The 34-credit Marrow of Theology program is a streamlined theological curriculum for laypeople, non-vocational elders, or men who are not sure if they aspire to full-time ministry. It is not intended to replace a fuller, more traditional theological education for those who aspire to the ministry. However, it provides an introduction to theology and a platform on which to build further theological studies for men who later may move into the Divinity program.

Program Outcome

PLO1: Foundational Theological Knowledge – Graduates will develop a core understanding of biblical, historical, systematic, or practical theology.

PLO2: Interpretation and Theological Engagement – Graduates will be able to interpret Scripture with clarity, understand the historical development of Christian thought, and engage with key theological doctrines.

PLO3: Ministry and Leadership Preparation – Graduates will gain a fuller appreciation for the nature of church ministry and be equipped for lay leadership, teaching, or non-vocational eldership.

PLO4: Academic Readiness – Graduates will receive a solid foundation for further theological education if they choose to pursue advanced study.

Program Requirement

Individuals with a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent may earn the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) degree. Individuals without a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent may earn the Diploma of Theological Studies (DTS). Students who complete at least 50% of the Diploma of Theological Studies may apply for an upgrade to Master of Theological Studies if they meet the degree upgrade criteria (see Master’s Upgrade below).

Students enrolled in the Marrow program will choose one of the following emphases: exegetical theology, historical theology, systematic theology, and practical theology (see below). The student must complete the Marrow program within 6 years. After completing the Marrow program, a student may request to have his credits applied to the scholar’s program or the divinity program.

Program Emphases

Emphasis on Exegetical Theology (34 Credits)

Seven core courses (23 credits) in exegetical and biblical studies supplemented by electives from other theological disciplines.

  • SP401 Research & Writing (1)

  • SP402 Logos Academic Training (1)

  • ET500 Hermeneutics (3)

  • BL511 Elementary Greek I (3)

  • BL512 Elementary Greek II (3)

  • ET510 Old Testament Introduction (3)

  • ET515 New Testament Introduction (3)

  • ET631 Old Testament Theology (4)

  • ET632 New Testament Theology (2)

  • 11 Elective Credits from any ET, HT, ST, or PT

Emphasis on Historical Theology (34 Credits)

Seven core courses (20 credits) in historical and systematic studies supplemented by electives from other theological disciplines:

  • SP401 Research & Writing (1)

  • SP402 Logos Academic Training (1)

  • HT500 Baptist Symbolics (2)

  • HT611 Early Church (3)

  • HT612 Medieval Church (3)

  • HT613 Reformation Church (3)

  • HT614 Modern Church (3)

  • HT521 Particular Baptists (2)

  • ST501 Apologetics (3)

  • 13 Elective Credits from ET, HT, ST, or PT

Emphasis on Systematic Theology (34 Credits)

Nine core courses (28 credits) in systematic theology supplemented by electives from other theological disciplines:

  • SP401 Research & Writing (1)

  • SP402 Logos Academic Training (1)

  • ST501 Apologetics (3)

  • ST502 The Word (3)

  • ST503 God & Decree (3)

  • ST504 Man & Sin (3)

  • ST505 Christ & Covenants (3)

  • ST506 Salvation (3)

  • ST507 Holy Spirit (or) ST510 Ethics (3)

  • ST508 Church (3)

  • ST509 Last Things (2)

  • 6 Elective Credits from ET, HT, ST, or PT

Emphasis on Practical Theology ♦ (34 Credits)

Eight core courses (21 credits) in practical studies supplemented by electives from other theological disciplines:

  • SP401 Research & Writing (1)

  • SP402 Logos Academic Training (1)

  • ET300 Hermeneutics (3)

  • ST510 Ethics (3)

  • PT601 Calling & Cultivation (2)

  • PT602 Expository Preaching (3)

  • PT610 Pastoral Theology (2)

  • PT612 Church Ministry (2)

  • PT650 Introduction to Missions (2)

  • BC610 Pastoral Counseling (2)

  • 13 Elective Credits from ET, HT, ST, or PT

♦ The Practical Theology emphasis is designed for men aspiring to pastoral ministry. Therefore, it is limited to men only.