Building a Spiritual Foundation
The Diploma of Christian Theology program delivers a basic, yet thorough, foundation for ministry. It offers an introduction to the essential areas of biblical knowledge and theological understanding, and allows the student 6 elective courses to tailor their diploma to suit their educational and vocational goals.
Earn Your Diploma at YTI
The programs at Yellowstone Theological Institute are accessible to students from a variety of educational backgrounds as they explore their faith through hands-on classroom learning, community involvement and mentorship in ministry.
In many cases, the Diploma program, with tuition at $100 per credit, is an additional way that students can supplement an already-existing degree.
Diploma Program
At YTI, our Diploma program is for students who want to expand their learning, enrich their educational specialty or enhance their ministry. Students who graduate with their Diploma from YTI serve in churches around the world or use what they have learned in business or in their daily lives.
30 Credit Hours
Requirements
In total, the Diploma of Christian Theology is 30 credit hours. An identical classroom experience with YTI Master’s students is differentiated by slightly shorter and fewer assignments for Diploma students. Intended to be flexible, the Diploma program provides a solid grounding for life and ministry with the opportunity for special focus on particular areas of interest. Classes are delivered in person in Bozeman, with online attendance available for most classes as well.
Dozens of Challenging Classes
YTI has an extensive course catalog for its Diploma program. Offerings include courses in Biblical Studies, Spiritual Formation, Visionary Leadership, Theology and Culture, Adventure, and the Arts, providing a solid foundation in essential areas of biblical and theological knowledge.
Diploma Curriculum
Format
- Most courses are offered in-person in Bozeman, Mont., and the majority may be also be attended online via live video conference.
- Classes generally meet for 14 weeks, 3 hours per week, in the afternoon or evening.
- Each academic year consists of two semesters: fall and spring.
- Some courses are offered only as residential courses; see course descriptions for details.
Core Courses
(12 hours total)
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BIB 5301
Old Testament Overview
This course provides a comprehensive survey of the Old Testament, examining its historical, literary, and theological dimensions. Students will explore the three major sections of the Hebrew Bible—the Torah, the Prophets, and the Writings—while giving attention to key themes, covenant development, and the unfolding story of God’s redemptive work. Emphasis is placed on interpretive issues and the Old Testament’s relevance for Christian ministry and theology. BIB 5301 is a prerequisite for all Old Testament courses. Offered every Fall.
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BIB 5302
New Testament Overview
This course provides a comprehensive survey of the New Testament, examining its historical background, literary features, and theological message. Students will explore the Gospels, Acts, the Pauline and General Epistles, and Revelation, with attention to the life and teachings of Jesus, the development of early Christianity, and the New Testament’s use of the Old Testament. Emphasis is placed on interpretive issues and the New Testament’s relevance for Christian ministry and theology. BIB 5302 is a prerequisite for all New Testament courses. Offered every Spring.
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CUL 5301
Cultural Hermeneutics
CUL 5301examines how humans ‘interpret’ the various cultures, contexts, and social situations in which they find themselves embedded. The course then outlines various means by which the student can identify cultural memes, rituals, expressions, and artifacts with the intention of being able to clearly communicate in and to the culture. Offered Spring odd years.
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THEO 6301
Contemporary Christian Doctrine
Since its inception, the Church has articulated what it believes in the form of specific confessions or teachings, called ‘doctrine.’ Unlike dogmatic or systematic theology, doctrinal theology has the goal of explaining the formative Christian teachings for the Christian faith in relation to the Christian life. THEO 6301 discusses the art and necessity of contemporary theological reflection, and, articulates the role of doctrine in the church today. Offered every Fall. Prerequisites: THEO 5301 and THEO 5302.
Electives
Select any 6 courses from any section of the catalog (18 hours).
“Change the way you see
things and the things
you see will change.”
-Dr. Wayne Dyer
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