Traci L. Birge, PhD

Assistant Professor, Department of Biblical and Religious Studies

Phone: (626) 815-3887
Photo of Traci L. Birge, PhD

Biography

Traci L. Birge, PhD specializes in the First Testament. Her research and teaching emphasize the power of storytelling in ancient and modern contexts, due to its ability to shape people, create empathy, and practice life with God through “simulations of reality” in story. Birge’s current area of research focuses on the book of Judges and the role of its supporting characters, whose perspectives are too often overlooked. Birge is passionate about teaching and encourages her students to hear the story in the biblical stories; to laugh, to cry, to wrestle, and to find courage as they discover what it means to become a living character in God’s great story of redemption. She is an active member of Foothill Community Church, a Free Methodist congregation in Azusa.

Education

  • PhD, Christian Scriptures (Old Testament Concentration), McMaster Divinity College
  • MA, Theological Studies, Northeastern Seminary
  • BA, Religion and Philosophy, Roberts Wesleyan College
  • BA, English, Roberts Wesleyan College

Academic Area

  • School of Theology
    • Department of Biblical and Religious Studies

Courses Taught

  • UBBL 100 - Exodus/Deuteronomy
  • UBBL 310 - Rising of the King: I and II Samuel
  • UBBL 311 - Old Testament Prophets
  • UBBL 476 - Women in the Biblical Tradition
  • UBBL 493 - Biblical Study Capstone: Old Testament Theology