Can't Decide Between Bible College or a University Degree?
Get the best of both worlds by enrolling in a Bachelor of Christian Studies.
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What is the Bachelor of Christian Studies?
The Bachelor of Christian Studies (BCS) allows you to combine your chosen field of university study (eg. Education, science, humanities, economics, psychology, media) with relevant and practical theological and Christian Studies subjects. It is a qualification that can set you on your career path or better qualify you for your chosen vocation and equip you to be a person of integrity and influence within your professional, personal and public life.
The ‘BCS' will assist you to
- lay a sound Biblical foundation for all of life.
- develop practical skills for expressing Christian beliefs and values in everyday work and life.
- learn skills in critical analysis, problem solving, creative thinking and communication.
What will I study?
There are three parts to the Bachelor of Christian Studies:
- One year (=eight subjects) of coherent studies from a university degree (whether you are still completing it or have completed it) counts as the non-theological component of the BCS.
- 10 Biblical and theological core subjects which can be taken at the School of Christian Studies (SOCS - also located at Macquarie Uni) or at any theological college affiliated with the Australian College of Theology.
- Choose 6 elective subjects from MCSI's range of subjects which aim to connect your theological and non-theological study.
Two degrees in one
You can start your BCS as your first degree or you can easily switch to a BCS from another degree. This is because if you have completed one year (full-time) of any university degree you can get credit for this towards a Bachelor of Christian Studies degree.
You can either complete a BCS as a ‘stand alone' three year degree or you can combine it with another university degree to get a double degree.
The BCS can also be taken part-time and some subjects are available on-line or as holiday intensives.
An MCSI advisor is available to explore your best study options.
How to Apply
The BCS is not part of the UAC processes. There are two intake periods each year. For 2008, Semester 1 applications are due by 5 February 2008. Semester 2 applications are due by 20 July 2008. Students are advised to submit their application as early as possible. For further information, please contact our office.
What does it cost?
BCS Students pay fees on a per subject basis to the institution providing the subject. Fees in 2008:
- MCSI subjects: $1100 each
- SOCS subjects: $840 each
- FEE-HELP available. (Fees increase annually.)
Fees for subjects at university will vary. (HECS is available for subjects taken at Australian Universities)
Where to after the BCS?
On completion of the BCS you will be well equipped to apply a Christian perspective and commitment to your life in the world, whatever your profession or vocation. You may choose to:
- continue studies in your discipline area to gain a double degree e.g. BCS/BEcon., BCS/BA, BCS/BEd.
- work within your chosen profession as an informed, thinking Christian person of integrity and influence
- add a Graduate Diploma in Education to become a secondary teacher in your discipline area and in teaching Studies of Religion
- add other Graduate Diplomas such as Psychology, Education, etc
- join a Christian educational or pastoral ministry team or support agency
Sample BCS Study Plan
Below is a typical BCS full-time study plan. The BCS can also be taken part-time and some subjects are available on-line or as holiday intensives.
First Year
Semester 1
- New Testament: Content & Setting
- The Living World of the Bible: Genesis to Revelation
- 1 University unit of choice to begin coherent study
- 1 MCSI unit of choice e.g. Intro to Christian Spirituality
Semester 2
- New Testament : The Early NT Church
- Church History: the Church to 1550
- The Living God of the Bible: Introduction to Theology
- 1 University unit of choice towards coherent study
Second Year
Semester 1
- Old Testament: Formative Old Testament Traditions
- Theology Unit: Grace & Eschatology
- 1 MCSI unit of choice e.g. World Religions
- 1 University unit of choice towards coherent study
Semester 2
- Church History: The Church from 1550
- New Testament Exegesis: John's Gospel
- 1 MCSI unit of choice e.g. Sex, Work, Money & Friendship
- 1 University unit of choice towards coherent study
Third year
Semester 1
- Old Testament Exegesis: Wisdom Literature
- 1 MCSI unit of choice, e.g. Science & Christian Belief
- 2 University units of choice towards coherent study
Semester 2
- 1 MCSI unit of choice, e.g. Building a Better World
- 2 University units of choice towards coherent study
- 1 Independent Study (compulsory ): An individual project that relates your faith to your chosen area of work.
Study program will vary for students combining the BCS with another degree. An MCSI advisor will tailor an individual program for each student.