Religion & Theology

Majors:

Minors:

Theology
Biblical Languages

Certificate:

Church Leadership

Purpose
The purpose of the educational program of the Department of Religion and Theology is to provide Christ-centered, distinctively Seventh-day Adventist, clinically grounded theological education for students in preparation for pastoral ministry, evangelism, teaching, Christian counseling, and chaplaincy. The religion and theology program is designed to prepare individuals for effective service to God, church, and humanity. Specifically the program seeks to prepare students for entry-level practice in ministry and for seminary and graduate study in religion and theology in preparation for specialized ministry. The department serves the general student body of Oakwood University through the provision of religion and theology courses across the curriculum. The department also serves as a resource to all college departments for the promotion of faith and learning.

Admission Requirements
Students seeking a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in the Department of Religion and Theology will be admitted upon completion of admission criteria and departmental evaluation as described in the departmental Student Handbook. Admission requirements include:

1. Admission by the college as a full-time student (admission to the college does not guarantee admission to the Department of Religion and Theology).
2. Submission of departmental application materials, including application form, personal statement, and three personal recommendations (including one from the applicant’s pastor).
3. ACT composite score of 16 or above, or SAT composite score of 840 or above. Students with ACT or SAT below 16 or 840 respectively must enroll in developmental courses.
4. Completion of 30 semester hours, including the following religion and theology courses: RP 131, and RP 132.
5. A college GPA of at least 2.30.
6. Demonstrated reading at the 12th-grade level, as indicated through diagnostic testing by the Center for Academic Success (CAS) or other testing centers.
7. Completion of a battery of personality and diagnostic tests.
8. Exemplary student conduct as outlined in the Oakwood University Student Handbook.

Candidacy Requirements
Students seeking a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in the Department of Religion and Theology will be advanced to candidacy upon completion of candidacy criteria and departmental evaluation as described in the departmental Student Handbook. Candidacy requirements include:

1. Admission to the Department of Religion and Theology (admission to the department does not guarantee advancement to candidacy).
2. Submission of departmental application materials, including application form, autobiographical sketch, résumé, personal interview, and two letters of recommendation from field education mentors.
3. Completion of 91 semester hours.
4. GPA of 2.30 or above in major courses.

In order to maintain candidacy status, students must meet the following requirements:

1. GPA of 2.30 or above in major courses.
2. Completion of the departmental exit examination with a score of 75% or above.
3. Completion of Emotional Competency Inventory (ECI).
4. Exhibit conduct befitting a ministerial student as outlined in the departmental Student Handbook

Exit Examination
All graduating seniors in major programs must take a comprehensive examination in the fall semester of their final year. The examination will evaluate proficiency in four areas of competency: biblical studies, theological studies, historical studies, and practical studies. A minimum of 75 percent is required for passing, and students who fail must retake the examination. See the exit examination policy in the departmental Student Handbook for criteria and procedures.