Theology, B.A.

Why major in theology at Whitworth?

• Engage in serious study. You will likely be surprised by how rigorous the study of theology is and how much you have to learn, no matter your background. But you'll also discover that theology is not dry or onerous, but spiritually encouraging and life-giving.
• Learn from professors who care about you. Our theology professors not only offer academic expertise, but also personal and spiritual support. They seek to know you informally and outside of the classroom through meetups for meals, coffee, hiking or backpacking.
• Develop community through fun events such as department game nights and Old Testament costume parties, and through thoughtful events like Overflow, a forum for theological discussions.
• Prepare for your ultimate vocation as a Christian. The study of theology will play a fundamental role in preparing you for Christian living in the realms of the family, church, community and the world. By knowing Jesus Christ better, you will become more equipped to be a good steward of God's creation and to live all of life well.
• Explore your career options. Vocation is a major focus of the Senior Seminar course, where guest speakers address the variety of career paths that are possible after graduation.
• Become who you're meant to be.

Ask our faculty

Our theology grads make a difference (and get jobs)

Whitworth theology majors are equipped with a solid foundation of critical-thinking, reading and writing skills, making them well suited for a variety of career paths. Many of our graduates work in the church, parachurch organizations and the mission field; in K-12 education and counseling; and in the realms of academia, business, government and law.

Our recent graduates are working in a variety of positions and fields, including:

• Rev. Rachel Toone, dean of spiritual formation, Montreat College, Montreat, N.C.
• Phil Moore, pastor, The Garden, Spokane
• Amy Erickson, lecturer in theology, St. Mark's National Theological Centre, Canberra, Australia
• Christina Melahn, outdoor school director, Calvin Crest, Oakhurst, Calif.
• Ryan Tjelle, director of community life, Side by Side, Spokane
• Rachel Morris, director of worship, music & the arts, John Knox Presbyterian Church, Seattle
• Michelina Cozzetto, case manager and advocate, The Jonah Project, Spokane

Our recent theology grads further their studies in top graduate programs at institutions including:

• Duke Divinity School
• Princeton Theological Seminary
• Asbury Theological Seminary
• Wycliffe Hall, Oxford University
• Whitworth University MBA program
• Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
• Carey Theological Seminary
• Seattle Pacific University

Opportunities outside the classroom

Whitworth offers many activities of special interest to theology majors:

• Volunteer or work with campus ministry. Opportunities to get involved abound, from leading weekly Hosanna worship nights or AWAKE gatherings to coordinating ministry in the residence halls or leading small groups.
• Lead or join in open discussions available to the entire campus. These discussions provide a regular space for students and professors to discuss, debate and wrestle with important issues related to theology, faith and society.
• Influence the lives of young people and others in the community through outside non-profits and para-church ministries. Whitworth students have long served as Young Life leaders and are making important contributions in Side by Side ministry.
• Present your research at the Spokane Intercollegiate Research Conference. Theology professors provide mentorship in preparation for this opportunity to share your original research with students from across majors and to develop scholarly community.

Pack your bags!

The theology department leads off-campus programs both near and far. Bring Scripture and the ancient world to life on an exploration of early Christian sites in Greece. Walk where Jesus walked and engage the contemporary conflict on our Holy Land study tour to Israel and Palestine. Go backpacking with the saints in the rugged canyons of New Mexico and experience a desert monastery. Immerse yourself in a course on ecology and theology in the spectacular winter setting of Tall Timber Ranch in the North Cascades. Or retreat to St. Gertrude’s Monastery in North Idaho where you join the saints of the past and present in the Benedictine life.

Tracks

Students can choose between three tracks:

• Focused: The focused track is designed for students wishing to pursue a double major. You can pair it with almost any major at Whitworth to gain a solid theological foundation as you dive into your career field.
• Intensive: Choose the intensive track if you want to focus solely on a general theology major. This track will prepare you well for seminary, missions, nonprofit service or other ministry work after graduation.
• Biblical Languages: The biblical languages track is a good fit if you're planning to attend seminary after graduation and looking to dive deeper into ministry or an academic career.

In addition, our theology minor provides you with an interdisciplinary understanding of theology that will enrich your life and pursuits no matter what career path you choose.

What related majors can I explore?

• Psychology
• English
• Communication
• Sociology
• Environmental Studies