About the Program

Why This Major Is Relevant

Relativism pervades much of our society’s discourse about truth and falsity, right and wrong. In a postmodern, pluralistic society, Christians must know how to articulate why and how they believe. APU’s theology degree uniquely prepares graduates to meet this challenge and to think critically, engage in meaningful discussion, and defend their faith.

Program Mission and Goals

The Department of Theology and Philosophy’s theology major exists to equip and encourage undergraduate students to become effective and faithful theologians, well-prepared for further theological education as well as for service to the Church, by developing in them suitable analytical, reflective, and expressive skills and bringing them into fruitful engagement with a broad range of theological resources as they learn to apply Christian theology to contemporary issues.

1. Through the General Education courses, the theology program seeks to prepare all undergraduate students to demonstrate an understanding of the essential components of theological reflection and an ability to give thoughtful consideration to current and historical issues in the light of the Church’s Scriptures and traditions. Graduates should be able to articulate a Christian worldview of truth and life and apply biblically-based ethical reasoning skills to problems.
2. The theology program will cultivate collegial scholarship for faithful engagement with students, the Church, and the academy.
3. The theology program will continue to develop and refine mechanisms that will bring theology majors into fruitful first-hand engagement with contemporary theological work as it is carried out in the academy. This may develop through projects of their own or through collaborative efforts with faculty. Graduates should demonstrate a practice of continual intellectual growth through personal scholarship and development.
4. The theology program will continue to develop and refine methods of teaching and mentoring that will further students’ theological contribution to the Church and to society. Graduates should practice a respect for the worth of all persons with appreciation of individual and cultural differences, demonstrating truth-telling and grace in their relationships, and should be able to articulate the importance of extending genuine community to all peoples locally, regionally, nationally, and globally.
5. The theology program will encourage and cultivate students’ growth in the ability to think critically about the historical, doctrinal, biblical, and practical aspects of the Christian faith, including appreciating, understanding, and valuing the Church. Students will grow into a greater awareness of the personal and social relevance and spiritual richness that informed, disciplined theological reflection can bring to their Christian existence and their own impact upon the world in which they live.