Course Descriptions

I and II Corinthians (BI202.2)
This course is a verse-by-verse study of Paul’s epistles to the Corinthian church.

Accounting and Finance (SM301.3)
This course will cover basic accounting techniques, cash control, and budgets. The practical aspects of accounting and managing ministry monies will be emphasized.

Acts (BI201.2)
This course is a verse-by-verse study of Luke’s narrative with a solid focus on the missionary efforts of the apostles and disciples of Christ.

Baptist History and Distinctives (ED302.3)
This foundational course will discuss the origin of the New Testament church and its history over the centuries. The consistency of distinctive Baptist doctrine throughout the ages will be emphasized.

Basic Music and Conducting (MU201.2)
This course will introduce students to the skills necessary for congregational song leading and basic choir conducting. The students will be encouraged to develop the joyful spirit, the conducting techniques, and the platform etiquette required to lead an uplifting congregational song service.

Biblical Counseling (MI411.3)
This course will teach the Biblical principles of counseling. Students will be taught to deal with the body, soul, and spirit of man. Defects in non-Biblical counseling methods will be revealed.

Bible Doctrines I (BI211.3)
This course will provide a systematic, exhaustive study of five major Bible doctrines: Bibliology, Theology, Anthropology, Harmartiology, and Christology.

Bible Doctrines II (BI212.3)
This course will provide a systematic, exhaustive study of the other five major Bible doctrines: Pneumatology, Soteriology, Angelology, Ecclesiology, and Eschatology.

Bible Prophecy (BI232.2)
This course will provide a detailed study of Biblical prophecies in Daniel and Revelation. These prophecies, fulfilled and unfulfilled, will be examined by comparing Scripture with Scripture.

Broadcast Media (SM401.2)
This is an introductory course covering the elements of broadcasting, scriptwriting, videography, sound, lighting, and editing. Basic digital productions will be completed by students.

Business Communications (SC201.2)
This course addresses fundamental communication skills needed in the business world, focusing on business correspondence that will be used in a church setting.

Child Development (ED202.3)
This course will focus on exploring the spiritual, emotional, social, cognitive, and physical needs of children at each stage of their development. Special emphasis will be given to helping the student recognize each stage of the developmental process so that he will be properly prepared to help children reach their fullest potential for Christ.

Children’s Literature (ED301.3)
This course will give the student an in-depth focus on traditional vs. “new age” philosophies found in both secular and Christian materials. It will provide examples of literature that should be found in Christian homes and classrooms.

Choir (MU001.1)
The college choir is open to all students and will provide practical experience in part reading, proper vocal technique, and public singing. The choir will sing at college chapels, church services, and other special meetings.

Christian School Administration (ED401.3)
This course will help future pastors and educators learn how to deal with the daily process of administrating a church-run Christian school. Special attention will be given to policies and administrative systems that produce successful Christian schools.

Church Administration and Polity (MI402.3)
This vital course is designed to teach pastoral students the skills needed to administrate the church of Jesus Christ. Its emphasis will be upon Biblical methods of leadership as well as exposure to administrative policies and procedures for the management of people and assets.

Church Budgeting (SM411.2)
This is a practical course concerning budgets, accounts receivable, and accounts payable. Students will learn to present a budget in a deacon’s meeting and a church business meeting. Bookkeeping methods, financial reporting, and fundraising will also be addressed.

Church Business (SM421.2)
This course will cover the practical business aspect of church administration. Students will learn how to maintain employee records, conduct staff meetings, conduct deacons’ meetings, conduct church business meetings, develop good business relationships, and demonstrate Biblical business ethics.

Church Construction (SM412.2)
This practical course will guide students from the beginning to the end of a church construction project. Students will gain a working knowledge of acquiring property, reading blueprints, evaluating building design, obtaining bids, and interacting with contractors, engineers, architects, builders, and permitting boards.

Church Law (SM431.3)
This course will teach students the legal issues that affect church ministries. It will cover topics such as formal organization of a ministry, foundational documents of a ministry, tax exemption, employment law, and risk management.

Church Music Administration (SM402.2)
This course will focus on the practical aspects of directing the entire church music program. It will cover the selection of music, the development of special singing groups, the production of seasonal choir performances, the pastor/music director relationship, the production of church music recordings, and music copyright issues.

Church Sound and Video (SM202.3)
This course will acquaint the student with general church audio and visual equipment. The course will cover the purpose and proper use of this equipment and the mechanics of proper church sound. The students will gain practical experience in the sound booth at college chapel and West Gate Baptist Church services.

Classic Literature (ED201.2)
This course will give students a survey of the works of notable foreign and American authors throughout the centuries dating from the Renaissance period through the Modern Age. A special section will be dedicated to the works and influence of Christian authors.

Classroom Management (ED212.2)
This course offers fundamental ideas and proven methods to help the prospective teacher establish and effectively maintain proper classroom management techniques. Emphasis will be placed upon the teacher’s ability to work within the personality and skills given to him by the Lord.

College Mathematics (ED222.3)
This course will ensure that students have a firm grasp of arithmetic, consumer mathematics, and basic algebraic concepts such as ratios, percentages, and formulas.

Computer Applications (SM102.2)
This course will guide the students through a step-by-step examination of several church software programs that are beneficial to the ministry. General knowledge and basic operational skills of applications, as well as their practical use in church ministry, will be taught.

Computer Media I (SM311.3)
This is an introductory course about presentation programs from various current software companies. Students will use these programs to create visual presentations of publication quality for use in church video, newsletters, and brochures.

Computer Media II (SM302.3)
This course will deal with the “design concept” of presentation software. The student will build on software application skills learned in Computer Media I and advance his understanding of proper layout and composition issues. (Computer Media I is a prerequisite.)

Conducting (MU401.3)
This course will examine basic choir conducting concepts such as rhythm, time signatures, and dynamics. The students will learn how to develop proper posture, proper breathing techniques, and proper facial expression in the choirs that they will lead. This course will also cover the efficient use of rehearsal time.

Contemporary Theology (BI401.3)
This course will study the theological trends, the philosophical movements, and the doctrinal issues of the current times. Students will focus on modern day false doctrines and their influence on New Testament Baptist churches.

Database Applications (SC112.2)
In this course, the student will be exposed to database concepts as well as the different applications available. Students will have the opportunity to identify informational needs and design databases with appropriate function for accurate information management. Students will learn how to build tables, queries, forms, and reports.

Deputation and Fundraising (MI412.2)
This practical course will train missionaries to conduct a successful deputation. Students will also learn techniques for successful fundraising for foreign field projects and successful money management on the field.

Desktop Publishing (SC202.3)
This course will provide an in-depth look at the use of computer applications for desktop publishing. Emphasis will be placed on the creation of projects that would be used in a ministry setting, including newsletters, bulletins, brochures, and reports. Principles of print and design will be practiced.

Elementary Greek I (BI221.3)
This entry-level course will expose the student to the Greek alphabet and lay a foundation of grammar skills in the Greek language. Students will be exposed to the dynamics of the Greek language with a special focus on Greek verbs. Translation exercises will begin in this course.

Elementary Greek II (BI222.3)
In this course, grammar skills will be enlarged to include participles and all the tenses of Greek verbs. (Elementary Greek I is a prerequisite.)

English Composition (ED102.2)
This course will instill the fundamentals of excellent writing skills. (English Grammar is a prerequisite.)

English Grammar (ED101.2)
This course will reinforce vocabulary and grammar skills on a collegiate level and challenge students to improve their writing and communication skills.

Filing and Records Management (SU212.2)
This course will provide students with an overview of several filing systems. Students will also learn the basics of records management.

Foreign Culture and Life (MI401.2)
This course seeks to expose the student to different world cultures and ways of life. Students will learn the steps of adjusting to a foreign culture.

General Epistles (BI411.2)
This course will be a book-by-book study of the epistles of James, I and II Peter, I, II, and III John, and Jude.

Gospels (BI101.3)
This course will be a book-by-book study of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

Hebrews (BI302.2)
This course is a study of the Epistle to the Hebrews.

Hermeneutics (BI301.2)
This course will seek to instill the proper guiding principles for interpreting the Word of God truthfully and accurately.

Historical Books (BI102.3)
This course will be a book-by-book study of Joshua, Judges, Ruth, I Samuel, II Samuel, I Kings, II Kings, I Chronicles, II Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther.

Homiletics I (BI311.3)
This course will introduce students to the basic tools of sermon preparation. Students will prepare and preach several sermons in class.

Homiletics II (BI312.3)
As a continuation of Homiletics I, this course will include a look at different styles of messages with an emphasis on expository preaching. Preparing for special days and themes will be discussed here. (Homiletics I is a prerequisite.)

Human Resources Management (SM222.2)
This vital course provides a study of personnel management in a church organization. Topics covered will include the recruitment, selection, training, evaluation, motivation, and compensation of employees.

Instrumental Methods I (MU301.2)
This course will introduce students to each family of musical instruments. Each student will learn basic instrumental skills in the brass, string, woodwind, and percussion families.

Instrumental Methods II (MU302.2)
This course will build on and expand the knowledge and skills learned in Instrumental Methods I. (Instrumental Methods I is a prerequisite.)

Intermediate Greek I (BI321.3)
This course will begin with an in-depth review of grammar skills mastered in the two previous Greek courses. Translation exercises will increase as students are introduced to the Greek New Testament. (Elementary Greek I and Elementary Greek II are prerequisites.)

Intermediate Greek II (BI322.3)
In this course, translation exercises will continue. Students will complete word studies. Oral presentations will be given to allow the student to use the skills learned in a practical preaching context. (Intermediate Greek I is a prerequisite.)

Internship (MI412.2)
This practical course will place all ministerial students as interns in local Baptist church ministries for one summer. The Administration will approve the placement of each student and monitor his progress.

Introduction to Children’s Ministry (MI201.2)
This course will give students a general overview of directing a church children’s ministry. Special consideration will be given to legal issues, volunteer placement, and effective interaction with children in the nursery, primary, and elementary departments.

Introduction to Christian Education (ED211.3)
This important course will present the student with a simple overview of the Biblical philosophy, purpose, and history of Christian education. The course will highlight the organizational, operational, and legal issues involved in operating a Christian school.

Introduction to Music (MU101.2)
This course will provide a basic understanding of music. This includes an introduction to timing, intervals, music terminology, and sight reading skills.

Introduction to Youth Ministry (MI301.2)
This course will give students a general overview of directing a church youth ministry. Special consideration will be given to legal issues, volunteer placement, and effective interaction with children in the junior high and high school departments.

Keyboarding I (SU211.2)
This course will train students in the basics of the computer keyboard while developing proper typing skills.

Keyboarding II (SU212.2)
This course will advance the typing skills of each student by emphasizing speed and accuracy. This course will also acquaint the students with various types of documents. (Keyboarding I is a prerequisite.)

Learning Theory (ED221.2)
This course will investigate the varied ways in which students learn. It provides age-specific techniques to adapt material to student learning styles.

Major Prophets (BI242.3)
This course is a book-by-book study of the writings of the major prophets in the Old Testament. These include the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, and Ezekiel.

Marriage and Family (ED402.2)
This course provides a Biblical study of marriage and the family. Myths will be dispelled and solid principles will be presented for establishing relationships that last.

Methods and Materials (ED311.2)
This course will explore the various methods that effective teachers use in the classroom. It will also deal with tools and materials that can raise a student’s learning level. The course will examine strategies that combine these two issues to produce efficient classroom environments.

Methods of Bible Study (BI111.2)
This course will train the serious Christian how to study his Bible with the proper tools and Biblical interpretation principles. This study will include biographical sketches, verse comparisons, and word studies.

Minor Prophets (BI331.3)
This course is a book-by-book study of the writings of the minor prophets in the Old Testament. These include the books of Hosea through Malachi.

Missions and Church Planting (MI422.3)
This course will cover the methods that a New Testament church will use in carrying out the Great Commission beyond its own community. It will give the students the Biblical methods for implementing a strong missions program. It will also teach the methods for planting new, Independent Baptist churches out of an existing local church.

Music Arranging (MU411.3)
This course will take the theory learned in Music Theory I-IV and apply it in a practical way for church and school music. The students will learn to take existing music and arrange it for duets, trios, quartets, ensembles, and choirs. (Music Theory I, II, III, and IV are prerequisites.)

Music History (MU311.2)
This course provides a basic history of music in the church and its influence on the movements and revivals of church history. It will also cover pseudo-Christian music and its influence on the church and American culture.

Music Theory I (MU211.3)
This course will build a thorough knowledge of scales, intervals, key signatures, and basic chords. (Introduction to Music is a prerequisite.)

Music Theory II (MU212.3)
This course will expand the student’s understanding of chords and teach basic part writing. (Music Theory I is a prerequisite.)

Music Theory III (MU321.3)
This course builds on Music Theory II and explores more complex chords and part writing. (Music Theory II is a prerequisite.)

Music Theory IV (MU322.3)
This continuation of Music Theory III will explore chord progressions and harmonies and will acquaint the student with the basics of music composition. (Music Theory III is a prerequisite.)

New Testament Survey (BI122.3)
This course is an overall survey of the entire New Testament. Each book will be charted, outlined, and examined in its historical context. The Life of Christ, key church doctrines, and Old Testament fulfillments will be emphasized.

Office Administration (SM422.3)
Students in this course will learn to effectively function in an office environment. Students will gain a greater understanding of time management skills, project oversight, and practical leadership skills based upon Scripture.

Office Media and Machines (SC101.2)
This course will give students practical experience with the different types of equipment that they will find in an office setting. The student will get acquainted with computers, printers, copiers, folding machines, multi-line phone systems, postage meters, fax machines, and more.

Old Testament Survey (BI112.3)
This course is an overall survey of the entire Old Testament. Each book will be charted, outlined, and examined in its historical context. Characters, geography, authorship, doctrine, and types will be emphasized.

Orchestra (MU002.1)
This course gives the instrumental student practical experience in performing music with others in a public setting.

Pastoral Epistles (BI402.2)
This course is a book-by-book study of the Pauline epistles that were specifically written to pastors. These epistles include I and II Timothy and Titus. A special emphasis will be given to the qualifications and responsibilities of a pastor.

Pauline Epistles (BI241.3)
This course is a book-by-book study of the Pauline epistles of Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, I and II Thessalonians, and Philemon.

Pentateuch (BI121.3)
This course is a book-by-book study of the first five books of the Bible.

Personal Finances (ED112.1)
This practical course will help the student learn to manage his personal finances based upon Biblical principles of money management. Students will learn how to establish a budget, buy a car, buy a house, file taxes, balance a checkbook, and invest money wisely.

Philosophy of Music (MU302.2)
This course will teach how God’s Word should determine the style of music that is used in each Christian’s personal life and in his local church.

Photography (SU312.2)
This course will teach the basics of photography through such topics as photography equipment, photography mediums, composition, and lighting. The student will learn practical ways to use this skill to help the local church.

Piano Class I (MU201.2)
This course will teach basic piano in a classroom setting.

Piano Class II (MU202.2)
This course will develop the skills learned in Piano Class I. (Piano Class I is a prerequisite.)

Poetical Books (BI221.3)
This course is a book-by-book study of the five books in the Old Testament known as the poetical books. These books are Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon.

Practicum (PC001.1)
This course is directed by Pastor Turner for parctical ministry functions such as baptisms, funerals, weddings, and deacon meetings.

Private Lessons (MU011.1)
The student receives individual instruction in voice or instrument.

Public Relations (SM321.3)
This course will teach the importance of clear communication and good relationships between the church and the community. Specific steps will be given for positive interaction with local businessmen, community leaders, government officials, and the news media.

Romans (BI131.2)
This course is a verse-by-verse study of the book of Romans that will focus upon man’s sinful nature, God’s wonderful salvation, and the Spirit-filled Christian life.

Scripture and Music (MU312.2)
This course will offer a verse-by-verse examination of the many references to music in the Scriptures. While examining these passages, the students will learn what music reveals about the character of God and how to practically apply these truths to their own lives.

Senior Recital (MU412.1)
This course is a continuation of private voice/instrumental lessons with the additional requirement of a public performance at the end of the semester.

Soulwinning (MI141.2)
This vital course will train every student how to carry out the Biblical mandate of soulwinning. Each student will memorize and present the plan of salvation.

Speech (ED231.2)
This course will teach the fundamentals of public speaking. Students will learn to effectively present the various types of speeches including narrative, informative, persuasive, and impromptu.

Speedwriting (SU211.3)
In this course, the student will learn the principles of speedwriting and apply these principles by taking and transcribing speedwritten dictation.

Student Ministry Hour (OY401.2)
In this course, each student will be part of a team that will develop a children’s and youth program and have an opportunity to implement the team’s programs.

Student Ministry in the 21st Century (OY411.3)
This course will teach students to reach the present generation for Christ. Emphasis will be placed on the special challenges presented by today’s young people who have been raised in the current social culture with virtually no exposure to the Bible and the things of God.

Student Ministry Programs (SM322.3)
This course will examine specific programs used in children and youth ministries and discuss each program’s strengths and weaknesses. Students will be taught the importance of effective planning, implementation, and follow-through.

Student Teaching (ED412.8)
Senior students preparing to become classroom teachers will be required to fulfill a classroom internship. The internship will be served under the direction of a college advisor and under the supervision of a classroom teacher. The internship will include observation, participation, preparation, and teaching in a regular classroom environment. This internship will be served at West Gate Christian School or another approved Christian school.

Teaching Bible (ED421.3)
This course will demonstrate effective methods for bringing Biblical truths to life in the classroom. Emphasis is placed on everyday application and relevance in the life of the learner.

Teaching Language Arts (ED321.3)
This course will present prospective teachers a holistic study of the elements of language. Special attention will be given to developing student’s teaching skills in the areas of spelling, grammar, and written composition. Penmanship styles and activities will also be addressed.

Teaching Mathematics (ED331.2)
This course is designed to offer prospective teachers tools, methods, and materials that will enable them to teach mathematical concepts with a fresh and innovative approach. Applications to specific ages and mathematical concepts will be a part of this course.

Teaching Music (ED341.2)
This course studies various methods and materials used in teaching music at the Christian school level. Students will be instructed in the fundamentals of singing, basic classroom instruments, and classroom activities suitable for each age level.

Teaching Physical Education (ED411.2)
This course addresses the rules and regulations of various sports activities as they pertain to the Christian school. Teamwork and individual achievement are stressed, as well as character building activities. Student size and age characteristics are addressed along with recommendations of appropriate games and activities for each. Special attention is paid to the U.S. Presidential Physical Fitness Program.

Teaching Reading (ED312.3)
This course explores foundational methods used in the teaching of reading. Phonics are emphasized as the basis for strong reading skills. Sight-word methods are also addressed as supplementary helps. Several curriculums will be evaluated to help perspective teachers understand the different philosophies prominent in today’s Christian schools.

Teaching Science (ED322.3)
This course will review the major areas of the science field and provide the tools, methods, and materials needed to teach science in a Christian school environment. Several curriculums used in Christian schools will be evaluated and discussed as to their potential benefits to the science classroom. Outside resources that provide equipment and experimental materials will also be presented.

Tests and Measurements (ED351.2)
This course will stress to the education student that testing is more than questions on paper. The students will examine various methods for administering and interpreting tests.

The Christian Life (OY102.1)
This is a practical course designed to stir the heart of each student to develop a deep devotional life. Students will study Biblical principles of holiness, the testimonies of Christian heroes, and the importance of prayer.

U.S. History (ED122.3)
This course will provide an overview of United States history from the early settlers to the present day. There will be a special emphasis on the Christian heritage of America.

Voice Class I (MU221.2)
This course will teach basic vocal techniques in a classroom setting.

Voice Class II (MU222.2)
This course will develop the skills learned in Voice Class I. (Voice Class I is a prerequisite.)

Word Processing (SU221.3)
This is a basic course in the use of word processing software. Emphasis will be placed upon producing accurate and professional letters, forms, reports, and other documents. (Keyboarding I and II and Computer Applications are prerequisites.)

Working with the Pastor (SM441.2)
This course will instill in students the realization that staff members must be servants to the man of God. Students will be taught to acquire the vision of the pastor rather than to set their own agenda. Students will learn to diligently build their ministries while always working in harmony with the goals and purposes of the pastor.

World History (ED111.2)
This course will present an overview of the major events in human history. Special emphasis will be given to the evidence of the hand of God working throughout history.

World Religions and Cults (BI342.2)
In this course, the religions of the world are examined and compared to the Word of God. Students will learn the history, practices, and errors of false religions. Within this penetrating study, students will learn how to witness to others involved in these religions.