THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY WHITEFIELD. CATALOG Eighth Edition

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WELCOMEWELCOME

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MESSAGE

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PRESIDENT

Thank you for reading our catalog.

Reformed theological education has been on the decline in America and around the world since the latter part of the nineteenth century. Many of the institutions which were established to provide a solid Reformed education, especially in training ministers of the Gospel, have been subsequently compromised. Ineffective leaders quickly sold their birthrights for the mess of pottage of the more popular systems of theology. These institutions, while remaining evangelical, have abandoned the distinctives of the Reformation. As a result, the pulpits of our churches are too often manned by graduates trained in defective theology by defective institutions.

These graduates preach an impotent gospel, leaving the church without the hope of continued Reformational teachings and practices, and leaving lay leaders with little or no truth: My people perish from a lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6).

If there is any hope for reformation in America and elsewhere, the Church of Jesus Christ must once again produce pastors who boldly proclaim the whole counsel of God with the anointing of His Spirit. We must establish theologically-sound institutions that meet the present educational needs of the church, and seek to train a new generation of ministers in the old, time-honored, biblical tradition. The mission of Whitefield Theological Seminary is to return to the historic theology and methodology that God has blessed. We are dedicated to training pastors, students and Christian laymen in the theological standards of the Reformation.

We are training godly men who are faithful to our Lord Jesus Christ, who will stand on the principles of God’s Word and who will not compromise the Gospel. We seek men who have a vision for the future, and a world-and-life view which seeks to bring all things under the Crown Rights of King Jesus.

Come, labor with us to build the Kingdom of God.

Your servant in Christ,

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DMINISTRATION

GENERAL

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GENERAL

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GENERAL

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NTRODUCTION

History of the Seminary

Funding and Entanglement Vision of the Seminary

Statement of Faith

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ENERAL

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DMINISTRATION

Educational Philosophy Educational Objectives

Directed Study Program Mentorship Program

Benefits of the Directed Study Program An Approved Method of Study

Recognition and Affiliation Accreditation

Transfer of Credits

Graduate Admission: Master Degrees Post-Graduate Admission: Doctoral Degrees Seminary Government

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NFORMATION Classification of Students Grading Scale Coursework Integrity Student Conduct Academic Standing

Introduction to Doctoral Degrees Graduate Degree Mentor Requirements Post-Graduate Degree Mentor Requirements. Doctoral Candidacy Requirements

Thesis and Dissertation Requirements Graduation Requirements Whitefield Communications

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HEOLOGY Professional Degrees

Master of Divinity Pastoral Ministry Pastoral Counseling

Bachelor of Divinity

Without undergraduate Studies Without Biblical Languages

Master of Theology

Reformed Theological Interpretation

Doctor of Theology Pastoral Ministry Pastoral Theology Academic Degrees Master of Arts

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL

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Theological Studies

Theology and Church History Theology and Apologetics

Master of Arts in Religion

Theology, Apologetics, and Church History

Lay Degrees

Diploma in Theology

Master of Ministry in Theological Studies Master of Ministry in Pastoral Studies

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OUNSELING

Biblical Counseling Philosophy Biblical Counseling Theology Biblical Counseling Methodology

Master of Arts in Religion

Christian Counseling

Master of Sacred Theology Christian Counseling

Doctor of Philosophy Christian Counseling

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DUCATION

Christian Philosophy of Education Master of Arts in Religion:

Christian Education

Doctor of Philosophy

Christian School Administration

Doctor of Education

Christian Postsecondary Administration

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CHOOLOF

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HURCH

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TATE

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ELATIONS Educational Objectives

Master of Theology

Christianity, Culture, and Law Doctor of Philosophy

Church and State Studies

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OURSE

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ESCRIPTIONS

Theological Studies Apologetic Studies

Church History Studies

Hebrew, Greek, and Latin Studies Biblical Studies

Practical Theology Studies Christian Counseling Studies Christian Education Studies Legal Studies

Doctoral Degrees

Doctoral Core Courses Doctoral Major Courses

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ACADEMIC INFORMATION

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ISTORY OF THE

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Whitefield Theological Seminary derives its name from the eighteenth century revivalist, George Whitefield. Rev. Whitefield was a man of compassion, dedicated to the preaching of the Gospel. Reformed in his theology, he was one of the major influences of the eighteenth century, both in the British Isles and in the Great Awakening in colonial America. He traveled throughout England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and America to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Several orphanages started under his oversight, and his special ministry for children was evidenced as he saved his income to bring Christian schoolteachers to the southern colonies. His great desire to establish a theological seminary in the South was never realized in his lifetime. Fulfilling Whitefield’s vision, this Seminary is dedicated to training men for the ministry; men of compassion who desire to proclaim our crucified and risen Lord and King. We desire to train ministers with a vision for reformation, i.e., making the nations Christ’s disciples (Matthew 28:19). Whitefield Theological Seminary (WTS) was developed during a six-year period of research in the field of higher education. Various academic and practical programs were evaluated, resulting in the founding of Whitefield Theological Seminary in 1980. Whitefield began as a Graduate School of Theology, with both traditional and modular perspectives in learning. Soon, video, DVD and audio programming technologies were implemented, making it possible to develop advanced educational degree programs in a variety of new fields and allowing a better educational delivery method for distance learning. The Seminary added Graduate Schools of Education, Counseling and Church and State, and is currently developing new graduate schools in areas of missions, and philosophy.

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NTANGLEMENT

WTS is totally supported by tuition and gifts from churches and friends of the Seminary. We do not accept government benefits or programs of assistance in the area of student education or operations. WTS exists and functions under the protection of the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America. All degree programs are designed for use in conjunction with church related ministries. As a church sponsored institution, WTS strives to maintain its independent educational status, free from both governmental interference and entanglement while accountable to its ecclesiastical authority.

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ISIONOF THE

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Whitefield Theological Seminary purposes to develop a deep and thorough understanding of Christianity by promoting theological and educational programs in the traditions of the Reformed faith. We emphasize both the academic and practical skills that are necessary for the Christian ministry. Our curriculum is designed to challenge students to develop a strong doctrinal and practical Christian ministry and nurture them in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is also designed to acquaint them with the functions and ministry of the local church in our modern society. WTS stands true to the Reformed heritage of the Gospel: “We preach Christ and Him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2)

INTRODUCTION

History of the Seminary / Funding and Government

Vision of the Seminary / Statement of Faith

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AITH

Whitefield Theological Seminary maintains that the Holy Scriptures are the inerrant and authoritative Word of God. Additionally, WTS holds the Westminster Standards (Westminster Confession of Faith [1647] and the Larger and Shorter Catechisms) as subordinate to the Scriptures, yet as an accurate expression of biblical teachings concerning Christian life, faith and practice. We recognize also the Three Forms of Unity (Belgic Confession, Canons of Dordt and Heidelberg Catechism), the Second Helvetic Confession and other Reformed confessional standards. WTS also maintains the following distinctive doctrines: (1) Biblical Inerrancy; (2) Biblical Creationism; (3) Justification by Faith alone; (4) Bodily resurrection and (5) Presbyterian form of government. WTS accepts students from various denominations and independent churches. It is not necessary that a student be in complete agreement with the Seminary’s doctrinal standards to be admitted as a student at Whitefield Theological Seminary.

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HILOSOPHY

WTS teaches that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and in Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Whitefield is committed to that philosophy which is not after the traditions of men, or the foundational principles of this world, but after Christ (Colossians 2:8). The seminary teaches all subjects from a biblical perspective in order that we might offer an exclusively Christian approach to education. Compromise has effectively destroyed many older seminaries, and we will always need to guard against it. Our fervent prayer is that God will use our commitment to a solid biblical philosophy to keep Whitefield continually faithful to its first principles. The whole concept of Christian education is based on the confession that there is but one truth: the self-revelation of God as set forth in the Holy Bible. Education that is truly and distinctively Christian must be founded upon the principle of an authoritative, sovereign God, who speaks to us about all areas of life. There is nothing in this universe about which human beings can have full and true information unless they begin with the Bible. The very use of the term “Christian” as applied to education, assumes that it is impossible to understand the process of education apart from the revelation of God in His Word. We believe that the pursuit of knowledge must be built upon this very foundation, if our educational theory and methodology are to be consistently Christian. The sacred Scriptures give certainty to our efforts to educate students correctly concerning life and academic disciplines. Unity in education is bound by the principle that God, in creation, gives purpose and meaning to every fact of life, which can only be understood through His authority in Scripture.

A Christian educational philosophy is also devoted to the development of the student’s spiritual, academic, and physical welfare. It seeks to enable the student to understand his place, meaning,

GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

Educational Philosophy / Educational Objectives

Directed Study Program / Mentorship Program

Benefits of the Directed Study Program / Recognition and Affiliation

Accreditation / Transfer of Credit / Graduate Admission (Masters)

Graduate Admission (Doctorate) / Seminary Government

Academic Requirements and Related Processes

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God’s calling for his life that he might labor to advance the Kingdom of God on earth for His honor and glory.

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BJECTIVES

Whitefield Theological Seminary’s educational objectives are to give the student a foundational and an in-depth understanding of God’s Word (its meaning and principles), so that he will better understand God’s world and be able to carry out the cultural mandate as set forth in the book of Genesis. The student will develop an increasing dedication to Jesus Christ and to the building of the kingdom of God, and will develop a standard of ethics that is consistent with the Holy Scriptures. In doing this, we believe we can better prepare the student for successful ministry in his (her) chosen field of endeavor.

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ROGRAM

The Directed Study Program of Whitefield Theological Seminary is designed to integrate theological education with the practical skills necessary for successful ministry, whether pastoring, teaching, counseling, or other related field of endeavor. The Directed Study Program is not conducted by the old correspondence method, rather it combines traditional and independent study in the context of distance learning. An approved mentor is required for each student to oversee his progress as he pursues his studies, and to assist the student in developing his gifts of ministry and/or service in the Church of Jesus Christ.

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We offer one basic approach to mentored study: The Media Mentored Program. The Media Mentored Program is our standard study approach and primarily utilizes courses with audio lectures on CDs. The lectures substantially introduce the subject to the student, and the reading and writing assignments further develop it. While the mentor continues to be involved in tutoring the student, the audio lectures reduce the mentor’s involvement, leaving him primarily responsible for answering questions from both the lectures and reading assignments as might be needed.

The Mentor shall report every six months to the seminary on the progress of the student in his seminary studies and church attendance and activities.

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The Directed Study Program has many benefits for the student, pastor and church.

1. It allows a student who is training for the ministry the opportunity to fulfill his academic studies at his own pace, without uprooting his family and disrupting his home.

2. It provides an opportunity for the local church to receive immediate benefit from the student’s knowledge gained through his studies, as he instructs others and makes practical application of that knowledge in the local church.

3. It allows the church to keep the student local, so that he can help produce other disciples while training for the pastorate. Thus, a vacuum is avoided, and the core of the church is left

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intact as a source for future expansion.

4. It allows a student to receive continual “hands on” practical experience in the Gospel ministry, under the direction of the pastor and church session/consistory or committee on oversight.

5. It gives a student an opportunity to cultivate a pastor’s heart, as he prepares to shepherd the flock of God.

6. In some cases, where the local church supports the student financially in return for his assisting the pastor with daily ministerial duties, his duties may grow into a full-time position especially beneficial to the congregation, since the student already knows the needs of the church.

7. It provides many opportunities for the student to develop his speaking gifts via teaching and preaching in his church.

8. It enables the student to be properly evaluated as to his ministerial gifts by the session and congregation, especially in light of meeting their spiritual needs.

9. It offers the possibility of the church establishing a new mission work in the surrounding community through the efforts of the student-pastor. The list of benefits could go on! Throughout the history of the church, many pastors have been trained in the tradition of directed study, which emulates the system used by the Lord Jesus Christ in training His Apostles, who in turn trained others, one-to-one.

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The Directed Study Program has proven to be an acceptable alternative educational method among various denominations. Graduates currently serve in many different Reformed and Presbyterian denominations, such as, the Reformed Presbyterian Church General Assembly, Presbyterian Church in America, Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, Bible Presbyterian Church, Reformed Presbyterian Church (Hanover), Reformed Church in the United States, as well as independent and other evangelical churches. Currently the alumni consist of individuals serving in 26 different denominations.

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FFILIATION

Whitefield Theological Seminary is registered with the Florida Commission of Independent Education. This Commission is a division of the Florida Department of Education. Whitefield is authorized to grant degrees in areas related to religion and ecclesiastical vocations. Whitefield has been operating in the State of Florida for the past 30 years and is accountable to various state laws that regulate postsecondary education and its practices.

Whitefield Theological Seminary is also a member of the Association of Christian Schools International.

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ADMINISTRATTION

Whitefield Theological Seminary is also a member of the Association of Christian Continuing Education Schools. This agency is committed to seeking new and better ways of advancing quality education through various distance learning motifs.

Whitefield Theological Seminary is an affiliate with Institute of Theological Studies, a consortium of seminaries and graduate schools that have developed a collection of theological, philosophical, biblical and practical ministry courses.

Whitefield Theological Seminary is certified by the Reformed Presbyterian Church General Assembly as a postsecondary institution for the training of individuals for Christian service.

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A word must be mentioned here about accreditation because it is often a misunderstood practice. The primary reason an institution desires to seek accreditation by a government agency approved by the United States Department of Education (USDOE), is to qualify for federal and state funding and other entitlements programs, not to mention that accreditation has created a monopoly on our postsecondary educational institutions. Accreditation does not address issues of ‘truth’ or ‘quality’ or ‘competency’ in the educational enterprise when it comes to Christian education and ministry. The administration of Whitefield Theological Seminary has determine, according to our educational objectives that our mission is best served by not blending church and state issues in order to accept government entitlements. This is our conviction and is not

meant to reflect on others who are willing to participate in such programs. We believe that

accountability as to ‘truth’ or ‘quality’ or ‘competency’ rightfully rests with the regulatory (vocational) agencies that oversee and establish ‘quality’ standards in their related fields of endeavor, such as engineering, etc. In the case of ‘ministries’ it is the denominations and churches that set the standards of ‘truth’ and ‘quality’ and ‘competency’ according to their statement of faith and practices. It is these type of agencies that should determine the ‘competency’ of the individual and his/her education in light of proper testing and demonstration of abilities.

On the practical side, Whitefield does recognize that there are academic and professional benefits in being associated with agencies that seek to maintain quality education and consistently developing newer programs for the delivery of educational information related to program development, which includes accrediting agencies. Whitefield is concerned with teaching the ‘truth,’ giving ‘quality’ education, and providing an education that will allow the student to have the ‘competency’ necessary to carry out their mission or ministry. Therefore the seminary is seeking ways to affiliate for academic interaction while still being able to maintain a non-entanglement status.

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While the Seminary has had students transfer to other institutions, both accredited and non-accredited, the final decision regarding the transfer of credits is always left with the receiving institutions. The United States Department of Education (USDOE) wrote in its publication on accreditation, that: “Accreditation does not provide automatic acceptance by an institution of

credit earned in another institution… [A]cceptance of students or graduates is always the prerogative of the receiving institution…[F]or this reason… students should take additional measures to determine, prior to enrollment, whether or not their educational goals will be met

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through attendance at a particular institution. These measures should include inquiries to institutions to which transfer might be desired…”. All degree programs of Whitefield

Theological Seminary are intended for training in Christian and ecclesiastical vocations. All programs are taught from the perspective of a Christian world-and-life view. We encourage all students to consider the above recommendation of the USDOE prior to enrolling with WTS. This is especially important since the USDOE will not even ensure transfer of credits from one of their own accredited institutions to another accredited institution even if they are members of the same accrediting agency. In addition, we encourage students to contact their respective denominations concerning the acceptability of a WTS degree prior to enrollment for the study of the ministry.

Transfer of credits to Whitefield Theological Seminary is permitted if the work required for the course is equal to or greater than the requirements by Whitefield. The Seminary refuses substandard courses for credit transfer, thereby weakening the student’s education. The student must submit for our review the course syllabus prior to approval for credit transfer. Course credits will be determined as follows: (1) Accepted (transfer of all credits), (2) Modified (transfer of some credit towards a course, or (3) rejected (work to inferior to receive the credits.

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Master Degrees

Whitefield Seminary is specifically designed to provide quality Christian education. Whitefield admits students of any sex, race, color, or nationality, however, Whitefield Seminary reserves the right to deny admission to any student for any reason it deems adequate. Entrance into the Whitefield Seminary program is a privilege, not a right.

The following must be submitted to the seminary administration and be approved for graduate admission.

1. A completed application with a $100 non-refundable application fee. 2. A written statement of faith.

3. A written statement giving reasons for pursuing a program of theological study.

4. A letter of recommendation from the student’s minister and/or church session (elders). 5. Full transcripts of all college or graduate work completed.

6. Letters of recommendation from 3 friends who have known the student for at least 3 years. They should include the following: (a) A brief background of the person writing the reference. (b) How long and under what circumstance the friend has been acquainted with the student. (c) An evaluation of the student’s character and spiritual development.

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Doctorate Degrees

Students must have carried a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 schale (or its equivalent) in his earlier graduate degree program of study. Students with less than a 3.0 GPA may be admitted under ‘academic probation’ at the discretion of the administration. The following must be submitted to the seminary administration and be approved for post-graduate

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ADMINISTRATION

1. Students must complete an application form and submit it to the administration with a $100 application fee (nonrefundable).

2. A statement of faith.

3. A written statement concerning why the student desires to pursue advanced studies at the doctoral level.

4. A letter of recommendation from the student’s church session or minister.

5. A full set of transcripts of all seminary and college level work that the student has completed, including catalogs from those schools describing the courses of study.

6. Letters of recommendation from 3 friends who have known the student for at least 3 years. They should include the following: (a) A brief background of the person writing the reference. (b) How long and under what circumstance he is acquainted with the student. (c) An evaluation of the student’s character and spiritual development.

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EMINARY

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OVERNMENT

Whitefield Theological Seminary is a ministry of Christ Presbyterian Church of the Reformed Presbyterian Church General Assembly, and is governed by an Executive Board of Directors. This Board has the final authority on all policy and administrative decisions pertaining to the Seminary.

The Board of Directors also share in the over sight of academic policies and practices of the Seminary. This board has the duty and responsibility of reviewing and maintaining a quality standard of excellence in its educational programs. The Seminary Administration cares for the daily activities and interacts with students. The Administration has the responsibility to apply and direct the policies provided to them by the Executive Board of Directors and the Board of Directors for Academic Policy.

The Board of Regents acts in an advisory capacity and represents the Seminary’s interests throughout the United States and internationally.

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ACADEMIC STANDARDS

Classification of Students / Advanced Standing / Course Challenge

Grading Scale / Academic Honors / Coursework Integrity

Student Conduct / Academic Standing / Graduate Degree Mentor (Masters)

Graduate Degree Mentor (Doctorate) / Thesis and Dissertation

Doctorate Degrees / Research Objectives / Research Philosophy

Process of Thesis and Dissertation Requirements / Doctoral Examinations

Time Limitation / Graduation Requirements (Masters / Doctorate)

Whitefield Weekly / Reformed Theological Association

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Students enrolled with Whitefield Theological Seminary shall be classified under one of the following categories:

Graduate (Master Degrees)

Junior: Students who have not completed at least 46 hours of degree credit study. No credit is

granted for grades less than 2.0 on a 4.0 grade scale;

Middler: Students who have completed 46 hours of degree credit, but less than 81 hours at or

above the 2.0 grade scale level;

Senior: Students who have completed 81 hours of degree credit, but less than 101 hours at or

above the 2.0 grade scale level;

Special: Any student who is enrolled in a contract for learning degree program. This includes a

student enrolled in the Master of Ministry in Theological Studies or the Diploma of Theology programs.

Postgraduate (Doctorate Degrees)

There are three stages in a student's doctoral degree work:

Initiate Candidate: A student who has passed the entrance exam and has been admitted to a

doctoral program of study having met all prior academic requirements.

Provisional Candidate: A student who has completed the prescribed core courses of study

and passed the oral examination.

Candidate: A student who has met all degree requirements except the completion of the

dissertation.

Special Candidate: A student who is enrolled in the Doctor of Arts in Religion which does not

require a dissertation project.

Post-Doctoral Candidate: A student who has completed a research doctorate and is

currently enrolled in the advanced doctoral program.

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A student seeking advanced standing by transfer of credits, on the basis of work completed at other institutions of higher learning, must send to the Seminary administration copies of all transcripts along with a catalog from said institutions. All students must complete at least 30 credits of study with WTS in order to graduate. No credits will be received in which the grade is below the 2.0 or “C” grade level on a 4.0 grade scale. The student must keep in mind that the transfer of credits is a privilege, not a right. Therefore, it is possible that some credit hours of study may not be accepted or transferred into the Seminary. Transfer of credit is only granted to students who are enrolling in a degree program with the intention of completing the degree.

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ADMINISTRATION

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_HALLENGE

Any student who feels that he has sufficient knowledge of a subject, may, by permission of the administration, take an oral or written examination given at the seminary headquarters in Lake-land, Florida. The exam covers the subject matter given in the course. Credit will be applied to the student’s transcript and counts toward the completion of his degree program following pas-sage of the exam. The $800 examination fee must be paid to the seminary at least ten days prior to the examination date and is non-refundable. Neither will it be applied to the student’s tuition.

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CALE

Courses completed satisfactorily are applied toward the graduation requirements on the basis of credit hours completed. They are evaluated in terms of letter grades. All grades are final and any course with a “D” or “F” grade must be retaken by the student.

A+ = 10o C+ = 85-86 A = 97-99 C = 81-84 A- = 95-96 C- = 78-80 B+ = 93-94 D+ = 76-77 B = 89-92 D = 73-75 B- = 87-88 D- = 71-72 WF = Withdrew Failing WP = Withdrew Passing

HP = High Pass (by examination)

P = Pass (by examination)

T = Transfer Credit

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ONORS

Student’s who have accumulated the following Grade Point Average will be awarded one of the following distinctions:

% 100 = A+ Summa Cum Laude

(With Highest Honor)

% 99 = A Maxima Cum Laude

(With Very Great Praise)

%97-98 = A Magna Cum Laude

(With Great Honor)

%95-96 = A- Cum Laude

(With Honor)

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NTEGRITY

Students are required to sign a statement when they apply, that their work is their own, and that they will not share their work with any other student. No lecture tapes, CDs or DVDs may be copied in any form without written approval from the Seminary. Should these principles be

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violated and discovered, the student may be expelled from the Seminary. All courses completed will be counted as failures and any degrees granted may be revoked. There will be no refunds of monies given. There is no time limit to these penalties.

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ONDUCT

Student conduct is determined by the standards as set forth in the Holy Scriptures. All students, whether enrolled in WTS or one of its extension seminaries, are under the spiritual oversight of their local church. The student’s devotional life is an important part of his nurturing in the faith of Jesus Christ. All students must maintain regular daily devotions and regular church attendance.

The Seminary reserves the right to terminate a student under either of the following circumstances:

1.

The student becomes involved in questionable moral and or ethical practices;

2.

The student is promoting unacceptable doctrinal teachings which fall outside of the evangelical faith. In all cases of termination, the student agrees to return all audio/ visual materials to the Seminary.

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Courses are passed upon satisfactorily completing all required course work and projects and passing the examinations. This work will be applied toward the graduation requirements on the basis of credit hours completed.

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EQUIREMENTS

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Master Degrees

The following are the requirements for students entering the Directed Studies Program (Master Degrees).

1. Students are required to obtain a mentor(s), who will be acceptable and approved by the Seminary.

2. Mentors must have a recognized degree, either equivalent to or beyond the degree that the student is pursuing.

3. Students are required to meet with the mentor(s) regularly for review and direction concerning the student’s progress and comprehension of the course assignments.

4. Students must provide a monthly report concerning his progress either in writing, by phone, fax or email.

5. Mentors must contact the seminary office semiannually and give a full report of the student’s progress either in writing, by phone, fax or email.

6. Students are responsible to submit all the required work for each course of study to the Seminary.

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ADMINISTRATION

7. Students are required to be actively attending a church. A semiannual report from the student’s pastor or church session, concerning the student’s activities in church work is to be sent to the Seminary by the church either in writing, by phone, or email.

8. Students may call the Seminary for advice and instruction concerning the program of study. 9. All master degree students will study their courses one at a time except for Biblical

languages, which should be taken simultaneously with the other courses. After completion of all work for each course of study, the student may proceed to the next course of study. 10. All work submitted to the Seminary-courses and projects, tests, theses and dissertation projects-is the property of Whitefield Theological Seminary (students must keep copies of their original work). Students who have the opportunity to have their theses or dissertations published should contact the Seminary for instructions. The Seminary does not expect to receive royalties on published manuscripts.

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EQUIREMENTS

: Doctorate Degrees

The following requirement must be met by the student in securing mentors for his degree program.

1. All doctorate degrees are mentored by the seminary.

2. Students must also engage the aid of two ministers or professors, who will read and submit letters of recommendation as to the acceptability of the dissertation project. These reviewers are subject to approval by the Doctoral Committee, and must possess an earned doctorate degree in a related field.

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EQUIREMENTS

Master Degrees

Each student will be required to write a thesis that is a minimum of 50 pages or 12,000 words in length, with a bibliography of at least twenty recognized scholarly resources for Master of Arts, Master of Arts in Religion, and Master of Divinity degrees.

Students taking the Master of Theology degree program will be required to write a thesis paper that is a minimum of 75 pages or 18,000 words in length, with a bibliography of at least twenty-five recognized scholarly resources.

Doctorate Degrees

Each student completing a research doctorate (Ph.D./Th.D./Ed.D. is required to write a dissertation that is a minimum of 300 pages or 75,000 words in length but not to exceed 400 pages or 100,000 words, with a bibliography of at least one-hundred recognized scholarly resources supporting reading and research in the field of the student’s dissertation.

The student seeking to complete the Th.D. in Pastoral Ministry degree is required to write a dissertation that is a minimum of 150 pages or 36,000 words in length, with a bibliography of a seventy-five recognized scholarly resources supporting the reading and research in the field of

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the student’s dissertation.

The Litt.D. advanced degree requires the student to write a dissertation that is a minimum of 400 pages or 100,000 words in length, but not to exceed 500 pages or 120,000 words, with a bibliography of at least fifty recognized scholarly resources supporting reading and research in the field of the student’s dissertation.

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Theses and dissertations must meet the following objectives:

Academic: It must be a high quality academic work that represents the appropriate graduate or

post-graduate level of research and written work.

Knowledge: It must advance biblical scholarship. Dissertations must set forth a new approach

or thought concerning the subject matter– originality is important.

Skill: It must demonstrate the student’s skill in using God’s Word (Holy Scripture) as the

foun-dation and verification for all conclusions reached.

Style: It must be written in accordance with the standards of A Manual for Writers of Papers,

Theses, and Dissertations by Kate L. Turabian, University of Chicago Press, (current edition), or any other approved guide.

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Students should keep the following in mind as they research and write their thesis or disserta-tion.

1. All sources of research must be documented and submitted to the Seminary with the first draft of the written project.

2. All quotations should reflect the content of the subject and the subject matter from which the quote was taken. Misrepresentation of any position is unacceptable, and reflects poor scholarship on the part of the student. Be sure that you understand the writer’s point of view clearly.

3. Research work is to be completed by the student only. A part of the discipline of graduate work is researching, reading and writing. No project will be accepted if the work is not en-tirely the student’s own.

4. Do not write a dissertation that consists of nothing more than footnotes. The Seminary is more interested in the thoughts, work and skills of the student, rather than those of others. Use your research to support your position, but do not simply repeat what has already been written. Make your project an original creation.

5. A thesis or dissertation must be of an academic quality that will make a contribution to the advancement of Christian knowledge.

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Student’s will need to follow their program guides in completing the full processes required for completing and submitting approved thesis and dissertation papers. (See your program guide).

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The first examination (if required) is for entrance into the doctorate program. It will be a written examination that will be proctored by an examiner approved by the Administration and must be taken before any course work commences.

The second examination will be given orally covering the core course requirements (six courses) prior to approval to begin studies in his major area of concentration.

The third examination will be given orally after covering the major course requirements (six courses) prior to approval

The Doctoral dissertation exam shall be given orally and will test the candidate’s knowledge of a specialized field, as well as his ability:

1. To integrate knowledge with other theological disciplines; 2. To make scholarly judgments;

3. To critically analyze detractors’ objections; 4. To grasp bibliographical resources; and

5. To demonstrate knowledge of theological scholarship.

6. The oral examinations will be no shorter than 2 ½ hours, and no longer than 5 hours in length.

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All work for the Doctoral degrees must be completed within ten years after admission to the Doctoral program. If a student fails to complete his doctoral degree program in the specified time, the student must petition the Seminary to be reinstated for an additional time of study, after which the program must be completed with out additional extension (2 additional years will be permitted).

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Graduate Degrees: Masters

The following requirements must be met by a student in order to graduate from the Graduate Degree program.

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1. All students are required to take final comprehensive examinations at the Seminary headquarters in Lakeland, Florida.

2. Each student shall contact the Seminary for an examination date. Whitefield Theological Seminary will establish a regional testing center for any student who resides outside North America. Such students should contact the Seminary for information on the location of the testing center.

3. In order to graduate, the student is expected to score at least an 80% passing grade on the comprehensive examination at the completion of his degree program. No degree will be awarded without completion of all required courses.

4. A student must be enrolled at WTS at the time of his graduation, and have maintained a cumulative 3.0 (B) grade point average.

5. Graduation from each degree program requires the completion of a thesis. 6. The thesis must be preapproved by the Seminary.

7. No student will receive a degree without fulfilling all the course graduation and financial requirements as listed in the catalog, administrative bulletin or otherwise communicated to the student.

Graduate Degrees: Doctorate

The following requirements must be met by a student in order to be granted permission to graduate from any of the post-graduate degree programs.

Degree program:

1. The completion of all admission and candidacy requirements to the satisfaction of the Doctoral Degree Committee and the administration.

2. All financial obligations must be paid in full, or acceptable arrangements made with the administration.

3. Successfully completing all three oral exams and the student’s dissertation with the approval of the Doctoral Examination Committee.

4. The submission of a typed dissertation (five copies, professionally hard bound) with the approval of the Committee Chairman and Executive Director. This includes completing the Five Phase Program for the Completion of the Graduate Doctoral Degree, as listed previously.

Whitefield Weekly

The Whitefield Weekly is an official publication of Whitefield Theological Seminary. The Whitefield Weekly is published to update students on the activities of Whitefield Theological Seminary, theological issues of importance, changes in policies or courses, and additional information of interest to the student. Whitefield Seminary also operates a posting service and a

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chat room for communication with the students.

Reformed Theological Association

The Reformed Theological Association is a program for men who have earned the Master of Theology degree, its equivalent, or a doctorate degree, and are willing to develop a medium for exchange in oral and written communication, in order to advance theological and biblical scholarship. For additional information, write to the Seminary’s RTA Chairman.

“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

The Whitefield Graduate School of Theology offers various degrees in Theological and Historical Studies, including a variety of doctoral degree programs. All courses shall be taken under the direction of a mentor. Courses are offered through the following method of study, The Media Program. This program utilizes CDs, reading, research, and writing. The degrees offered are listed in the following sections.

PROFESSIONAL DEGREES

Master of Divinity (M.Div.)

Pastoral Ministry (Presbyterian. Baptist, and Episcopal)

The Master of Divinity in Pastoral Ministry with a Presbyterian Emphasis is a three-year study program designed specifically to train men for the office of minister. The degree requirements are based on the rules for examination for ordination as set forth by the Westminster Assembly in 1645, as stated in The Form of Presbyterian Church Government: He shall be examined touching his skill in the original tongues, and his trial to be made by reading the Hebrew and Greek Testaments, and rendering some portion of some into Latin [now English];… and whether he hath skill in logic and philosophy. What authors in divinity he hath read, and is best acquainted with; and trial shall be made in his knowledge of the grounds of religion, and of his ability to defend the orthodox doctrine contained in them against all unsound and erroneous opinions, especially these of the present age; of his skill in the sense and meaning of such places of scripture as shall be proposed unto him, in cases of conscience, and in the chronology of the scripture, and the ecclesiastical history.

Acceptance into this degree program requires an acceptable bachelor degree or a first theological degree from an approved graduate school of theology. This track is designed for those students who plan on entering a Presbyterian, Baptist, or Episcopal ministry.

Required Courses for Presbyterian ministry: Theological Research and Reading;

Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American

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Master of Divinity / Bachelor of Divinity / Master of Theology

Doctor of Theology

Church History; Presbyterian Church History; Historical Theology; New Testament Greek; Old Testament Hebrew; Introduction and History of the Old Testament; Introduction and History to the New Testament; Homiletics; Presbyterian Pastoral Theology; Pastoral Counseling; Presbyterian Church Administration and the Law; Biblical Worship (Reformed Presbyterian); Cults and Heresies; Reformed Evangelism and Missiology; Presbyterian Pastoral Practicum; Master Thesis.

Required Courses for Baptist ministry: Theological Research and Reading;

Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Baptist Church History; Historical Theology; New Testament Greek; Old Testament Hebrew; Introduction and History of the Old Testament; Introduction and History to the New Testament; Homiletics; Baptist Pastoral Theology; Pastoral Counseling; Baptist Church Administration and the Law; Biblical Worship (Reformed Baptist); Cults and Heresies; Reformed Evangelism and Missiology; Baptist Pastoral Practicum; Master Thesis.

Required Courses for Episcopal ministry: Theological Research and Reading;

Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Episcopal Church History ; Historical Theology ; New Testament Greek; Old Testament Hebrew; Introduction and History of the Old Testament; Introduction and History of the New Testament; Homiletics; Episcopal Pastoral Theology; Pastoral Counseling; Episcopal Church Administration and the Law; Biblical Worship (Reformed Episcopal); Cults and Heresies; Reformed Evangelism and Missiology; Episcopal Pastoral Practicum; Master Thesis.

Pastoral Counseling (Presbyterian, Baptist, and Episcopal)

The Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling is a three-year study program designed specifically to train men for the office of minister with a counseling emphasis. Acceptance into this degree program requires an acceptable bachelor degree or a first theological degree from an approved graduate school of theology.

Required Courses for Presbyterian: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics;

Systematic Theology I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Presbyterian Church History; Historical Theology; New Testament Greek; Old Testament Hebrew; Introduction and History of the Old Testament; Homiletics; Pastoral Theology; Pastoral Counseling; Marriage and Family Counseling I; Marriage and Family Counseling II; Advanced Biblical Counseling I; Advanced Biblical Counseling II; History and Methodology in Counseling; Theology of Counseling; Counseling Internship; Master Thesis.

Required Courses for Baptist: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics;

Systematic Theology I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Baptist Church History; Historical Theology; New Testament Greek; Old Testament Hebrew; Introduction and History of the Old Testament; Homiletics; Pastoral Theology; Pastoral Counseling; Marriage and Family Counseling I; Marriage and Family Counseling II; Advanced Biblical Counseling I; Advanced Biblical Counseling II; History and Methodology in Counseling; Theology of Counseling; Counseling Internship; Master Thesis.

Required Courses for Episcopal: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics;

Systematic Theology I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology

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Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Episcopal Church History; Historical Theology; New Testament Greek; Old Testament Hebrew; Introduction and History of the Old Testament; Homiletics; Pastoral Theology; Pastoral Counseling; Marriage and Family Counseling I; Marriage and Family Counseling II; Advanced Biblical Counseling I; Advanced Biblical Counseling II; History and Methodology in Counseling; Theology of Counseling; Counseling Internship; Master Thesis.

Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) Without Undergraduate Degree

A student without an undergraduate (bachelor) degree may complete the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) program of Study in any of the Pastoral Ministry programs (Presbyterian, Baptist, or Episcopal) and be awarded the Bachelor of Divinity degree. If the student later completes an undergraduate degree, the Bachelor of Divinity degree may be upgraded to a Master of Divinity degree, for a designated fee upon application by the student.

Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) Without Biblical Languages

Students who desire to take the Master of Divinity degree program, but do not want to complete the Greek and Hebrew requirements, may receive a Bachelor of Divinity degree which will be designated as a major in English Bible only.

Master of Theology (Th.M.)

The Master of Theology (Th.M.) degree is a three year program of study offered in the two following areas: Reformed Theology and Interpretation and Reformed Theology and Biblical Languages.

The degree requires the completion of a Bachelor’s degree from an approved institution of higher learning. The Following courses are required for the completion of the degree.

Reformed Theological Interpretation

Required Courses: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology

I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Presbyterian Church History; Historical Theology; New Testament Greek; Old Testament Hebrew; Introduction and History of the Old Testament; Advanced Interpretation and Exegesis: History of the Reformation; History of Christian Thought; Westminster Confession: History and Theology; Larger Catechism (Westminster); Current Theological Issues I: Justification; Master Thesis

Reformed Theology and Biblical Languages

Required Courses: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology

I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; Historical Theology Introduction to New Testament Greek I; Introduction to New Testament Greek Syntax; Intermediate Greek I - Rapid Greek Reading/Translation; Intermediate Greek II - Introduction to the Septuagint; Exegetical Methodology and Tools; Exegetical Practicum; Introduction to Biblical Hebrew; Intermediate Hebrew I - Introduction to Biblical Hebrew Syntax; Intermediate Hebrew II – Reading/Translation; Hebrew Exegesis; Hebrew Exegetical Practicum. Master Thesis.

Doctor of Theology (Th.D.)

The Doctor of Theology is the highest professional degree awarded by the Seminary. It is a

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four-year degree awarded in Pastoral Ministry or Pastoral and Ecclesiastical Theology that is built on the curriculum of the Master of Divinity degree with an additional year of study in applied theology. Students must be capable of demonstrating ability to obtain excellence in all phases of the program with strong academic competence. The student must complete the required post-graduate core courses, and then select one area of study in ministry, which must be approved by the Doctoral Committee. A dissertation is required to complete this degree program.

Pastoral Ministry

Admission to this program requires the Bachelor of Arts degree or its equivalent. Students who enroll in the Th.D. degree can be awarded the Master of Arts in Christian Studies, Master of Arts in Religion, and the Master of Divinity degrees upon completing the required courses of study that lead to the Th.D. degree. Only students who have taken all their seminary studies (M.A.C.S., M.A.R., M.Div., or B.D.) with WTS will be admitted into the Th.D. program for Pastoral Ministry. Any student who does not complete the dissertation requirement for the Doctor of Theology degree in Pastoral Ministry will be awarded the Master of Sacred Theology (S.T.M.) degree as an alternative degree.

Required Courses: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology

I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Presbyterian Church History; Historical Theology; New Testament Greek; Old Testament Hebrew; Introduction and History of the Old Testament; Homiletics; Presbyterian Pastoral Theology; Pastoral Counseling; Presbyterian Church Administration and the Law; Biblical Worship (Reformed Presbyterian); Cults and Heresies; Reformed Evangelism and Missiology; Presbyterian Pastoral Practicum; Marriage and Family Counseling I; Marriage and Family Counseling II; Advanced Biblical Counseling I; Advanced Biblical Counseling II; History and Methodology in Counseling; Theology of Counseling; Counseling Internship; Doctoral Dissertation.

Pastoral Theology

The Doctor of Theology in Pastoral Theology degree is a three year study program. All courses of study directly relate to preaching, worship and sacraments. A student must possess a Master of Divinity degree from an approved seminary or it’s equivalent in order to enroll in this degree program of study.

Required Courses: History of Reading and Preaching in Worship I; History of Reading and

Preaching in Worship II; Puritan Worship; Reformed Ministry and Preaching; History of Revival and Revivalism; The Lord’s Supper in Worship; Doctoral Dissertation.

Master of Arts (M.A.)

The Master of Arts in Theological Studies degree is a sixteen month program of studies in one of the following areas of emphasis: Theological Studies; Theology and Church History; or Theology and Apologetics. Acceptance into this program requires an acceptable bachelor’s degree.

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Theological Studies

Required Courses: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology

I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; Master Thesis.

Theology and Church History

Required Courses: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology

I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Historical Theology; Master Thesis.

Theology and Apologetics

Required Courses: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology

I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Church History I; Church History II; Cults and Heresies; Historical Theology; Master Thesis.

Master of Arts in Religion (M.A.R.)

The Master of Arts in Religion is a two-year program of study offering studies in Theology, Apologetics, and Church History. Acceptance into this degree program requires an acceptable bachelor’s degree.

Theology, Apologetics, and Church History

Required Courses: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology

I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Presbyterian Church History; Historical Theology; New Testament Greek (First Year); Old Testament Hebrew (First Year); Master Thesis.

LAY STUDIES DEGREES

Diploma in Theology (Dip. Th.)

The Diploma of Theology is a 32 credit-hour course designed for the layman to advance his theological knowledge, and may be used as preparation for the training of a deacon. There are no academic requirements for enrolling in this program. Each course of study is taken for two or three credit-hours.

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Diploma in Theology / Master of Ministry in Theological Studies

Master of Ministry in Pastoral Studies

Required Courses: Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology I; Systematic Theology II;

Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Presbyterian Church History; Historical Theology I; Historical Theology II; Introduction and Survey of the Old Testament; Introduction and Survey of the New Testament. Thesis.

Master of Ministry (M.Min.)

The Master of Ministry in Theological Studies is a 67 credit-hour course designed for men who desire to master both the theological and practical skills necessary for their calling as a Ruling Elder. There are no academic requirements for enrolling in this program. Each course of study is taken for two or three credit-hours.

Required Courses: Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology I; Systematic Theology II;

Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Presbyterian Church History; Historical Theology I; Historical Theology II; Introduction and Survey of the Old Testament; Introduction and Survey of the New Testament; Homiletics; Pastoral Theology; Pastoral Counseling; Church Administration; The Church and Law; Biblical Worship; Cults and Heresies; Reformed Missiology and Biblical Evangelism; Pastoral Practicum.

Master of Ministry (M.Min.)

The Master of Ministry in Pastoral Studies is the M.Div. degree program lightened by ½ of the requirements for individuals who are seeking ordination with churches that do not require the amount of study normally assigned to the Master of Divinity.

Required Courses: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology

I; Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; American Church History; Presbyterian Church History; Historical Theology; New Testament Greek; Old Testament Hebrew; Introduction and History of the Old Testament; Homiletics; Pastoral Theology; Pastoral Counseling; Presbyterian Church Administration and the Law; Biblical Worship (Reformed Presbyterian); Cults and Heresies; Reformed Evangelism and Missiology; Presbyterian Pastoral Practicum; Master Thesis.

The Whitefield Graduate School of Counseling has been established to better equip ministers and other Christian workers in the field of Biblical Counseling. With the onslaught of humanism in our society, the effects of sin have been far reaching within the Christian Community. Many churches have sought to counter this degenerating condition within American Christianity by turning to the secular theories of psychology and counseling methods. Rather than the church confronting the sins of our people with the Word of God, by the power of the Holy Spirit, through the mediatorial work of Jesus Christ (our Great High Priest), they have allowed professional counselors to enter into the ministry with a “calling” to counsel. In doing this they have allowed untrained and ill-equipped individuals to assume positions of ministry in the church. As a result, the Gospel is synthesized with secularism. This integration has placed

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humanistic views of man on par with Holy Scripture. Psychology has thus replaced theology in the church and psychologists have replaced God-Ordained ministers. This has allowed heretical doctrines and practices within the church, which have had an adverse effect on its members. Such modernism can no longer be tolerated if the church is to be faithful to Jesus Christ.

Biblical Counseling Philosophy

Whitefield Theological Seminary believes that Holy Scripture is the foundation for all of life, faith, and practice. Therefore, God’s Word is our only source of authority in counseling. As our basis for counseling, this Word is absolutely sufficient; it is superior to any and all other sources because there are no other sources of truth. It is abundantly practical in its application. To be an effective biblical counselor requires effective and faithful handling of the Word of God. Biblical counseling is an integral part of, and not a replacement for, theological training. Accordingly, WGS requires that all students complete a minimum number of courses in theological studies. WGS also believes that counseling is an integral part of the ministry of the local church and is committed to seeing God’s people trained to effectively counsel.

Biblical Counseling Theology

Man must be viewed in light of Holy Scripture. He is created in the image of God as a rational being, endued with knowledge, righteousness and holiness. After the fall of Adam, all men came under the effects of Original Sin. Thereby, man has a sinful nature. It is the effect of this Original Sin and resulting sins that has affected our world. The means of effecting change is by redemption in Christ and the application of the Bible to our lives. Redemption is accomplished only by the sovereign act of God’s Grace. Therefore, our view of God, man, sin, Christ, redemption, sanctification, and the Church is essential to any counseling that refers to itself as biblical. Whitefield maintains that it is the Reformed theological interpretation of Scripture alone that establishes the basis for confronting sin and correcting sinful practices. No other theology will effectively deal with man and sin in a biblical model.

Biblical Counseling Methodology

WTS is committed to the Nouthetic Counseling method as developed by Dr. Jay Adams. This method was developed based upon biblical principles that require the counselor to confront sin in the life of the individual. It recognizes that sin is fundamental in problems that occur in life, and unless we deal with the sin in the counselee, we will not resolve the problems that have developed as a result of sin. This method does not use modern psychological treatment theories for analyzing behavior. Rather, it seeks to understand behavior as a result of sin in the life of the individual. The answer to sinful behavior is found only in the Holy Scriptures. Thus, we are required to confront the individual in Christian love, with the demands of the Scriptures that they repent from their sins and put on the new life in Christ Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit, according to the Word of God.

Whitefield Graduate School of Counseling offers Master’s, Doctoral, and Post-Doctoral degrees in Biblical Counseling.

Master of Arts in Religion

(M.A.R.)

This is a two year degree program. The first year is a major in theological studies that are fundamental to the study of Biblical Counseling. The second year is an emphasis in the area of Nouthetic Counseling. The student is required to complete the following courses for this degree program of study:

Required Courses: Theological Research and Reading; Hermeneutics; Systematic Theology I;

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Systematic Theology II; Systematic Theology III; Systematic Theology IV; Biblical Theology; Covenant Theology; Apologetics I; Apologetics II; Biblical Ethics; Biblical View of Culture; Church History I; Church History II; Fundamentals of Christian Counseling; Marriage and Family Counseling I; Marriage and Family Counseling II; Advanced Counseling Methods I; Advanced Counseling Methods II; History and Methodologies in Counseling I; History and Methodologies in Counseling II; Theology of Counseling; Master Thesis.

Master of Sacred Theology

(S.T.M.)

Prospective students who already posses a Master of Divinity degree in Pastoral Ministry may enroll in the Graduate School of Counseling and upon completing the following courses receive the Master of Sacred Theology Degree.

Required Courses: Fundamentals of Christian Counseling; Marriage and Family counseling I;

Marriage and Family Counseling II; Advanced Counseling Methods I; Advanced Counseling Methods II; History and Methodologies in Counseling I; History and Methodologies in Counseling II; Theology of Counseling; Master Thesis.

Christian Philosophy of Education

The whole concept of Christian education is based on the prospect that there is but one truth, the truth of the self-revelation of God as set forth in the Bible. The very concept of the term Christian as applied to education assumes that it is impossible to understand the process of education apart from the revelation of God as set forth in the Bible. We believe that the pursuit of knowledge must be established upon this very foundation if our educational theory and methodology is even to resemble anything remotely Christian.

The sacred Scriptures alone give certainty to our efforts to correctly educate students concerning life and academic disciplines. Unity in education