Purpose and Objectives
The purpose of the Bible Teaching program is to develop the ministry skill of teaching Bible in Christian and public schools in North America and around the world, such as international, government, and missionary schools. In addition, this program provides preparation for other areas of Christian work where Bible teaching skills are required. CIU Education Programs are endorsed by the Higher Education Approval Program (HEAP) of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). Program graduates who meet specific requirements are eligible to apply for appropriate ACSI teacher or administrator certificates. ACSI waives the certification fee when applying at the time of CIU graduation.
In addition to the mission statement, general objectives, and requirements of the undergraduate program, the objectives of the Bible Teaching program are to develop the following teacher competencies:
- Cultivate the skill of preparing hermeneutically-sound Bible lessons and curriculum that are developmentally appropriate and consistent with the pattern of biblical revelation
- Implement the sociological, philosophical, and psychological principles of the teaching-learning process into the preparation and delivery of Bible lessons
- Establish positive, professional behavior and relationships with supervisors, co-workers, parents, and students
Admission to the Bible Teaching Program
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Receive an acceptable recommendation from the CSL supervisor and Student Life.
- Demonstrate evidence of emotional and physical health and stamina.
- Submit an application for student teaching during the Spring semester of the junior year to the director of the Bible Teaching program.
- Pass a tuberculin test and background check before student teaching placement.
- Demonstrate an aptitude for Bible teaching through a field experience assignment that has been approved by the director of the program. Continuation in the program is dependent on the meeting of this requirement. Note that four core courses are taught at the graduate level. In order to complete the program, students must demonstrate to the program director the capacity for academic engagement and achievement proportionate to the advanced knowledge and skills required for a “first professional” degree.
Because they complete twelve hours of Bible and Theology as part of the Bible Teaching major, students also earn a Bible major.
Admission into Student Teaching
The application for student teaching must be submitted to the director of the Bible Teaching program during the Spring semester of the junior year. Students must maintain a 2.5 GPA during this period. Students must have met all the criteria for participation in the program prior to the student teaching semester, including a Bible teaching assignment (approved by the program director) in Ministry Skills during the student’s junior year and during the Fall semester of their senior year.
See Undergraduate Core for graduation requirements.
