Rochester Christian University has launched new Bachelor of Applied Theology and Master of Applied Theology degrees, designed to provide students with theological knowledge and real-world experience for ministry and service in the church and society.
Bachelor of Applied Theology
The Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Theology prepares students to integrate theology into everyday life, interpret scripture contextually and theologically, and engage the challenges of their calling. Through internships, campus experiences and off-campus experiential learning opportunities, students gain preparation for serving in congregations, communities of faith and a variety of interdisciplinary fields.
“We have created our Applied Theology bachelor’s degree to empower the next generation of faith leaders with a dynamic program blending rigorous biblical interpretation with hands-on, experiential ministry,” said Dr. Reggies Wenyika, RCU president. “The program equips students to bring their faith into the places where they live, work and serve.”
James Chambers, academic adviser and adjunct professor, said the program is designed to help students become better equipped to lead faith-based ministries while opening pathways into specialized areas such as Marketplace Chaplaincy.
“We strive to equip students to bring transformative, practical spiritual care directly into modern corporate, healthcare and civic workplaces,” Chambers said.
Chambers and other ministry leaders from throughout the region will teach the undergraduate classes.
Master of Applied Theology
Dr. Eric Moore, professor emeritus of Moody Bible Institute, will lead and shepherd the graduate program. He recently retired from Moody after serving for almost four decades as an applied theology professor.
The master’s program is designed for pastors, church staff, ministry leaders and others seeking to deepen their theological understanding while developing skills for ministry and community engagement.
This 30-credit graduate program emphasizes practical ministry, spiritual formation and experiential learning. All students begin with 12 hours of applied theology courses. They then study a previously agreed-upon concentration to delve into the subjects most relevant to their interests and needs, such as urban ministry leadership, church planting and sport ministry. They then complete their degree with synthesis and capstone courses.
Preparing students for ministry and mission
Together, the bachelor’s and master’s degrees in applied theology demonstrate RCU’s commitment to preparing students to faithfully interpret scripture, discern their calling and join God’s work in the world.
For more information about either program, contact James Chambers at jchambers3@rcu.edu.
