Courses in Denominational and Military Chaplaincy Liturgy

WATS is a non-denominational seminary. Among our pastors-in-training, a significant plurality of ordinands from the Anglican Communion, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Military Chaplaincy are represented. Therefore, the seminary strives to provide students with adequate training in diverse liturgies. These courses are vetted by one or more of their denominational leaders/bishops within Nigeria and are taught by qualified personnel recommended to the seminary. See specific course listings for these liturgical classes under descriptions of courses. Military chaplains are also provided additional opportunities to study important themes that are relevant to their ministry.

AREA OF STUDIES, DEPARTMENTS AND THEIR OBJECTIVES

The BA in Theology seeks to enable students to achieve certain specific professional goals. These goals are unique to the professional track (or major) the students follow or the departments to which they belong. The following sections outline the goals related to the areas of study available.

Biblical Studies Department

Having completed the course requirements for a WATS Bachelor of Arts programs, the graduate in the Biblical Studies Department should be able to:

  • Demonstrate proficiency in Hebrew and Greek.
  • Describe the purpose, distinctive themes, and general content of the Old and New Testaments.
  • Articulate knowledge of the content, general structure, and contemporary message of the books of the Bible.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of diverse Bible study methods.
  • Articulate basic Christian doctrines as understood by orthodox Christianity.
  • Communicate ideas clearly through writing and speaking.
Pastoral Studies Department

Having completed the course requirements for a WATS Bachelor of Arts program, the graduate in the Pastoral Studies Department should be able to:

  • Explain the purpose, mission, and scope of the Church from biblical, historical and missiological perspectives.
  • Preach effective biblical and transformative sermons.
  • Conduct a meaningful worship service.
  • Perform the duties of the pastor and engage in personal evangelism.
  • Guide the local church in a missions program.
  • Design Bible study materials and devotionals for spiritual development of the church
  • Engage in pastoral ministry by providing leadership for the church in social engagement and community development.
Missions Department

Having completed the course requirements for a WATS Bachelor of Arts programs, the graduate in the Missions Department should be able to:

  • Comprehend the biblical and theological foundation of the Christian mission.
  • Identify the problems of cross-cultural communication in Christian missions.
  • Employ various approaches in missions to lead people of other faiths and cultures to personal faith in Christ.
  • Apply scriptural methods for effective cross-cultural church planting.
  • Disciple converts in the mission field into wholesome growth.
  • Train prospective candidates for cross-cultural missions.
  • Exhibit Christian virtues for effective interaction with followers of other religions.
Christian Education and General Studies

Having completed the course requirements for a WATS Bachelor of Arts programs, the graduate in the Christian Education Department should be able to:

  • Explain the historical basis of Nigeria’s educational system.
  • Motivate students to become high achievers using various theories of learning and teaching.
  • Engage in the teaching of Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) and related subjects in primary and post-primary institutions using different principles and methods.
  • Exhibit an open and tolerant attitude towards those of other religions, and use Christian education as a strategy for winning them.
  • Integrate biblical teachings in different contexts and demonstrate skills in the use of resource materials in the teaching profession.
  • Develop teaching manuals for Sunday school, and serve in church educational ministries.
  • Prepare graduates for higher degrees in Christian Education or any related program.

What to expect from the degree

To be eligible for graduation, students must fulfill the following requirements:

  • All financial obligations to the Seminary must be satisfied and duly cleared by the Director of Finance.
  • Complete successfully required credit hours for their degree.
  • Defend and submit hard-bound copies of their Long Essay, Thesis or Dissertation.
  • Cleared by all departments of the Seminary.
  • All results must be approved by the Academic Board.
  • They must be interviewed and found to be worthy in character and learning.