Bachelor of Theology

The three-year Bachelor of Theology (BTh) program is designed for those who would like to prepare or further equip themselves for work within the church.

The Program

This program helps students expand their knowledge of Scripture and grow in their appreciation of the riches of the Reformed faith. Fields of potential service include leadership positions such as workers in mission aid and evangelistic efforts, as well as Bible teachers (a separate diploma in pedagogy may be necessary). Study of the original languages of Scripture is not required in this program.

Special note: The normal program leading to ordination as a minister of the Word is the Master of Divinity. However, certain church federations may accept a BTh instead. It is the student’s responsibility to consult with their church federation to see if graduating from the BTh program qualifies them for admission to the ministry.

As a rule, one year of successfully completed university studies, preferably in the humanities, or equivalent is required. In special situations exceptions are possible. Consideration for admission as a mature student is given to those persons whose academic record suggests a strong possibility of success. In such a case, admission is granted on a probationary basis and the student must have been out of school for at least the preceding two years. Knowledge of Hebrew, Greek, and Latin is not required.

Required courses:

  • B1409 Ecumenical Creeds
  • B1510 Introduction to Ministry and Mission
  • B1511 Homiletics I
    (If it is not possible or practical for the student to take Homiletics I, he/she may take Evangelistic Speaking I instead.)

Elective Courses:

  • B501 Evangelistic Speaking I
  • B502 Evangelistic Speaking II
  • B517 Advanced Missiology
  • B530 Field Internship

The Registrar in consultation with the student, will determine which courses are available and suitable for the student to take. It should be noted that not all courses taught in the MDiv program are available for BTh students (esp. courses that require knowledge of the Biblical languages.) Exegesis courses may be taken with the permission of the instructor. Every effort will be made to put together a balanced curriculum.

In order to graduate, the student must accumulate a total of at least 85 credits, with a minimum of 8 credits in each of the five departments. All full-time students at CRTS are assigned a faculty mentor and must participate in the Spiritual Formation Program in order to graduate.

See here for a list of BTh courses.

Have any Questions?

If you have any questions, please contact the Registrar.

Interested in the program?