Harding offered a wide variety of degrees and programs to students. In fall 2024, there were a total of 110 undergraduate majors, but over the past two years, one in particular soared wildly in popularity. The secondary major Theological Studies, as of fall 2024, was officially declared the largest major, with over 275 students enrolled, nearly twice the size of the second largest–accounting. The program previously existed under the name of Leadership and Ministry but was ultimately changed when associate professor of Bible and ministry Dr. Mac Sandlin was brought on as codirector of the program in 2022. Several students spoke about the benefits of the secondary major. “I had gaps in my schedule, and while at Harding, I might as well take advantage of this opportunity,” senior Nick Aziamov, a student ambassador for Theological Studies, said. “You have a much larger menu of classes and aren’t locked into certain courses.” Part of the changes made by the College of Bible and Ministry expanded the course options to include all Bible classes, not just those with an emphasis on ministry. Sandlin intentionally created the additional flexibility to reach more students on campus. “Students have a better sense of what they are called to than [faculty] might guess,” Sandlin said. “I believe we have good Bible classes. I’m not worried you’ll take a stinker or ‘nothing’ class; we don’t offer those.” Another aspect Sandlin attributed to the program’s success was its function as an outlet for scholarly students looking to challenge themselves. “I knew I wanted more education,” senior Zoe Hearyman said. “I knew Theological Studies would push me to seek more of that education I thought I was missing.” Even freshmen such as psychology major Micah Carroll were involved, looking for ways to blend Christ and career. “I wanted to help people solve both their emotional and spiritual problems, [so I added Theological Studies to my degree plan],” Carroll said. The ability to turn any student into a specially educated Christ-follower in their field was always the goal for Theological Studies, according to administration. When explaining the mission statement for the major, Sandlin asked the question, “How do we direct students to graduation and beyond?” He expressed a desire to see students find ministries of their own despite differing career paths, not just to add academic accolades or embellish the University. “The only reason we want to do this is because it is good for students and good for the Kingdom,” Sandlin said. Plans have been made to continue growing the community within the program, including a remodel of room 253 in the Jim Bill McInteer Bible and World Missions Center. “I want it to be part hangout space, part event center and part mentoring area,” Sandlin said. Students remained passionate about the program and encouraged others to consider adding the additional major. “We have the opportunity to learn from some of the wisest and most passionate biblical scholars, and we get an almost seminary-like education at our fingertips,” Hearyman said. Written by Asa Fowler MERCH MODELS Posing in front of the McInteer building, students show off Theological studies apparel. The different colors and options provide variety for students. Photo by Jeff Montgomery 95 Theological Studies
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