to this problem. Lastly, it is hoped that information covered in our “Racsim and White Supremacy” course will be useful in helping us think more deeply about causes and possible solutions to the epidemic. Fomat: Lecture, oral reports and group discussion Assignments: Student/s will be requried to write one reseach paper [Auditors excluded]
Reparations for Blacks
This course will examine the notion that African Americans, who were the descendants of slaves, should receive reparations from the U.S. government. By examining centuries of mistreatment and abuse of African Americans in this country, we shall make a case for some form of reparation/s. To bolster this position, we will examine cases where reparations were awarded to other groups to see if this can also be applied to African Americans. [Auditors excluded]
DMin in Thesis
This is the course number used for BST Doctor of Ministry students working on the completion of their doctoral project. Students should work with their DMin committees for counsel on implementation and completion of their projects.
Religion & Practice Seminar
People’s belief systems and faith commitments affect the way they live their lives –individually and communally; through extraordinary actions or internalized habits; during feasts, fasts, or on an everyday basis. This course will introduce doctoral students to a wide variety of academic methods for studying faith/belief in practice, and/or lived religion. Students will explore the questions asked by scholars in the various fields of the department (homiletics, liturgical studies, missiology, practical theology, and yoga studies) and how scholars address them. Faculty and guest presenters will assist students in applying different ways of observing people’s practices, describing them, and thinking/talking/writing about the layers of meaning they embody and express. Committed to an interdisciplinary approach to scholarship, this course will emphasize integrating theological studies and other fields (such as art, anthropology, history, ritual studies and textual studies). This seminar will be taught online, using synchronous and asynchronous formats. In addition to required readings, research exercises, in-class presentations, and periodic reflections, students will engage with off-site communities (virtually as needed), and will complete a final research paper of 20-25 pages.
Research Methods
This core Doctor of Ministry course has been created specifically to train DMin students in creating viable research methods for their DMin projects that will result in reliable qualitative and quantitative data. Course will meet August 15-19, 2022; 9am to 5pm (hybrid intensive).
Becoming Culturally Responsive
To be(come) Culturally Responsive requires mentors and partners. Each student in the newly revised Competency Based Doctor of Ministry program will journey alongside a thematic cohort with several DMin students and mentors. A student’s mentor team can be geographically centered or spread across the globe. The remote realities that have become the new normal in our world create possibilities for communication and gatherings from anyplace at any time. Each year of Berkeley School of Theology’s Culturally Responsive Competency Based DMin will address several themes. Each student will select one of the themes to emphasize (or create one of their own with their advisors help) and build his/her mentor team accordingly: Typical themes include: 1) Racism/Prison Renewal/Reparations; 2) Creation Care/Greening the Church; 3) Pastoral Care for Immigrant Churches; 4) Preaching Social Justice; 5) Pastoral Care/Spiritual Formation (Korean); 6) Pastoral Care/Spiritual Formation (English) 7) Ministerial Training Latinx Churches (Spanish); 8) Womanist/Feminist Gospel
Sacred Texts Seminar
This course is co-taught by Mahjabeen Dhala and LeAnn Flesher. This doctoral seminar will explore the diverse ways in which sacred texts are formed,
interpreted, and experienced over time. Among the textual traditions that we will study include
selections from Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, and Muslim classical canons.
Our methods will include historical-critical and literary studies of these texts and their histories
as well as a study of the hermeneutical principles that have guided their interpretation through
the ages. We will also consider the function of these texts within the communities that regard and
transmit them. This will include an exploration of their theological, contemplative, liturgical,
ritual, pastoral, spiritual, ethical, artistic, and performative modes.
In particular, the seminar will examine several sacred text traditions through the following set of
critical lenses (1) textual production, (2) authorship and composition, (3) canonization and
recension, (4) liturgy and law, (5) translation and commentary, (6) embodiment of texts.
Our course aims to enable you to identify primary aspects of the textual traditions studied, their
material and ritual histories, the mechanisms for the production and interpretation of these
textual traditions, as well as the historical junctures that led to the consolidation of textual forms.
This course is required for doctoral students in the Sacred Texts department.
Continuing Fee
Continuing fee for BST DMin students that have completed their course units but have not yet completed their doctoral project required for graduation.
Advanced Standing
This course number is used for students that have mastered a competency from their thematic cohort set of learning outcomes outside of taking a regular course or completing an Special Reading Course (SRC). The student mentoring team will determine mastery of the competency and assign the number of units for the advanced standing.
Effective Leadership: How To Lead Almost Anything
This course examines theoethical factors of effective leadership in faith-based contexts, as well as identifying key aspects of leadership competencies crucial to develop effective relations within any organizational setting, whether pastoral or managerial roles in prison, hospital or military chaplaincy, non-profit community service, social entrepreneurship, or parachurch organizations. Use of multi-media and case studies will aid in-depth class discussions, self-reflection, and interaction with secular and faith-based readings to help identify specifics of effective transformational leadership in varied contexts. An effective leader recognizes the importance of understanding the context or organic culture of a church or organizational community as a crucial first step. By the end of the course, students are able to self-assess leadership characteristics; assess church/organizational culture in contextual setting and present on a ‘real-life’ leadership project.
Public Theology
Preparing seminarians for work in religious communities hungry for leadership and action on their values requires rethinking what theology is and what significance it has in today’s context of most pressing issues. Rather than a theology primarily focused on internal reflection and personal redemption, clergy in American communities need to expand their training to include a “public theology” that includes a more meaningful engagement of institutional and societal redemption. An integration of this broader, more inclusive theological orientation with skills of contemporary public engagement and community organizing can not only reexamine many traditional religious assumptions but also empower this new perspective for action. This course will use remote formats for meeting–a combination of Zoom and Moodle.
Becoming Culturally Responsive, Part 1
Culturally Responsive Competency Based Theological Education (CBTE) To be(come) Culturally Responsive requires mentors and partners. Each student in the newly revised Competency Based Doctor of Ministry program will journey alongside a thematic cohort with several DMin students and two mentors. A student’s mentor team can be geographically centered or spread across the globe. The remote realities that have become the new normal in our world create possibilities for communication and gatherings from anyplace at any time. Berkeley School of Theology’s Culturally Responsive Competency Based DMin will address several themes. Each student will select one of the several themes to emphasize and build his/her mentor team accordingly (or working with an advisor create their own specialized program): 1) Racism/Prison Renewal/Reparations; 2) Pastoral Care/Spirituality; 3) Preaching Social Justice; 4) Ministerial Training Latinx Churches (Spanish); 5) Biblical Studies/Interpretation; 6) Green the Church/Creation Care; 7) Womanist/Feminist Gospel; 8) Spiritual Formation (Korean); 9) Intercultural Leadership. If one of these themes does not interest the student s/he may work with her/his faculty advisor to create an emphasis that matches their particular needs. Class meets daily, 1/17-20; 9am to 5pm.
# of units: 3
Becoming Culturally Responsive, Part 2
For DMin students who have completed most of their competencies and are ready to refine dissertation proposals for submission to Academic Committee for candidacy review. Prerequisite completion of DM-6078 Becoming Culturally Responsive, part 1 & DM 6046 Research Methods. Class meets daily, 1/9/2023 – 1/13/2023; from 9:10am-5:00pm, in hybrid formats (in-person and Zoom option).
# of units: 3
Graduate Theological Writing
Second semester of a required course for entering BST seminarians – open to other GTU students. Students will learn skills of academic writing, critical analysis, and articulation of objectives. Writing samples and instructor feedback integrate theory and praxis.
# of units: 1.5
Research Methods
This core Doctor of Ministry course has been created specifically to train DMin students in creating viable research methods for their DMin projects that will result in reliable qualitative and quantitative data. Course will meet January 9-13, 2023 in hybrid formats in person and using Zoom and Moodle. (Note BST’s upgraded classrooms will allow for students to meet in-person and via Zoom simultaneously. Both options will be available for this course).
# of units: 3
Baldwin, Bible & Social Justice
James Baldwin’s biblical canon in Go Tell It on the Mountain and The Fire Next Time will be explored to identify his use of OT/NT texts to carve out a unique expression of social justice. Baldwin’s texts, including texts to be selected by students, will help each participant to develop their own Baldwinian applied justice portfolio. Class will meet 5 times 5-7pm PST; January 9, 10, 12, 17, 19. Enrolled students can take the course for 1.5 or 3.0 units. [auditors welcome]
# of units: 1.5 OR 3.0
Congregational Care
This course will seek to (1) define and describe the art of pastoral care and counseling and the contexts in which it takes place; (2) explore the needs and dynamics of people seeking help, as well as the self-awareness and skills required of the person in ministry; (3) provide opportunities for the practice and development of spiritual caregiving skills, including basic skills of listening, assessment, connecting with others, and communication of caring and hope; and (4) foster an environment wherein participants can reflect theologically on the issues, contexts, and crises faced by people in need. Course format includes discussions, lectures, student presentations.
# of units: 3
Cuidado Pastoral (Pastoral Care)
En este curso comenzaremos explorando la diferencia entre cuidado, consejería y acompañamiento pastoral. Luego haremos un recorrido del desarrollo del acompañamiento pastoral a través de la historia. Miraremos el acompañamiento pastoral desde la perspectiva teológica, en particular de la Teología Latinoamericana. Discutiremos cómo llevar a cabo conversaciones pastorales; estudiaremos modelos de cuidado pastoral en crisis y consolación; y estudiaremos sistemas familiares. Como parte de curriculo, también consideraremos el cuidado pastoral de inmigrantes y la Teología del sufrimiento en el libro de Job. Los estudiantes tendrán lecturas y tareas asignadas semanalmente, así como un proyecto de acompañamiento pastoral en sus lugares de ministerio que desarrollarán como un propuesta a lo large del curso.
# of units: 3
Historia de los Estados Unidos desde la perspectiva hispana
Este curso introduce en forma breve la historia de los Estados Unidos hasta el presente, con sus supuestos triunfos y contradicciones. Se plantea principalmente un enfoque crítico desde una perspectiva postcolonial con énfasis especial en la experiencia de los inmigrantes hispanos/latinoamericanos y las sucesivas generaciones en territorio estadounidense. Se tomarán como categorías de análisis conceptos y experiencias como imperio, esclavitud, capitalismo, racismo, etnocentrismo, y sexismo entre otros.
# of units: 3
Nuevo Testamento (New Testament)
Este curso ofrece una introducción a las escrituras que en su conjunto se conoce como el Nuevo Testamento. Los estudiantes conocerán aspectos de los contextos históricos, las culturas, y las realidades políticas que incidían en la producción de estas escrituras. Además de los métodos historico-criticós, haremos lecturas que toman en cuenta los contextos, las culturas, los propósitos, y las situaciones políticas de los lectores.
# of units: 3
Crises Pastoral Counseling
Experiencing various situations of crisis, a pastor or spiritual leader needs different perspectives and skills to be able to care for people in their community. This course will equip them with tools to diagnose and deal with critical pastoral situations in which people face diverse crises. Examples of crises are families dealing with mental illnesses, addictions, bereavement, sufferings from Covid-19, etc. Students will be required to participate in research and present their own cases. This course will be taught in Korean language.
# of units: 3.00
Title: Becoming Culturally Responsive, Part I
For DMin students who have completed most of their competencies and are ready to refine dissertation proposals for submission to Academic Committee for candidacy review. Prerequisite completion of DM-6078 Becoming Culturally Responsive, part 1 & DM 6046 Research Methods. Class meets daily, 3/13-3/17, 2023, from 9:00am-5:00pm, remotely.
# of units: 3
Leading Diversity-Oriented Ministries Certificate
The Leading Diversity-Oriented Ministries Certificate is a year long program that prepares church planters, pastoral leaders, ministry leaders, and higher education professionals for leadership roles in diversity-oriented organizations. The goal of the program is to provide leaders with the necessary awareness, knowledge, skills, and experience to provide effective intercultural leadership. All participants must commit to a 12 month educational program with monthly 3-4 hour sessions. All participants will receive 3 academic units for fall 2023 and 3 academic units for spring 2024 semesters. Cohort #1 begins on Monday, May 22, 2023 — then once a month for the next 12 months (specific dates TBD).
# of units: 3
Holy Innovation
This course is an introduction to a theological understanding and practice of innovation in the context of ministry either inside or outside of the local church. We will engage with the frameworks of human centered design, entrepreneurship and agile management as a way to guide us into our Creator’s call to be creative, innovative and redemptive in our vocation. We want to encourage our faith communities to respond meaningfully to an ever-changing world – whether it be through creating something new, renewing something old, transforming something broken or all of the above!
# of units: 3
Bible & Public Policy
This exciting new course will: explore biblical and theological foundations for establishing a moral basis for public policy; facilitate skill development for evaluating effects of public policy upon those least able to protect and defend their interests; introduce the student to social advocacy groups and Watch Dog Agencies for collaboration in influencing public policy; and assist the student in creating a sustainable plan for keeping abreast of ever changing social policies that threaten to undo justice-oriented public policy. Possible Field trips to Sacramento and Washington DC.
# of units: 3.00
Intercultural Leadership
This course will address theories and practices for effective leadership in an inter-cultural context. We will consider biblical examples of leadership, the Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership by Kouzes and Posner, along with cultural intelligence as building blocks towards developing intercultural leadership. Special attention will be paid to biblical and contemporary examples of leadership practices that are aimed at reconciling cultural dilemmas. Students will be encouraged to reflect on how they have been influenced by significant leaders while creating a plan for their own intercultural leadership development.
# of units: 3.00
Ministry In The Digital World
This course will help students maximize the use of technology in their ministry. Students will critically assess where their ministry is in the digital world, strengthen the technological tools they are using already, and then discover new tools for ministry. This course examines the place of technology in ministry. Students will have hands-on learning experience on various methods to use technology and how it can contribute to the effectiveness for ministry.
# of units: 3.00
Navigating The Complexities (Part I)
Creative Church & Community, Spirituality & Resilience, Justice & Reconciliation, Border-Crossing. These are all topics that will be addressed through the lenses of Bible, Theology, Ethics, History, and Praxis as a means of introducing and preparing the online student to /for the work of theological study and reflection. In part 1 of this two-part, year-long, MTS core online introduction the student will engage key terms, concepts, and methodologies; in part 2 (spring semester) the student will make application of all of the above to a topic of their own choosing. [This is the only core course for the BST MTS=Master’s in Theological Studies]
# of units: 3.00
Resistance, Rhetoric & Public Square
We will define rhetoric and how the art form informs homiletics and strategies in sacred, secular, and public square settings. For this course, we will limit our focus to sermons delivered by Gardner C. Taylor in various settings. We will read and view some of his sermons, respond, and react to his pulpit work and consider the rhetorical context(s). Group discussion will enhance our understanding of topic and written papers will be utilized to evaluate our academic proficiency. Class will be hybrid, Monday nights from 5:10 to 8:00 pm. Auditors welcome.
# of units: 3.00
Contemporary Preaching Theories
This course is a doctoral seminar on contemporary preaching theories. Starting with the historical and cultural background of the New Homiletic, a revolution in homiletic which began in the 1960s in North America, this course surveys theological, cultural, and practical issues around the New Homiletic and their related theories in today’s world. Students will make presentations, write research papers, and preach sermons; they will also take a part in class discussion around selected authors or topics each week. A prerequisite: an introductory or basic preaching course.
# of units: 3.00
Contemporary Preaching Theories
This advanced seminar, designed for advanced Masters and Doctoral students, will deal with various theories around the New Homiletic and related preaching theories which have been discussed for the past four decades. Successful students will have a good grasp of trends in preaching theories that are being dealt with among mainline North American scholars. Students will make presentations, write book reviews and research papers, and take a part in discussion around a selected author or topic each week. A prerequisite: an introductory or basic preaching course.
# of units: 3.00
Hebrew Bible Speaks Today
l provide a basic introduction to the study and message of the Hebrew Bible. The successful student will have 1) acquired a socio-cultural and theological overview of the Hebrew Bible with foci on basic content, critical issues, and exegetical and hermeneutical methodologies; as well as 2) developed a self-awareness concerning their/her/his own social location and its relationship to the reading, thinking, and doing of biblical, historical, and theological work; as well as 3) applied methods, theologies, and interpretations to contemporary social justice concerns. This course is for masters-level students. This course will be hybrid format.
# of units: 3.00
Transformative Word
This introductory preaching course is designed to enable the students to learn the theoretical and practical elements of contemporary preaching from diverse traditions. There will be lectures, presentations, and weekly writings and discussions around topics related to today’s diverse contexts and students will preach three sermons for the class.
# of units: 3.00
Intermediate Hebrew II
This course is a continuation of Elementary Biblical Hebrew I and II and Intermediate Biblical Hebrew I (all students who have completed these courses are encouraged to attend). Students will review elementary Hebrew grammar throughout the semester and learn new grammatical concepts. The course will also focus on increasing students’ vocabulary while they engage Hebrew prose and some poetry (including Genesis, Exodus, Deuteronomy, Judges, and some prophetic material). Assessment will be based on weekly quizzes, midterm, final, and course participation (Hebrew reading). PhD students must attend in person. All other students are highly encouraged to participate in person, though the course will be in hybrid format.
# of units: 3.00
Intermediate Greek
The class will read Greek texts from different parts of the New Testament and the Septuagint (LXX) to facilitate reading comprehension of Koine Greek. Pertinent intermediate level Greek grammar will be discussed as needed. Selection of the passages represents a pedagogy of exposure to diverse authors in the NT and the LXX with a reasonable amount of continuity within a session. Format: lecture and class exercise, Evaluation method: quizzes, midterm and final exam. Intended audience: MDiv, MA/MATS, PhD
The Living Text of Leviticus
Prerequisites: Intro to Hebrew Bible/Old Testament.
Using Biblical Languages
Students will be introduced to the basic elements of biblical Hebrew and Greek. The course is designed for those seeking to understand the components of the biblical languages for ministerial purposes, however, any who are interested in Hebrew and Greek are encouraged to attend. The course content and curriculum will include preparation in the use of Hebrew and Greek lexical aids, an introduction to the fundamentals of linguistic theory, and exposure to exegetical and hermeneutical methods. This course is a requirement for all BST students; however, students from across the Graduate Theological Union are welcome and encouraged to take the course. This course will be a hybrid format.
Prophetic Preaching
This intermediate preaching course will be operated in a hybrid model. In addition to remote (Zoom) engagements for theoretical and practical elements of prophetic preaching, the class will have required offline onsite visits to have firsthand experiences of prophetic ministries. For those living outside the SF Bay Area, special arrangements may be made in consultation with instructors for them to visit sites of their local cities. By doing so, this course will identify several central issues around prophetic preaching in contemporary societies. Students will preach and videotape three sermons and post them on Moodle for feedback. The students are expected to bring together class discussions and field trip experiences to their sermons and their vision for prophetic preaching in their own ministry.
Prophetic Preaching
Capstone Innovation Project
As a culmination of the course work and internship experiences in the MDiv program, this course provides students an opportunity to design, develop, and implement a ministerial project in their areas of interest based on biblical, theological, and practical foundations. With the feedback of fellow students, mentors, and professors, students write a 20-25 page-long Ministry Innovation Project to identify and address a social, ecclesial, or systemic issue of need to which this project responds theoretically and practically. Students will also present an abbreviated version of this Project in a form of video so that it may be shared with a wider audience.
Down the Biblical Rabbit Hole: Conspiracy Theories and the Bible
Conspiracy theories commonly use the Bible and biblical themes to formulate interpretations that demonize what they perceive as the other. This course will contribute to the conversation of biblical exegesis within our current political climate, as well as expose the inconsistent, libelous, and violent foundations of biblically-based conspiracy theories as a form of deconstruction. Though it does not require it as a prerequisite, this course is a loose continuation of White Supremacy & the Bible. This course has three parts: 1) survey the origins of Satan; 2) survey of the conspiracy theory phenomenon in the United States; and 3) application of contemporary church context. Students will be graded on the following: one 1-page book review and one 10-page paper on a topic relevant to the course (all topics must be approved by professor). All students of every program are encouraged to attend, especially those seeking ordination. Course will meet 6 times, Wednesday evenings (6/7/23–7/12/23) at 5:00–7:10 pm. This course will be a hybrid format for anyone who is interested in attending in person. Auditors welcome.
Christian Ethics - Social Ethics
This course examines Christian Ethics from antiquity to the modern era and the emergence of social ethics in the 19th century through the present day. Consideration of The Good and doing good, justice and social justice are central themes in the Christian Church and contemporary world. We will focus on these topics as we consider religious beliefs, tradition, values, virtue, individual freedom and responsibility. We will ask and explore how faith is informed and expressed by these themes in our contemporary world.
# of units: 3.00
Ensayos Teológicos
Course Description: En este curso se estudian los elementos básicos para elaborar un ensayo teológico como un ejercicio académico. El curso se compone de talleres semanales y comienza con conceptos básicos sobre la elaboración de ensayos académicos. Cada semana se presentará una nueva herramienta la cual se incluirá en el tema y argumento inicial construido por el estudiante al comienzo del semestre. Este curso va dirigido a estudiantes de teología, en particular a aquellos que se preparan para una maestría en dicha disciplina sea en inglés o español. Este curso tiene como objetivo principal proporcionar al estudiante las herramientas y fundamentos básicos que le permitirá redactar exitosamente un ensayo académico, en particular en el ámbito teológico. Se espera que los estudiantes tengan todas las tareas y lecturas preparadas antes de cada clase y entreguen un ensayo de 5-7 paginas con al menos 5 notas al pie y una bibliografía al final del semestre
# of units: 3
Programa de Educación Cristina para la Iglesia Contemporánea
Este curso enseñara los fundamentos educativos bíblicos, teológicos, filosóficos, sociológicos, psicológicos de los fundamentos curriculares de la formación cristiana. Los distintos acercamientos a la formación y educación cristiana se pondrán en dialogo con las expresiones evangélicas de la conversión, salvación, santificación, bautismo en el Espíritu Santo y con la formación dentro del cuerpo de Cristo. La naturaleza de la instrucción religiosa será considerada. También los modelos bíblicos e históricos de discipulado y liderazgo serán explorados y comparados con modelos contemporáneos y modelos educativos seculares. This course will be Hybrid format
# of units: 3
Formación Espiritual
Bíblico, este curso se enfoca en la persona y la obra redentora de Cristo, la persona, el testimonio del Espíritu, la identidad y los propósitos de la Iglesia.
# of units: 3
Reading Theological Spanish
The intention of this course is to learn how to read and translate Spanish. We will focus on grammar and vocabulary to strengthen the student’s ability to read, understand and translate passages. We will use class time to review grammar, verb conjugations, idiomatic phrases as well as practice translation and comprehension using previous GTU Spanish Exams. This course will culminate with an official GTU Modern Foreign Language Exam that will fulfill GTU’s language requirement. Completion of the course does not guarantee a passing grade on the exam, but the course is geared towards giving the student the tools needed for translation and comprehension. The Exam will be offered in the fourth week of the course by the instructor, but is also offered through the GTU the third week of September, February and May. This course will be conducted online.
# of units: 4
Fall 2022 Courses
Course | Name | Instructor | Day/Time/Location |
---|---|---|---|
BAEQ-101 | Intro to Old Testament | Reginald Lyles (BST/LIAT) | Thursday 6:30-8:00pm Zoom |
BAEQ-102 | New Testament | Torgerson | Monday 4:10-6:40pm Hybrid |
BAEQ-203 | Intro to Theology | Diana Becton (BST/LIAT) | Thursday 8:15-9:45pm Zoom |
BAEQ-408 | Preaching Sermons that Matter | Claybon Lea (BST/LIAT) | Tuesday 6:30-9:45pm Zoom |
BAEQ-601 | Intro to Pastoral Care | Adumasa Adeyemi (BST/LIAT) | Monday 8:15-9:45pm Zoom |
BS-2002 | Intermediate Hebrew | Melgar | Mon/Thur 8:10-9:30am Remote |
BSRS-2400 | White Supremacy & the Bible | Flesher | Thursday 2:10-4:40pm – BST Hybrid |
BSRS-4400 | White Supremacy & the Bible (Doctoral Students) | Flesher | Thursday 2:10-4:40pm – BST Hybrid |
DM-6015 | DMin in Thesis | BST Faculty | NA |
DM-6078 | Becoming Culturally Responsive | Flesher/BST Faculty | 5 day Intensive September 19-23 Hybrid |
DM-6666 | Continuing Fee | BST Faculty | NA |
DM-6667 | Advanced Standing | BST Faculty | TBD |
FE-2102 | Internship I | Miles-Tribble | Hybrid |
FT-1109 | Theological Writing 1 | Kunkel | Wednesday 5:30-6:50pm Hybrid |
FT-1750 | Ministry in a Digital World | M. Valui and W. Valui | Tuesday 4:10-6:40pm BST |
HM-1500 | Transformative Word | Park | Tuesday 7:10-9:40pm BST |
HM-4032 | Preach Environmental Issues | Park | Thursday 7:10-9:40pm BST |
HS-1094 | Earliest Christian Doctrine | Burris | Thursday 7:10-9:40pm Hybrid |
HSCE-5100 | Policing in Black & Brown Communities | Burris | Every Other Friday 2-4pm Remote |
LIEQ-101 | Viejo Testamento (Old Testament) | Sias | los martes (Tuesday) 5:10-7:30pm Zoom |
LIEQ-201 | Ensayos Teologicos (Theological Essays) | Kang | los jueves (Thursday) 7:10-9:40pm |
LIEQ-604 | Introduccion a la Sicologia (Introduction to Psychology) | L. Da Valle | miércoles (Wednesday) 7-8:30pm Online |
OT-1107 | Old Testament Speaks Today | Sias | Monday 7:10-9:40pm Hybrid |
RSCE-2261 | Morality in Society and Religious Spheres | Miles-Tribble | Wednesday 7:10-9:40pm – BST |
RSCE-2800 | Understanding Religious Pluralism | Grandison | Monday 2:10-4:40pm |
RSCE-4200 | 1st & 2nd Generation Latinx Youth | Pedro Morataya | TBD Remote |
STCE-8310 | Public Theology | Flesher/BST Faculty | Friday 4-6pm (Monthly) Zoom |
2023 Intersession Courses
Course | Name | Instructor | Day/Time/Location |
---|---|---|---|
BS-8260 | Baldwin, Bible & Social Justice | Irons | January: M, T, Th (9,10, 12, 17, 19) 5-7pm PST. Remote |
DM-6080 | Becoming Culturally Responsive, Part 2 | Miles-Tribble | January 9-13; 9am to 5pm Remote |
Spring 2023 Courses
Course | Name | Instructor | Day/Time/Location |
---|---|---|---|
BAEQ-407 | History of Jazz in America | Burris | Tuesday – 7:10-9:40pm |
BS-1250 | Using Biblical Languages | Sias | Monday 7:10-9:40pm Hybrid |
BSHR-6100 | Sacred Texts Seminar | Flesher/Dhala | Monday – 2:10-3:30pm & 3:40-5pm |
BSRS-4700 | Reading the Bible in Real Life | Torgerson | Thursday 2:10-3:30 and 3:40-5:00pm Hybrid |
DM-6078 | Becoming Culturally Responsive, Part I | Sias/Flesher | March 13-17, 2023 Remote. |
DM-6666 | Continuing Fee | BST Faculty | NA |
FE-2103 | BST Internship II – Spring Semester (BST students only) | Miles-Tribble | TBD Moodle/Zoom online |
FT-1111 | Graduate Theological Writing | Kunkel | Wednesday 5:30-6:50pm Remote/Hybrid |
FT-8237 | Effective Leadership: How To Lead Almost Anything | Miles-Tribble | TBD Moodle/Zoom online |
FTRS-2279 | Leading Diversity Oriented Churches | A. Brian Leander | Thursday 3:40-6:10pm Remote |
FTRS-2524 | Intercultural Leadership | A. Brian Leander | Tuesday 3:40-6:10pm Remote |
HS-3221 | Protestant Reformation | Burris | Wednesday 7:10-9:40pm Hybrid |
HSCE-5101 | Reparations for Blacks | Burris | Friday – 6:10-9pm Remote |
IDS-4300 | Capstone Innovation Project | Park | Thursday – 7:10-9:40pm BST |
IDS-6030 | Religion & Practice Seminar | Park | Tuesday – 2:20-3:30pm & 3:40-5pm GTU |
LIEQ-102 | Nuevo Testamento (New Testament) | Torgerson | Tuesday 5:10-7:40pm Remote |
LIEQ-206 | Historia de los Estados Unidos desde la perspectiva hispana | H. DaValle | Wednesday 7:00-8:30pm Remote |
LIEQ-601 | Cuidado Pastoral (Pastoral Care) | L. DaValle | Thursday 7:00-8:30pm Remote |
NT-1080 | New Testament Voices | Sias | Tuesday – 7:10-9:40pm Hybrid |
PS-1062 | Congregational Care | Mixon | Tuesday 7:10-9:40pm Remote |
PS-4014 | Pastoral Counseling | Park/Kim | Tuesdays 5:10-8:00 pm PST. Remote |
RSCE-4162 | Crafting Theoethical Counter-Rhetoric to Nationalism’s Religious Ripples | Miles-Tribble | Wednesday 6:10-9:00pm Crouch (Hybrid) |
Summer 2023 Courses
Course | Name | Instructor | Day/Time/Location |
---|---|---|---|
BS-2312 | Down the Biblical Rabbit Hole: Conspiracy Theories and the Bible | Sias | Wednesday evenings (6/7/23-7/12/23) at 5:00-7:10pm. Hybrid (BST-Crouch Hall/Zoom) |
DM-6046 | Research Methods | Flesher/Torgerson | Day/Time/Location: January 9-13; 9am to 5pm Remote & in person |
FT-0007 | Reading Theological Spanish | Hanna Kang | 9:00am – 12:00pm M-F for four weeks (July 3rd to 28th). Online. |
Fall 2023 Courses
Course | Name | Instructor | Day/Time/Location |
---|---|---|---|
BS-2003 | Intermediate Hebrew II |
Sias | Monday/Thursday, 11:10a.m.-12:30 p.m. Hybrid |
BS-2008 | Intermediate Greek |
Torgerson | Monday/Thursday 9:40-11:00 a.m. Hybrid |
BSRS-2800 | Bible & Public Policy |
Flesher/Wilkins | Monday, 2:10-5:00pm, Remote |
CE-2040 | Christian Ethics – Social Ethics | Grandison | Thursday. 5:10pm-7:00pm. BST Hybrid |
FT-1750 | Ministry In The Digital World |
M. Valui & W. Valui | Tuesday, 4:10-6:40pm, Remote |
FTRS-2700 | Holy Innovation | Kim | Wednesday 1:00pm-4:00pm. Remote |
FT-2524 | Intercultural Leadership | Leander | Thursday, 3:40-6:10 pm, Remote |
FTRS-3350 | Leading Diversity-Oriented Ministries Certificate | Leander | First scheduled class session for Fall 2023 will be Monday, May 22, 2023 – then once a month for the next 12 months (specific dates TBD). Hybrid |
HM-1500 | Transformative Word | Park | Wednesday, 7:10-9:40 pm, BST |
HM-2600 | Resistance, Rhetoric & Public Square | Evans | Monday, 5:10-8:00 pm, Hybrid |
HM-4807 | Contemporary Preaching Theories | Park | Tuesday, 7:10-9:40 pm, BST |
HM-5087 | Contemporary Preaching Theories | Park | Tuesday, 7:10-9:40 pm, BST |
IDS-8101 | Navigating The Complexities (Part I) | Miles-Tribble | Online |
LIEQ-201 | Ensayos Teológicos | Hanna Kang | Tuesday 5:10pm-7:30pm ZOOM |
LIEQ-404 | Programa de Educación Cristina para la Iglesia Contemporánea | Samuel Barajas | Wednesday. Time: TBD. ZOOM |
LIEQ-603 | Formación Espiritual | Rogelio Ovalle | Thursday 7:10pm-9:40pm REMOTE |
OT-1107 | Hebrew Bible Speaks Today | Sias | Wednesday, 6:10-9:00 pm, Hybrid |
Spring 2024 Courses
Course | Name | Instructor | Day/Time/Location |
---|---|---|---|
BS-1250 | Using Biblical Languages | Sias | Wednesday, 6:10-9:00 pm, Hybrid |
BS-4435 | The Living Text of Leviticus | Sias | Monday, 6:10-9:00pm BST 3rd floor conf. room & Hybrid |
FTRS-3350 | Leading Diversity-Oriented Ministries Certificate | Leander | First scheduled class session for Fall 2023 will be Monday, May 22, 2023 – then once a month for the next 12 months (specific dates TBD). Hybrid |
HM-2508 | Prophetic Preaching | Park and Thompson | Tuesday, 7:10-9:40 pm, BST |
HM-4258 | Prophetic Preaching | Park and Thompson | Wednesday, 7:10-9:40 pm BST |
IDS-4300 | Capstone Innovation Project | Park | Tuesday, 7:10-9:40 pm, BST |