Biblical Studies
PostgraduateACU-THBS5012021
Course information for 2021 intake
Leaf through the parables and letters of the Bible and analyse them as sacred scripture. Examine biblical passages using narrative, hermeneutical and exegetical tools. Raise questions about the text—and of your own interpretations of it.
Enrolments for this course are closed, but you may have other options to start studying now. Book a consultation to learn more.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- Part of a degree
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Loan available
- FEE-HELP available
Biblical Studies
About this subject
At the completion of this subject students should be able to:
- articulate a general knowledge of the contents of the Bible and a more comprehensive understanding of a selection of biblical books from both the Old and New Testaments
- explain different ways in which scripture is understood as divine revelation
- locate and analyse information relating to the historical, geographical and social contexts of the world that gave rise to the biblical texts, using a variety of sources, including online databases
- describe different approaches to biblical interpretation using a variety of methods such as narrative, hermeneutical, exegetical, historical-critical and socio-literary
- think critically and ask penetrating questions, both of the biblical text and of their own interpretations
- articulate a personal response to the text and test its contemporary relevance, personally, socially and religiously.
- Reading the Bible: "Word of God"?
- Genesis 1-11; The Pentateuch; The Torah
- The Exodus in Israel's religious history
- Wisdom literature in the Hebrew Bible
- Prophets and prophecy in Ancient Israel
- The historical books of the Bible
- Background to the New Testament; formation of the Gospels
- Synoptic Gospels; Johannine writings; infancy narratives
- Parables and miracles of Jesus
- Passion and resurrection of Jesus
- Life and letters of Paul
This subject is designed to introduce students to an informed critical reading of the biblical text as sacred scripture. Its aim is to enable students to broaden and deepen their engagement with the Bible as sacred scripture in a spirit of open and critical inquiry by drawing on a wide range of exegetical tools of interpretation.
- Assignment 1 (20%)
- Assignment 2 (40%)
- Assignment 3 (40%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
Established in 1991 after amalgamating four eastern Australian Catholic tertiary institutes, Australian Catholic University now has seven campuses, from Brisbane to Melbourne and welcomes students of all beliefs. Specialising in arts, business, education, health sciences, law, theology and philosophy, ACU encourages its students to think critically and ethically and bring change to their communities and offer this online through Open Universities Australia.
Learn more about ACU.
Explore ACU courses.
- QS Ranking 2024:
- 34
- Times Higher Education Ranking 2024:
- 29
Entry requirements
To enrol in this subject, you must be admitted into a degree.
Additional requirements
- Other requirements -
Students may be required to buy headsets i.e. Logitech USB H390 or later model.
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.