If you want to learn as much as possible about the history and meaning of your Christian faith, the MA in Christian Theology at Indiana Wesleyan University was designed for you. With the knowledge, critical thinking, and analysis skills learned in this master’s program, you can reach new heights in your ministry and become an invaluable resource for your students and congregation.
Why Pursue My Master’s in Christian Theology at IWU?
There are several benefits to pursuing your MA in Christian Theology at IWU. This accredited degree program is taught by faculty who are experts in Christian theology. They will provide you 1:1 support throughout the program. We also provide comprehensive student services, including tutoring and career guidance to help you succeed while you study theology. Students learn from expert faculty who will become mentors in the faith, integrating classroom learning with biblical truths for a Christ-centered environment that encourages spiritual growth.
What Will I Learn in this MA in Christian Theology Program?
The courses in this MA in Christian Theology are designed to help students gain high-level knowledge of biblical text and theological studies. Courses take a deep look into scripture, history, and modern politics that impact the modern Christian movement. The student experience is guided by faculty who are scholars and teachers with years of experience helping students attain new knowledge that can strengthen their faith in God. Course topics cover theologies of the Old and New Testament, Christian doctrine, historical contexts of scripture, and more.
What Makes IWU Different?
IWU has provided on-campus education for more than 100 years.
Faith-integrated curriculum and a commitment to changing the world.
Center for Student Success for counseling, tutoring, and more!
Coursework for this MA in Christian Theology program covers how to:
General Education Requirements
Students in these majors meet the general education competencies by taking the approved standard courses or meeting competencies except as otherwise noted.
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.
Graduate Credits-in-Escrow
A senior who is currently enrolled at Indiana Wesleyan University and who is within the last semester of completing course requirements for the baccalaureate degree may, with the approval of the appropriate dean register for a maximum of two graduate courses per semester. Such students who desire to take additional graduate courses after earning the baccalaureate degree must follow the regular admission procedure.
Graduate courses may not be counted at Indiana Wesleyan University for both graduate and undergraduate requirements.
Advanced Standing with Credit
Graduates of undergraduate programs with relevant theological courses in Bible, theology, church history, and practical theology, and who enroll in the relevant graduate programs of the School of Theology and Ministry may receive advanced standing with credit on the basis of competence achieved in certain undergraduate courses. Advanced standing with credit may not exceed 25% of the total hours in the program. Advanced credit may be granted for the courses listed below under the following conditions:
| Required Undergrad Courses | |
| BIL 510 Biblical Hermeneutics (3) |
Two of the Following: BIL 202 Inductive Bible Study |
| THE 500 Christian Doctrine (3) |
Two of the following: THE 233 Theology I |
| REL 510 History of the Global Christian Church (3) |
Two of the following: GLM 380 History of Christian Missions and Contextualization |
| REL 525 Spiritual Care and Counseling (3) |
Two of the following: REL 229 The Christian Life: Sustaining Spiritual Vibrancy throughout Life |
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.
