B.A. in Theology, Philosophy, Law, and Languages (TPLL)

1. Prerequisites

Preparatory Academic English (0 Credit Hours)

Develops foundational English language skills for students who have not yet achieved the required B2 proficiency level. Emphasis is placed on academic reading, writing, vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills necessary for university study.

2. University Requirements

2.1 Compulsory Modules

English Communication Skills (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Develops English language proficiency for academic study and professional communication. Students practice reading, writing, speaking, and presentation skills.

Computer Skills (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces essential computer applications and digital literacy skills. Students learn word processing, presentations, spreadsheets, online research, and information management.

Jordanian Civilization (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines the historical, cultural, political, and social development of Jordan. The course promotes understanding of national identity, citizenship, and cultural heritage.

General Orientation (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces students to university regulations, academic policies, ethical conduct, student services, and the mission and values of the institution. The course supports students’ successful transition to university life.

Study Techniques and Academic Writing (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Develops effective study habits, academic reading strategies, note-taking, critical thinking, and academic writing skills. Students learn proper citation methods and the fundamentals of scholarly research.

2.2 Elective Modules

Introductory Arabic (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces basic Arabic language skills for non-native speakers. Students develop foundational abilities in listening, speaking, reading, and writing for everyday and academic communication.

Arabic Language Skills (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Develops students’ proficiency in written and spoken Arabic. Emphasis is placed on effective communication, reading comprehension, and formal writing skills.

3. Program Requirements

3.1. Compulsory Modules

Introduction to Orthodox Theology (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces the sources, methods, and fundamental teachings of Orthodox theology. Students explore Scripture, Holy Tradition, and the life of the Church.

Old Testament Survey (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Provides an overview of the books, historical context, and theological themes of the Old Testament. Emphasis is placed on its significance within Christian faith.

Introduction to Philosophy (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces fundamental philosophical questions concerning reality, knowledge, ethics, and human existence. Students develop analytical and critical thinking skills.

New Testament Greek I (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces the grammar, vocabulary, and syntax of Koine Greek. Students begin reading and translating simple New Testament passages.

Introduction to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines the history, structure, mission, and contemporary role of the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. Special attention is given to its ministry in Jordan and the Holy Land.

New Testament Survey (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Surveys the books, historical background, and theology of the New Testament. Students explore the apostolic foundations of Christian doctrine and life.

Logic and Critical Thinking (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Develops skills in reasoning, argument analysis, and problem-solving. Students learn to identify logical fallacies and construct sound arguments.

Church History I (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Surveys the history of Christianity from the Apostolic Age to the Great Schism. Major councils, controversies, and developments are examined.

Patristics I (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces the Apostolic Fathers and early Church Fathers. Students study foundational patristic texts and their theological significance.

Modern Greek I (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces modern Greek grammar, vocabulary, and basic communication skills. The course provides a foundation for further language study.

New Testament Greek II (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Builds upon New Testament Greek I through translation and interpretation of biblical texts. Students develop greater reading proficiency.

Dogmatic Theology I (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines revelation, Scripture, Tradition, and the doctrine of God. Particular emphasis is placed on Trinitarian theology.

Ancient Greek Philosophy (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Studies the philosophical traditions of Plato, Aristotle, and the Hellenistic schools. The course explores their influence on Christian thought.

Introduction to Canon Law (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces the principles, sources, and historical development of Orthodox canon law. Students examine its role in church governance and discipline.

Patristics II (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Explores the writings of major Greek Fathers, including the Cappadocians and St. John Chrysostom. Attention is given to doctrinal and pastoral themes.

Modern Greek II (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Continues the study of modern Greek through reading, writing, and conversation. Students develop intermediate language proficiency.

Dogmatic Theology II (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines Christology, ecclesiology, anthropology, and salvation within the Orthodox tradition. The teachings of the Ecumenical Councils are emphasized.

Medieval Philosophy and Islamic Thought (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Surveys major philosophical developments in medieval Christian and Islamic traditions. The course highlights intellectual dialogue and exchange.

Liturgics I (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces the theology, history, and structure of Orthodox worship. Students study the Divine Liturgy and sacramental life of the Church.

Modern Orthodox Thinkers (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

This course examines the lives, writings, and theological contributions of major Orthodox thinkers from the nineteenth century to the present.

Philosophy of Religion (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines philosophical approaches to faith, revelation, and religious experience. Topics include arguments for God’s existence and the problem of evil.

Moral Theology and Ethics (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Studies Orthodox moral teaching and ethical decision-making. Contemporary moral issues are examined from a Christian perspective.

Canon Law of the Orthodox Church (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Provides advanced study of ecclesiastical legislation and canonical practice. Topics include church governance, sacraments, and marriage.

Homiletics and Sacred Rhetoric (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Develops skills in preaching, teaching, and public communication. Students prepare and deliver sermons rooted in Scripture and Orthodox tradition.

Sacramental Theology (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines the theology and practice of the Holy Mysteries of the Church. Attention is given to their liturgical and pastoral significance.

Church History II (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Surveys the history of Orthodoxy from the Great Schism to the present. The course examines developments in the Middle East and the wider Orthodox world.

Liturgics II (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Studies the liturgical year, daily offices, and sacramental rites of the Orthodox Church. Students gain practical familiarity with Orthodox worship.

Church-State Relations in the Middle East (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Explores historical and contemporary relations between religious institutions and political authorities. Particular attention is given to Jordan and the Holy Land.

Jordanian Constitutional and Personal Status Law (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces constitutional principles and personal status legislation in Jordan. Students examine legal issues affecting religious communities.

Orthodox Spirituality and Monastic Tradition (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines prayer, asceticism, and spiritual formation in Orthodox Christianity. The writings of the Desert Fathers and later spiritual teachers are studied.

Contemporary Philosophy (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Surveys major philosophical movements from the nineteenth century to the present. Topics include existentialism, phenomenology, and contemporary ethics.

Human Rights and Religious Freedom (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces human rights theories and international legal standards. Special attention is given to freedom of religion and coexistence in pluralistic societies.

Pastoral Psychology (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces psychological principles relevant to pastoral care and ministry. Topics include counseling, human development, and emotional well-being.

Church Administration and Leadership (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines leadership, stewardship, management, and administration within ecclesiastical institutions. Students develop competencies for church leadership.

Ecumenism and Interfaith Dialogue (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines the principles and practice of dialogue among Christian churches and other religious traditions. The course explores ecumenical relations, interfaith engagement, and peaceful coexistence in the context of Jordan and the Holy Land.

Pastoral Ministry Practicum (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Provides supervised practical training in preaching, catechesis, pastoral visitation, youth ministry, and parish administration. Students integrate theological learning with ministerial practice.

3.2 Elective Modules

Biblical Hebrew (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces the fundamentals of Biblical Hebrew grammar and vocabulary. Students develop basic skills for reading selected Old Testament texts.

Syriac (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces the Syriac language and its importance in the history of Eastern Christianity. Students learn basic reading and translation skills.

Latin (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces the fundamentals of Latin grammar and vocabulary. Students develop basic reading skills and gain familiarity with Latin Christian texts and the historical tradition of Western Christianity.

Byzantine History (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines the political, cultural, religious, and intellectual history of the Byzantine Empire. Special attention is given to its Orthodox Christian heritage.

World Religions (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Introduces the beliefs, practices, and historical development of major world religions. Students examine similarities, differences, and interreligious dialogue.

Introduction to Islamic Jurisprudence (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Provides an overview of the sources, principles, and schools of Islamic law. Students gain an understanding of its historical and contemporary application.

Christian Education and Catechetics (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines the principles and methods of Christian teaching and faith formation. Students develop skills for educational ministry.

Christian Art and Iconography (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Studies the theology, history, and symbolism of Christian art and Orthodox icons. The course explores their role in worship and spiritual formation.

Sociology of Religion (3 Credit Hours/5 ECTS)

Examines the relationship between religion and society. Topics include religious institutions, identity, culture, and social change.