Level 1 programme
In the first year, students are introduced to major issues and approaches within Biblical Studies. The courses provide an overview of the biblical text that is foundational for further study and enables the development of critical, analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as skills in oral and written presentation. Students are encouraged to be flexible in their approach to the subject by exploring different approaches and to exercise personal responsibility and initiative.
Course content
All students take two core modules (Decoding the Old Testament and Decoding the New Testament), one in each semester. These introduce major issues and approaches within Biblical Studies. In addition, students may choose other modules in Biblical Studies or modules from other departments in order to complete the first year programme.
Module options
The modules in Biblical Studies are designed to offer an introduction to many different areas of the subject (The Bible: Fact or Fiction? and The Biblical World) or allow students to complete a year of biblical Hebrew, or New Testament Greek.
It is also possible to pursue a language option for one semester only.
Flexibility is built into the programme, allowing students to choose optional modules from other departments in order to complete the first year programme. This year is designed both as a foundation for the second and third year in Biblical Studies, and as a set of stand-alone courses for students majoring in other subjects in the Faculty of Arts.
Progress and development
By the end of level 1, students should have a clearer understanding of the issues over the use and abuse of the Bible in some contemporary debates as well as its ancient context. They will understand how the Old Testament and New Testament were formed and became authoritative for two world religions, the types of literature and themes found in each, how different manuscript traditions produce different versions of individual biblical books, and the types of method used in the academic study of the Bible.
Those who choose to study biblical Hebrew or Greek will master the grammar and vocabulary and be able to read simple biblical texts.
Core modules:
Decoding the Bible: The Old Testament
Decoding the Bible: The New Testament
Options:
The Bible: Fact or Fiction?
The Biblical World
Religion in Britain Today
New Testament Greek A
New Testament Greek B
Biblical Hebrew A
Biblical Hebrew B
Students are also encouraged to take modules from other departments within the Faculty of Arts and Humanities. The modules available span the range of modern languages, history, geography, archaeology, American literature, English literature, music, philosophy.
Certain combinations of modules may not be possible, as most modules are offered in only one of the two semesters.
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