AAS in Biblical and Theological Studies

The AAS in Biblical and Theological Studies degree program is designed for students who desire to be prepared for ministry and to take a first step towards an advanced college degree. Because a firm foundation in the Bible is essential before genuine Christian ministry can take place, Elim emphasizes the Bible in our curriculum. This program is a first step for students pursuing ministry, or planning to matriculate to a Bachelor’s degree program at Elim or another four-year college.

Two Black men on a stage; one singing into a microphone with his arm raised, smiling; the other to his side listening.

  • Program Objectives

    • Demonstrate critical thinking skills, reading comprehension, verbal, and non-verbal communication skills, and writing skills that are on par with A.A.S. levels and national norms.
    • Be able to express an undergraduate level of understanding of the study of humanities and social sciences.
    • Increase in knowledge of the Bible and Theology.
    • Exhibit an increased comprehension of the historical setting of the Bible.
    • Express a personal spiritual lifestyle through biblical Christian practices.

  • Required Courses

    First Semester

    • Old Testament Literature
    • College Composition
    • Foundations for Life
    • Theology I
    • Hermeneutics
    • College Success

    Second Semester

    • New Testament Literature
    • Christian Worldview and Ethics
    • Marriage and the Family
    • Theology II

    Summer Semester

    • Primary Internship (NYSUM)
    • Degree Internship

    Third Semester

    • Public Speaking and Preaching I
    • History of Ancient Israel
    • Apologetics I
    • Computer Skills
    • Bible Elective

    Fourth Semester

    • Romans and Galatians
    • History of the Christian Church
    • Evangelism in a Postmodern World
    • Theology III
    • Bible Elective

  • Curriculum Requirements

    Minimum 60 credits including 51 credits in liberal arts and sciences, and 9 interdisciplinary credits.

  • Completion Requirements

    • Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher

The AAS in Biblical and Theological Studies degree program places the Bible as its primary concentration. Since our inception in 1924, Elim has required students to keep the Word of God as a central part of their instruction. As an AAS student, you will graduate with a degree in Biblical and Theological Studies, but even more importantly, a deeper relationship with God, which will serve you wherever you go in ministry and life!

Elim is more than an academic institution. It imparts a heart for ministry and provides students with in-depth practical experience. Students experience hands-on ministry in the local community through their Student Ministry. They also participate in a three-week internship in New York City, providing them intense opportunities to grow and learn in an urban ministry environment.

students praying as they prepare to leave for NYSUM
a student receives her degree at graduation

Elim’s two-year, 60-credit A.A.S. degree is fully accredited and registered by the New York State Board of Regents. Graduates will be prepared to further their college career with a solid degree which will easily transfer into other Christian college degree programs. Students may transfer into Elim’s Bachelor’s program or enroll in a wide range of Bachelor programs (not just Bible) at other colleges with this degree.

Since Elim is an approved Title IV school, U.S. applicants have the opportunity to apply for federal and state aid. 100% of full-time students receive financial assistance from the government and/or from Elim. Since Elim’s costs are already very reasonably priced, many of our students are surprised when they receive their award notice and realize that they really can afford to pursue their degree at Elim.

a woman filling out Elim paperwork with a calculator