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Master's in Biblical & Theological Studies

If you want to deepen your knowledge and understanding of your Christian faith while making a greater impact in your ministry work, discover the MA in Biblical and Theological Studies at Indiana Wesleyan University. With this comprehensive master’s in biblical and theological studies program, you can learn the history, philosophy, and meaning of Christianity. You’ll learn and grow alongside expert faculty in our theological studies graduate program, who teach from decades of experience and are excited to invest in the next generation of spiritual formation leaders.

Why Pursue My Master’s in Biblical and Theological Studies at IWU?

There are several benefits to pursuing your bachelor’s in biblical and theological studies at IWU. This accredited degree program is taught by faculty with experience as educators, scholars, and leaders in the Church and religious-based academic settings. Students also benefit from a full system of student services, from tutoring to tech support, to help ensure success in their education. Faculty also provide 1:1 support to all their students throughout their coursework, and these faculty become mentors in the faith, integrating classroom learning with biblical truths for a Christ-centered environment that encourages spiritual growth. This theological studies program is a place where students can enjoy strong peer and faculty support beyond graduation.

What Will I Learn in this MA in Biblical and Theological Studies Program?

The courses in this MA in Biblical and Theological Studies are designed to help students teach bible study, work in ministry positions, and a wide variety of church roles. With the biblical and theological knowledge attained in this program, you can have the confidence to communicate God’s word and the skills to engage diverse individuals and communities. Course topics cover the historical contexts of scripture, New and Old Testament studies, biblical hermeneutics, and more.  

What Makes IWU Different?

Education Pioneer

IWU has provided on-campus education for more than 100 years.

Rooted in Christ

Faith-integrated curriculum and a commitment to changing the world.

Superior Support

Center for Student Success for counseling, tutoring, and more!

What You Will Study in This Master’s in Biblical & Theological Studies

Coursework for this MA in Biblical and Theological Studies program covers how to:

  • Explore the process of inductive Bible study: observation, interpretation, integration, and appropriation
  • Study the context of the biblical narrative (both Old and New Testaments)
  • Analyze advanced survey of biblical theology including methodological issues of debate over the past two centuries
  • Develop the communication skills to pass on your knowledge to students and congregations

...
After Graduation
Potential Careers

  • Bible Teacher
  • Church Leader or Staff
  • Para-Church Staff
  • Missionary
  • Social Worker
  • And many others


Work in Various Industries

  • Industry

Program Requirements

Admission to Professional Majors

Admission to the majors within the Division of Practical Theology may require a formal screening process separate from the initial declaration of intent. The process includes the successful completion of the prescribed courses designated by each major. Students need to have a GPA of 2.25 cumulative and 2.5 in the coursework required for the major. Students must also file application forms including a written essay and references. In some cases a personal interview with school faculty may also be required. Enrollment in some advanced courses in the division is restricted to those admitted to these majors. A student needs to start the application to the major process by the end of their sophomore year (60 credit hours) and after the successful completion of the designated courses in his or her respective majors. Delay on this process will prohibit students from enrolling in advanced courses in their professional major.

Continuation in Professional Majors

Students must maintain a cumulative 2.25 GPA and a 2.50 academic GPA in coursework required for the major. Failure to do so may necessitate repeating courses or withdrawal from the major. The School of Theology and Ministry faculty reserves the right to request the withdrawal of any student who in its judgment fails to satisfy the standards of Christian character, moral integrity, and social fitness required for a professional minister.

Wesleyan Students

Students anticipating future service in The Wesleyan Church should include Wesleyan Church History/Discipline (REL-431) among their elective courses. The Christian Ministries and Pastoral Ministries majors are specifically designed to meet all the academic requirements for ordination in The Wesleyan Church. Any deviation from the course requirements should be approved in writing by both the Dean and the Executive Director of Education and Clergy Development for The Wesleyan Church. Students who are members of The Wesleyan Church should be in contact with their District Board of Ministerial Development (DBMD) prior to applying for admission to the professional majors.

  • Completion of 124 semester hours; however, some majors may result in the student earning greater than 124 credit hours by graduation.
  • Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher
  • Completion of the designated semester hours in the major area with a GPA of 2.25 or higher as required by the major. Additional requirements as prescribed by each department must also be met.
  • Completion of all general education requirements
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Accreditation

Indiana Wesleyan University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.org, 312-263-0456. Other accreditations and associations of Indiana Wesleyan University are available at www.indwes.edu/about/iwu-profile/accreditation.

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