Associate of Applied Science

AAS in Congregational Community Leadership: Core Curriculum

Program Overview

This program emphasizes foundational leadership, biblical principles, community engagement, and practical ministry skills. The curriculum combines biblical studies, leadership, management, and community outreach, with electives to deepen specific areas.

Core Courses (Total Credits: 30)

1. Congregational Administration and Management (6 credits)

• - RIT 3001: Hebrew Worship and Prayer Traditions (3)

  Prerequisite: None

• - RIT 3002: Festivals and Holidays in Hebrew Thought (3)

  Prerequisite: None

2. Non-Profit Financial Management for Congregational Organizations (6 credits)

• - PHIL 1030: Biblical Principles of Stewardship & Giving (3)

  Prerequisite: None

• - PHIL 1040: Financial Planning & Reporting in Faith-Based Organizations (3)

  Prerequisite: None (Note: Added for financial management; can be customized)

3. Community Outreach and Engagement Strategies (6 credits)

• - INTER 3001: Interfaith Understanding and Cooperation (3)

• Prerequisite: None

• - INTER 3002: Building Community Partnerships (3)

• Prerequisite: None

4. Spiritual Education Curriculum Development (6 credits)

• - LIT 3001: Advanced Biblical Hebrew Language and Grammar (3)

  Prerequisite: LIT 1001 or equivalent

• - LIT 3004: Translation and Interpretation of Sacred Texts (3) Prerequisite: LIT 3001

5. Conflict Resolution in Congregational Settings (3 credits)

• - RABB 2002: Ethical Teachings in Rabbinic Texts (3)

  Prerequisite: RABB 1001

• - RABB 3002: Halacha and Contemporary Ethical Issues (3)

  Prerequisite: RABB 2002 (Optional, for deeper conflict & ethical issues)

6. Grant Writing for Faith-Based Initiatives (3 credits)

• - INTER 4001: Religious Pluralism and Contemporary Challenges (3)

  Prerequisite: INTER 3001 (or equivalent foundational course)

7. Practicum Experience (300 hours)

• - RIT 3999: Leadership & Administrative Practicum (3)

• Prerequisite: Completion of core coursework

Note: This is a practical internship; credits awarded based on hours and assessment.

Elective Courses (Total Credits: 9)

(Choose 3 electives, 3 credits each)

1. - HEBR 1010: Foundations of Missiology from a Hebrew Perspective (3)

   Elective for understanding biblical roots of mission

2. - PHIL 2001: Ethics and Moral Philosophy in Ancient Israel (3)

3. - LIT 4001: Rabbinic Hebrew and Aramaic (3)

4. - HICS 1001: Hebrew History from Ancient to Modern Times (3)

5. - ESCH 1001: Messianic Concepts in Judaism (3)

6. - INTER 2001: Judaism and Christianity: Dialogue & Cooperation (3)

7. - RABB 1001: Introduction to Talmud and Midrash (3)

8. - RIT 3001: Hebrew Worship and Prayer Traditions (3) (repeat for reinforcement)

Prerequisites & Tracks

1. - Foundational Biblical & Hebrew Skills: LIT 1001, HEBR 1001, or equivalent, recommended before advanced courses.

2. - Leadership & Ministry Track: RIT courses, practical practicum, and electives focused on community and pastoral skills.

3. - Biblical & Theological Foundations Track: HEBR, PHIL, and HICS core courses.

4. - Community Engagement & Outreach Track: INTER courses, electives, and practicum.

Sample Program Progression

Year 1:

• - Foundations in Hebrew, biblical studies, biblical traditions, and basic management skills.

• - Take core courses: RIT 3001, RIT 3002, PHIL 1030, INTER 3001.

Year 2:

• - Expand into community outreach, conflict resolution, and financial management.

• - Electives: HEBR 1010, LIT 3001, HICS 1001, electives.

Year 3:

• - Practicum, advanced curriculum design, and electives in missiology or other interests.

• - Complete practicum RIT 3999.

Summary

This curriculum provides a balanced foundation in biblical, leadership, community, and practical ministry skills, aligned with best practices for Associate of Applied Science programs in congregational leadership. It emphasizes biblical literacy, management, outreach, and hands-on experience.

Additional Recommended Courses:

1. - Leadership Development and Personal Growth

2. - Ethics and Legal Issues in Faith-Based Organizations

3. - Volunteer Management

4. - Program Planning and Evaluation

5. - Communication and Public Relations

6. - Cultural Competency and Diversity in Ministry