Christian Thought & Practice Faculty Reflect on Huntington University’s New Core Curriculum

The new core replaces Biblical History and Literature and upper-level Bible requirements with Old Testament Survey, New Testament Survey, and Understanding the Chistian Faith. It also introduces four new interdisciplinary “core four” classes — Created to Belong, Created to Discover, Created to Create, and Created to Flourish — which connects Christian faith to the natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and arts.

“This new structure is shorter, more flexible, and more integrated,” said Dr. Tom Bergler, professor of ministry and biblical studies. “It’s not just about adding faith to academic subjects — it’s about seeing every subject through a faith-informed lens.”

This curriculum also includes immersive experiences, such as internships, creative projects, and cross-cultural opportunities, to help students connect classroom learning with real-world application.

For longtime faculty like Dr. Karen Jones, who has taught at HU for 29 years, the change marks a significant milestone.

“It creates space for double majors, encourages deeper faith integration, and reflects how today’s students learn best,” Jones said.

Through their collaboration, the CT&P faculty are helping ensure that the new core remains rooted in HU’s mission — equipping students to impact the world for Christ, scholarship, and service.