Students in the biblical archaeology major are trained to study the Bible within its long-term geographic, historical, cultural, and social dynamic.
Biblical archaeology is an integrative discipline that lies at the intersection of biblical studies, ancient languages, and the social sciences.
The combination of these disciplines provides a strong liberal arts foundation for a variety of vocations as students will be equipped to think historically, linguistically, and archaeologically. Of particular importance for the Christian is the way in which biblical archaeology provides a foundation for biblical study. Today as never before the cultural setting of the biblical text is accessible through archaeological and linguistic discoveries in the Near East. By mooring Scripture in ancient lifeways it is possible to clarify and enliven its message while exploring its contemporary relevance.
In addition to core courses in archaeology, history, and ancient languages (including biblical languages), the major requires participation in an approved archaeological excavation and an interdisciplinary emphasis.
Archaeological Excavation
Learn alongside professors and other archaeologists as they join the Tel Shimron Excavations program.
Requirements
Major in Biblical Archaeology
- 36 hours beyond the 12 hours from general education requirements (ARCH 211 or 213 and BITH 315)
- Greek or Hebrew language competency
- 14 hours of core requirements (including ARCH 325/6/7, 345, 365, 366)
- 6 hours of biblical studies in New Testament (BITH 451 or 459 and 452) OR Old Testament (BITH 431 and 443 or 444)
- 6 hours of electives (either ARCH 317 with 333x, or ARCH 334x with 367 or 369)
- 4 hours of capstone to include ARCH 412 (Prerequisite: ARCH 211 or 213, and ARCH 365, 366) and ARCH 494 (Prerequisite: ARCH 412)
- 6 hours in a single interdisciplinary emphasis (300-level courses from either Anthropology/Sociology, Geology, Ancient Languages, or Biblical and Theological Studies)
Minor in Biblical Archaeology
Requirements for a minor in Biblical Archaeology are 20 hours, including:
- 4 hours from general education requirements (BITH 211 or 213)
- 10 hours of core requirements (ARCH 365, 366, 412)
- 6 hours of electives (selected from ARCH 317, 325, 345, 367, 369)
Wheaton College houses a vast collection of artifacts either donated to the College or obtained through archaeological digs done by Wheaton College faculty and students.