Bachelor of Christian Studies (B.C.S)
The Bachelor of Christian Studies (B.C.S) is a four-year undergraduate programme offered by the Senate of Serampore College (University) through the private study mode. The programme is specially designed for lay Christians who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the Christian faith while continuing with their regular professions, ministries, or family responsibilities. At Indian Theological Seminary, the B.C.S programme is offered through different local centres across Tamil Nadu, making theological education accessible to students in various regions. This flexible structure allows students to pursue theological studies without relocating.
Who Is This Course For?
Lay people are the living presence of the Church in the world. They witness to Christ through their everyday work, service, and engagement in society. The B.C.S programme equips students with sound theological knowledge so that they can live out and share their faith more effectively in their churches, workplaces, and communities.
This course is ideal for:
• Lay leaders and church members
• Pastors’ spouses and ministry partners
• Youth leaders and Sunday school teachers
• Professionals who wish to integrate faith with life and work
What Will You Learn?
The B.C.S programme provides academic and practical training in:
• Bible and Biblical interpretation
• Christian faith, doctrines, and history
• Interaction of Christianity with other religions and cultures
• Practical aspects of ministry and Christian witness
• Faith engagement with social, economic, and political realities
The course helps students develop a thoughtful, meaningful, and relevant Christian witness in today’s pluralistic society.
Objectives of the Programme
• To provide theological education that transforms personal, church, and social life
• To help students interpret the Word of God in today’s social, economic, and political context
• To enable effective Christian witness in diverse professions and vocations
• To encourage dialogue with people of other faiths and cultures
• To strengthen lay leadership in church and society
• To promote theological education in English and approved regional languages
Study Centres and Examination Facility
• Classes and academic support are provided through local centres of Indian Theological Seminary across Tamil Nadu.
• Students can choose to write their examinations at a nearby Senate of Serampore College–affiliated examination centre, making the process convenient and student-friendly.
• Medium of Study and Examination is English or Tamil.
Contact Seminar (Compulsory)
• A contact seminar is conducted once every year, usually before the examinations.
• The seminar is organized by seminary at various local centres across Tamil Nadu.
• Attendance is compulsory for all four years.
• A certificate will be issued after the seminar, which is required for examination eligibility.
Duration of the Course
• Total duration: 4 years (January to December each year)
• Validity of registration: 7 years
• Diploma in Christian Studies (Dip.C.S) holders can join directly in the 3rd year as up-graders
• Validity for Dip.C.S up-graders: 4 years
Registration Details
• Academic year: January to December
• Registration must be completed by 31st October prior to the year of study
• Hard copy of the registration form must reach the seminary by 31st October
• Last date with late fee: 15th November
Documents Required
• Copies of academic certificates or mark sheets
• Proof of date of birth
• Church membership certificate
• Written declaration stating that the candidate is not enrolled in any other university course
• • Registration fee of Rs. 900/- has to be paid to seminary at the time of registration Applications submitted without the required documents will be rejected.
Applications submitted without the required documents will be rejected