162 Graduate Course Descriptions
2013-2014 Academic Catalog
CD/CO620 Moral Development (3) Examines and calls the student to moral formation and judgment in relation to biological, cognitive and faith development. Moral development perspectives are evaluated in light of key theological concepts such as the image of God, sin, salvation, the blessed life, justice and care. Attention is given to correcting bias in developmental perspectives with respect toward better understanding diversity in gender and race.
CD655 Ministry with Children through the Church (3) Examines the potential and needs of children in contemporary society, biblical perspectives on children and how they are involved in the faith community, and characteristics of the child’s physical, psychosocial, cognitive, moral, and faith development. Explores the ministries a church can provide to support families and involve children in the faith community, nurturing wholeness and faith.
CD630 Pastoral Theology (3) Introduces students to the work of pastoral ministry by looking at its Biblical foundations, theological concerns and practical responsibilities. It includes an analysis of the qualifications for pastoral ministry, an understanding of the pastor’s roles (as expressed in a three-fold Christological understanding) and duties, and the development of the ability to think reflectively and theologically about the church and ministry. Attention will be given to helping the student develop an appreciative ecclesiology. Practical considerations for transitioning from seminarian to pastor will also be addressed.
CD656 Discipling Children in the Large Church (3) Examines ministry with children in large churches to discover potentials, challenges, and approaches that provide effective Christian discipling for children and their families. This course involves traveling to visit large churches and learn from their children’s ministry staff members followed by research and reflective processing of the experiential learning. Prerequisite: CD655 or additional background reading to be completed before the course begins. Cost in addition to tuition may apply.
CD650 Tutorial in Christian Education (1-3) For students with specialized interests/needs in selected areas of intermediate studies in Christian discipleship. Consult syllabus for course requirements. See academic policy. May be repeated. CD651 Professional Foundations of Christian Education (3) Guides students in the process of envisioning the future of Christian education through an exploration of the major figures, issues, and trends throughout the history of Christian education. CD/CO654 Women, Development and the Journey of Faith (3) Focuses on the developmental journey of women and its relationship to Christian faith. Primary psychological theories are examined for what they reveal of the processes and patterns inherent in the intersection between a woman’s inner sense of self and the roles she plays in familial and social contexts. Biblical and theological resources are drawn upon to critique the assumptions of these theories and to offer alternate images of faithful women. In light of these resources, an examination of contemporary church approaches to ministry with women is offered.
CD/YM660 Teaching the Bible to Youth and Adults (3) Explores the who, what, where, how, and why of teaching the whole Bible to youth and adults in corporate contexts (small groups, campus ministry, Sunday school, etc.). Scripture; Wesleyan theology; pertinent social science theories of education (learning preferences, developmental, gender, ability, generational, cultural differences); discipleship resources; and spiritual formation all help one effectively and faithfully explore God’s grand narrative in community. AS/CD663 Aging, Spirituality and Ministry (3) Explores the many facets of ministry with older adults. Consideration is given to critical issues such as the myths and nature of aging, developmental needs and tasks, the spiritual needs of older adults, and care-giving. The practical dimensions and models of ministry design and implementation are also identified. CD665 Curriculum Theory, Development, and Selection (3) Explores the understanding of the Church as curriculum, the process of curriculum development and design, and principles for selecting curriculum resources to meet the needs of learners and the Church. They develop skills in curriculum design, writing, and the criteria based evaluation and selection of resources for comprehensive Christian discipleship in the local church. Prerequisite: CD605, CD560 or CD660.