In a pioneering move, the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS) has unveiled its latest educational initiative: the Graduate Certificate in Faith and Science (GCFS). This interdisciplinary program has been specifically designed to equip Adventist educators, scientists, pastors, and other professionals with the necessary worldview and tools to comprehend and teach science in the context of biblical principles.
The GCFS program, which can be pursued after completing a bachelor’s degree, adopts a work-embedded approach and incorporates a combination of in-person and online learning modalities. The program comprises six three-unit courses, amounting to a total of 18 units. It is scheduled to commence in the first semester of 2023, with the inaugural batch set to complete their studies in the first semester of 2024. If desired, the program can be ladderized toward a master’s or doctorate degree.
The Southern Asia-Pacific Division of Seventh-day Adventists (SSD) has been entrusted with the responsibility of recruiting students for this program. In a remarkable show of support, they will cover the costs associated with faculty, textbooks, instructional resources, and field trips, ensuring that interested individuals have access to this transformative educational opportunity.
July 15 was the starting point for aspiring students to submit their applications for the GCFS program. A rigorous selection process will be undertaken to ensure that qualified individuals are admitted into the program, guaranteeing the highest standards of education.
The Graduate School and the Seminary will contribute their respective courses as part of their regular curriculum, further enriching the program. “To ensure the program’s excellence, we will provide highly qualified professors and research supervisors,” remarked Dr. Leni Casimiro, chairperson of the Education Department of the AIIAS Graduate School, “each possessing the requisite academic degrees, expertise, and experience.”
This endeavor is also a collaborative effort between AIIAS, SSD, and the Geoscience Research Institute (GRI), which will provide instructors for all science-related courses. Further demonstrating the commitment to offering a comprehensive, well-rounded education, the GCFS program will adhere to stringent quality standards, ensuring that students receive an exceptional educational experience.
The program structure encompasses on-campus classes, held from Monday to Friday, and online classes spanning two months each year. Students should expect to dedicate a minimum of 180–200 hours per course, encompassing class time, assignments, and independent study.
During the contact sessions, students will be exempted from other work responsibilities, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in their studies. This commitment to dedicated full-time study reflects the program’s emphasis on academic rigor.
On July 5, 2023, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed, solidifying the collaboration and shared vision between AIIAS, SSD, and GRI.
Dr. Richard Nelson, vice president of Academic Administration for AIIAS, expressed his excitement about the program: “This is the first program of its kind among Seventh-day Adventist higher education.” The launch of the GCFS program signifies a significant step forward in empowering Adventist professionals to navigate the intersection of faith and science, fostering a holistic understanding and integration of these two essential realms of knowledge.
Prospective students are encouraged to seize this unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of science within the framework of their faith.
For more information about the new certificate program, contact [email protected].
The original version of this story was posted on the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies website.