At the core of all VST’s basic degree programs is a standard complement of courses; all programs are built on this core. These courses allow a process of discernment, permitting students to survey all available facets of theological education and to test their aptitude for their chosen vocation, whether in ordained ministry or lay leadership, academic research or teaching careers, or in other professions where they incorporate their faith and spirituality. The Core Courses provide the prerequisites for upper level courses required for specific degrees.

Core to all programs

• HB500 – Introduction to Hebrew Bible I
• HB600 – Introduction to Hebrew Bible II
• HIS500 – Christianity and Judaism in Antiquity
• NT500 – Synoptics
• NT501 – Paul
• TH500 – Constructive Theology I

Specific by program

• INT500 – Research Methodologies and Theological Disciplines
• LS500 – Introduction to Christian Worship
• PT500 – Introduction to Public and Pastoral Leadership
• PT600 – Education and Pastoral Ministry in Inter-cultural context

Information Literacy and Research Skills Workshops

All VST students are required to participate in 12 hours of Information Literacy Workshops (non-credit), in which they will engage in hands-on as well as theoretical work intended to develop knowledgeable, disciplined and critically astute researchers. One session will focus specifically on developing a thesis proposal and thesis writing skills. Students may be able to test out of all or part of these workshops if they already have sufficient background in the areas covered.

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