Biblical Studies Major (AABS - Accelerated)
This major is designed for individuals who want two years of biblical education coupled with the opportunity for a specific concentration. The areas of concentration contain 12 elective credit hours, which may be taken from any of the departments or a single concentration from one department.
Degree: Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies
Major Mission: The Associate Degree in Biblical Studies major exists to utilize an interdisciplinary approach whereby students may design a course of study that coincides with their academic interests and ministry preparation.
Program Outcomes - Students will:
- Evidence a solid overview of ministry in conjunction with their biblical studies major.
- Demonstrate godly character within the framework of a servant style of leadership.
- Articulate their personal philosophy of ministry in accord with a biblical worldview.
Major Details:
Credits Needed
21 Credits - Biblical Studies
18 Credits - General Education
21 Credits - Electives
TOTAL - 60 Credits
Program Director:
Sam Harbin, PhD
Sam Harbin is blessed to have been a follower of Jesus Christ since childhood, and brings more than 30 years of experience in pastoral and Christian higher education ministry to the classroom. He has served in a variety of roles, including assistant pastor, senior pastor, seminary chaplain and professor, and seminary president. His ministry has taken him throughout the United States and to seven countries internationally.
Sam holds degrees from Indiana Baptist College (B.A., 1982), Calvary Baptist Theological Seminary (Master of Divinity, 1985), and Dallas Theological Seminary (Doctor of Ministry, 2001). His doctoral studies focused on effective interpretation and communication of Old Testament narratives.
As chair of the Bible & Theology department, Sam enjoys leading his talented team to serve with excellence every program at Lancaster Bible College / Capital Seminary and Graduate School. Tasked with providing the biblical and theological content for every major, the Bible & Theology team seek to build growing believers who understand Scripture and know how to integrate biblical truth into life and service regardless of vocational calling.
Sam teaches at both the undergraduate and graduate levels in the areas of hermeneutics, English Bible, and homiletics. He also maintains an active speaking and consulting ministry and particularly enjoys serving local churches who are in the pastoral search process. He holds pastoral counseling certification with the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors.
A native of southern Indiana, Sam’s hobbies include following Indiana University “Hoosier” basketball, woodworking, bluegrass music, and playing several stringed instruments. Sam and his wife, Elaine, have three grown sons and four grandchildren. They reside in Manheim, PA.
Curriculum Plan
Biblical Studies (21 Credits)
Choose seven courses from the following list:
General Education (18 credits)
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| History / Literature Core (100/200 Level) | 3 |
| LAN 101 | College Composition and Research | 3 |
| LAN 104 | Public Speaking | 3 |
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| Human Culture Elective | 3 |
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| Science or Mathematics Core Course | 3 |
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| Arts and Sciences Elective 3 credits | 3 |
Electives (21 credits)
Electives can possibly be filled through Life Experience Credits.